bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Calendar, Religion and Politics. Discussion on Calendar Reform in the Sikh Community
Authors:   Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Kotin Igor Yu.
Published: September 2024

In the article the introduction of the Nanakshahi calendar in 1998 (accepted in 2003, amended in 2010) is considered as an attempt of unification of the Sikh community, and formation of single-form Sikh identity. The evolution of a Sikh community is a long process and the result of the combination of different trends. The community of Sikhs started as the sect in Hinduism in time of Guru Nanak (1469–1539) but developed as a new religion under the leadership of his successors, all of whom are known as the Gurus. Dates of main historical events of the Sikhs together with agricultural and New Year celebrations (Diwali, Holi) became main festivals of the Sikh year. The matter is complicated by the emergence of significant Sikh diaspora. Recently Sikh religious authorities have introduced moral code of the Sikh and the Sikh calendar Nanakshahi to strengthen differences and to create religious boundaries between the Sikhs and the Hindus. In 2003 this calendar was put in force. However, some Sikh festivals are still celebrated in old manner according to the old Vikram (Bikrami) North Indian calendar and the new version (2010) of the Nanakshahi Calendar. The calendar reform aiming at the unification of the Sikhs resulted in rise of differences between them.
Discovering Appearance of the Franks in Arab Sources (8th–9th Centuries)
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Chubarov Denis A.
Published: September 2024

At the time of Crusades, the term “franks” (ifranj) was common Arabic word for the crusaders. Since that, almost any study of the Crusades from the “Islamic perspective” tends to discover francs in Arab sources. However, medieval Muslim authors mentioned the Franks since the early 9th century, long before the Crusades, but nobody asks when and how Arabic authors actually learn about the Franks. There is still a half-century-old hypothesis by B. Lewis, attributing the word “franc” (faranj) to the Greek “fráŋkos”. The aim of our article is to discover the original source from which the Arabs first learn about the Franks, so we study the 9th-century Arab texts reporting on the first known contact between Arabs and Franks during the Muslim conquest of Spain. It seems that the Arabic faranj could hardly originate from the Greek fráŋkos, as the combination of letters <γκ> sounds as  during this period (which corresponds to another Arabic form firank appearing in a number of texts in 11th–12th centuries and not widely used). That is why the Arabic franc could actually originate from Syriac as a transcription of the Syriac prangāiā. Based on message of the 9th-century historian Ibn Kutaiba we suppose that Arabs learned this term from the Syrian sailors who ensured the crossing of Muslim army through the Strait of Gibraltar in the spring of 711.
Major Factors that Impede Reforms in India’s Military-Industrial Complex in 2014–2023
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Likhachev Kirill A. , Makhlaiuk Arthur N. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: September 2024

This article intends to assess the negative impact of a number of factors on the reforming process of the Indian military-industrial complex (MIC) under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government during 2014–2023. The authors distinguish three groups of factors that mostly affect the whole structure of India’s defence industry at present. Conceptual and institutional factors include the contradictions of the basic laws and regulations of the Indian MIC, absence of the common strategy of the Indian armed forces development, politicising of the protectionist measures, offset policy implementation, bureaucracy’s impact and inter-agency contradictions. Economic factors include the problems with FDI attraction, governmental efforts to change the structure of defence expenditures by reducing the pensions to military personnel and attracting the private sector. The group of technological factors focuses on the problems with the quality and delivery delays of the defence production in India. An applied policy analysis, a retrospective analysis of data and content of the main documents allow the authors to conclude that the considered set of factors bears systemic nature and exerts a substantial negative impact on the Indian defence industry. These factors hinder the implementation of ambitious goals of the BJP government, aimed at achieving the “strategic autonomy” in the crucial fields for its national security. Moreover, the current problems of the Indian MIC are exacerbated by the impact of the domestic political situation. Consequently, resolving these problems in the short and medium term seems unlikely. However, in the longterm the reforms being carried out by the Indian government would largely offset the negative effect of the considered factors.
India with Solution of some International and Regional Problems in the 1950s–1960s of the 20th Century (Part 1)
Authors:   Quy Nhon University, Toan Nguyen Duc , Thuan Truong Anh ,   University of Danang, University of Science and Education, Linh Nguyen Thi Vinh ,   Quang Nam University
Published: September 2024

This article examines the role and influence of India in solving international and regional issues taking place in the 1950s and 1960s. During this period, India, through a policy of conducting progressive and neutral diplomacy, emerged as an important mediator of the conflicting interests among the world’s great powers. For example, India played an important role in ending the Indochina War, and the Korean War, as well as acting as a mediator in the civil war in the Congo and helping to solve diplomatic issues related to the Egyptian nationalization of the Suez Canal. In order to examine these issues in more detail, the authors of this paper make use of original sources and relevant academic works published by scholars from academic institutions around the world. At the same time, the authors use two primary methods of historical science, including the historical method and the logical method, along with other methods such as analysis, synthesis, evaluation, statistics, and comparison. This study is intended to provide additional perspectives and understanding regarding India’s diplomatic policies during this period of the Cold War. The analyzed policies demonstrated India’s creativity and flexibility in its diversity of approaches in solving regional and international issues. Despite the effects and pressures of the bipolar order, India remained steadfast in its goals and basic principles of its diplomacy.
Disclosure and corporate governance: Evidence from Russian companies
Authors:   Graduate School of Business, Higher School of Economics, Berezinets Irina V. , Muravyev Alexander A. ,   School of Economics and Management, Higher School of Economics,   Institute of Labor Economics (IZA)
Published: September 2024

Purpose: this article aims to provide new evidence on the role of several potential drivers of corporate disclosure that have been insufficiently studied or remain controversial in the literature on accounting and corporate governance such as one-tier vs. two-tier corporate boards, having grey directors on the board, direct vs. indirect government ownership and the ownership stake of second-largest shareholders. Methodology: the study uses rich and unique data on transparency and disclosure by Russian firms collected by the S&P agency from 2002 till 2010 and obtained by the authors under a confidentiality agreement. The analysis is based on conventional techniques of regression analysis for panel data. Findings: there is strong evidence of complementarity between corporate governance and disclosure. In particular, disclosure is enhanced by boards with a higher proportion of truly independent directors (compared to grey directors, whose role is less clear-cut), is higher in companies with a two-tier board and those with a greater stake of the second largest shareholder. It is also found that direct government ownership is associated with reduced disclosure. In contrast, no such effect is observed for indirect ownership by the state. Originality and contribution: the analysis uses detailed data from a country with a relatively poor corporate governance environment in general and low standards of mandatory disclosure, which helps observe relationships that would be hard to detect in better institutional settings. It is also one of the first studies that scrutinizes disclosure practices of publicly traded companies in Russia. The obtained findings emphasize the risks of reduced mandatory disclosure requirements, which Russian government allowed in response to the Western sanctions, on the background of a significant exodus of qualified independent/foreign directors from the corporate boards. Given the complementarity between disclosure and corporate governance, this may amplify the risks of poor corporate governance and performance of Russian firms.
ESG: Transformation of interpretations
Authors:   Graduate School of Management, St. Petersburg State University, Blagov Yury E.
Published: September 2024

Purpose: to identify directions of transformation in the ESG interpretations in the system of interrelated scientific conceptions. Methodology: the study is based on the interpretation of the abbreviation ESG as a term element that forms ESG issues acting as specific ESG factors. The consideration of these factors meaningfully transforms the conceptions that explain the interaction between business, society and nature. Findings: acknowledging ESG factors fills new meanings in the content of the following conceptions: responsible investment, risk management and business responsibility in general. Also, it stimulates the reinterpretation of the “umbrella” conception of interaction between business, society and nature including the conception which exists in the form of ideological preference. Originality and contribution: the work identifies the directions and presents an original model for transforming the interpretations of ESG in the relevant interrelated scientific conceptions that explain the interaction between business, society and nature. The incorrectness of using the term “ESG conception” in scientific research is substantiated.
Physics-enhanced machine learning models for streamflow discharge forecasting
Authors: Zhao Ying , Chadha Mayank , Barthlow Dakota , Yeates Elissa , Mcknight Charles J. , Memarsadeghi Natalie P. , Gugaratshan Guga , Todd Michael D. , Hu Zhen
Published: September 2024

Accurate river discharge forecasts for short to intermediate time intervals are crucial for decision-making related to flood mitigation, the seamless operation of inland waterways management, and optimal dredging. River routing models that are physics based, such as RAPID (‘routing application for parallel computation of discharge’) or its variants, are used to forecast river discharge. These physics-based models make numerous assumptions, including linear process modeling, accounting for only adjacent river inflows, and requiring brute force calibration of hydrological input parameters. As a consequence of these assumptions and the missing information that describes the complex dynamics of rivers and their interaction with hydrology and topography, RAPID leads to noisy forecasts that may, at times, substantially deviate from the true gauged values. In this article, we propose hybrid river discharge forecast models that integrate physics-based RAPID simulation model with advanced data-driven machine learning (ML) models. They leverage runoff data of the watershed in the entire basin, consider the physics-based RAPID model, take into account the variability in predictions made by the physics-based model relative to the true gauged discharge values, and are built on state-of-the-art ML models with different complexities. We deploy two different algorithms to build these hybrid models, namely, delta learning and data augmentation. The results of a case study indicate that a hybrid model for discharge predictions outperforms RAPID in terms of overall performance. The prediction accuracy for various rivers in the case study can be improved by a factor of four to seven.
The Malleable Scarcity of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Authors: Brotherton Michelle
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The lack of oral contraceptive pill scarcity is taken into consideration in this article manuscript. Some of the factors are analysed that influence this situation by taking a close look at both historical and contemporary examples of scarcities and shortages.

Methods

Investigations are conducted on whether oral contraceptive pills can even be scarce through an argument by analogy or if politics, legal precedents, societal views, and market politics determine scarcities and shortages.

Results

Given the human rights implications of reproductive health care services and the fundamental difference OCPs can make in the lives of millions of women, claims of shortages and scarcities need to be placed under scrutiny to avoid a violation of rights through unmet needs.

Conclusion

THE malleable scarcity of oral contraceptive pills:

“Throughout the history of medicine, thousands of drugs have been developed, but only one has been influential enough to earn the title of simply the pill.”
Critical Analysis of International Dispute Resolution System in the Light of Kulbhushan Jadhav Case Study
Authors: Singhal Kanhaiya
Published: September 2024

In this research paper, researcher is attempting to conduct a critical analysis of the judgment pronounced by International Court of Justice in the matter of Kulbhushan Jadhav case between India and Pakistan. The case has been a landmark instance for the whole international dispute resolution mechanism persisting in current global situation. The instance has a unique significance for scholars as the disguised drawbacks of international law have been brought to light yet again. In India v. Pakistan1 (Official name of Kulbhushan Jadhav case), the International Court of Justice [ICJ] found that Pakistan had violated its obligations under Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. Therefore, Pakistan must continue to subject Jadav's conviction and sentencing to effective review (ERR) using methods of its own choosing. In this paper, researcher intends to analyse the same issue in detail while analysing the Kulbhushan Jadhav case and its aftermaths. India and Pakistan have been against each other since 1947 and this issue has unfortunately been one among them where the life of an individual has been at stake and stuck between the tussle of the geo-politics between the countries.
Social Justice Coalition & 2 others v Minister of Police and 4 others: Right to City as a Mitigating Concept to Harms on Public Safety
Authors: Mutlokwa Hoitsimolimo
Published: September 2024

The South African constitution in section 9(3) prohibits unfair discrimination against anyone. This paper aims to unpack a judgement handed down by the Constitutional Court of South Africa on 19 July 2022 relating to the unfair allocation of policing resources in South Africa, thus resulting in unfair discrimination. The case discussed is the case of Social Justice Coalition and 2 others v Minister of Police and 4 others. Systematic discrimination has seen less allocation of police resources amongst poorer communities such as Khayelitsha in Cape Town. The paper further aims to see how local government can play a meaningful role in promoting public safety in its law and policy, thus promoting the ‘right to city’ and adhering to United Nations normative approaches on Urban crime and safety. This may mitigate systematic discrimination that historically disadvantaged areas have in policing resources across South Africa. Generally, South Africa is ranked one of the most violent societies. Murder, robbery, rape, femicide, and domestic violence occur at alarming levels. Cities such as Cape Town rank amongst the twenty most violent cities in the world, with the likes of some Latin and Central American cities, which are countries that are not in any form of civil war or civil unrest. It is a general norm that some areas have developed a reputation of being high risk to public safety because of various violent crimes such as gun shooting, stabbing, and rape. Certain areas in metropolitan cities, such as Khayelitsha Cape Town, are known to have high unreported incidents of violent crimes. It is worth pointing out that the application brought before the courts focuses on the lack of policing resources in Cape Town. This judgement also fits into the reality of the situation across South African townships under-resourced with policing resources to deal with violent crime and other crime. The paper will be structured in a way that first gives a background of the case, secondly a critical analysis of the case through the concept of ‘right to city’ and thirdly, submissions and a conclusion.
Metamorphosis of citizenship education: Ignizing national awareness of the younger generation
Authors: Purwadi Danang , Saliman Saliman , Umar Umar
Published: September 2024

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Is gender studies absent in the Civic Education curriculum in higher education?
Authors: Febrianti Nurul , Abdulkarim Aim , Malihah Elly , Fitriasari Susan , Casmana Asep Rudi
Published: September 2024

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Crime clustering in Yogyakarta: Data analysis 2016-2020 and state responsibility in crime
Authors: Martiana Aris , Arif Nursida , Wardana Amika , Wahab Norwaliza Abdul
Published: September 2024

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Efektivitas Media Komik Terhadap Peningkatan Ketrampilan Menulis Cerita Pendek Pada Sisiwa Kelas IX SMP PGRI Banyuwangi
Authors: Kholifah Dewi Nur , Citraningrum Dina Merdeka , Alfan Mochamad
Published: September 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menguji keefektifan penggunaan media komik sebagai alat pengajaran menulis cerita pendek dan untuk mengetahui tingkat kompetensi siswa kelas IX SMP PGRI Banyuwangi di bidang tersebut. Media komik terpilih sebagai alat pedagogi kreatif setelah dilakukan pemeriksaan terhadap perjuangan siswa dengan komposisi cerita pendek. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain one-group pretest-posttest sebagai metodologi eksperimennya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjawab permasalahan mengenai keampuhan media komik dalam pembelajaran siswa menulis cerita pendek dan memberikan gambaran bagaimana peningkatan kemampuan menulis siswa setelah menggunakan media komik
Survey of Citizens’ Preferences for Combined Contact Tracing App Features During a Pandemic: Conjoint Analysis
Authors: Bito Seiji , Hayashi Yachie , Fujita Takanori , Takahashi Ikuo , Arai Hiromi , Yonemura Shigeto
Published: September 2024

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, an increased need for novel solutions such as digital contact tracing apps to mitigate virus spread became apparent. These apps have the potential to enhance public health initiatives through timely contact tracing and infection rate reduction. However, public and academic scrutiny has emerged around the adoption and use of these apps due to privacy concerns.

Objective

This study aims to investigate public attitudes and preferences for contact tracing apps, specifically in Japan, using conjoint analysis to examine what specifications the public values most in such apps. By offering a nuanced understanding of the values that citizens prioritize, this study can help balance public health benefits and data privacy standards when designing contact tracing apps and serve as reference data for discussions on legal development and social consensus formation in the future.

Methods

A cross-sectional, web-based questionnaire survey was conducted to determine how various factors related to the development and integration of infectious disease apps affect the public’s intention to use such apps. Individuals were recruited anonymously by a survey company. All respondents were asked to indicate their preferences for a combination of basic attributes and infectious disease app features for conjoint analysis. The respondents were randomly divided into 2 groups: one responded to a scenario where the government was assumed to be the entity dealing with infectious disease apps (ie, the government cluster), and the other responded to a scenario where a commercial company was assumed to be this entity (ie, the business cluster). Samples of 500 respondents from each randomly selected group were used as target data.

Results

For the government cluster, the most important attribute in scenario A was distributor rights (42.557), followed by public benefits (29.458), personal health benefits (22.725), and profit sharing (5.260). For the business cluster, the most important attribute was distributor rights (45.870), followed by public benefits (32.896), personal health benefits (13.994), and profit sharing (7.240). Hence, personal health benefits tend to be more important in encouraging active app use than personal financial benefits. However, the factor that increased motivation for app use the most was the public health benefits of cutting infections by half. Further, concern about the use of personal data collected by the app for any secondary purpose was a negative incentive, which was more significant toward app use compared to the other 3 factors.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that potential app users are positively motivated not only by personal health benefits but also by contributing to public health. Thus, a combined approach can be taken to increase app use.
The Role of Relevance in Shaping Perceptions of Sleep Hygiene Games Among University Students: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Liang Zilu , Melcer Edward , Khotchasing Kingkarn , Chen Samantha , Hwang Daeun , Hoang Nhung Huyen
Published: September 2024

Background

Sleep games are an emerging topic in the realm of serious health game research. However, designing features that are both enjoyable and effective at engaging users, particularly university students, to develop healthy sleep habits remains a challenge.

Objective

This study aims to investigate user preferences for 3 sleep game prototypes, that is, Hero’s Sleep Journey, Sleep Tamagotchi, and Sleepland, and to explore their popularity and perceived utility in promoting sleep health.

Methods

A mixed methods approach was used in this study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through a co-design workshop involving 47 university students. Participants were presented with storyboard cards of game features and were asked to provide an overall rating on each game, as well as ratings for individual features. They were also encouraged to provide free-form comments on the features and suggest improvements. In addition, participants were asked to express their preferences among the 3 games regarding which game they would most like to play and which one they found most useful for promoting sleep health.

Results

Surprisingly, while Hero’s Sleep Journey was the most popular choice among participants, Sleep Tamagotchi was perceived as the most beneficial for improving sleep health. Relevance emerged as an overarching theme in the qualitative data analysis, with 3 interconnected dimensions: psychological relevance to users’ personal lives, logical relevance to sleep health, and situational relevance to users’ circumstantial context. We discussed how the 3 dimensions of relevance address the autonomy and relatedness constructs outlined in the self-determination theory and proposed 3 design recommendations.

Conclusions

Our serious sleep game prototypes demonstrated the potential to engage university students to develop healthy sleep hygiene. Future sleep game designs should aim to create a sense of relevance to users’ personal lives, sleep health goals, and situational contexts. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, it is essential to develop a wide range of game genres and features to cater to diverse users. Aligning game features with sleep health goals and educating users on the design rationale through sleep knowledge are also important aspects. Furthermore, allowing users to customize their game experience and manage technology boundaries is necessary to nurture a sense of control and autonomy in the process of forming good sleep hygiene.
Relisten: Improving perceived quality of care and saving time spent on writing tasks through automatic generation of clinical notes in primary care: proof of concept (Preprint)
Authors: Vidal-Alaball Josep , Alonso Carlos , Heinisch Daniel Hugo , Castaño Alberto , Sánchez-Freire Encarna , Benito María Luisa , Ferrer Carla , Menacho Ignacio , Acosta Ruthy , Cardona Odda , Farrés Creus Rosa , Armengol Alegre Joan , Martínez Carles , Moreno-Martinez Marina , Gonfaus Mercè , Narejos Silvia , Gómez Anna
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Relisten is an artificial intelligence-based software developed by Recog Analytics that improves patient care by facilitating more natural interactions between healthcare professionals and patients. Relisten extracts relevant information from recorded conversations, structuring it in the medical record and sending it to the Health Information System after the professional's approval. This approach allows professionals to focus on the patient without the need to perform clinical documentation tasks.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of the study are to improve the quality of care perceived by patients, increase healthcare professionals' satisfaction with the care provided, and reduce the time spent on entering records into the electronic medical record through the use of Relisten.

METHODS

This Proof of Concept (PoC) study is conducted as a multi-centre trial with the participation of several health professionals in Primary Care Centres (CAPs) of Amposta, Centelles, Artés, Sallent, Súria and the Consorci d'Atenció Primària de Salut Barcelona Esquerra (CAPSBE). During the study, Relisten will be used in consultations under informed consent, followed by patient and professional surveys. Statistical analyses will be performed for each objective, using independent sample comparison tests according to normality evaluated with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and Lilliefors correction. The sample has been determined a priori to optimise the achievement of satisfactory results. Stratified statistical tests will also be performed to consider the variance between professionals.

RESULTS

This study was preregistered on ClinicalTrials.org. Recruitment began in July 2024, and so far, 198 patients have been enrolled. Recruitment is expected to be completed by October 2024. Data analysis will take place between November 2024 and January 2025, with results expected to be published in March 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

We expect an improvement in the quality of care perceived by patients and a significant reduction in the time spent taking clinical notes, with a saving of at least 30 seconds per visit. Although a high quality of the notes generated is expected, it is uncertain whether a significant improvement over the control group, which is already expected to have high quality notes, will be demonstrated.
Relationship between Short-term Altmetric Changes and Long-term Citation: Multivariate Regression Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Pan Lizi , Chen Juan , Yan Shu , Lu Yan , Xu Dongzi , Ouyang Zhaolian
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

The methods for assessing the impact of academic papers are diversifying beyond traditional citation counts, with the rise of social media and online dissemination channels introducing alternative metrics (Altmetrics). These metrics capture influences not covered by traditional citations, reflecting a paper's dissemination on social media and online discussions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the relationship between short-term changes in altmetrics indicators and long-term citation counts.

METHODS

We selected papers published in six high-impact journals (Cell, Nature, Science, JAMA, NEJM, and The Lancet) during 2019-2020. Data on altmetric mentions within 15 days after publication and citations were collected and transformed. The papers were grouped into high and low Altmetric Attention Score (AAS) categories, and multiple linear regression was used to analyze the relationship between early altmetric changes and later citation counts.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between early AAS and later citation counts. Specific altmetric indicators, such as mentions on F1000, Facebook, news stories, patents, policy documents, and tweets, showed a strong positive correlation with citation frequency, while mentions on blogs and Reddit had a negative correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

Altmetrics provide immediate feedback on the impact and visibility of academic papers and can serve as early predictors of long-term citation trends. The study highlights the importance of various social media and online platforms in enhancing research visibility and underscores the potential of altmetrics as a valuable tool for comprehensive academic assessment.

CLINICALTRIAL
Advancing Telemedicine Education in Romania - Bridging Gaps for Future Healthcare: a scoping review (Preprint)
Authors: Focsa Mircea Adrian , Rotaru Mircea Adrian , Andronic Octavian , Marginean Marius
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Telemedicine is a key element of modern healthcare, providing remote medical consultations and bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Despite legislative advancements and pilot programs, the integration of telemedicine education in Romania remains limited. Addressing these educational gaps is essential for preparing current and future medical professionals to effectively use telemedicine technologies.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to evaluate the current state of telemedicine education in Romania, identify the challenges and opportunities associated with its integration into medical curricula, and provide recommendations for improving telemedicine education.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Peer-reviewed articles from 2019 to 2023 were identified using databases such as PubMed and Scopus. Additional grey literature was reviewed to provide a comprehensive understanding of telemedicine education in Romania. Data were thematically analysed to extract key findings and recommendations.

RESULTS

The review identified significant progress in the legislative and infrastructural aspects of telemedicine in Romania, but highlighted gaps in integrating telemedicine education into medical curricula. While some universities have included telemedicine components, dedicated telemedicine courses and hands-on training remain insufficient. Barriers include a lack of infrastructure, digital literacy, and practical exposure to telemedicine technologies.

CONCLUSIONS

For telemedicine to be effectively integrated into Romania’s healthcare system, medical education must be adapted to include comprehensive telemedicine training. Recommendations include enhancing digital literacy, fostering public-private partnerships, and incorporating telemedicine into undergraduate and continuous professional education programs. These efforts are essential for improving healthcare access and quality through telemedicine.
The Intersection of Comprehension Skills and Critical Thinking: A Quantitative Analysis of Research Output
Authors: James Sahaya Restina , Selvam Dr. K
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Purpose: This study examines the relationship between reading comprehension and critical thinking skills through a systematic review of existing literature. Reading comprehension and critical thinking are recognized as fundamental abilities for academic and career success. However, research often treats them as separate constructs despite their interconnectedness. This review synthesizes qualitative findings across multiple sectors to understand the applicability of comprehension skills and their connection to critical thinking. Methodology: A search on the Scopus database yielded 2298 relevant studies after screening, from which a final sample of 225 studies was analyzed. Bibliometric visualizations highlight critical thinking as the central focus, with reading comprehension, argumentation, problem-solving, and critical reading emerging as closely linked components. The overlay visualization suggests a research emphasis shift from critical reading to problem-solving skills over time. The density visualization indicates critical thinking received the highest priority, followed by reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. Findings/Implications: Key gaps identified include limited research integrating both skills for English language learners, lack of long-term intervention studies, and overlooked factors like motivation and technology. The findings underscore the crucial role of strong comprehension abilities, particularly critical reading and problem comprehension, as building blocks for developing critical thinking proficiency. Future research should explore innovative pedagogical approaches to seamlessly cultivate these interconnected skills among diverse learner populations.
Arduino-Based Real-Time ECG Monitoring System for Heart Signal Visualization
Authors: Kamati Veer Chandra
Published: September 2024

Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is an essential tool in healthcare for diagnosing and tracking heart conditions. However, existing ECG devices are often expensive, limiting accessibility for personal or educational use. This project aims to develop a low-cost ECG monitoring system using an Arduino UNO, AD8232 sensor, and TFT SPI display. The system collects ECG signals via electrodes and displays the real-time PQRST waveform on the TFT screen and the Arduino IDE serial monitor. Resistors are utilized to ensure signal clarity by reducing electrical noise. The project successfully demonstrated the ability to visualize clear ECG signals in real time, offering a practical and cost-effective solution for continuous cardiac monitoring
Integrating AHP and GTMA for Enhanced Multi-Criteria Decision Making in Logistics Provider Selection
Authors: Monica Jatavathu
Published: September 2024

The selection of logistics providers is a critical task for organizations aiming to enhance their supply chain performance and maintain a competitive edge. This paper proposes an integrated approach that combines the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Graph-Theoretic Matrix Approach (GTMA) for effective multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) in the selection of logistics providers. AHP is widely used for evaluating criteria and alternatives based on pairwise comparisons, while GTMA enhances decision-making by incorporating complex interdependencies among criteria. The integrated AHPGTMA approach is demonstrated through a case study involving the selection of a third-party logistics provider (3PLP). The proposed method improves the decision-making process by simplifying complex relationships among criteria while ensuring an efficient and robust selection. This integrated model presents a more comprehensive and reliable framework for logistics provider selection, overcoming limitations observed in stand-alone AHP and ANP approaches. Future research may focus on the application of fuzzy logic to further enhance decision accuracy in uncertain environments.
Design and Optimization of Steel Structures for Solar Panel Systems
Authors: Ulhe Dr. Prashant N. , Bhardwaj Dr. Ajay R.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Structural components are fundamental for supporting mechanical machines in industrial settings. These structures are designed not only to bear the weight of the machines but also to withstand the vibrations generated during operation. The project at hand focuses on integrating basic structural sections to create a complete mechanical framework. Our goal is to collaborate with an industry specializing in support structures for various electrical units. From our initial analysis, we observed that many of these industries rely on conventional manufacturing practices and past experience to design structures, often leading to overdesign. No finite element analysis (FEA) or theoretical calculations are typically applied. We propose introducing modern FEA techniques and concepts to optimize and refine these designs for improved efficiency.
Rapid Prototyping Technology: A Driving Force in Product Design Innovation
Authors: Bhardwaj Dr. Ajay R. , Ulhe Dr. Prashant
Published: September 2024

Abstract: This paper explores the transformative impact of rapid prototyping on product design processes across various industries. Rapid prototyping, characterized by its ability to quickly create physical models from digital designs, significantly enhances the iterative design phase, facilitating early testing and validation of concepts. RP includes the integration of technologies such as 3D printing, computer-aided design (CAD), and additive manufacturing in accelerating product iterations, reducing time-to-market, and fostering innovation. Rapid prototyping (RP) has emerged as a transformative approach in product development, significantly enhancing design processes across various industries. Sectors including automotive, consumer electronics and healthcare show how rapid prototyping streamlines communication among stakeholders, enhances user feedback incorporation, and reduces production costs
Tensor-network-based variational Monte Carlo approach to the non-equilibrium steady state of open quantum systems
Authors: Hryniuk Dawid A. , Szymańska Marzena H.
Published: September 2024

We introduce a novel method of efficiently simulating the non-equilibrium steady state of large many-body open quantum systems with highly non-local interactions, based on a variational Monte Carlo optimization of a matrix product operator ansatz. Our approach outperforms and offers several advantages over comparable algorithms, such as an improved scaling of the computational cost with respect to the bond dimension for periodic systems. We showcase the versatility of our approach by studying the phase diagrams and correlation functions of the dissipative quantum Ising model with collective dephasing and long-ranged power law interactions for spin chains of up to N=100 spins.
Performance Evaluation of a Condenser at a Combined Cycle Power Plant Using the LMTD Method
Authors: Swardhamana Putut Jaya , Ruhyat Nanang , Novianto Sentot
Published: September 2024

This study evaluates the performance of the condenser at the Cilegon Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) using the Logarithmic Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD) method to measure the heat transfer rate. Routine maintenance carried out on the condenser in the form of cleaning the condenser water box and condenser tube from garbage and crust on the condenser tube wall. Currently, condenser maintenance follows a routine schedule that is tied to steam turbine maintenance, without taking actual condenser performance into account. This can lead to inefficiencies and unnecessary downtime. The goal of this research is to assess the heat transfer rate of the condenser before and after maintenance to judge its effectiveness. Data on temperature changes were gathered in June 2023, before maintenance, and again in July 2023, after an overhaul. The analysis shows that the heat transfer rate increased from 51,362,294.48 kcal/h to 127,246,219.7 kcal/h, while the LMTD value rose from 0.76°C to 1.86°C. Based on these results, the study suggests a new approach to maintenance that focuses on performance. Specifically, maintenance should be done when the heat transfer rate drops below 110,000,000 kcal/h. This approach will help ensure the condenser works at its best, improve the plant's overall efficiency, and prevent the need for unnecessary maintenance. By aligning maintenance with performance data, the plant can boost output while lowering costs and downtime.
ANTICIPATION - Performance, art and design
Authors: Sergio Patricio
Published: September 2024

My performance art practice as an artist and researcher has become crucial to test ideas that theoretically catch my interest. For example, years ago I was convinced that performance art compositions were a miracle because of the Chaos theory in physics, where organized chaos was so complex that it was too difficult to perceive the origin, development and end of each action in time-space here and now. Within the context of an event of actions and the probabilities, time stretches out in many directions, making the observable constellation of actions more than chaotic, but four-dimensional almost, in a way that the past, present and future of the actions become one: Anticipation. Therefore, Anticipation in actions becomes crucial to understanding that action could fail even in a prediction, as an action goal is scored to be done, performers in present time-space, live simultaneously in the past present and future of the action, the tension between the action-goal is the vibration, but the anticipation is all the probabilities merge with the past and future of this action. Multidimensional perception requires a performer to perform within an action to improve training and work out through several performance preparations. An example is how to cross at constant speed a mass of crowded people and not change direction. Anticipation switches your present to be merged with your past and future. Such a concept is how I improve daily in my performance lab with the participants of my performance laboratory.
desindividualización en Cuba
Authors: Garcés Marrero Roberto
Published: September 2024

Este texto apunta al análisis de la desindividualización a la que han sido sometidos los ciudadanos cubanos luego de 1959 como mecanismo preservador del status quo. Esta desindividualización comienza con la escolarización y se refuerza en las diferentes instancias e instituciones de socialización, en su mayoría controladas de manera directa o indirecta por el estado, garantizando el sometimiento de una población desciudadanizada.
¿Entre establecidos y outsiders? Narrativas oficialistas y construcciones sociales en torno al disenso en Cuba
Authors: Carrillo Hans
Published: September 2024

El objetivo del artículo es describir narrativas del mandatario cubano Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez que reproducen contenidos autoritarios sobre relaciones entre Estado y sociedad civil, aplicando tres estrategias de dominación política: 1) construcción de ciudadanos outsiders, 2) manipulación conceptual sobre la política y 3) obstaculización de la aparición de grupos sociales –disidentes– en calidad de sujetos de derechos. Para su realización se seleccionaron 16 pronunciamientos entre los años 2021 y 2022, y se aplicó una metodología cualitativa basada en la utilización de los métodos de análisis de contenido temático y narrativo. La aplicación de este método fue gerenciada a través del Software ATLAS.ti 22. Los resultados obtenidos complementan otros estudios sobre estrategias de dominación y represión en Cuba, y muestran el tipo de batalla discursiva desempeñada por las élites gobernantes para reproducir formas de internalización de significados y valores propicios para la proliferación de otras dinámicas y estructuras de autocratización.
El impacto diferenciado de la crisis sobre la seguridad alimentaria
Authors: Muñoz Rodríguez Lina María
Published: September 2024

La reciente crisis económica cubana, causada principalmente por las dificultades del sector energético, la pandemia por COVID-19 y el “ordenamiento monetario”, ha traído importantes repercusiones sobre la seguridad alimentaria de los habitantes de la isla, quienes han tenido que hacer frente a la escasez de alimentos y demás fenómenos de manera generalizada. No obstante, si bien ello ha afectado a la generalidad de la población, las mujeres han padecido el impacto diferencial de la crisis, en la medida en que ha reforzado su rol en el hogar y les ha impuesto mayores cargas respecto a las labores de cuidado, entre las que se incluye la alimentación de la familia, la cual deben garantizar aun si ello supone el sacrificio de su propio consumo de alimentos y bienestar. Partiendo de ello, el presente ensayo busca reflexionar en torno a la influencia de los estereotipos de género sobre los impactos diferenciados de la crisis, los cuales han afectado de manera importante a las mujeres. Así, se aludirá, en primer lugar, a las perspectivas de la literatura sobre los estereotipos de género y las crisis; segundo, se brindará una aproximación histórica al rol de la mujer en Cuba; tercero, se hará referencia a la actual crisis cubana, ahondando en cómo esta ha generado consecuencias importantes para la población de manera indiscriminada, pero con un mayor impacto hacia la población de las mujeres. Finalmente, se presentarán los testimonios de mujeres que demuestran el impacto diferenciado de la crisis al interior de los hogares.
The Relationship between Average Glucose Levels and HbA1c Differs Across Racial Groups: A Sub-study of the GRADE Randomized Trial
Authors: M. Nathan David , H. Herman William , E. Larkin Mary , Krause-Steinrauf Heidi , AbouAssi Hiba , J. Ahmann Andrew , Brown-Friday Janet , S. Hsia Daniel , Harindhanavudhi Tasma , Johnson Mary , L. Arends Valerie , M. Butera Nicole , P. Rosin Samuel , M. Lachin John , Younes Naji
Published: September 2024

Objective: To determine whether the relationship between average glycemia (AG) levels and HbA1c differs across racial/ethnic groups.

Research Design and Methods: A prospective sub-study of GRADE, a comparative effectiveness randomized trial conducted in 36 centers in the US. 1454 of the 5047 participants from the GRADE cohort, including 534 non-Hispanic White (NHW), 389 non-Hispanic Black (NHB), 327 Hispanic White (HW), and 204 of other racial/ethnic backgrounds, participated in the sub-study. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) performed for 10 days was used to calculate AG10. Immediately after CGM, HbA1c and glycated albumin were measured. Fasting glucose (FPG) and glucose area-under-the-curve (AUC) were derived from a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test.

Results: The relationship between AG10 and HbA1c was significantly different for NHB compared to NHW and the other racial/ethnic groups. HbA1c levels were 0.2 to 0.6 percentage points higher in NHB than in NHW for AG10 levels from 100 to 250 mg/dL. For an HbA1c of 7%, the AG10 was 11 mg/dL higher for NHW than for NHB. Similar findings were observed across races for the relationships of FPG and AUC with HbA1c and for the glucose measurements with glycated albumin levels. The differences in the relationship between AG10 and HbA1c across racial groups remained after adjustments for any demographic or other differences between the racial/ethnic subgroups.

Conclusion: The relationship between several measures of glucose with HbA1c and glycated albumin consistently differed across races. These findings should be considered in setting treatment goals and diagnostic levels.
Follow-up of patients with post covid-19 condition after a multidisciplinary team assessment: a pilot study
Authors: Wigge Alexander , Philipson Johanna , Hällgren Solveig , Filipsson Helena , Stålnacke Britt-Marie
Published: September 2024

Objective: To follow up patients with post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) 6 months after a multidisciplinary team assessment in specialist care regarding symptoms of pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue and cognition, level of activity, physical activity and sick leave.
Methods: A prospective pilot study conducted in a clinical setting of patients (n = 22) with PCC referred from primary healthcare to a specialist clinic for a 2 day-multidisciplinary team assessment followed by a subsequent rehabilitation plan. Data were collected through questionnaires filled in prior to the team assessment and 6 months later.
Results: Fifteen of the initial 22 patients participated in the follow-up. No statistically significant improvements were seen in any of the questionnaires after 6 months. However, 76.9% of the participants perceived the intervention as being helpful. This differed between the genders, where all the women 100% (n = 8) perceived it as being helpful, compared with 40% (n = 2) of the men (p = 0.012).
Conclusions: Based on these findings, the benefit of a multidisciplinary team assessment of PCC is not fully convincing. However, since the participants themselves perceived the intervention as being helpful, the team assessment seems to be of some value. Further studies with larger populations would be of interest.