bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Variable Threshold Detection in Time of Arrival Measurements for SBL Underwater Acoustic Positioning Systems
Authors: Yoshizawa Shingo
Published: January 2025

Underwater acoustic positioning systems (UAPSs) are used to know the positions of underwater vehicles and sensors. In short baseline (SBL) acoustic positioning systems, the three-dimensional position is localized by the measured distances, where the distance is obtained by estimating the time of arrivals (TOAs). In underwater acoustics, the TOA measurement errors are caused by acoustic reflection and ambient noise. The typical TOA measurement is done by detecting the time location of the maximum correlation peak. This peak detection causes a measurement error when the first peak is not the maximum amplitude. We propose the variable threshold detection to keep high positioning accuracy in highly reflective and noisy environments. The results of our simulation and experiment have proved the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Redefining n-th Order Limit Languages in Extended-H Splicing System
Authors: Khairuddin Siti Hajar Mohd , Ahmad Muhammad Azrin , Mohamad Mohdsham , Sokkalingam Rajalingam
Published: January 2025

This research delves into the fascinating intersection of formal language theory and molecular biology by examining DNA splicing systems. DNA splicing is a process of rearranging genetic material by cutting and rejoining DNA strands. Researchers have developed computational models inspired by these mechanisms, which are splicing systems that allow for simulation and analysis of the process of cutting and pasting DNA to produce new strands. This study builds upon prior research that defined the n-th order limit language, a concept initially introduced by Goode and Pixton and subsequently refined by defining based on rules perspectives. While originally rooted in the biological characteristics of DNA splicing, this concept is now being re-examined within the framework of the Păun splicing system. This shift in focus moves away from purely biological models and embraces language generation processes, aligning with the well-established Chomsky hierarchy. By redefining the n-th order limit language in this context, the research seeks to strengthen the theoretical foundation and expand the practical applications of DNA splicing systems in formal language theory.
Cognitive Decision Support System in IoT Applications
Authors: Atanasova Tatiana , Dineva Kristina , Muchanova Viktoriya
Published: January 2025

The value of data from IoT systems can only be realized when intelligence is applied. There is a need to bring intelligence to data using predictive and cognitive analytics by leveraging machine self-learning and the ability to propose solutions with minimal human intervention. A cognitive system is a technology that emulates human-like abilities to process data and learn from it. Cognitive computing technologies, in combination with data produced by connected devices and their actions, allow the design of Cognitive IoT (CIoT). This paper proposes processing complex data sets in CIoT, including structured and unstructured data. With machine learning techniques, cognitive IoT systems gather data from multiple sources and provide decision support with accurate classifications and predictions for various phenomena.
Comparative Analysis Of 95MXC and SS420 Coatings Using Wire Arc Spray Method On Hardness and Microstructure Result
Authors: Saputra Rudi , Abid Alfarizi Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Material coating technology is a method that is often applied to improve the mechanical properties and characteristics of a material. The materials often used in the coating process are metal materials, including medium carbon steel such as AISI 1045, which is often used as machine parts, light pressure gears, pinion forming dies, hydraulic shafts, pump shafts, piston rods. Coating materials vary greatly, this is adjusted to suit needs, such as the SS420 and 95MXC materials used because they have quite high wear resistance and corrosion resistance properties. The composition of the coating material and the strong current in the coating process can affect the quality of the coating results formed on the material. In this research, we will determine the wire with the best results using the wire arc spray method as a coating method to increase the mechanical properties of the PLTU boiler using 95 MXC and SS 420 wire. The highest hardness results were obtained for 95MXC wire with a value of 45.98 HRC. Meanwhile, the hardness value for SS420 wire is 33.11 HRC and the results of microstructure observations also show an increase in thickness of the 95MXC layer with a value of 297.99 ?m in line with the increase in hardness of the coating layer, because in a thicker coating layer the coating material particles will spread evenly and denser, thereby increasing the hardness value
Acute Pain Management using a Combination of Deep Breathing Relaxation and Murotal Al-Qur'an in Clients with GERD: Case Study
Authors: Salsabilah Shofiyah , Ningrum Dhiajeng Widya , Aisyah Eryin Nur Rizqi , Rohmah Linda Sofiana , Ibrahim Mohammad Anwar , Salsabila Nadia Ayu , Lestari Trijati Puspita
Published: January 2025

Introduction: GERD is also called a disease that appears in the stomach and causes gastric disorders. The most common symptoms of GERD are a burning sensation in the throat and chest area, a bitter taste on the tongue, and pain in the heart area. The limited implementation of non-pharmacological deep breathing relaxation therapy using Al-Qur'an murotals is the basis for carrying out research. The purpose of this paper is to analyze acute pain management in patients with GERD
Methods: A Case study design was used in this study with a sample size of three patients, namely patients with GERD aged 40-65 years at 'Aisyiyah Bojonegoro Hospital with acute pain nursing problems. The action given to overcome this acute pain by using a combination of deep breath relaxation with Qur'anic murotal given for 3 consecutive days and the pain scale is measured by a numerical pain scale. Data analysis used uses the SMART method (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound goals)
Results: The results of the case study on the first day of the three patients felt pain in the abdomen with moderate pain category. The planned nursing intervention action is pain management with pain levels as an outcome criterion. Implementation was carried out for 3 days, the results showed that the patient's pain level decreased with a moderate level of pain scale.
Conclusion: Deep breathing relaxation therapy with murotal Al-Qur'an can reduce pain levels in patients with GERD. This can happen because deep breathing relaxation can reduce muscle tension and listening to Al-Qur'an murotals with clear rhythm and intonation can foster a feeling of calm and coolness in the heart so that it can reduce stress that has arisen from pain in GERD patients.
MODEL MUSIK KEMERDEKAAN: MENYAMPAIKAN KEMERDEKAAN DALAM KRISTUS KEPADA KOMUNITAS PUNK UNDERGROUND
Authors: Haryono Timotius , Harjanto Hery , Putranto Dhebertus Widhi
Published: January 2025

Gereja sebagai agen kabar kemerdekaan dalam Yesus terhambat oleh komunitas Punk Underground. Komunitas ini memberikan dua tantangan yaitu sikap menentang agama dan penyimpangan arti kemerdekaan dalam Kristus. Gereja memerlukan model komunikasi yang tepat untuk memperkenalkan kemerdekaan dalam Kristus. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyusun model komunikasi kemerdekaan berdasarkan Galatia 5:1-26. Penelitan ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode fenomenologi. Penelitian ini mengumpulkan data melalui studi pustaka dan wawancara kepada anggota Punk Underground. Analisis data dilakukan dengan analisis jalinan dalam tiga langkah yaitu reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Penelitian ini berhasil menghasilkan Model Musik Kemerdekaan untuk mengomunikasikan konsep kemerdekaan dalam Kristus menurut Galatia 5:1-26 kepada komunitas Punk Underground.The church as an agent for the news of freedom in Jesus is hampered by the Punk Underground community. This community gives two challenges, namely the attitude against religion and the distortion of the meaning of freedom in Christ. The church needs the right communication model to introduce freedom in Christ. This study aims to develop a communication model for freedom based on Galatians 5:1-26. This research is a qualitative approach with phenomenological methods. This study collected data through literature study and interviews with Punk Underground members. Data analysis was carried out by linkage analysis in three steps, namely data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. This research succeeded in producing a Musical Model of Independence to communicate the concept of freedom in Christ according to Galatians 5:1-26 to the Punk Underground community.
Texto para Discussão 3070
Authors: Sambuichi Regina Helena Rosa , Perin Gabriela , Almeida Ana Flávia Cordeiro de , Câmara Rita Dicacia Felipe
Published: January 2025

O Programa de Aquisição de Alimentos (PAA) é um programa de compras públicas do governo federal criado para apoiar a agricultura familiar e combater a insegurança alimentar e nutricional. Este estudo analisou o incentivo dado pelo PAA para a produção agroecológica e orgânica da agricultura familiar, abordando os diferentes mecanismos pelos quais o programa pode estar apoiando esse tipo de produção entre os seus beneficiários fornecedores. Para isso, adotou-se uma abordagem mista de análise utilizando documentos legais da política pública, registros administrativos de compras do programa referentes aos anos de 2012 a 2019 e dados primários de campo coletados por meio de entrevistas realizadas com agricultores de todas as Grandes Regiões (GRs) do país no período entre 2021 e 2022. A análise dos normativos mostrou que foram estabelecidos critérios para priorização dos agricultores orgânicos/agroecológicos, com pontuações diferenciadas para as propostas desses agricultores e a permissão para o pagamento de adicional de preços a esses produtos de até 30%. Os resultados da análise das compras indicam que esses critérios tiveram alguma efetividade, principalmente no caso da Companhia Nacional de Abastecimento (Conab), pois se observou que o percentual de aquisições desses produtos por parte dessa operadora cresceu de 1,8% em 2012 para 7,0%, em 2019. A análise dos preços praticados mostrou que, na maioria dos casos, eles foram superiores aos preços dos itens convencionais – o aumento foi de exatamente 30% em 61% dos casos. Os resultados das entrevistas mostraram que o processo de conformidade orgânica é ainda uma dificuldade para a maioria dos agricultores familiares, pois apenas 8,3% dos que acessaram o PAA disseram ter algum tipo de certificação para produtos orgânicos. Observou-se, também, que o programa apresenta outros benefícios aos seus fornecedores, que são importantes para apoiar a produção agroecológica e orgânica, como: favorecer acesso a outros canais de comercialização; contribuir para a melhoria da qualidade e da diversidade de produtos; facilitar o acesso a mais informações técnicas para gerir a produção e planejar a comercialização; e melhorar a segurança alimentar e nutricional dos seus beneficiários. Esses benefícios, embora não sejam exclusivos para os agricultores agroecológicos e orgânicos, são de fundamental relevância para apoiar os que optam por esse tipo de produção. Entretanto, a exclusão dos critérios de priorização de agroecológicos e orgânicos dos normativos do PAA, a partir de 2020, causa preocupação em relação à continuidade dos incentivos identificados nesta pesquisa, o que mostra a necessidade de se fazer uma revisão dos seus normativos, visando garantir o acesso desses agricultores como público prioritário. Por fim, recomenda-se que estudos futuros sejam realizados para aprofundar os aspectos observados e identificar os efeitos mais recentes dessas mudanças.
Sistema administrativo para el control de recursos y optimización de procesos, caso: llantera Tihuatlán, Veracuz, México
Authors: Valdez Ruth Jael Hernández , Escalante María Teresa Loya , Alarcón Alma Lilia García , Mejía José Antonio García , González-Rocha Sergio Natan
Published: January 2025

El presente trabajo de investigación se desarrolla dentro de la zona ubicada en Tihuatlán Veracruz en México. Se propone el desarrollo de un software de inventario y sitio de ventas, para automatizar las diferentes áreas en las que impacta el proceso de línea de producción y ventas que se ejecutan dentro de una empresa. El objetivo principal fue el desarrollo del software de gestión de inventario (SGI), así como un sitio de ventas que permita mejorar su control de inventario y en segundo dar a conocer a «Llantera Tihuatlán» a nivel regional haciéndola sobresalir, permitiendo agilizar el proceso de búsqueda, venta de productos y la atención al cliente, optimizando los tiempos de espera.  Para realizarlo se implementó la metodología RAD (Rapid Application Development) permite el desarrollo funcional, eficiente, ágil e iterativo, para su uso inmediato, con ello el diseño de prototipos y la entrega de forma iterativa para la organización, verificando su funcionalidad y beneficios para la empresa. Como resultado utilizando herramientas como lo son aquellas que provienen de Windows, el lenguaje de programación JAVA, NetBeans IDE 8.2 y un Sistema Gestor de Base de Datos (SGBD) como el SQL Server, se desarrolló un sitio de ventas integrado a un SGI para la empresa Llantera Tihuatlán en Veracruz, México.
Mapping the Legal and Philosophical Aspects of Human Rights Education in Religious Studies Towards a Curriculum Restructuring
Authors: Langeveldt Dean Collin , Pietersen Doniwen
Published: January 2025

This article explored the strategic integration of religious education within the framework of human rights literacy that is underpinned by philosophical values in South Africa during a period of significant educational reform. The study examined the integration of religious studies with human rights education, emphasising the importance of human rights literacy in understanding religious diversity and promoting interfaith respect. The analysis examined key pedagogical changes, policy adaptations, and curricular innovations in South Africa’s educational system, forming an integrative pedagogical model. This examination also highlighted diversity on several levels. Internal diversity or differences in how members of the same cultural group or marginalised groups map and understand human rights in religious education. Foregrounded in this work are the educational psychology and sociology theoretical frameworks that intersect to enhance human rights literacy and religious education. The findings showed that the aforementioned educational fields are not just an academic exercise but a social imperative for a more inclusive and respectful place in global education. This conceptual paper focused on the South African experience, offering global insights that may resonate with the South African locality. It is recommended that South Africa’s religious curriculum be inclusive, requiring deep understanding and engaging content, to balance secular and religious education and uphold human rights. The study recommends developing an inclusive curriculum, engaging pedagogical strategies, comprehensive teacher training, and active learning to promote a balanced understanding of religious diversity and human rights. This study impacts scholarship by providing a robust theoretical framework, influencing curriculum development and policy support, and providing global insights for educational reform.

Keywords: Mapping, Human Rights Literacy, Curriculum Restructure, South Africa, Philosophical Underpinnings, Religious Education
From Which to Why Not Religions in the Curriculum. A Troubled Pedagogy
Authors: Dube Bekithemba
Published: January 2025

The theoretical paper tapped into Bernstein’s notion of weak framing to point out the ambivalence of the religious curriculum in Zimbabwe. It showed the curriculum terrain that Religious Education has undergone and predicted its future. It also showed how curriculum conversations have moved the “which religions” question to why not religions in the curriculum. The paper argued that the weak framing of the religious curriculum presents itself as a playing field for politicians, curriculum planners, and educators where its validity is not to benefit the learners but to push the propaganda of the ZANU PF regime. The paper concludes, arguing that the presence of the religious curriculum has always been to buttress the status quo of the oppressor and the oppressed. Rejuvenation of the field is necessary, and urgent so that learners are not deprived of the benefits associated with the RE curriculum.

Keywords: Religious Education, Bernstein Theory, Religions
Identifying Hierarchically Triple Star Systems with Gaia DR3 and LAMOST
Authors: He Tongyu , Li Jiao , Li Jiangdan , Xiong Jianping , Zhang Xiaobin , Kovalev Mikhail , Cheng Qiyuan , Guo Sufen , Yang Mingkuan , Chen Xuefei , Han Zhanwen
Published: January 2025

Triple star systems are critical for understanding stellar dynamics and compact objects in astrophysics, yet confirmed hierarchical triples identified via spectroscopy remain limited. In this study, we identified 23 triple systems by cross matching the Gaia DR3 non-single-star catalog with Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope DR10 spectroscopic data, 18 of them are new discoveries. For two well-observed triples, we performed radial velocity curve fitting and light curve analysis to determine their orbital parameters, with inner and outer periods of 1.26 and 656 days for one triple, and 3.42 and 422 days for the other. And we compared the results with other studies. We also analyzed the radial velocities of these 23 tripls, revealing a range of ΔV from approximately 40–210 km s−1. Due to spectral resolution and detection limitations, velocity differences below 45 km s−1 in binaries and below 90 km s−1 in the inner binaries of triple systems are challenging to detect. Consequently, our detection range for inner orbital periods is restricted to 0.2–20 days, with the highest efficiency for periods under 10 days. These findings underscore the advantage of spectroscopic observations for identifying triple systems with short inner orbital periods.
Adding RR Lyrae y-Band Template Light Curves to gatspy
Authors: Ngeow Chow-Choong , Cheng Chia-Yu
Published: January 2025

We complement the y-band template light curves for RR Lyrae to the well-established template light curves in the ugriz-band, where the latter have been adopted in the astroML/gatspy python package as one of the period-search methods for RR Lyrae. These y-band template light curves were constructed based on the z-band time series data taken from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), the y-band light curves from the Pan-STARRS1 survey, and dedicated y-band observations using the Lulin One-meter Telescope for RR Lyrae located in the SDSS Stripe 82 region. These y-band template light curves, 9 for the ab-type RR Lyrae and 3 for the c-type RR Lyrae, can be applied in conjunction to the ugriz-band template light curves for upcoming sky surveys involving the y-band, such as the Vera C. Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time.
Characterizing Stellar and Gas Properties in NGC 628: Spatial Distributions, Radial Gradients, and Resolved Scaling Relations
Authors: Wei 魏 Peng 鹏 , Zou 邹 Hu 虎 , Wang Jing , Kong 孔 Xu 旭 , Ma 马 Shuguo 树国 , Zhou 周 Ruilei 瑞蕾 , Zhou 周 Xu 旭 , Esamdin Ali , Sun Jiantao , Zhong Tuhong , Dang 党 Fei 飞
Published: January 2025

Building on our previous research involving multiwavelength data from UV to IR, we employ spectroscopic observations of ionized gas, as well as neutral hydrogen gas obtained from the Five-hundred Meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST), to explore the intrinsic processes of star formation and chemical enrichment within NGC 628. Our analysis focuses on several key properties, including gas-phase extinction, star formation rate (SFR) surface density, oxygen abundance, and H i mass surface density. The azimuthal distributions of these parameters in relation to the morphological and kinematic features revealed by FAST H i reveal that NGC 628 is an isolated galaxy that has not undergone recent interactions. We observe a mild radial extinction gradient accompanied by a notable dispersion. The SFR surface density also shows a gentle radial gradient, characteristic of typical spiral galaxies. Additionally, we find a negative radial metallicity gradient of −0.44 dex

R

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, supporting the “inside-out” scenario of galaxy formation. We investigate the resolved mass–metallicity relation (MZR) and the resolved star formation main sequence (SFMS) alongside their dependences on the physical properties of both ionized and neutral hydrogen gas. Our findings indicate no secondary dependence of the resolved MZR on SFR surface density or H i mass surface density. Furthermore, we observe that gas-phase extinction and the equivalent width of Hα both increase with SFR surface density in the resolved SFMS.
Simons Observatory: Predeployment Performance of a Large Aperture Telescope Optics Tube in the 90 and 150 GHz Spectral Bands
Authors: Sierra Carlos E. , Harrington Kathleen , Sutariya Shreya , Alford Thomas , Kofman Anna M. , Chesmore Grace E. , Austermann Jason E. , Bazarko Andrew , Beall James A. , Bhandarkar Tanay , Devlin Mark J. , Dicker Simon R. , Dow Peter N. , Duff Shannon M. , Dutcher Daniel , Galitzki Nicholas , Golec Joseph E. , Groh John C. , Gudmundsson Jon E. , Haridas Saianeesh K. , Healy Erin , Hubmayr Johannes , Iuliano Jeffrey , Johnson Bradley R. , Lessler Claire S. , Lew Richard A. , Link Michael J. , Lucas Tammy J. , McMahon Jeffrey J. , Moore Jenna E. , Nati Federico , Niemack Michael D. , Schmitt Benjamin L. , Silva-Feaver Max , Singh Robinjeet , Sonka Rita F. , Thomas Alex , Thornton Robert J. , Tsan Tran , Ullom Joel N. , Van Lanen Jeffrey L. , Vavagiakis Eve M. , Vissers Michael R. , Wang Yuhan , Zheng Kaiwen
Published: January 2025

The Simons Observatory will map the temperature and polarization over half of the sky at millimeter wavelengths in six spectral bands from the Atacama Desert in Chile. These data will provide new insights into the genesis, content, and history of our Universe, the astrophysics of galaxies and galaxy clusters, objects in our solar system, and time-varying astrophysical phenomena. This ambitious new instrument suite, initially comprising three 0.5 m diameter small aperture telescopes and one 6 m diameter large aperture telescope, is designed using a common combination of new technologies and new implementations to realize an observatory significantly more sensitive than the previous generation. In this paper, we present the predeployment performance of the first mid-frequency “optics tube,” which will be fielded on the large aperture telescope with sensitivity to the 90 and 150 GHz spectral bands. This optics tube contains lenses, filters, detectors, and readout components, all of which operate at cryogenic temperatures. It is one of seven that form the core of the large aperture telescope receiver in its initial deployment. We describe this optics tube, including details of comprehensive testing methods, new techniques for beam and passband characterization, and its measured performance. The performance metrics include beams, optical efficiency, passbands, and forecasts for the on-sky performance of the system. We forecast a sensitivity that exceeds the requirements of the large aperture telescope with greater than 30% margin in each spectral band and predict that the instrument will realize diffraction-limited performance and the expected detector passbands.
Proficiency testing and cross-laboratory method comparison to support standardisation of diatom DNA metabarcoding for freshwater biomonitoring
Authors: Vasselon Valentin , Rivera Sinziana F. , Ács Éva , Almeida Salomé F.P. , Andree Karl B. , Apothéloz-Perret-Gentil Laure , Bailet Bonnie , Baričević Ana , Beentjes Kevin K. , Bettig Juliane , Bouchez Agnès , Capelli Camilla , Chardon Cécile , Duleba Mónika , Elersek Tina , Genthon Clémence , Jablonska Maša , Jacas Louis , Kahlert Maria , Kelly Martyn G. , Macher Jan-Niklas , Mauri Federica , Moletta-Denat Marina , Mortágua Andreia , Pawlowski Jan , Pérez-Burillo Javier , Pfannkuchen Martin , Pilgrim Erik , Pissaridou Panayiota , Rimet Frédéric , Stanic Karmen , Tapolczai Kálmán , Theroux Susanna , Trobajo Rosa , Van der Hoorn Berry , Vasquez Marlen I. , Vidal Marie , Wanless David , Warren Jonathan , Zimmermann Jonas , Paix Benoît
Published: January 2025

DNA metabarcoding of benthic diatoms has been successfully applied for biomonitoring at the national scale and can now be considered technically ready for routine application. However, protocols and methods still vary between and within countries, limiting their transferability and the comparability of results. In order to overcome this, routine use of DNA metabarcoding for diatom biomonitoring requires knowledge of the sources of variability introduced by the different steps of the procedure. Here, we examine how elements of routine procedures contribute to variability between European laboratories. A set of four experiments were performed focusing on DNA extraction and PCR amplification steps to evaluate their reproducibility between different laboratories and the variability introduced by different protocols currently applied by the scientific community. Under the guidance of a reference laboratory, 17 participants from 14 countries performed DNA extraction and PCR amplification in parallel, using the same fixed protocol and their own choice of protocol. Experiments were performed by each participant on a set of standardised DNA and biofilm samples (river, lake and mock community) to investigate potential systematic and random errors. Our results revealed the successful transferability of a protocol amongst labs and a highly similar and consistent ecological assessment outcome obtained regardless of the protocols used by each participant. We propose an “all for one but prove them all” strategy, suggesting that distinct protocols can be used within the scientific community, as long as their consistency is be proven by following minimum standard requirements.
Scénarios pour la pêche et l’aquaculture en France en 2050
Authors: Doray Mathieu , Lacroix Denis
Published: January 2025

Les mers et l’océan — auxquels la revue Futuribles a consacré toute une série d’articles entre 2020 et 2022 —, nous nourrissent, stockent le gaz carbonique, contribuent à la production d’électricité, sont un réservoir de biodiversité, mais sont aussi de plus en plus sous pression. Changement climatique, surpêche, pollutions… : les espèces aquatiques, animales comme végétales, sont menacées et avec elles, une partie des ressources contribuant à notre alimentation. Dans ce contexte, comment envisager l’avenir et faire en sorte que l’exploitation des ressources et services de la mer reste soutenable à long terme ? Afin d’éclairer les décideurs, citoyens et acteurs des secteurs en lien avec l’exploitation de la mer, une démarche prospective a été menée par l’Ifremer sur l’avenir de la pêche et l’aquaculture en France (projet « Foresea 2050 »). L’objectif était de proposer des scénarios décrivant divers futurs possibles pour ces filières, à l’horizon 2050, et d’esquisser les trajectoires les plus souhaitables. Mathieu Doray et Denis Lacroix présentent, dans cet article, la démarche prospective conduite entre décembre 2021 et juin 2023, qui a débouché sur cinq scénarios pour la pêche et l’aquaculture française en 2050, certains très négatifs (chaos, déclin) mais d’autres ouvrant des trajectoires plus positives (sobriété, zéro fossile, pari technologique). Ils précisent la méthodologie utilisée et les outils mis en place pour mesurer l’adaptabilité de ces scénarios à diverses ruptures possibles, positives comme négatives, et déterminer lesquels seraient les plus adaptables et propices à un développement durable. Cet exercice prospectif ouvre ainsi un certain nombre de pistes pour anticiper les changements à venir et permettre aux acteurs et instances économiques, scientifiques et politiques de cette filière, d’agir dès aujourd’hui pour s’orienter sur la trajectoire qui leur paraît préférable. S.D.
Pouvoir d’achat et bien-être : l’énigme française
Authors: Galland Olivier
Published: January 2025

À la veille de l’élection du 47 e président des États-Unis, les tout derniers sondages rapportés par le New York Times (3 novembre 2024) avançaient que les deux candidats, Kamala Harris et Donald Trump, étaient au coude-à-coude avec, peut-être, une très légère avance de la candidate démocrate qui se situait, y compris dans les États clefs, en deçà de la « marge d’erreur ». Mais au lendemain du scrutin, il s’est avéré que Donald Trump a largement remporté cette élection. Pourquoi ? Alors que la plupart des économistes soulignaient l’heureuse croissance du produit intérieur brut (PIB) américain et la décrue du chômage, le candidat républicain avait essentiellement fait campagne en s’engageant à baisser les impôts et à créer de nouvelles niches fiscales. Sans doute se basait-il sur le ressenti des Américains et non sur des indicateurs économiques. Une telle explication, certes simplificatrice, n’explique-t-elle pas bien d’autres résultats électoraux ? Après les élections législatives françaises de juin 2024, Gilbert Cette et Olivier Galland ont coécrit un article intitulé « Y a-t-il un problème de pouvoir d’achat en France ? », dans lequel ils vantaient plutôt les bonnes performances du pays, comparativement à celles de ses voisins européens. Puis Olivier Galland a publié, fin août 2024, un autre article — « Pouvoir d’achat et bien-être : l’énigme française » —, que nous reproduisons dans nos colonnes car il éclaire de manière très intéressante l’écart qui peut exister entre les faits et leur ressenti. Cela ne signifie pas que les données statistiques sont fausses ni que les enquêtes d’opinion seraient plus pertinentes, mais cela montre que le ressenti constitue un facteur important dans le choix des électeurs. H.J.
Autour du monument Leclerc à Douala
Authors: Nyobe Pascal Ndjock
Published: January 2025

La construction d’une barrière de protection autour d’une statue coloniale peut-elle participer à sa patrimonialisation ? Question centrale que se pose tout observateur averti au pied du monument dédié au Général Leclerc à Douala et « incarcéré » depuis 2015. Inauguré en 1949, et présenté comme le symbole d’une collaboration réussie entre la France et ses colonies au moment de son édification, le monument va être aussitôt intégré dans l’histoire, la géographie et le paysage de la ville. Les tumultes et la violence qu’a traversés le pays peu avant et au lendemain des indépendances ne remirent pas en cause sa présence, alors même que dans de nombreux pays africains, les indépendances ont donné lieu au renversement tous azimuts des éléments commémoratifs hérités de la colonisation. C’est donc avec quelque surprise que l’on découvre un matin de 2001 les premières traces de contestation de la présence de cette statue dans l’espace public (graffitis, tentatives de déboulonnement). Symbole du rejet de la présence des traces coloniales (monuments, odonymie) dans l’espace public, elle est le théâtre ces dernières années des cérémonies de l’Armistice du 11 novembre 1918 et de la Victoire du 8 mai 1945 organisée par le Consulat général de France. En analysant les documents d’archives, les articles de presses et les enquêtes orales effectuées à Douala, il nous est possible de situer le contexte d’édification de la statue et les enjeux contemporains dont elle est porteuse.
Exploring the Benefits of Employee Share Ownership
Authors: Palmieri Michael
Published: January 2025

This chapter asks a foundational question: How and to what extent do employee shareowners benefit from holding an equity stake in their companies? Using the U.S. General Social Survey (GSS) it examines outcomes such as income, wealth, employment stability, fringe benefits, and retirement security. Additionally, it explores how likely employee shareowners are to participate in company-sponsored training, problem-solving teams, and decision-making processes. This chapter offers an update to previous studies that used GSS data. It embeds the findings within discussions of employment precarity and economic inequality, providing a framework for understanding how workplace arrangements are connected to democratic theory. To contextualize the results, the outcomes for employee shareowners are compared to those of traditional workers and union members. The chapter finds that employee share ownership offers benefits that surpass those of traditional workers and are comparable to, or greater than, those provided by union membership.
The Impact of Employee Share Ownership on Governance and Company Performance
Authors: Esposito Telelaz Galaa
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of employee share ownership (ESO) on company performance and governance, focusing on the mediating role of psychological factors. Using SOMFY Tunisia as a case study, we analyzed data from 50 employees participating in an ESO plan. Results indicate that ESO significantly positively influences employee engagement, job satisfaction, and perceptions of governance. These psychological factors, in turn, mediate the relationship between ESO and company performance. Employee-shareholders demonstrate higher commitment, leading to improved individual performance and active participation in company projects. Furthermore, ESO positively impacts overall employee satisfaction, fostering a more participatory corporate culture. These findings suggest that ESO is a strategic tool for enhancing organizational performance by positively influencing employee attitudes and behaviors. However, limitations due to sample size and context should be considered, and further research is needed to generalize these results.
AI in Companies' Production Processes
Authors: Maldonado-Canca Luis , Cabrera-Sánchez Juan-Pedro , Casado-Molina Ana-Maria , Bermúdez-González Guillermo
Published: January 2025

The accelerated integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in comprehensive organizational management has marked a significant milestone in enhancing efficiency and productivity across all sectors. However, the effective adoption of this emerging technology faces significant challenges, such as ethical dilemmas, organizational barriers, and a notable deficit in relevant technological skills. This study embarks on a detailed analysis of the crucial determinants influencing the adoption of AI by companies, enhancing the UTAUT model with four new variables: Response Costs, Trust in AI, AI Anxiety, and Environmental Sustainability. Through surveys directed at over 400 CEOs of companies, this work reveals that facilitating conditions, performance expectancy, response costs, trust in AI, and AI anxiety determine the adoption of this new technology in their companies. These findings contribute to identifying which factors, from a managerial perspective, should be considered as more than sufficient reasons for AI to be implemented in their production processes.
Impact of Fare Change on the Travellers and Management of Orange Line Metro Train, Lahore
Authors: Adil Muhammad , Nadeem Obaidullah , Sajid Muhammad Faraz , Amama Muhammad , Umair Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Orange Line Metro Train (OLMT) started working in October 2020 with a flat fare system. The fare system was changed just after a couple of years to a distance-based fare system. Based on the data obtained from the Punjab Mass-transit Authority (PMA), and interviews with the passengers, this paper investigates how the users and the management of OLMT were affected by the fare change. Analysis reveals that the most noticeable change was the sudden increase in the average number of users per day, from 1,15,000 to 1,70,000. With the increase in the number of average daily users, the average revenue also increased from Rs. 4.6 million to around Rs. 5.1 million per day. Secondly, users were also facing a lot of problems like they had to stand in the long lines to buy tokens, and due to some technical issues, token machines were also not working most of the time. This was increasing their overall travel time. New ways of selling tokens/tickets, increasing revenue collection, and better service management have been suggested.
A Review on Improving the Design and Performance of Rigid Pavements with Fiber Concrete
Authors: Ullah Arshad , Ali Majid
Published: January 2025

Rigid pavement, crucial for vehicular travel, necessitates continual enhancement to withstand varying loads and environmental conditions. This study delves into the integration of fibers, such as steel and pine needle fibers, to augment the mechanical properties of concrete pavements. Plastic shrinkage cracks, a prevalent issue during concrete curing, prompt the need for effective crack control methods. Incorporating fibers mitigates this challenge by bridging cracks and enhancing post-cracking resistance. Hybridization of fibers further amplifies concrete's performance, improving properties like tensile strength and durability. Studies underscore the effectiveness of natural fibers like coconut and pine needle fibers in enhancing concrete toughness and reducing crack width. Furthermore, treatments for natural fibers, such as coconut shell fibers, have shown significant improvements in mechanical properties. Pine needle fibers, characterized by their cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness, emerge as a viable option for reinforcing concrete pavements. Overall, this research underscores the importance of fiber reinforcement in rigid pavements, offering solutions for crack control, enhanced durability, and prolonged service life.
Decadal trends in antimicrobial susceptibility of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. in chicken from small-scale farm shops in Kandy district, Sri Lanka
Authors: Thilakarathne D.S. , Gamage B.Y.I , Kottawatta K.S.A. , Abayawansha K.G.R. , Gunawardana W.S.N. , Kalupahana R.S.
Published: January 2025

E. coli and Salmonella spp. are two important foodborne pathogens that rapidly develop antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and frequently contaminate animal products, particularly chicken meat. In Sri Lankan small-scale poultry operations, substandard hygienic practices are common. The current study reports and compares two consecutive studies conducted in 2010-2011 and 2020-2021, which investigated AMR E. coli and Salmonella spp. contamination in chicken meat sold at small-scale farm shops in the Kandy district, Sri Lanka. The first study included 72 chicken meat samples collected from 10 out of the 20 divisional secretariat divisions (DSDs), while the second study included 37 meat samples from the same DSDs, collected 10 years later. Salmonella spp. and E. coli were isolated and identified, and AMR profiles were obtained using disc diffusion assay and CLSI guidelines. The first study reported 100% E. coli contamination in chicken meat, but a decade later, the percentage had significantly decreased to 70.3%. In both studies, E. coli isolates demonstrated resistance to more antimicrobials than Salmonella isolates, and the proportion of multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli isolates (defined as resistance to five or more antimicrobials) was higher than that of the Salmonella spp. isolates. Significantly lower MDR E. coli isolates were detected in the recent study. However, tetracycline resistance among E. coli isolates was higher compared to the previous study. Despite these improvements, the contamination level of chicken meat in small-scale retail shops remains concerning. Therefore, it is crucial to promote prudent antimicrobial use and ensure proper food processing practices at all levels of production in Sri Lanka.
Enhanced privacy-preserving federated convivial learning for internet of medical things (IoMT) through blockchain-enabled trust Q-learning
Authors: Sudharson K. , Babu G. , Santhiya R. , Anita C.S.
Published: January 2025

Personalized treatment and remote monitoring have been made possible by the quick uptake of internet of medical things (IoMT) devices, which have completely changed the healthcare industry. That being said, there are a lot of security and privacy issues with this expansion. While resolving certain privacy issues, current federated learning techniques cannot guarantee complete security and trust amongst involved IoMT devices. We offer the privacy-preserving federated convivial learning (FCL) platform, designed specifically for internet of medical things applications, to close this gap. The present study presents a trust-based Q-learning model powered by blockchain technology, which improves data privacy by restricting model training to approved devices only. Our solution promotes trustworthy and cooperative interactions amongst IoMT devices without sacrificing privacy by incorporating the principles of convivial learning. Comparing experimental results to traditional federated learning techniques, improved privacy protection is 92.4% and increased model accuracy is 94.7%. The advancement of IoMT technology and safe data sharing are made possible by this framework, which also makes healthcare systems safer and more effective.
Unveiling the depths of underwater image enhancement with spatial blended CNN: Diving into clarity
 
Authors: Priyadharshini R. Ahila , Arivazhagan S. , Ramajeyam K.
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a pioneering approach called spatial blended convolutional neural network (SBCNN) tailored specifically for enhancing the visual quality of underwater images. Traditional methods often struggle with the challenges posed by underwater environments, such as light absorption, scattering, and colour distortion. SBCNN addresses these challenges by combining spatial techniques with convolutional neural networks (CNNs), leveraging the strengths of both approaches. The architecture of SBCNN is designed to effectively capture spatial details and structural information inherent in underwater images. It incorporates spatial CNN branches, which are specialized components dedicated to analyze and enhance spatial features within the image. By integrating these spatial branches with traditional CNN layers, SBCNN can effectively address the unique characteristics of underwater imagery. To assess the performance of SBCNN, the study conducted comprehensive experimental evaluations using three different datasets: UIEB, EUVP, and UFO-120 and quantitative metrics such as peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), mean square error (MSE), and Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) were utilized to compare the results with existing methods. The findings from these evaluations demonstrated significant improvements achieved by SBCNN over traditional techniques, indicating its effectiveness in enhancing the visual quality of underwater images. Furthermore, to validate the generalizability of the proposed method, cross-dataset testing was conducted on the EUVP ImageNet dataset and UIEB dataset.
Simplification of large-scale solid element model for seismic structural response analysis of buildings
 
Authors: Rathnasiri S.C. , Jayasinghe J.A.S.C. , Dammika A.J.
Published: January 2025

The seismic response analysis of large-scale structural systems, including integrated earthquake simulations for urbanized cities, requires developing complex numerical models with over 10 million solid elements. However, such detailed models are often computationally intensive and time-consuming. Therefore, simplified models are necessary to efficiently assess the seismic response of structures in the time domain during the early stages of analysis. The authors are proposing a meta-modelling theory in which a simple mass-spring model (MSM) is constructed from a large-scale solid element model. This paper presents examples of converting a three-dimensional solid element model to a one-dimensional MSM, which is denoted as the consistent mass-spring model (CMSM) in the viewpoint of structural mechanics. The performance of the proposed CMSM is compared with conventional MSM and the frequency-adaptive lumped mass-stick model (LMSM). For comparison, three-storey symmetrical and unsymmetrical (T-shaped and L-shaped) reinforced concrete (RC) buildings are selected. Numerical time history simulations are carried out to check the suitability of the proposed CMSM for three sets of ground motions. The proposed CMSMs solve the same physical problem as the solid element model, using suitable mathematical approximations, and show very good agreement with those of the solid models. The first three natural frequencies of the CMSM were found to match those of the solid element model for both symmetric and asymmetric RC buildings in the study, demonstrating the high accuracy of the developed MSM. It is also shown that such a simplified model is used as an alternative to a large-scale solid element model to estimate the overall responses of the structure at the initial stage of large-scale analysis.
Leptospirosis complicated with fatal myocarditis and cardiogenic shock requiring multiple ionotropic support; a tale of a double-edged sword: a case report
Authors: Charles J. C. , Kiriwandeniya K. G. K. U. , Liyanapathirana K. V. , Gunarathna R. D. S. , Mendis S. , Liyanarachchi G. G.
Published: January 2025

No abstract available
Prevalence of pre-operative frailty and association with post-operative outcomes in patients presenting for elective major surgery: a single centre study 
Authors: Ekanayake Nimesha , Herath Avanthi , Ratnayake Ashani , Gnanarathne Sampath , Samarasinghe Bandula , Rathnayake Chandima
Published: January 2025

Background: In Sri Lanka there is significant population aging. This has caused a significant increase in the prevalence of frailty among older adults. Frailty could impact surgical outcomes, which include postoperative complications and mortality. Even though it is important to assess frailty before surgery, this is not widely integrated into routine clinical practice.Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of frailty among patients who had undergone major surgeries at Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya.Methodology: This was a prospective observational study, which was conducted at Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya. The study included 157 patients aged 18 and above who underwent elective major surgeries. Frailty was assessed using the FRAIL scale, and data were analyzed using SPSS.Results: Among 157 participants, 77.1% were classified as pre-frail and 8.3% as frail based on the FRAIL scale. Surgical specialties included general surgery (23.6%), gynaecology (45.2%), orthopedics (19.1%), vascular (8.9%), and plastic surgery (3.2%). Frail patients had a longer duration of stay and a higher number of ICU admissions when compared to pre frail patients, which was statistically significant (p<0.05). There was a higher mortality in the frail group, but this was not found to be statistically significant.Conclusion: In our study, we highlight the significant prevalence of pre-frailty and frailty among surgical patients at Teaching Hospital Peradeniya, which was associated with increased length of stay and ICU admissions. Early identification of frailty among older patients can facilitate optimized management and improved surgical outcomes and patient safety.
Successful management of a complex vascular surgical patient: Food for thought
Authors: Munasinghe B. M. , Mayall Martin F.
Published: January 2025

No abstract available