bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changing the nature of traditional workplace and evolving virtual work intensity environment; experience of university staff during Covid-19
Authors: Ezzeddine Mohamad , Daouk Amira , Hassanein Fida , Yassine Diala , Hamieh Mohamad Baker
Published: August 2024

The employees in academic sector had to face an abrupt change due to Covid-19 pandemic and transformation of education into online and remote learning. This has led to virtual work intensity as an aftermath that negatively influences employees’ job satisfaction. In addition, due to remote working conditions, the lines between work and life had been dimmed and thus, the current situation is important to be addressed for wellbeing of academic staff. This research specifically aims to examine impact of virtual work intensity on job satisfaction among university staff. Furthermore, mediating effect of organizational support and work-life balance on the aforementioned relationship are analyzed to better understand the underlying effects. Through PLS-SEM and using a questionnaire survey, a total of 183 data were collected from teachers and administrative staff of two universities. The results show that virtual work intensity can hinder job satisfaction, while organizational support and work-life balance can improve job satisfaction of academic employees. This is due to the fact that support, and balance act against work intensity that diminishes wellbeing of individuals. This implies the vital role of organizations (e.g., human resource department) in providing support for their staff, and creating an environment, where academic staff can have a better work-life balance, leading to higher rates of job satisfaction as an important factor for psychological wellbeing.
Patronage loss and bicycles: Factors influencing mode transition from a strategic digital city perspective
Authors: Fumagalli Luis André Wernecke , Rezende Denis Alcides , Guimarães Thiago André
Published: August 2024

Sustainability is a top priority for municipal administrations, particularly in large urban centers where citizens rely on transportation for work, study, and daily errands. Public transportation faces a significant challenge beyond availability, performance, safety, and comfort: balancing the cost for the city with fare attractiveness for passengers. Meanwhile, bicycles, supported by public incentives due to their clean and healthy appeal, compete with public transit. In Curitiba, the integrated transport system has been consistently losing passengers, exacerbated by the pandemic and the rise in private vehicle usage. To address this, the city is expanding bicycle infrastructure and electric bike rental services, impacting public transit revenue, and prompting the need for financial compensation to maintain affordable fares for those reliant on public transport. Therefore, this study’s objective is to analyze the bicycle’s impact on public transportation, considering the impact of public policies on economic and social efficiency, not just ecological and environmental factors. Data from six main bus lines were collected and analyzed in two separate linear regression models to verify the effects of new bicycles in circulation, bus tariffs, and weather conditions on public transportation demand. Research results revealed a significant impact of bus tariffs and fuel prices on the number of new bicycles that are diverting passengers from public transportation. The discussion may offer a different perspective on public transport policies and improve city infrastructure investments to strategically change the urban form to address social and economic issues.
Exploring and assessing landfill viability and sustainability dynamics in the Cape Coast Metropolis
Authors: Aidoo Emmanuel , Nandakumar C. D. , Mwinkume Gabriel , Raj A. Bernick
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the viability and sustainability of proposed landfill sites based on the uncapacitated facility location problem framework utilising the SmartPLS4 Structural Equation Modelling. Investigating the Cape Coast Metropolis, a stratified sampling method selected 400 samples out of which 320 valid respondents were used as the basis for the analysis. Through statistical analysis, significant correlations were identified among community acceptance, environmental impact, facility accessibility, site sustainability, and operational efficiency. However, no significant correlation was found between economic viability and site sustainability. Furthermore, the proposed indirect mediation pathway from operational efficiency to site sustainability via facility accessibility was also statistically insignificant. Employing the use of SmartPLS4 approach in studying the application of uncapacitated facility location problem framework, deepens the understanding of landfill viability and sustainability dynamics. This research contributes to the environmental sciences and sustainability by providing insights into landfill management strategies and emphasising the importance of community engagement and environmental performance in achieving sustainable outcomes. Future research could refine the model by including additional variables like technological advancements and regulatory frameworks, conducting longitudinal studies to track landfill dynamics over time, and undertaking comparative studies across different geographical regions. This could provide insights into management approaches’ applicability. Interdisciplinary collaborations are recommended to address the multifaceted challenges of landfill sustainability.
The analysis of urbanization drivers in Kazakhstan: A regional assessment from 2010–2022
Authors: Kenzhegulova Gaukhar , Vasa Laszlo , Bekturganova Makpal , Amirova Ainur , Bekbossinova Assel
Published: August 2024

Urbanization process affects global socio-economic development. Originally tied to modernization and industrialization, current urbanization policy is focused on productivity, economic activities, and environmental sustainability. This study examines impact of urbanization in various regions of Kazakhstan, focusing on environmental, social, labor, industrial, and economic indicators. The study aims to assess how different indicators influence urbanization trends in Kazakhstan, particularly regarding environmental emissions and pollution. It delves into regional development patterns and identifies key contributing factors. The research methodology is based on classical economic theories of urbanization and modern interpretations emphasizing sustainability and socio-economic impacts and includes two stages. Shannon entropy measures diversity and uncertainty in urbanization indicators, while cluster analysis identifies regional patterns. Data from 2010 to 2022 for 17 regions forms the basis of analysis. Regions are categorized into groups based on urbanization levels leaders, challenged, stable, and outliers. This classification reveals disparities in urban development and its impacts. Findings stress the importance of integrating environmental and social considerations into urban planning and policies. Targeted interventions based on regional characteristics and urbanization levels are recommended to enhance sustainability and socio-economic outcomes. Tailored urban policies accommodating specific regional needs are crucial. Effective management and policy-making demand a nuanced understanding of these impacts, emphasizing region-specific strategies over a uniform approach.
The impact of implementing AI in recruitment on human resource management efficiency and organizational development effectiveness
Authors: Alnsour Ahmad Suliman , Kanaan Omar Ali , Salah Maimar , Alfayyad Leen , Hijazi Yara , Alsharif Dana
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Recruitment and Selection Process and its effect on the Efficiency of Human Resource Management (HRM) and on the Effectiveness of Organizational Development (OD) in Jordanian commercial banks. The research aimed to provide solutions to reduce the cost, time, and effort spent in the process of HRM and to increase OD Effectiveness. The research model was developed based on comprehensive review of existing literature on the subject. The population of this study comprised HR Managers and Employees across all commercial banks in Jordan, and a census method was employed to gather 177 responses. Data analysis was conducted using Amos and SPSS software packages. The findings show a statistically significant positive impact of AI adoption in the Recruitment and Selection Process on HR Efficiency, which in turn positively impacted OD Effectiveness. Additionally, the study indicated that the ease-of-use of AI technologies played a positive moderating role in the relationship between the Recruitment and Selection Process through AI and HR Efficiency. This study concludes that implementing AI tools in Recruitment is vital through improving HR Efficiency and Organization Effectiveness.
Results of the Scientific and Practical Conference "Related Problems in Rheumatology" with a panel discussion by experts
Authors: Танатарова Г.Н. , Тогизбаев Г.А. , Иванова Р.Л. , Джунусбекова Г.А. , Кухаж Е.И. , Дуйсенова А.К. , Мукатова И.Ю. , Гучев И.А. , Касенова С.Л. , Исаева Б.Г. , Баев А.И. , Машкунова О.В. , Туганбекова С.К. , Фидлер Р.
Published: August 2024

В феврале проходила конференция с панельной дискуссией экспертов по направлениям кардиология, пульмонология, дерматология и нефрология. Конференцию открыла и приветствовала участников Танатарова Гульназ Нурсолтановна, директор Департамента науки и человеческих ресурсов МЗ РК и Тогизбаев Галымжан Асылбекович, профессор, председатель Казахской коллегии ревматологии. Мультидисциплинарный подход и панельная дискуссия экспертов дала возможность по-новому взглянуть на диагностику и лечение ревматических болезней. На научно-практической конференции «Смежные проблемы в ревматологии» выступили ведущие ученые и специалисты Казахстана, Польши, России. Благодаря онлайн-формату более 1200 врачей смогли прослушать доклады и получить информацию о новых мировых тенденциях в области ревматологии и смежных дисциплин.

In February, a conference was held with a panel discussion of experts in the areas of cardiology, pulmonology, dermatology and nephrology. The conference was opened and welcomed by Tanatarova Gulnaz Nursoltanovna, Director of the Department of Science and Human Resources of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Togizbaev Galymzhan Asylbekovich, Professor, Chairman of the Kazakh Collegium of Rheumatology. The multidisciplinary approach and panel discussion of experts provided an opportunity to take a fresh look at the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases. Leading scientists and specialists from Kazakhstan, Poland and Russia spoke at the scientific-practical conference "Related Problems in Rheumatology". Thanks to the online format, more than 1200 doctors were able to listen to reports and receive information on new global trends in the field of rheumatology and related disciplines.
CLINICAL RECOMMENDATIONS for COVID-19 Vaccination for Patients with Immunoinflammatory Rheumatic Diseases (IMRD)
Authors: Тогизбаев Г.А. , Иванова Р.Л. , Машкунова О.В. , Кулжанова Ш.А. , Кошерова Б.Н.
Published: August 2024

Пандемия COVID-19 оказала значительное влияние на течение, лечение и профилактику коронавирусной инфекции SARS-CoV-2 пациентов, имеющих иммуновоспалительные ревматические заболевания. Разработка вакцин дает надежду на благоприятный прогноз исходов коронавирусной инфекции SARS-CoV-2 у ревматологических пациентов. Но возможность вакцинации также поднимает множество вопросов, особенно для пациентов данной категории, получающих лечение лекарственными препаратами, которые могут повлиять на их иммунную систему в виде иммуносупрессии.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the course, treatment and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection in patients with immune-inflammatory rheumatic diseases. The development of vaccines offers hope for a favorable prognosis of the outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection in rheumatological patients. But the possibility of vaccination also raises many questions, especially for patients in this category receiving treatment with drugs that can affect their immune system in the form of immunosuppression.
Analysis of the debut and course of gouty arthritis
Authors: Хабижанова В.Б. .
Published: August 2024

В настоящее время подагра рассматривается как болезнь накопления кристаллов моноурата натрия в структуре сустава, подкожной клетчатке, костях и в виде уролитиаза или тубулярной нефропатии в почках.

Gout is currently seen as a disease crystal accumulation sodium monourate in the structure joint, subcutaneous tissue, bones and in the form of urolithiasis or tubular nephropathy in the kidneys.
Joint manifestations of Post-COVID-19 syndrome: case series and literature review
Authors: Баймухамедов Ч.Т. , Досыбаева Г.Н. , Ботабекова А.К.
Published: August 2024

Во второй год пандемии инфекции SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2) практические врачи все чаще сталкиваются с новой патологией – «постковид- ным синдромом» (ПКС, Post-COVID-19 syndrome, Long Covid). Одним из наиболее частых про- явлений ПКС является суставной синдром, проявляющийся миалгией, артралгией, нестойким артритом, а в некоторых случаях и стойким артритом. Цель статьи – проанализировать данные литературы и обсудить собственные клинические случаи поражений суставов после COVID-19.

The pandemic of SARS- Cov -2 infection is in its second year, and more and more practitioners are faced with a new pathology – Post-Covid-19 syndrome. One of the most common manifestations of Post-Covid syndrom is a joint syndrome, characterizing by myalgia,arthralgia,non-persistent arthritis, and in some cases, persistent arthritis. The purpose of this article is to analyze the literature data and to discuss our own clinical cases of joint lesions after COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2 инфекциялық пандемиясының болып жатқанына екінші жыл және бұл практика- лық дәрігерлердің ковидтен кейінгі синдромның жаңа патологиясымен ұшырасуын жиілетіп отыр (ПКС, Post COVID-19 syndrome). ККС ең көбі буын синдромдары, артралгия, тұрақсыз ар- трит, кей жағдайда, тұрақты артрит аурулары арқылы көрініс табады. Бұл мақаланың мақса- ты – осы әдебиеттердегі мәліметтерге анализ жасап, жеке клиникалық жағдайларда кезіккен COVID-19-дан кейін пайда болған буын ауруларын талқылау болып табылады.
RESOLUTION based on the results of the IV Congress of Rheumatology of Kazakhstan on the topic "Rheumatology today: trends and real practice"
Authors: Тогизбаев Г.А.
Published: August 2024

Участники Конгресса отметили, что ревматические и аутоиммунные заболевания характеризуются трудностью ранней диагностики, часто приводят к быстрой инвалидности пациентов, сокращают продолжительность их жизни, при этом лечение требует больших финансовых затрат и отличается низкой эффективностью у некоторых пациентов. Ревматическими болезнями все чаще страдают молодые люди трудоспособного и репродуктивного возраста.

Participants of the Congress noted that rheumatic and autoimmune diseases are characterized by the difficulty of early diagnosis, often lead to rapid disability of patients, shorten their life expectancy, while treatment requires large financial costs and is characterized by low efficiency in some patients. Rheumatic diseases increasingly affect young people of working and reproductive age.
Spontaneous immunoglobulin-synthesizing activity of B-lymphocytes at various clinical variants of systemic red lupus
Authors: Мамасаидов Ф.А. , Тогизбаев Г.А. , Мамасаидов А.Т.
Published: August 2024

В данной работе рассматривается значение спонтанной иммуноглобулинсинтезирующей активности В-лимфоцитов (СИАЛ) при различных клинических вариантах системной красной волчанки (СКВ). Установлено, что повышенный уровень СИАЛ обнаружен у 100% больных АС, у 6,7% здоровых лиц, у 28,2% больных остеоартрозом, у 54,5 больных реактивным артритом, у 77,8 больных анкилозирующим спондилитом и у 87,3% больных ревматоидным артритом. Показано, что у больных СКВ с высокой степенью активности и острым течением болезни показатель СИАЛ был гораздо выше, чем с минимальной степенью активности и хроническим течением заболевания.

In the given work value spontaneous immunoglobulinesyntesing activation in B-lymphocytes (SIAL) in considered at various clinical variants of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is established, that increased level SIAL it revealed at 100% of patients SLE, at 6,7% of the healthy persons, at 28,2% of osteoarthritis, at 54,5% of reactive arthritis, at 77,8% ankylosing spondylitis and at 87,3% of rheumatoid arthritis. It is shown that at SLE with a high degree of activity and acute course of disease of value SIAL was higher, that in minimal degree of activity and chronic course of disease.
Assessment of vitamin D status in Kyrgyz population
Authors: Асанбаева А.А. , Лобанченко О.В. , Бримкулов Н.Н.
Published: August 2024

Дефицит витамина 25(OH)D является мировой проблемой здравоохранения, от которой страдают более миллиарда человек. Целью данного исследование является изучение уровня сывороточного 25(OH)D у взрослого населения Кыргызской Республики. Материал и методы. Одномоментное исследование распространенности дефицита кальцидиола среди взрослого населения Кыргызстана. Результаты. Оптимальные уровни выявлены всего у 26,66 % обследованных, недостаточность в 29,6% случаев, а дефицит – в 43,7 %. Выводы. Выявлена высокая распространенность дефицита витамина D среди коренного населения Кыргызстана повсеместно.

Vitamin 25(OH) D deficiency is a global health problem that affects more than a billion people worldwide. The purpose of this research is to reveal the level of serum 25 (OH) D in the adult population of the Kyrgyz Republic. Material and methods. Cross-sectional study of the prevalence of calcidiol deficiency among the adult population of Kyrgyzstan. Results. Optimal levels were found only in 26.66% of the examined, insufficiency in 29.6 % of cases, and deficiency in 43.7 %. Findings. A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among the indigenous population of Kyrgyzstan was found.
Difficulties in the differential diagnosis of necrotizing vasculitis
Authors: Альмухамедова А.Х. , Исмаилова А.С. , Алатаев Б.Б. , Калиев Е.Н. , Раев А.А.
Published: August 2024

В статье освещены современные подходы к диагностике и лечению некротизирующих васкулитов у взрослых. Клиническое наблюдение демонстрирует трудности диагностики, связанные с неспецифичностью начальных симптомов заболевания, атипизмом клинических проявлений, отсутствием специфических морфологических маркеров. Диагноз устанавливался методом исключения различных ревматических, инфекционных, онкологических заболеваний. Особенностью данного клинического случая явилось тяжелое течение АНЦА-ассоциированного некротизирующего васкулита, протекавшего с множественными язвенно-некротическими поражениями кожи нижних конечностей у молодой женщины с отягощенным аллергологическим анамнезом.

The article presents current approaches to diagnosing and treating necrotizing vasculitis in adults. This clinical case demonstrates diagnostic difficulties associated with the nonspecificity of initial symptoms of the disease, with the polymorphism of its clinical manifestations, and with the absence of specific morphological markers. The diagnosis was made by excluding various rheumatic, infectious, and neoplastic diseases. The peculiarity of this clinical case was the severe course of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) – associated necrotizing vasculitis, which proceeded with multiple ulcerative-necrotic lesions of the skin of the lower extremities in a young woman with an aggravated allergic history.
Structure and frequency of comorbid background in patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Горемыкина М.В. , Бейсенгазинова А.С.
Published: August 2024

Остеоартрит (ОА) представляет собой широко распространенное заболевание опорно-двигательного аппарата. По разным оценкам, ОА встречается у 2-5% населения моложе 45 лет, у 30-35% в возрасте 45-65 лет и у 63-85% старше 65 лет (Торшин И.Ю., Лила А.М., Наумов А.В. и соавт., 2021). ОА относят к заболеваниям с высоким уровнем коморбидности, распространенность заболеваемостью которой примерно в 2-3 раза выше, чем в общей популяции (Лапшина С.А., 2016). Высокая частота сопутствующих заболеваний может вызвать сложность ведения данных больных в плане эффективного лечения и его безопасности, а также оказывает значительное влияние на прогрессирование и персистенцию ОА (Филатова Ю.С., Соловьев И.Н., 2021).

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a widespread disease of the musculoskeletal system. According to various estimates, OA occurs in 2-5% of the population under 45 years of age, in 30-35% of those aged 45-65 years and in 63-85% over 65 years of age (Torshin I.Yu., Lila A.M., Naumov A.V. et al., 2021). OA is classified as a disease with a high level of comorbidity, the incidence of which is approximately 2-3 times higher than in general population (Lapshina S.A., 2016). The high incidence of comorbidities can make it difficult to manage these patients in terms of effective treatment and its safety, and also has a significant impact on progression and persistence. OA (Filatova Yu.S., Soloviev I.N., 2021).
Specificity of diagnosing systemic diseases
Authors: Иманбаева Н.Д. , Жетписбаева Х.С.
Published: August 2024

Современная диагностика аутоиммунных (АИЗ) заболеваний связана с развитием иммунологических и молекулярно-биологических методов исследования, которые включают аутоантитела [1]. Понимание фундаментальных механизмов иммунопатогенеза АИЗ необходимо для разработки новых биомаркеров, позволяющих проводить раннюю диагностику, а также совершенствовать базисное патогенетическое лечение и прогнозировать эффективность терапии этих патологических состояний [2].

Modern diagnostics of autoimmune (AID) diseases is associated with the development of immunological and molecular biological research methods, which include autoantibodies [1]. Understanding Fundamental Mechanisms immunopathogenesis AID is necessary for development of new biomarkers that allow for early diagnosis, and also improve the basic pathogenetic treatment and predict the effectiveness of therapy for these pathological conditions [2].
Diagnostic value of autoantibodies in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Волкова М.В.
Published: August 2024

Определить уровни и частоту встречаемости антител к циклическому цитруллинированнному пептицу (АЦЦП), ревматоидного фактора (РФ), антинуклеарных антител (АНА) при ревматоидном артрите (РА) и сравнить их диагностические характеристики, а также определить чувствительность и специфичность АНА при серонегативном РА. В исследование включено 270 пациентов с РА и 50 здоровых лиц. Уровни и частоты встречаемости всех исследованных антител у пациентов с РА были значимо выше по сравнению со здоровыми лицами (р<0,05). Наиболее высокие показатели чувствительности и специфичности для диагностики РА имели тесты на основе определения АЦЦП – чувствительность 78,01%, специфичность – 100,00%, и РФ – 70,64%, специфичность 96,97%. При серогегативном по АЦЦП и РФ РА диагностическая чувствительность определения АНА составила 54,55%, специфичность – 100%.

To determine the levels and frequency of occurrence of antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide(anti-CCP), rheumatoid factor (RF), antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and compare their diagnostic characteristics, as well as to determine the sensitivity and specificity of ANA in seronegative RA. The study included 270 patients with RA and 50 healthy individuals. The levels and frequency of occurrence of all studied antibodies in patients with RA were significantly higher compared to healthy individuals (p<0.05). The highest sensitivity and specificity indicators for the diagnosis of RA were tests based on the definition of anti-CCP – sensitivity – 78.01%, specificity – 100.00%, and RF- sensitivity – 70.64%, specificity 96.97%. In the case of seronegative by anti-CCP and RF RA, the diagnostic sensitivity of ANA antibodies was 54.55%, specificity – 100%.
Deep Multi-Modal Fusion Model for Identification of Eight Different Particles in Urinary Sediment
Authors: Tuncer Seda Arslan , Çınar Ahmet , Erkuş Merve , Tuncer Taner
Published: August 2024

Urine sediment examination (USE) is an essential aspect in detecting urinary system diseases, and it is a prerequisite for diagnostic procedures. Urine images are complex, containing numerous particles, which makes a detailed analysis and interpretation challenging. It is crucial for both patients and medical professionals to conduct urine analysis automatically, quickly and inexpensively, without compromising reliability. In this paper, we present a deep multi-modal fusion system, commonly employed in artificial intelligence, capable of automatically distinguishing particles in urine sediment. To achieve this objective, we first created a new dataset comprising erythrocytes, leukocytes, yeast, epithelium, bacteria, crystals, cylinders, and other particles (such as sperm). The data were gathered from urinalysis requests made between July 2022 and September 2022 at the biochemistry laboratory of Fethi Sekin Medical Center Hospital. A dataset containing 8509 images was compiled using the Optika B293PLi microscope with trinocular brightfield. We propose a 5-step process for detecting particles in the dataset using a multi-modal fusion deep learning model: i) The obtained images were augmented by applying affine transformation. ii) To distinguish images, we opted for ResNet18 and ResNet50 models, which yielded high performance in medical data. iii) Feature vectors from both models were fused to generate more consistent, accurate, and useful particle features. iv) We employed ReliefF, Neighborhood Component Analysis (NCA), and Minimum-Redundancy Maximum-Relevancy (mRMR) feature selection methods, widely used to determine features that maximise particle discrimination success. v) In the final step, Support Vector Machine (SVM) was utilised to distinguish the particles. The results demonstrate that the highest accuracy value achieved is 98.54 % when employing the ReliefF algorithm. Contributions of the study include eliminating standardisation differences in manual microscopy, achieving high accuracy in particle discrimination, offering an artificial intelligence-based system applicable in laboratory environments, and providing the dataset as educational and practical material for biochemistry professionals.
Analysis of the Compressed Video with HEVC under Optical Link Transmission
Authors: Boukhatem Nadira , Messaoudi Kamel , Redjati Abdelghani , Brik Fatima , Nasri Amani
Published: August 2024

We study the feasibility of video transmission over optical fibre to optimise bandwidth with the implementation of HEVC codec features. We use simulation (Matlab and the OptiSystem software). Different values of the CRF are used to evaluate its impact on the visual quality and the size of the encoded file, as well as its influence on the video transmission performance. The simulation results show that by adjusting the CRF, the encoders can optimise the compression of the video data to reduce the file size while preserving an acceptable visual quality. This makes it possible to adapt the transmission to the bandwidth constraints of the optical fibre, by choosing higher CRF values to reduce the size of the files and save bandwidth, or lower values to maintain optimal quality when the bandwidth is sufficient. In addition, from the optical fibre point of view, the dispersion weakens and the eye opens, and it is observed that the length of the fibres is inversely proportional to the signal transmission quality. Thus, the judicious use of different CRF values can contribute to efficient and high-quality video transmission via optical fibre.
Deep Learning-Based Renal Stone Detection: A Comprehensive Study and Performance Analysis
Authors: Ravisankar Priyadharsini , Balaji Varsha , T Shahul Hameed
Published: August 2024

Early kidney stone detection is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of people who have kidney stones. The objective of this study is to employ deep learning algorithms for renal stone detection, addressing the critical need for early, accurate diagnosis, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The paper thoroughly assesses a variety of models, including ResNet, DenseNet, and EfficientNet, for CT images. The limitations of manual identification procedures highlight the urgent need for a more effective automated approach, making this research necessary. Notably, the painstakingly improved DenseNet model achieves a peak accuracy of 0.86, demonstrating its potential superiority. These results convincingly demonstrate the revolutionary power of deep learning, which is poised to revolutionise the detection of renal stones. This fast, trustworthy, and non-invasive method has the potential to advance clinical procedures and significantly improve patient care.
Knowledge Elicitation Using the Delphi Technique in Developing Diagnosis Systems
Authors: Olayiwola Abisola , Afolabi Adekunle , Olayiwola Dare , Oyedeji Ajibola
Published: August 2024

Knowledge elicitation is important in designing knowledge-based diagnosis systems. Various approaches such as interviews and questionnaires have been used to elicit knowledge from experts. These approaches elicit knowledge from individual experts separately. Medical practitioners have diverse knowledge and experience in the diagnosis and management of a particular disease. A major challenge is in producing a harmonised diagnosis from different practitioners, which will inform the level of agreement among them on the treatment of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Therefore, it is important to elicit and integrate knowledge from different medical practitioners in developing an effective diagnosis system. Thus, the Delphi technique was employed in this study to elicit domain knowledge in developing SCD diagnosis systems in African Traditional Medicine (ATM) since there is no gold standard for achieving diagnosis in ATM. A kappa value of 0.487 was achieved. This implies that the Herb sellers averagely agree in the ranking of the SCD symptoms. Therefore, to build an effective SCD diagnosis system, further work should be done by conducting more Delphi rounds to ensure that a high level of consensus is reached. The Delphi technique used in this study helped in the area of requirement elicitation of SCD diagnosis in ATM which could be used in the development of an SCD diagnosis system.
Customer Value and Sustainable Choice Behaviour in Social Commerce
Authors: Kanimozhi G. , Sengottuvel C.
Published: August 2024

The emergence of Social Commerce, facilitated by social media platforms such as Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram, has revolutionized electronic commerce, reshaping consumer behavior and business dynamics. This study investigates the connection between customer value and sustainable choice behavior in Social Commerce, focusing on individuals aged 18 and above actively engaged with these platforms. Employing a convenience sampling method and a survey of 383 participants, a structural equation model was utilized to assess various hypotheses. The findings highlight the significant impact of word of mouth, intention, offers, and trust on purchase decisions within Social Commerce. These factors play pivotal roles in shaping customer perspectives, emphasizing the importance of integrating online brand communities into marketing and communication strategies. By leveraging social media, vendors can facilitate the discovery, sharing, recommendation, and transaction of goods and services, enhancing customer value and promoting sustainable choices. This study contributes to the understanding of consumer behavior in the context of Social Commerce, offering insights for businesses to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.
EU Concerns About Chinese Subsidies: What the Evidence Suggests
Authors: Bickenbach Frank , Dohse Dirk , Langhammer Rolf J. , Liu Wan-Hsin
Published: August 2024

China uses subsidies extensively to take a leading role in the global markets of green-tech products such as battery electric vehicles and wind turbines. Against the background of the current EU investigations into Chinese subsidies in these sectors, this article takes a careful look at the Chinese subsidy system and provides new data on direct government subsidies to leading Chinese producers of electric cars and wind turbines. Extensive government support has allowed Chinese companies to scale up rapidly, to dominate the Chinese market and to expand into foreign markets. The article concludes that the EU should use its strong bargaining power due to the single market to induce the Chinese government to abandon the most harmful subsidies.
Greening Central Bank Policies: Euro Area vs Non-Euro Area EU Member States
Authors: Vollmer Uwe
Published: August 2024

Climate change has become relevant for central banks worldwide, but they are adopting their instruments at different speeds. This article compares the reactions of the Eurosystem with those of the other EU central banks. Do these central banks differ in their efforts to make their own policies “greener”? The article argues that the options and constraints to react to climate change diverge between central banks.
Analysis of the unsaturated hydraulic properties of rocks using multiple laboratory methods
Authors: Zhuang Luwen , Hoerlle Fernanda O. , Chen Hao , Pontedeiro Elizabeth M. , van Genuchten Martinus Th. , Couto Paulo , Qin Chao-Zhong , Lin Kairong
Published: August 2024

Proper characterization of the unsaturated hydraulic properties in rocks is significant for predicting fluid flow in soil, hydrogeologic, and petroleum science and engineering problems. In this study, we contributed rigorous analysis of the unsaturated hydraulic properties of three reservoir rock samples (Berea Sandstone, Guelph Dolomite, and Indiana Limestone). An improved version of the standard evaporation method (HYPROP) was developed to cater specifically to rock samples. The improved HYPROP setup enables measurements of local water pressures within rock samples without disturbing the upper portion of the samples. The obtained results were compared with those obtained using the conventional pressure plate method and a state-of-the-art nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method. Observed data were analyzed in terms of four different unimodal and bimodal hydraulic functions. The HYPROP data were found to be relatively close to the pressure plate data of two carbonate rocks. The NMR-based data were reasonably consistent with the HYPROP data, with differences likely due in part to the fact that they were obtained using two different 5-cm long plugs taken from the same core. Heterogeneity along the rock cores from which the samples were taken could be a major reason for the observed differences, and hence should be considered in reservoir analyses.
A theoretical underpinning of the pesticide Groundwater Ubiquity Score (GUS)
Authors: Steenhuis Tammo S. , Brindt Naaran , Pacenka Steven , Richards Brian K. , Parlange J.-Yves , Hassanpour Bahareh
Published: August 2024

The Groundwater Ubiquity Score (GUS) is widely used to indicate the relative leachability of pesticides based on the soil half-life and the adsorption partition coefficient. In this manuscript, we derive mathematically the Theoretical Groundwater Ubiquity Score (TGUS) that, based on considerations of the preferential movement of pesticides to groundwater and a first-order pesticide degradation model, leads to a similar function as the GUS model. In the preferential flow model, movement to groundwater is fast, and the adsorption partition coefficient is thus not used for calculating the travel time to the groundwater (as it is in the advective-dispersive equation) but rather only determines the distribution of the pesticide between the water and soil phases. Both the GUS and TGUS models well predict the groundwater contamination of the originally studied pesticides for rainfall event(s) that caused pesticide leaching from 30 days after application. The theoretically derived Groundwater Ubiquity Score (TGUS) shows, in accordance with experimental evidence, that for leaching events shortly after spraying, the mass lost to (and resulting concentration in) groundwater is inversely related to the adsorption partition coefficient and not necessarily to the GUS index.
Empirical and physical modelling of soil erosion in agricultural hillslopes
Authors: Bueno-Hurtado Palmira , Seidou Ousmane
Published: August 2024

Soil erosion is a complex and highly heterogeneous process with a wide range of environmental and economic impacts. Its estimation is particularly challenging and modelling is typically used for erosion estimation over large areas. The aim of this study was to compare the two leading empirical and physical erosion estimation models, i.e. the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP). The models were calibrated and validated using data collected from field experiments conducted in agricultural lands of Mexico. The simulated rainfall experiments involved measuring erosion from field plots subjected to four tillage systems (No crop, Conventional tillage, Conventional tillage + residues, and Handspike) under two antecedent soil moisture conditions (dry and wet). Different calibration approaches based on the factors K and C for RUSLE, and interrill erodibility and hydraulic conductivity in WEPP were tested. The best-performing methods in RUSLE involved measuring the K factor and adopting the recommended C factor by the National Forestry Commission of Mexico. In WEPP, the best results were obtained when interrill erodibility was estimated from experimental measurements. Overall, RUSLE outperformed WEPP in most of the treatments except for CT under WAMC.
Mapping Bucharest: Analyzing the Six Sectors Through Geospatial Data and Spatial Autocorrelation
Authors: Maricuț Alin-Cristian , Grădinaru Giani-Ionel , Marin Erika
Published: August 2024

Connectivity at the level of basic services within a city is the basis for adopting an investment strategy, both at the level of public administration and in the private environment. In addition, based on the concept of connectivity to citizens' basic needs, individuals can make decisions about purchasing a home. Therefore, the paper aims to analyse Bucharest, at the level of the 6 administrative sectors, from the perspective of connectivity to basic services (health, education, culture, etc.). In order to achieve this objective, with the help of GIS technology, relevant data will be extracted on residential buildings, transport infrastructure, and variables characterizing basic services at city level, for all 6 sectors of the capital. At the level of the 6 sectors of the capital there are structural differences in terms of access to basic services, especially as a result of the expansionary residential trend in the peripheries of the 6 sectors of Bucharest.
Regionale Arbeitsmärkte unter Transformationsdruck –unterschiedliche Herausforderungen und Anpassungspotenziale
Authors: Haas Anette , Niebuhr Annekatrin , Vetterer Niklas
Published: August 2024

The transformation pressure caused by digitalisation, decarbonisation and demographic change differs between regional labour markets, as does the potential to adapt to these changes. For structurally weak (rural) regions, high transformation pressure due to digitalisation and/or decarbonisation is often accompanied by significant demographic problems. Policies should aim to increase innovation and further training in lagging regions, as these are of strategic importance for addressing the challenges of transformation.
Kapitalmärkte stärken: Deutschland braucht mehr institutionelle Anleger
Authors: Kogler Michael , Malmendier Ulrike , Nöh Lukas , Schaffranka Claudia
Published: August 2024

Too few institutional investors are prepared to invest in young and innovative companies. This hampers the long-term growth prospects of the German economy. Instead, institutional investors in Germany hold more conservative portfolios than their European counterparts, investing heavily in bonds. Building up supplementary funded pensions and removing barriers to investing in riskier but growth-enhancing activities can help mobilise more growth capital in the long term.
Steuersenkung als Investitionstreiber
Authors: Hentze Tobias , Kauder Björn , Obst Thomas
Published: August 2024

Germany has become a high-tax country for companies over the past 15 years. There is currently a lot of discussion in politics about how the tax burden for companies can be lowered in order to enhance private investments. Compared to challenges in the areas of infrastructure or bureaucracy, the disadvantage of a high tax burden can be easily remedied by political decisions. According to simulations, a tax cut would lead to a noticeable upswing in private investments and could also act as a signal in international location competition that should not be underestimated.
Inflationsberechnung: Replik und Erwiderung
Authors: Rupprecht Manuel
Published: August 2024

In the March 2024 issue, Wirtschaftsdienst published an article entitled “Inflation calculation: ECB Interest Rate Policy is Not Statistically Recognised as a Driver of Inflation” by Johannes Schwanitz. Manuel Rupprecht takes a different view in a reply; Schwanitz then explains his position in a rejoinder.
PENGGUNAAN GAYA BAHASA DALAM AKUN INSTAGRAM @NAJWASHIHAB
Authors: Nur'asih Ela Sri , Herdiana Herdiana , Mulyani Sri
Published: August 2024

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini berdasar dari masalah yang dikaji dirumuskan dalam bentuk rumusan masalah berikut,1) Bagaimana penggunaan gaya bahasa dalam akun Instagram Najwa Shihab? 2)Bagaimana alternatif pengembangan bahan ajar yang berkaitan dengan gaya bahasa dalam pembelajaran puisi dalam K.D 3.17 Menganalisis unsur pembangun puisi? Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeksripsikan penggunaan gaya bahasa pada postingan akun Instagram @najwashihab dan mendeksripsikan pengembangan bahan ajar atau alternatif bahan ajar yang berkaitan dengan penggunaan gaya bahasa pada teks Puisi. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deksriptif kualitatif. Data yang digunakan berupa kata, kalimat, ungkapan dan istilah yang dapat dirumuskan sebagai gaya bahasa yang diambil dari postingan akun Instagram @najwashihab. Berdasarkan analisis data dan pembahasan secara merinci dapat diperoleh penggunaan gaya bahasa ada 4, yaitu: gaya bahasa  perbandingan meliputi  metafora untuk perbandingan implisit tanpa kata seperti atau sebagai antara dua hal yang berbeda,antitesis untuk perbandingan antara dua antonim yaitu kata-kata yang mengandung ciri-ciri semantik yang bertentangan, gaya bahasa pertentangan meliputi litotes untuk pernyataan yang dikurangi dari kenyataan yang sebenarnya, paradoks pertentangan yang nyata dengan fakta-fakta yang ada, klimaks untuk urutan-urutan pikiran yang setiap kali semakin meningkat kepentingan dari gagasan-gagasan sebelumnya, gaya bahasa pertautan meliputi sinekdoke untuk mengatakan sebagian pengganti keseluruhan dan gaya bahasa perulangan meliputi tautotes untuk perulangan atau repetisi atau sebuah kata berulang-ulang dalam sebuah konstruksi. Gaya bahasa perbandingan metafora dominan digunakan oleh akun Instagram @najwashihab dalam penyampaian berita yang terdapat didalamnya.      Hasil analisis penelitian ini membuktikan bahwa gaya bahasa yang digunakan oleh pemilik akun Instagram @najwashihab dapat dijadikan sebagai alternatif bahan ajar khususnya jenjang Sekolah Menengah Atas kelas X/2 dalam mempelajari teks puisi. Hasil penelitian sesuai dengan prinsip pengembangan bahan ajar, yakni  tepat guna, daya guna dan bervariasi. Maka penyajian bahan ajar berisi contoh-contoh jelas mengenai penggunaan gaya bahasa. Kesesuaian dengan prinsip tepat guna ialah yakni memudahkan pemahaman siswa karena gaya bahasa kerap kali digunakan oleh siswa dalam kehidupan sehari-hari atau pada lingkunganya. Dapat dikatakan berdaya guna karena dapat memudahkan siswa untuk memahami pembelajaran dan memudahkan untuk mencapai tujuan pembelajaran dan dapat dikatakan bervariatif karena menyesuaikan dengan tingkat pengetahuan dan minat siswa dalam bermedia sosial.
Nahdlatul Ulama's Dedication to Promoting Religious Moderation: A Virtual Ethnographic Study of the NU Online Website
Authors: Liya Nikmah Jazhila  , Imam Bonjol Juhari  , Kun Wazis  , Mohd Aashif bin Ismail
Published: August 2024

The rise of hate speech, extremism, radicalism, and the deterioration of interfaith relations has become a prevalent issue within communities, especially in online media. Given the potential for this to cause division, it is crucial to approach the issue with moderation. This research focuses on exploring how the Nahdlatul Ulama Organization presents religious moderation on the NU Online website to promote values of goodness and demonstrate tolerance. The study used qualitative research methods and a virtual ethnography approach to analyze virtual texts and online media records. Data collection centered on selecting content related to religious moderation on NU Online media, and the analysis involved data reduction, display, and drawing conclusions. The research revealed that NU Online's moderate da'wah entails: Narrative of religious moderation as an option to gain Islamic insights, creating a virtual space to promote a calming religious spirit and present Islam as a universal religion ‘raḥmatan lil ālamīn’, and kindly promoting moderate Islam amidst the rapid influx of information in the media disruption era.
Interpretation of Tauḥīd Verses from Said Nursi's Perspective: An Esoteric Approach and Its Influence on Islamic Thought
Authors: Asif Trisnani  , Muhammad Thoriqul Islam  , Raisya Miftakhul Rahma  , Nawa Marjany
Published: August 2024

In the modern context, it is important for Muslims to have a concept of monotheism that does not just remain academic but also helps in strengthening one's faith. Nursi introduces two dimensions of monotheism: birth monotheism and true monotheism, both of which aim to nurture faith in everyday life. Understanding both the exoteric and esoteric interpretations of monotheistic verses is crucial. This research delves into Nursi's esoteric approach to Tauḥīd ‘monotheistic’ verses and their impact on Islamic thought. The qualitative research design involves a literature review, gathering data from journals, proceedings, books, and documentaries. The data is analyzed using content analysis techniques, as well as esoteric and historical approaches. The research findings reveal that Nursi's esoteric interpretation of monotheistic verses is in line with other Sufi mufassirs, with two significant differences. Firstly, Nursi's esoteric approach, particularly in tafakkur, offers tangible examples that can be experienced physically. Secondly, as a member of the Naqshbandi Tariqa, Nursi consistently refers to asmā' al-ḥusnā and associates it with manifestations reflected in all entities when interpreting the Qur'an. Nursi's interpretation of monotheistic verses has a strong influence at the international level and a socio-religious impact at the national level. However, his interpretation remains significant in addressing religious matters in Indonesia.