bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 1919 Bible Conference and its Significance for Seventh-day Adventist History and Theology
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Campbell Michael
Published: May 2023

The Topic The 1919 Bible Conference was held immediately after World War I during a heightened interest in the apocalyptic and soon after the death of Ellen White. Patterned after the Fundamentalist prophetic conferences of 1918 and 1919, it was arguably the first “scholarly” conference held by Seventh-day Adventists. During a theologically turbulent time, Adventists found the emerging Fundamentalist movement attractive for its biblicist theology, its opposition to modernism and evolution, and the apparent popular appeal of its prophetic conferences. The Purpose The purpose of this dissertation is to analyze the significance of the 1919 Bible Conference for Seventh-day Adventist history and theology. The Sources This was a documentary study based on published and unpublished sources, most of which were produced by Seventh-day Adventists between 1910 and 1922. The most heavily used primary source was the collection of original transcripts of the 1919 Bible Conference. Although these transcripts are not entirely complete, they are extensive. These transcripts were supplemented by other primary sources that included periodicals, correspondence, and other archival materials. Conclusions The 1919 Bible Conference illustrates the polarization in Seventh-day Adventist theology that took place as Adventists grappled with conservative evangelicalism (what later became known as Fundamentalism). Adventist theologians became divided, most notably, between “progressives” and “traditionalists,” both of whom were influenced by the emerging Fundamentalist movement. Some issues were quite controversial at the time, such as the identity of the king of the north in Dan 11, while others such as the covenants and the Trinity would become more important with the passing of time. The topics that had the most lasting effect upon Adventist history and theology were the discussions about Ellen G. White’s writings and their relationship to the Bible. These hermeneutical issues evidenced a theological polarization that continues to shape Adventist thought.
The Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment of Dispositions in Preservice Teacher Education
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Baldwin Andrea
Published: May 2023

Problem. In 2000, NCATE included dispositions in its professional standards as a requirement for teacher education units seeking (re)accreditation with its organization. The problem of this investigation was to examine how program directors, faculty, and preservice teacher candidates in three selected preservice teacher education programs in Indiana and Michigan were responding to this NCATE mandate. Purpose. The purpose was to explore the ways in which and to what extent dispositionswere included in the curriculum, taught, and assessed in programs, both religiously affiliated and public. Methodology. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect and analyze data. Three levels of participants were selected: (a) program directors, (b) faculty members, and (c) preservice teacher candidates. The total number of participants was 458, that is, three program directors/department head, 24 faculty, and 431 preservice teacher candidates. Data were collected by interviews, questionnaires, and documents. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analyses. Results. Dispositions were included in one or two specialized courses at two institutions and infused into all courses at the other. Ninety-two percent (92%) of professors agreed that dispositions were taught by infusion in courses compared to 72% among preservice teacher candidates. Seventy-five percent (75%) agreed dispositions were taught in at least one course compared to 72% among preservice teacher candidates. Over 80% of professors agreed they assessed 12 of 16 dispositions. Likewise 80% of preservice teachercandidates agreed that 15 of 16 dispositions were assessed. There was no formal training for faculty to teach dispositions. Program directors, faculty, and preservice teacher candidates made suggestions for revision, research, and training to encourage the practice of dispositions. Conclusions. Dispositions were included, taught, and assessed through specialized courses and infusion. Dispositions inclusion in religiously affiliated institutions was accomplished in more ways than in the public institution. Although not formally trained, most professors agreed they taught and assessed dispositions in existing courses.
Acknowledged and Perceived Reasons for Non-Attendance at Christian Churches in the Pacifica Community, a Suburb of San Francisco, California
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Burch Peter
Published: May 2023

Problem. Although formal research on the reasons for non-attendance at Christian churches in America has been conducted, it is not known how these reasons apply to the Pacifica community of California, a suburb of San Francisco. Furthermore, little, if any, research has been conducted to compare the reasons for non-attendance as acknowledged by non-attenders with the reasons as perceived by attenders. The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the reasons for non-attendance in Pacifica. Method. A survey research method was employed to collect data on the acknowledged and perceived reasons for non-attendance at Christian churches in Pacifica. A convenience sample of 1,160 adult residents of Pacifica, 632 attenders and 528 non-attenders, was selected, and data were collected using two self-administered questionnaires, one forattenders and one for non-attenders. Reasons for non-attendance, acknowledged and perceived, were examined using a 5-point Liken scale to measure respondent attitudes towards 55 specific reasons for non-attendance. Data from attenders were collected incooperation with the leadership of local churches. Data from non-attenders were collected at a local supermarket and other locations in the city. Factor and reliability analyses and aseries of independent samples t -tests were conducted to determine, and compare, the acknowledged and perceived reasons for non-attendance in Pacifica. Statistical significance was set at .01. Open-ended questions also permitted respondents to express acknowledged and perceived reasons for non-attendance in their own words. Results. Five underlying factors for non-attendance at Christian churches in Pacifica were empirically derived from the data. The factors were (a) church-related issues, (b) personal decisions, (c) personal priorities, (d) personal preconceptions, and (e) personal disconnects. Significant discrepancies between acknowledged and perceived reasons were noted, particularly in the area of personal priorities and personal decisions. Conclusions. Non-attenders and attenders do not always agree in respect to the reasons for nonattendance at Christian churches in Pacifica and this is an opportunity for more outreach and increased dialogue between the two groups.
A Comparison of the Adult Bible Study Guide of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and a Prototype Guide Designed to Promote Spiritual Growth
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Chiomenti Lyndelle
Published: May 2023

Problem. Despite the Adult Bible Study Guide's potential for promoting Christian spirituality among Seventh-day Adventist Church members, no studies have investigated its impact on the spirituality of its users. Beginning as a way to disseminate the unique biblical doctrines of thefledgling Church, the Guide remains largely expository and apologetic in nature, often neglecting the use of methods and spiritual disciplines which promote spirituality. Method. Based on the same topic as the regular Guide for second quarter, 2005, an Adult Bible Study Guide using Kolb's learning cycle and learning styles was developed to promote Christian spiritual growth. The effect both Guides had on general learning objectives; knowledge and beliefs; attitudes, values, and commitments; and behaviors and skills was measured by pre/post-testing using the Growth in Christ Questionnaire. The two-way ANOVA was used to analyze theinfluence of gender, age, and educational levels. One hundred subjects completed pre/post-tests for the prototype. Eighty-six subjects completed pre/post-tests for the regular Guide. Results. The prototype had a greater effect on knowledge and beliefs for women. The regular Guide had a greater effect on knowledge and beliefs for men. Learners in all age groups except 65+ who studied the prototype spent more time in prayer. This is in contrast to the regular Guide, which showed no real improvement in the same area. Learners in all educational levels except high school or less who studied the prototype spent more time in prayer. The regular Guide showed no real improvement in the same area. Learners in all age groups except 65+ who studied the prototype spent more time meditating on God's Word. The regular Guide showed no real improvement in the same area. Open-ended questions showed that many who studied the prototype considered it to be close to ideal, because it drew them closer to Christ. Conclusions. The prototype showed the greatest amount of growth in the final step of the learning cycle, suggesting that it did what it was designed to do--shepherd the learners through knowledge and beliefs, on to attitudes, values, and commitments, and finally ending with behavior and skills.
An Exploration of the Interest in and Challenges of Fostering Undergraduate Leadership-Development at Andrews University
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Faehner Frances
Published: May 2023

Problem. Among the wide spectrum of definitions regarding the meaning of leadership there are also themes regarding a critical need for leadership-development, and the belief that leadership can be learned and should be available to all. Therefore, it can be said that higher education has both a responsibility and an opportunity to purposefully develop this a new generation of leaders. This study explored the potential of Andrews University to foster a culture of leadership-development that will transform students who will work in collaborative spheres of influence around the globe. Methodology. I used an exploratory, mixed-methods design. Data from an electronic survey were gathered from 418 undergraduate students. Thirteen Andrews University administrators, faculty, and staff were interviewed from a purposive sample selection process. Their responses were analyzed, clustered, and presented in 24 themes. Findings. Students showed a high level of agreement and support that Andrews should offer a variety of leadership-development programs. Students with higher levels of agreement that Andrews should offer leadership-development and believe that leadership-development will help them Seek Knowledge, Affirm Faith and Change the World will likely participate in the higher levels of leadership-development programs. The discriminate analysis showed that other demographic variables are not predictors of likely participation. The lack of characteristic predictors may be due to the generally high interest in leadership-development found in every demographic group. Most interview respondents expressed that leadership-development is a worthwhile and attractive prospect for Andrews University and that students, staff, and central administration will be highly supportive. They also noted that while many faculty are already supportive of leadership-development, that resistance should be expected, especially related to curriculum changes. Concerns regarding the busy lives of students and faculty, lack of collaboration, further proliferation adding to the financial constraints, and too much talk-too little action emerged as challenges. Recommendations and conclusions. The data and findings that emerged from this study provided a framework to identify 13 best practices for Andrews University to consider. As a microcosm of the international community,Andrews University has the potential to be a nucleus of learning in fostering a global undergraduate leadership-development culture.
The Trauma of Stalinism Narrated in Varlam T. Shalamov's Kolymskie Rasskazy : Missiological Implications for Contemporary Russia
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Drumi Yuri
Published: May 2023

Stalinism and the punitive system of the Gulag left an indelible stamp on the entire social matrix of Russia. Because of the multidimensional and multigenerational nature of the trauma of Stalinism, Russian society retains the label of a traumatized culture. This dissertation explores the significance of this phenomenon for contemporary Christian mission in Russia. The narratives of Varlam T. Shalamov's Kolymskie rasskazy provided an empirical (based on sensory evidence) inquiry into the reality of enormous sufferings experienced by the inmates of the Kolyma Gulag. Holy Scripture, on the other hand, provided the theological (faith-based) inquiry into the causes and implications of those sufferings. This study demonstrates that the traumatic microcosm of Shalamov's characters belongs to the larger cultural world—namely, the macrocosm of everyday Stalinism. A biblical-theological assessment of Stalinism reveals that once a totalitarian system of pseudo-religious theocracy was established, the result was a culture demoniacally infected by the worldview of Marxism-Leninism. Being not just a sociopolitical system, but a state of mind, Stalinism resulted in legitimization and institutionalization of a culture of lawlessness and death. The method of socio-textual interaction, utilized throughout this study, set forth a certain conception of Christian mission based on the commitment to liberation, healing, and transformation as envisioned in the Nazareth Manifesto of Jesus (Luke 4:16-21). At the heart of this approach to mission lies the Lukan imagery of a God who has compassion on "the poor" (the traumatized), who enters their dysfunctional oikos, casts out its demons, and calls humans to join Familia Dei. The following three missiological strategies should be considered essential to the reality of post-Soviet society. First, the profoundly countercultural power of the worship service needs to be channeled toward healing the worshippers. Second, just as Jesus chose the family/household as both the social structure and spatial location for His ministry, so too the contemporary church-in-culture must consider this approach as her modus operandi. Finally, political participation suitable to the healing ministry of the Russian Christian community should be understood in terms of both creating an externally focused self-awareness and practical involvement in the life of the polis.
A Mixed-Method Study of the Environmental and Personal Factors That Influence Faculty Research Productivity at Small-Medium, Private, Doctorate-Granting Universities
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Gregorutti Gustavo
Published: May 2023

Problem. This study sought to determine what organizational factors and personal characteristics of faculty members most relate to research productivity at small- to medium-sized not-for-profit, private, doctorate-granting universities. Method. A mixed methodology was used that included an online survey, follow-up email surveys, and two face-to-face interviews. The main statistical tools used were multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and regression. The final sample came from 12 small- to medium-size, private, not-for-profit doctorate-granting American universities. A group of 277 professors responded to the online survey. An online follow-up qualitative survey was conducted with 34 replies. Two additional face-to-face interviews were performed to complete this mixed-method study. Results. The independent variables for this investigation were socio-demographic, career-achieved experience, self-knowledge, social knowledge, environmental conditions, environmental responses, social contingencies, and behavior. The dependent variable, research output, was the number of scholarly articles, books authored or coauthored, conference proceedings, and books edited within the last 2 years. The multivariate analysis of variance indicated that the highest research productivity was among faculty with the following profile: ages 41 to 50, male, from science departments, having 6 to 15 years at a university, tenured, in some level of administration, ranked as professor, and teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The six constructs of factors for the regression model explained 50.1% for article production (q34) in the last 2 years and a 61.4% for articles in the whole career (q38), respectively. The main constructs producing regressions were self-knowledge and scholarly behaviors. This model explained 23.7% of the conference proceedings (q36). Models for books authored (q35) and books edited (q37) were not significant. Qualitative data showed that: (a) human resources, such as good students and colleagues from the same fields, (b) lower teaching loads, (c) supportive and mentoring environments, and (d) clear expectations built into departmental mission statements were most helpful to create research productivity. Conclusions. Both quantitative and qualitative results indicated a high relationship between self-perception and research productivity. Professors who were self-committed to advancing knowledge generated more scholarly work. Recommendations, discussions, and suggestions for further studies are supplied.
Understanding the Relationship Between the Diligence Inventory-Higher Education Edition and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in the Admission of College Students to an Orthopaedics-Based Honors Program
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Harstine Michael
Published: May 2023

Problem. The Orthopaedic Scholar Institute (OSI) Team realized its need for a more objective selection and admission process that, as much as possible, quantified the characteristics desired in OSI students rather than relying solely on referral perception, intuition, and an interview, but it did not have a clear method or approach to do so. Administering standardized inventories that highlighted these desired characteristics and aided in the selection and admission process seemed to be an objective approach to obtain more quantifiable data. The problem for my study was, therefore, whether the Myers- Briggs Type Inventory (MBTI) alone could measure a student’s diligence and, subsequently, predict that student’s fit in an orthopaedic setting, or whether another objective measure would be necessary to identify these skills. Method. This ex-post facto study compared the responses from freshmen in a Midwestern liberal arts college on two standardized inventories (i.e., MBTI and Diligence Inventory- Higher Education [DI-HE]). Factor Analysis was completed on the DI-HE. A one-way ANOVA was performed to determine the relationship between the responses. Results. The findings yielded a relationship between the judger (“J”) and the sensor - judger (“SJ”) preferences on the MBTI, and the DI-HE. This suggests that the MBTI and the DI-HE could be used in the selection process for admission into the Orthopaedic Scholar Institute because both instruments appear to measure behaviors consistent with diligence; however, the use of the DI-HE in the selection process for OSI appears to be duplicative because of the similarity of results. Conclusions. In order to conclude that the DI-HE would be a useful instrument in the selection and admission process to the Orthopaedic Scholar Institute, the findings had to demonstrate that candidates with a high level of diligence, as measured by the DI-HE, would be evenly dispersed across MBTI types. Because of the strong relationship between the DI-HE and the “J” (judger) on the MBTI, however, I concluded that the DIHE is too similar to the MBTI in measuring diligence and should not be administered as a component of the selection process for OSI.
Reasons Seventh-day Adventist Parents Gave for Not Sending Their Children to Seventh-day Adventist Elementary and Secondary Schools
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, LaBorde Irma
Published: May 2023

Problem. The Seventh-day Adventist elementary and secondary schools in the USA show a continuous enrollment decline. This study’s goal is to explore the reasons SDA parents give for why they do not send their children to SDA schools. Method. The participants were limited to the church members of the Lake Union Conference. Qualitative methodology was used in this study. Three groups of participants were selected using criterion sampling—non-home-schooling parents, home- schooling parents, and administrators. Data collection occurred through in-depth interviews, focus groups, and a one-question survey. The interviews were audiotaped. The tapes were transcribed verbatim, coded, and grouped into themes. Analysis and interpretation were verified by some participants, peer reviews, and triangulation. Results. Financial issues were the most cited reason for non-attendance. Home-schooling was the next great competitor. Home-schooling parents had noticed the lowering of school values and standards, and the strong influential power that some peers had on others. The students’ styles of dress, conversations, and demeanor no longer impressed them. Other non-home-schooling parents sent their children to public schools because these institutions have more resources, more qualified teachers, and better facilities. Public schools offered a wider range of subjects, competitive sports and scholarships, extracurricular activities, music, after-school programs, and other free services. Many SDA teachers work at public schools, and parents claimed that they took better care of their children. SDA academies were located too far away from home, and transportation caused parents to worry about their children’s safety. A few parents withdrew their children from SDA schools due to perceived unresolved conflicts. Changes in student population are affecting SDA schools, and some pastors were not supporting Christian education. Conclusion. Many SDA children are deprived of a Christian education due to lack of finance. Home-schooling parents are diligently controlling their children’s educational, spiritual, and moral training. Some non-home-schooling parents see public schools as better than SDA schools. Other non-home-schooling parents want schools to be located in close proximity to their homes. Parents, teachers, pastors, administrators, superintendents, and their staff must work together to educate all SDA children.
Codependency in Master's-Level Counseling Students
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Pardee Terri
Published: May 2023

Purpose of the Study The purpose of this study was to examine codependency in master’s-level counseling students, to determine if there was a significant difference between incoming and exiting students, and to investigate codependency as related to age, gender, and religious preference. Method The Codependency Assessment Tool was administered to 275 Spring Arbor University master’s-level counseling students to measure codependency in five core areas: Other Focus/Self-Neglect, Low Self-Worth, Hiding Self, Medical Problems, and Family of Origin Issues. Results Respondents’ CODAT mean score showed a minimal level of codependency. There were no significant differences between incoming and exiting students on the CODAT composite scores or on each of the core areas. Scores were not significantly different for the composite or the core areas among different age groups. A significant interaction effect existed between student status and age on the composite score. Incoming students ages 22 to 27 scored significantly higher on the composite score than exiting students of the same age. In the core area Low Self-Worth, exiting students ages 22 to 27 reported significantly more positive self-worth than students ages 28 to 34. Among students ages 22 to 27, exiting students reported higher self-worth than incoming students. There were no significant interaction effects between student status and age on the other core areas. There was no significant difference between males and females on the composite score. On the core area Hiding Self, males were significantly more likely to hide their true selves than females. There were no significant interaction effects between student status and gender on the core areas. There were no significant differences among the religious preferences with regard to the composite or the core area scores. There were no significant interaction effects between religious preference and student status on the core areas. Conclusion The self-report of respondents did not indicate that there were high levels of codependency present. However, students’ composite scores did suggest that some codependent tendencies were present in a majority of the students. In considering codependency, counselor education programs can assist students to identify and manage any limiting codependent tendencies.
Demonstrating Experiential Learning at the Graduate Level Using Portfolio Development and Reflection
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Rausch David
Published: May 2023

Problem. Various guidelines for assessment have been developed in an effort to promote academic quality and integrity for educational programs that recognize experiential learning. The purpose of this present study was to determine the extent to which experiential learning and assessment, through portfolio development, help adult students in a graduate-degree program demonstrate graduate-level learning and competency. Method. This qualitative single-case study used the assessment processes and outcomes elements of the Jackson and Maclsaac process model to analyze the use of reflective practice and the use of portfolios in a graduate education program. Data were triangulated using individual interviews and the analysis of portfolio artifacts, attestations, and documents including reflective and synthesis papers. Results. The participants’ perspectives of the portfolio as an experiential learning and development tool changed during the portfolio-development process. Each participant shifted from a belief that a portfolio represents experiences, to a belief that a portfolio coupled with reflection represents experiential learning. The process of theoretically informed written reflection allowed the participants to move beyond descriptive accounts of experiences to analyze, assess, interrelate, and synthesize their experiences in relation to their graduate-level learning and competency. Conclusions. Successful demonstration of graduate-level experiential learning when using a portfolio requires reflection that includes a description of the experience, linkage to the relevant theoretical constructs, and the application of the learning.
The Historical Development, Philosophical Foundation, and Mission of the Religious Education Program at Andrews University
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Rico Jorge
Published: May 2023

Topic. This study focuses on the evaluation of the historical development and philosophical foundation of the Religious Education program at Andrews University. The program has been instrumental in training individuals as Bible instructors, church and educational leaders, and overseas missionaries. Its challenges and advantages have led leaders to define the program and implement a biblical philosophy of religious education. Purpose. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the development, challenges, and attempts to define the Religious Education program from its inception to the present. The investigation also analyzes the biblical basis, philosophical framework, mission, and contribution of the Religious Education program to the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Sources. Historical-documentary research for this study focused on published and unpublished sources. The majority of primary sources used in this study were school bulletins, board minutes, letters, and numerous documents in archives and files located in the Center for Adventist Research, School of Education, and Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University. Secondary sources were consulted for the biblical and historical background, context, and philosophical framework. Conclusions. The Religious Education program was founded in 1960 as an M.A. concentration in the Department of Education at Andrews University. Its history can be arranged into four distinct periods: foundation, growth, crisis, and redefinition. From the beginning, the mission and philosophy of the program were shaped by the Adventist philosophy of education which views the home, church, and school as pivotal agencies for religious instruction and the Bible as the primary source for religious learning. These four sources for religious training comprised a scriptural model employed by believers in biblical times to transmit the covenant relationship to future generations. As the Religious Education faculty faced structural and administrative challenges, the implementation of this biblical model in the program became problematic and the integrity and mission of Religious Education eroded. Starting in 1996, a series of events spared the program from complete elimination, and the process of redefining Religious Education at Andrews University began. Although this process is not fully complete, the program philosophy is once again centered in the biblical model, preparing candidates for service in the home, church, and school settings through the roles of a religious educator.
Marketing Seventh-day Adventist Higher Education : College-Choice Motivators and Barriers
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Sauder Vinita
Published: May 2023

Purpose. Approximately 75% of Seventh-day Adventist college-bound youth do not attend the church's 15 colleges in North America. This study explored the views of Adventist college-bound participants regarding the factors (motivators and barriers) that influence college choice. Method. Utilizing a mixed methods approach, qualitative and quantitative data were collected in a sequential two-phase design. Insights from focus groups conducted in Los Angeles and Nashville guided the development of a nationwide telephone survey of college-bound Adventists. Three groups sorted by type of high school were identified from a sample size of 226 and compared in terms of awareness and college-choice motivators and barriers using chi-square, standard residuals, and perceptual maps. Results. Students not attending Adventist academies lack awareness of Adventist colleges, report little to no recruiting contact, and report academic program and closeness to home as important motivators for college choice. A spiritual environment is an important motivator for students headed toward Adventist colleges, irrespective of type of high school. Barriers include lack of knowledge and cost. Churches and pastors are identified as best sources of information for the Adventist public high-school student. Three key marketing messages influenced all groups. Conclusions. For the future stability of the Adventist higher education system and to increase the likelihood of enrollment, it is important to raise awareness levels among Adventist youth not attending Adventist academies. The Seventh-day Adventist Church should partner with the colleges to increase contacts and awareness to this group using the motivators and key messages identified. A strategic marketing plan should be developed that includes, at minimum, (a) a branded, coordinated systems approach to promoting the 15 colleges, (b) the colleges actively recruiting at the local church level, (c) an e-mail, mail, web, and call campaign directed toward non-academy students, and (d) the development of resources and information for churches and pastors.
Routing Algorithm for Vehicles that Avoids Severe Traffic Accident Hotspots on the Road Network (Using the City of Springfield, Massachusetts as a Case Study)
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State University, 7–9, Universitetskaya emb., 198504, Saint Petersburg, Starii Petergof, Russia, Gershtein Arkadiy , Terekhov Andrey ,   Saint Petersburg State University, 7–9, Universitetskaya emb., 198504, Saint Petersburg, Starii Petergof, Russia
Published: May 2023

In [1] statistically significant clusters (hotspots) of severe Traffic Accidents (TA) are found. In this article, as a continuation of [1], a simple routing algorithm to avoid TA hotspots on a road network has been proposed («hotspot avoidance» path). If the road network is represented by a graph with edges and nodes, it is enough to mark every edge which lead to the TA hotspot as «not passable» by letting a attribute of the edge be a very large digit, much greater than max edge length for a given road graph — and the routing algorithm (Dijkstra or Bellman-Ford) will avoid the TA hotspot automatically. Computer simulation was performed for Springfield, MA. It is shown that for the same initial and end points of the route, an average ratio (Route avoiding TA length/Original route length) is bigger for shorter original (without taking into account TA hotspots) routes and gradually slows down to 1.04 for max original route length inside Springfield. Route length ratios show extra route length needed to avoid TA hotspots, but say nothing about new route safety. To estimate safety gain, a new Relative Risk Ratio RRR= (TAs along route which avoids TA hotspots/TAs along original route) was introduced. It is shown for Springfield that relatively short (less than 4 km) original routes are more dangerous (have more TAs along the «hotspot avoidance» route) than original ones, but for relatively long (> 4 km) original routes average RRR gets smaller by 16 % while modified path gets longer by 8 % in average.
Multi-agent Architecture for Federated Learning
Authors:   Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University, 5, building 3, st. Professora Popova, 197376, Saint Petersburg, Russia, Gonzalez Yuleisy Perez , Kholod Ivan ,   Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University, 5, building 3, st. Professora Popova, 197376, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Published: May 2023

The concept of federated learning has become widespread in working with data, mainly due to the fact that it allows training on data directly on the nodes where they are stored. As a result, no data transfer is required. After the training is completed on each node, only the trained model is transmitted to the central server for aggregation. Multi-agent systems behave in a similar way, because agents allow you to train machine learning models on local devices, while preserving confidential information. The ability of agents to interact with each other makes it possible to generalize (aggregate) such models and reuse them. This article presents the architecture of multi-agent systems for federated learning. It highlights the elements that make up the agent platform and the structure of the JADE platform. Describes the lifecycle of all agents used to perform a full training cycle in the MAC\_FL environment. The configurations of agent placement for each of the proposed architectures of multi-agent systems of federated learning are analyzed and described: centralized, decentralized and hierarchical.
Constructive Problems in Discrete Mathematics: a Comparative Analysis of the Exam with and without a Computer
Authors:   Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University, 5, building 3, st. Professora Popova, 197376, Saint Petersburg, Russia, Chukhnov Anton , Pozdnyakov Sergei ,   Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University, 5, building 3, st. Professora Popova, 197376, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Published: May 2023

The paper analyzes an experiment on the use of manipulators for solving constructive tasks related to the different concepts in teaching discrete mathematics students of a technical university. These concepts include a logical circuit, a finite automaton, a regular expression, a Turing machine, etc. In these problems, it was required to build some construction with given properties. The constructed structures could be tested on the data entered by the user, that is, the possibilities of feedback could be used when searching for a solution. However, the computer tools used --- manipulators --- did not allow checking the correctness of the input solution. The data of the experiment, in which about 100 students participated, are presented. In the experiment, one part of the students was asked to take the exam on a computer with the possibility of using manipulators, while others solved the same tasks «on paper». About half of the tasks were not equipped with manipulators, that is, they were theoretical tasks typical of a written exam. In the proposed set, some constructive and theoretical tasks had a common object, so the study studied the possible impact of constructive activities on the subsequent solution of a theoretical task on the same topic. Also in this experiment, the same problem statement was used for different forms of representation of the mathematical essence, for example, in the terminology of constructing a finite automaton, regular expression, grammar, algorithm. On the basis of statistical processing of the results, conclusions were drawn about a significantly better solving of constructive problems with computer support and about the negative impact of a computer in solving problems that required mental operations that do not have an adequate representation in computer support, for example, on a computer with instrumental support, it is much more effective to solve problems by printed aids. Based on the analysis of the results, some other hypotheses were stated, which are not statistically confirmed, but can serve as a starting point for further research.
Virtual laboratories: use, development, standardization
Authors:   Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 21, Polytechnicheskaya st., 195251, Saint Petersburg, Russia, Senichenkov Yuri Borisovitch
Published: May 2023

The paper considers various technologies for creating virtual laboratories used for teaching in the natural sciences and technical disciplines in schools and universities. Particular attention is paid to technologies for creating laboratories using visual modeling environments: Matlab-Simulink, LabView, OpenModelica, MapleSim, System Developer, AnyDynamics, SimInTech. It is proposed to start a discussion of the project "Public Virtual Libraries" on the pages of the journal "Computer Tools in Education"
Bypassing dangerous sections of the route as a way to improve traffic safety (using St. Petersburg as an example)
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State University, 13Б Universitetskaya emb., 199034, Saint Petersburg, Starii Petergof, Russia, Gershteyn Arkady , Terekhov Andrej ,   Saint Petersburg State University, 28 Universitetskiy pr., Stary Peterhof, 198504, Saint Petersburg, Russi
Published: May 2023

A simple routing algorithm to improve vehicle safety on a road network has been proposed. If the road network is represented by a graph with edges and nodes, it is enough to mark most populated with Traffic Accidents (TA) edges by adding to a attribute of the edge some penalty and the routing algorithm (Dijkstra or Bellman-Ford) will try to avoid this edge automatically. To estimate safety gain, a Relative Risk Ratio RRR= (TAs along route which avoids TA hotspots/TAs along original route) was used. Computer simulation was performed for St. Petersburg, Russian Federation. It is shown that for the same start and end points of the route, an average RRR gets smaller by 14.5–36 % depending on original route length. It is also shown that the cost for improving vehicle safety is an increase in the route length (by 8–10 %) and an increase in the number of nodes in the route by 3–12 % is required.
Determining the components of the psychophysical readiness of police officers to use service firearms under martial law conditions
Authors: Borovyk M. O. , Nadutyi A. V. , Lukin B. P.
Published: May 2023

The scientific work is aimed at finding ways to improve the components of the psychophysical readiness of police officers to use service firearms. In order to solve the research tasks, an analysis of the sources of international and domestic law regulating the use of force, special means, and firearms by the police has been carried out, including the UN Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials, the Declaration on the Police, Basic Principles of the Use of Force and Firearms by Officials on maintaining law and order, the Constitution of Ukraine, the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the Law of Ukraine “On the National Police”, Regulations on the organization of official training of employees of the National Police of Ukraine, Instructions on safety measures when handling weapons, Regulations on the organization of initial professional training of police officers who are first accepted on police service.

The algorithm for applying coercive police measures proposed by the UN hs been considered, that is communication – persuasion – physical force – special means – firearms. A comparative characterization of the indicators of firearm owners per 100,000 population abroad with a similar indicator in Ukraine has been carried out. The peculiarities of the legal regulation of the use of coercive police measures in Ukraine under martial law conditions have been determined. The legal, social, domestic and psychophysiological factors that affect the decision-making by police officers on the possibility of using a registered firearm have been given.

Based on the conducted research, the study of special literature, and the analysis of the activities of practical police officers who have at least 5 years of service, it has been established that the components of psychophysical readiness for the use of service firearms are physical, psychological, fire (shooting) and tactical-special training. Ways of a complex combination of the specified areas of psychophysical readiness for the use of service firearms have been proposed.
Concepts of understanding the essence of the “abuse of rights” category
Authors: Lazariev V. V.
Published: May 2023

The research is devoted to defining the essence of the abuse of rights and highlighting the main concepts for understanding this category. It has been emphasized that in the legal literature the issue of the abuse of rights is considered ambiguously, and the publication authors have different opinions on this subject. There is a view that the very term “abuse of rights” is controversial. Approaches to understanding the essence of the category of “abuse of rights” are divided into two broad groups depending on the theory of right origin that is used to study this manifestation. Thus, supporters of the natural law theory consider the abuse of rights as a certain ethical minimum of a subject's behaviour, which allows him or her to commit certain actions for which he or she will not be held legally liable. Supporters of the positivist theory generally deny the existence of the category of “abuse of rights” because there is no clear definition of this concept at the regulatory level.

It has been identified the main signs of abuse of rights. Therefore, it has been noted that abuse of rights balances on a fine line with an offense. It is enough to take a minor step, and in some cases the reflection of the act committed by the subject can be found in the relevant article of the Criminal Code, which turns legally neutral behaviour into an offense.

Exploring the issues of approaches put forward by researchers to understanding the essence of the category “abuse of rights”, it is possible to distinguish the following concepts: abuse of rights does not exist; abuse of rights is socially harmful behavior which, however, does not violate the law; moral principle, performance of lawful behaviour; exercise of rights contrary to their purpose; types of abuse: those that are not characterized by obvious unlawfulness, which is expressed in the socially harmful behaviour of an authorized person who relies on a subjective right belonging to him/her; a type of legal nihilism; a special type of offense; a form of exercising a right contrary to its purpose, goal, social function or interests of other subjects.
Brazilian democracy under attack: the populist extreme right, the economic crises and the 2013 protests in Brazil
Authors: Lima Junior O. P. , Hogemann E. R. , Lima Dantas L. C. S.
Published: May 2023

The present study aims to understand the role of the economic crises of capitalism, hate speech and populism in the rise of the extreme right in Brazil especially in the 2018 presidential election. For that, a theoretical-descriptive analysis of the causes of these factors was made according to the thesis of historical institutionalism, making use of the hypothetical-deductive method to better understand the crisis of democracy in Brazil and in the world. Finally, an understanding of these peculiar situations is proposed as a pathway to dissolve these tensions so that the population can free itself from these anti-democratic ties and seek the reconstruction of a more participatory, ethical and more democratic Brazil.
Impact of International Sanctions on the Socio-Economic Security of Regions
Authors: Karanina E. V. , Selezneva E. Yu.
Published: May 2023

Since 2014, the problem of sanctions and counter-sanctions has not left the front pages of popular and scientific publications and most information resources. A large number of works by domestic and foreign authors, consulting agencies gave both positive and negative forecasts of the impact of anti-Russian sanctions on the country’s economy as a whole. Over the course of 8 years, various types of sanctions were introduced that dealt an economic blow to both individuals and sectors of the economy and specific corporations that are represented in different regions of the country, which undoubtedly carries risks for the socio-economic security of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. The subjects of the Russian Federation have a different structure of the economy and the level of socio-economic development, while the impact of sanctions on the level of socio-economic security of individual regions and the possibilities of leveling them have not yet been sufficiently investigated, which gives this topic high relevance. The purpose of the study is to assess the nature of the sanctions and their impact on the socio-economic security of the regions. The work uses bibliographic, analytical, statistical and mathematical research methods, analyzes open statistical data in the context of the regions of the Volga Federal District (VFD). As a result of the study, an analysis of the degree of influence of sanctions pressure on the indicators of foreign trade operations, the availability of technologies, the level of overdue loans, and the financial results of companies’ activities was presented. As a result of the study, factors were identified that have a greater impact on the state of the regional economy, indicators, indicators and directions for reducing the impact of sanctions on the socio-economic security of the Volga Federal District regions.