bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter-observer Variability in the Analysis of CO-RADS Classification for COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Almalki Yassir Edrees , Basha Mohammad Abd Alkhalik , Metwally Maha Ibrahim , Housseini Ahmed Mohamed , Alduraibi Sharifa Khalid , Almushayti Ziyad A. , Aldhilan Asim S. , Elzoghbi Mahmoud Mohamed , Gabr Esraa Attia , Manajrah Esaraa , Hijazy Reham Mohammed Farid , Akbazli Loujain Mohamed Khear , El Mokadem Ayman , Basha Ahmed M. A. , Mosallam Walid
Published: December 2023

During the early stages of the pandemic, computed tomography (CT) of the chest, along with serological and clinical data, was frequently utilized in diagnosing COVID-19, particularly in regions facing challenges such as shortages of PCR kits. In these circumstances, CT scans played a crucial role in diagnosing COVID-19 and guiding patient management. The COVID-19 Reporting and Data System (CO-RADS) was established as a standardized reporting system for cases of COVID-19 pneumonia. Its implementation necessitates a high level of agreement among observers to prevent any potential confusion. This study aimed to assess the inter-observer agreement between physicians from different specialties with variable levels of experience in their CO-RADS scoring of CT chests for confirmed COVID-19 patients, and to assess the feasibility of applying this reporting system to those having little experience with it. All chest CT images of patients with positive RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 were retrospectively reviewed by seven observers. The observers were divided into three groups according to their type of specialty (three radiologists, three house officers, and one pulmonologist). The observers assessed each image and categorized the patients into five CO-RADS groups. A total of 630 participants were included in this study. The inter-observer agreement was almost perfect among the radiologists, substantial among a pulmonologist and the house officers, and moderate-to-substantial among the radiologists, the pulmonologist, and the house officers. There was substantial to almost perfect inter-observer agreement when reporting using the CO-RADS among observers with different experience levels. Although the inter-observer variability among the radiologists was high, it decreased compared to the pulmonologist and house officers. Radiologists, house officers, and pulmonologists applying the CO-RADS can accurately and promptly identify typical CT imaging features of lung involvement in COVID-19.
Location Hunting Game: Developing an Application to Promote Gameful Hybrid Machi-aruki Town Exploration
Authors: Tabi Salma , Ikeda Yasushi
Published: December 2023

Previous research has established the relevance of digital tools in participatory processes of urban planning and design. Nevertheless, the debate about the role that these information and communication technologies (ICTs) play within the participatory process, with respect to established practices and methods, and in relation to community building and public space, is still ongoing. The purpose of this paper is to present the design and development of a participation tool that attempts to combine physical and digital forms of interaction with public space and the community in the context of an essential initiation practice in Japanese participatory planning, called machi-aruki (town walking or walking tours). This tool, named the Location Hunting Game (LHG), employs location data as a medium to connect digital and physical realms, and was developed in a broader theory-driven research endeavor that explores the potential of location data in collective urban planning and governance. This article presents the concepts and objectives of LHG, the game design, the interface design, the prototyping process, the technical specifications, and a summary of the preliminary results of a trial study. The results provide insights into the potentials and limitations of the current prototype and development challenges, and conclude with future research steps.
Understanding Renal Failure Mortality Trends and Determinants in the US (1999–2020): Impacts of the Affordable Care Act, Advancements, Disparities, and Challenges
Authors: Salichs Oscar , Doddi Sishir , Hibshman Taryn , Hersi Jama , Sindhwani Puneet
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Renal failure, encompassing both acute and chronic forms, stands as a formidable public health challenge with far-reaching consequences for individual well-being and healthcare systems. This study delves into the mortality rates of renal failure in the United States over two transformative decades, from 1999 to 2020. Renal failure’s significance arises from its escalating prevalence, substantial healthcare costs, and the imperative to understand the multifaceted factors that influence its outcomes. Objectives: The primary objectives of this research are to analyze temporal trends in renal failure mortality rates, explore the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and advancements in renal care practices on mortality rates, and assess demographic disparities in mortality outcomes. Methods: Utilizing CDC WONDER’s multi-cause mortality data, we assessed mortality due to renal failure (ICD-10 Codes: N17–N19). Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) were collected and stratified by sex and race. The Joinpoint Regression Program analyzed trends, calculating annual percent change (APC) and significant average annual percent change (AAPC) from 1999 to 2020. Segmented line regression models were employed for parallel pairwise comparisons. Results: Renal failure mortality rates decreased for both sexes during the late 2000s. The ACA’s enactment in 2010 coincided with improved access to healthcare, possibly contributing to the decline. Demographic disparities highlighted variations in mortality rates across racial and gender groups. Advancements in renal care practices were evident, which were driven by innovations in treatment modalities and disease management. Significant temporal trends were observed by race, with varying periods of decrease or uptrend. Conclusions: The decline in renal failure mortality rates during the late 2000s was potentially influenced by the ACA and advances in renal care practices. Demographic disparities emphasize the need for equitable healthcare access and interventions. These findings underscore the significance of healthcare policies and medical advancements in reducing renal failure mortality rates and addressing disparities. Persistent efforts to mitigate challenges such as healthcare access, cost barriers, and disparities remain crucial to enhancing renal failure outcomes.
Metformin and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk Reduction in Diabetic Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Sacco Marco , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Saracco Giorgio Maria
Published: December 2023

Background: Patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and concomitant type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) show a higher risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Successful antiviral therapy has reduced the incidence of post-therapy HCC, but the presence of DM still represents an unfavourable predictive factor even in cured patients. Metformin (MET) is recommended as a first-line therapy for DM, and its use is associated with a significant reduction in HCC among diabetic patients with chronic liver disease of different etiology, but very few studies specifically address this issue in patients with CHC. Aim: the aim of this review is to evaluate whether the use of MET induces a significant decrease in HCC in diabetic patients with CHC, treated or untreated with antiviral therapy. Methods: A search of PubMed, Medline, Web of Sciences and Embase was conducted for publications evaluating the role of MET in reducing the risk of HCC in patients with DM and CHC, with no language and study type restrictions up to 30 June 2023. Only studies fulfilling the following inclusion criteria were considered: (1) data on the incidence of HCC in the follow-up of diabetic patients with CHC only; (2) follow-up ≥24 months; (3) sufficient data to establish the rate of diabetic patients with CHC treated with metformin or other antidiabetic medications; and (4) data on the type of antiviral treatment and the clinical outcome. Results: Three studies met the inclusion criteria. A prospective cohort study considering only patients with DM and untreated advanced CHC, or non-responders to interferon (IFN) therapy, showed that the use of MET was associated with a significant decrease in HCC incidence, liver-related death and liver transplants. A recent retrospective study focusing on a large-scale nationwide cohort of patients with CHC in Taiwan successfully treated with IFN-based therapy stratified patients into 3 groups: non-MET users, MET users and non-diabetic patients, with 5-year cumulative rates of HCC of 10.9%, 2.6% and 3.0%, respectively, showing a significantly higher HCC risk in non-MET users compared with MET users and with non-diabetic patients, while it was not significantly different between MET users and non-diabetic patients. In a recent Italian cohort study focusing on 7007 patients with CHC treated and cured with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), a combined effect of DM and MET therapy was found, showing a higher incidence of HCC in diabetic patients not taking MET compared with those without DM and those with DM taking MET. Conclusion: according to the current evidence, the use of MET should be encouraged in diabetic patients with CHC in order to reduce the risk of HCC; however, a well-designed randomized controlled trial is needed to establish the generalizability of the beneficial effects of MET in this particular subset of patients.
Occurrence and Risk Factors of Relapse Activity after Vaccination against COVID-19 in People with Multiple Sclerosis: 1-Year Follow-Up Results from a Nationwide Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Fneish Firas , Frahm Niklas , Peters Melanie , Ellenberger David , Haas Judith , Löbermann Micha , Pöhlau Dieter , Röper Anna-Lena , Schilling Sarah , Stahmann Alexander , Temmes Herbert , Paul Friedemann , Zettl Uwe K.
Published: December 2023

Several studies reported post-SARS-CoV-2-vaccination (PV) symptoms. Even people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) have concerns about disease activity following the SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. We aimed to determine the proportion of PwMS with PV relapses, the PV annualized relapse rate (ARR), the time from vaccination to subsequent relapses, and identify sociodemographic/clinical risk factors for PV relapses. PwMS were surveyed several times at baseline and four follow-ups as part of a longitudinal observational study regarding the safety and tolerability of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. The inclusion criteria for this analysis were age ≥18 years, ≥1 SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, and ≥1-year observation period since initial vaccination. Of 2466 PwMS, 13.8% reported PV relapses (mostly after second [N = 147] or booster vaccination [N = 145]) at a median of 8.0 (first/third quantile: 3.55/18.1) weeks PV, with the shortest period following initial vaccination (3.95 weeks). The ARR was 0.153 (95% confidence interval: 0.138–0.168), with a median observation period since initial vaccination of 1.2 years. Risk factors for PV relapses were younger age, female gender, moderate-severe disability levels, concurrent autoimmune diseases, relapsing-remitting MS courses, no DMT, and relapses within the year prior to the first vaccination. Patients’ health conditions before/during initial vaccination may play a more important role in PV relapse occurrence than vaccination per se.
The Production of Recombinant African Swine Fever Virus Lv17/WB/Rie1 Strains and Their In Vitro and In Vivo Characterizations
Authors: Petrini Stefano , Righi Cecilia , Mészáros István , D’Errico Federica , Tamás Vivien , Pela Michela , Olasz Ferenc , Gallardo Carmina , Fernandez-Pinero Jovita , Göltl Eszter , Magyar Tibor , Feliziani Francesco , Zádori Zoltán
Published: December 2023

Lv17/WB/Rie1-Δ24 was produced via illegitimate recombination mediated by low-dilution serial passage in the Cos7 cell line and isolated on PAM cell culture. The virus contains a huge ~26.4 Kb deletion in the left end of its genome. Lv17/WB/Rie1-ΔCD-ΔGL was generated via homologous recombination, crossing two ASFV strains (Lv17/WB/Rie1-ΔCD and Lv17/WB/Rie1-ΔGL containing eGFP and mCherry markers) during PAM co-infection. The presence of unique parental markers in the Lv17/WB/Rie1-ΔCD-ΔGL genome indicates at least two recombination events during the crossing, suggesting that homologous recombination is a relatively frequent event in the ASFV genome during replication in PAM. Pigs infected with Lv17/WB/Rie1-Δ24 and Lv17/WB/Rie1/ΔCD-ΔGL strains have shown mild clinical signs despite that ASFV could not be detected in their sera until a challenge infection with the Armenia/07 ASFV strain. The two viruses were not able to induce protective immunity in pigs against a virulent Armenia/07 challenge.
SARS-CoV-2 Humoral Immunity Persists Following Rituximab Therapy
Authors: Lu Liangjian , Chan Chang Yien , Lim Yi Yang , Than Mya , Teo Sharon , Lau Perry Y. W. , Ng Kar Hui , Yap Hui Kim
Published: December 2023

Long-term humoral immunity is mediated by short-lived plasma cells (replenished by memory B cells) and long-lived plasma cells. Their relative contributions are uncertain for immunity to SARS-CoV-2, especially given the widespread use of novel mRNA vaccines. Yet, this has far-reaching implications in terms of the need for regular booster doses in the general population and perhaps even revaccination in patients receiving B cell-depleting therapy. We aimed to characterise anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titres in patients receiving Rituximab following previous SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. We recruited 10 fully vaccinated patients (age: 16.9 ± 2.52 years) with childhood-onset nephrotic syndrome, not in relapse, receiving Rituximab for their steroid/calcineurin-inhibitor sparing effect. Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins were measured immediately prior to Rituximab and again ~6 months later, using the Roche Elecys® Anti-SARS-CoV-2 (S) assay. All ten patients were positive for anti-S antibodies prior to Rituximab, with six patients (60%) having titres above the upper limit of detection (>12,500 U/mL). Following Rituximab therapy, there was a reduction in anti-S titres (p = 0.043), but all patients remained positive for anti-S antibodies, with five patients (50%) continuing to have titres >12,500 U/mL. Six patients (60%) were positive for anti-N antibodies prior to Rituximab. Following Rituximab therapy, only three of these six patients remained positive for anti-N antibodies (p = 0.036 compared to anti-S seroreversion). Humoral immunity to SARS-CoV-2 is likely to be mediated in part by long-lived plasma cells.
Experimental Study to Increase the Autonomy of a UAV by Incorporating Solar Cells
Authors: Sampaio Saloio João Pedro , Cruz Gonçalo , Coelho Vasco , N. Torres João Paulo , Marques Lameirinhas Ricardo A.
Published: December 2023

Solar energy is recognized as an alternative to combustion engines to reduce the environmental impact and increase the endurance of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This work aims to present a project for a solar UAV to contribute to the mission of the Air Force Academy Research Center and test the energy system on the ground. To achieve this study’s objectives, a literature review on photovoltaic cells (PVCs), batteries, and maximum power point tracking algorithms was conducted. The most appropriate airframe and wing designs for this particular type of flight are then investigated. Following that, the project requirements and mission profile were defined, and the copper indium gallium selenide eFilm cells, a solar power management system (SPMS), avionics, and payload required for the mission were chosen based on them. A methodology for ground testing of solar systems was created and used, achieving an endurance of 7 h and 34 min on an April day. The SPMS achieved an efficiency of around 96%, while PVCs ranged from 11.3 to 14.1%.
Driving Standardization in Infrastructure Monitoring: A Role for Connected Vehicles
Authors: Bridgelall Raj
Published: December 2023

This study tackles the urgent need for efficient condition monitoring of road and rail infrastructure, which is integral to a nation’s economic vitality. Traditional methods proved both costly and inadequate, resulting in network gaps and accelerated infrastructure decay. Employing connected vehicles with integrated sensors and cloud computing capabilities can provide a cost-effective, sustainable solution for comprehensive infrastructure monitoring. In advocating for international standardization, this study furnishes compelling evidence—encompassing trends in transportation, economics, and patent landscapes—that underscores the necessity and advantages of such standards. The analysis confirmed that trucks and rail will remain dominant in freight transport as infrastructure limitations intensify. A noteworthy finding is the absence of patented solutions in this domain, which simplifies the path toward global standardization. By integrating data from diverse sources, agencies can optimize maintenance triggers and allocate funds more strategically, thus preserving vital transportation networks. These insights not only offer an effective alternative to current practices but also have the potential to influence policymaking and industry standards for infrastructure monitoring.
Impact of Land Use Change on the Water Environment of a Key Marsh Area in Vientiane Capital, Laos
Authors: Phanmala Keophouxone , Lai Yizhe , Xiao Kang
Published: December 2023

The water environment is critical to maintaining ecosystem balance and human well-being globally. It is essential to comprehend the effects of land use change on water quantity and quality for sustainable development of the urban environment. Expansion of urban areas leads to intensified human activity and increased pollution loads in natural waterbodies. This study aimed to monitor changes in land use over a span of two decades to evaluate the condition of the water environment in That Luang Marsh (TLM). The land use and land cover (LULC) classes, including agricultural land, bare land, built-up land, vegetation, waterbody, and wetland, were categorized via Landsat images utilizing the maximum likelihood algorithm. A digital elevation model was used to estimate the water surface area and volume, and the nutrient delivery ratio model was employed to analyze nutrient distribution across the LULC classes. The results showed that from 2001 to 2020, the bare land, built-up, waterbody, and wetland areas increased by 29.92, 18.64, 0.87, and 0.16 times, respectively, while the agricultural and vegetation land decreased by 0.80 and 0.76 times, respectively. A binary logistic regression model for influential factors implies that road network expansion within the special economic zone in TLM could result in an increase in residential areas, thereby impacting the LULC classes. The increase in water volume showed a robust correlation with the expansion of built-up land, bare land, and waterbody. TLM had an average nitrate-nitrogen export of 317 tons/year with a 95% confidence interval of (56, 770) tons/year in 2020. The distribution over LULC classes affected the export, which varied dynamically. Vegetation land had the highest nitrate-nitrogen load of 0.57 tons/ha/year, probably due to poorly managed use of fertilizers. The developed land surface for an artificial lake could lead to an increase in the water volume, which could be involved in the dilution of nutrient concentration. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize policies that aim to establish sustainable urban water environments through rational urban planning and by making LULC management a primary consideration, especially for developing countries undergoing similar processes of urbanization along the Mekong River in Southeast Asia.
Impact of Xiaolangdi Reservoir on the Evolution of Water Infiltration Influence Zones of the Secondary Perched Reach of the Lower Yellow River
Authors: Zhang Min , Ping Jianhua , Zou Yafei , Li He , Mahwa Joshua , Zhao Jichang , Liu Jiaqi
Published: December 2023

Understanding the complex interplay between water management infrastructure and groundwater dynamics is crucial for sustainable resource utilization. This study investigates water infiltration dynamics in the secondary perched reach of the Yellow River after the operation of the Xiaolangdi Reservoir. The methodology included the application of the single-factor analysis of variance and water balance method, alongside a dual-structure, one-dimensional seepage model to simulate interactions within the system, while exploring characteristics of the groundwater flow system and the exploitation depth of below 100 m. Furthermore, we studied the influence zone range and alterations in river water infiltration in the secondary perched reach of the river following the operation of Xiaolangdi Reservoir. The results show that before the operation of the reservoir, the influence ranges of the north and south banks of the aboveground reach extended from 20.13 km to 20.48 km and 15.85 km to 16.13 km, respectively. Following the initiation of the reservoir, the river channel underwent scouring, leading to enhanced riverbed permeability. Additionally, the influence of long-term groundwater exploitation on both riverbanks extended the influence range of groundwater recharge within the secondary perched reach of the river. The influence zone of the north bank is now 23.41 km–26.74 km and the south bank 18.43 km–21.05 km. After years of shallow groundwater extraction, multiple groundwater depression cones emerged within the five major groundwater source areas on both sides of the river. Notably, deeper water levels (Zhengzhou to Kaifeng) have significantly decreased, with a drop of 42 m to 20 m to 15 m. This change in groundwater dynamics extended beyond the main channel of the river, creating a localized shallow groundwater field.
Deformation Field Analysis of Small-Scale Model Experiment on Overtopping Failure of Embankment Dams
Authors: Lu Qiang , Gu Yanchang , Wang Shijun , Liu Xiandong , Wang Hong
Published: December 2023

There are a large number of reservoir dams in China, of which embankment dams account for more than 90%, and public safety will be seriously endangered in case of dam failure. Overtopping is the leading cause of dam failure, and the existing research mainly focuses on the study of the failure process, with less research on the change in the deformation field during the failure process. In this study, the measured deformation field data of a modeled embankment dam during the whole process of impoundment, operation, and failure were obtained by carrying out indoor small-scale model experiments of overtopping failure, embedding inclinometers inside the dam body, and setting vertical displacement measurement markers on the surface. A refined analysis of the measured deformation data shows that the dam body displaces vertically downward during the impoundment stage and the vertical displacement at the dam crest has the largest amplitude; the internal horizontal displacement changes to the left bank and downstream side, and the amplitude of the internal horizontal displacement (upstream and downstream direction and dam axis direction) on the right dam sections is more significant than that in the middle of the dam; during the breaching stage, the time sequence of the sudden change in each internal horizontal displacement measuring point is from the downstream side to the upstream side and from the higher elevation to the lower elevation, which is basically consistent with the process of overtopping of embankment dams; and the overall sudden change in left and right bank horizontal displacements within the downstream side of the dam crest and the downstream side of the dam body gauges is significant, and the sudden change in upstream and downstream horizontal displacement (U&D HD) within the downstream side of the dam crest gauges is significant. The experimental analysis results can support the disaster mechanism of embankment dam failure and the theory of early warning of failure.
The Effect of the El Nino Southern Oscillation on Precipitation Extremes in the Hindu Kush Mountains Range
Authors: Masood Muhammad Umer , Haider Saif , Rashid Muhammad , Lodhi Muhammad Usama Khan , Pande Chaitanya B. , Alshehri Fahad , Ahmed Kaywan Othman , Scholz Miklas , Sammen Saad Sh.
Published: December 2023

The El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon is devastating as it negatively impacts global climatic conditions, which can cause extreme events, including floods and droughts, which are harmful to the region’s economy. Pakistan is also considered one of the climate change hotspot regions in the world. Therefore, the present study investigates the effect of the ENSO on extreme precipitation events across the Upper Indus Basin. We examined the connections between 11 extreme precipitation indices (EPIs) and two ENSO indicators, the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and the Oceanic Niño Index (ONI). This analysis covers both annual and seasonal scales and spans the period from 1971 to 2019. Statistical tests (i.e., Mann–Kendall (MK) and Innovative Trend Analysis (ITA)) were used to observe the variations in the EPIs. The results revealed that the number of Consecutive Dry Days (CDDs) is increasing more than Consecutive Wet Days (CWDs); overall, the EPIs exhibited increasing trends, except for the Rx1 (max. 1-day precipitation) and Rx5 (max. 5-day precipitation) indices. The ENSO indicator ONI is a temperature-related ENSO index. The results further showed that the CDD value has a significant positive correlation with the SOI for most of the UIB (Upper Indus Basin) region, whereas for the CWD value, high elevated stations gave a positive relationship. A significant negative relationship was observed for the lower portion of the UIB. The Rx1 and Rx5 indices were observed to have a negative relationship with the SOI, indicating that El Nino causes heavy rainfall. The R95p (very wet days) and R99p (extreme wet days) indices were observed to have significant negative trends in most of the UIB. In contrast, high elevated stations depicted a significant positive relationship that indicates they are affected by La Nina conditions. The PRCPTOT index exhibited a negative relationship with the SOI, revealing that the El Nino phase causes wet conditions in the UIB. The ONI gave a significant positive relationship for the UIB region, reinforcing the idea that both indices exhibit more precipitation during El Nino. The above observations imply that while policies are being developed to cope with climate change impacts, the effects of the ENSO should also be considered.
Cost Minimization for Charging Electric Bus Fleets
Authors: Mortensen Daniel , Gunther Jacob , Droge Greg , Whitaker Justin
Published: December 2023

Recent attention for reduced carbon emissions has pushed transit authorities to adopt battery electric buses (BEBs). One challenge experienced by BEB users is extended charge times, which create logistical challenges and may force BEBs to charge when energy is more expensive. Furthermore, BEB charging leads to high power demands, which can significantly increase monthly power costs and may push the electrical infrastructure beyond its present capacity, requiring expensive upgrades. This work presents a novel method for minimizing the monthly cost of BEB charging while meeting bus route constraints. This method extends previous work by incorporating a more novel cost model, effects from uncontrolled loads, differences between daytime and overnight charging, and variable rate charging. A graph-based network-flow framework, represented by a mixed-integer linear program, encodes the charging action space, physical bus constraints, and battery state of the charge dynamics. The results for three scenarios are considered: uncontested charging, which uses equal numbers of buses and chargers; contested charging, which has more buses than chargers; and variable charge rates. Among other findings, we show that BEBs can be added to the fleet without raising the peak power demand for only the cost of the energy, suggesting that conversion to electrified transit is possible without upgrading power delivery infrastructure.
A Novel Approach for a Predictive Online ECMS Applied in Electrified Vehicles Using Real Driving Data
Authors: Deufel Felix , Freund Malte , Gauterin Frank
Published: December 2023

To increase the efficiency of electrified vehicles, many energy management strategies (driving strategies) have been proposed. These include both offline optimization techniques to identify a system’s theoretical optimum and online optimization techniques created for onboard use in the vehicle. In the field of online optimization, predictive approaches can achieve additional savings. However, predictions are challenging, and robust usability in all driving situations of the vehicle is not guaranteed. In this study, a new approach for a predictive energy management strategy is presented. It is demonstrated how this so-called predictive Online Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy (ECMS) can achieve additional fuel savings compared to a non-predictive Online ECMS by predicting recuperation events using map data. As long as the route is known, map data are available, and the current position of the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is given, the predictive Online ECMS can be applied. If these requirements are not met, the non-predictive basic implementation can still be used to ensure robust functionality. The methodology is investigated using a backward simulation model of a D-segment vehicle powered by a 48 V hybrid electric system in a P2 topology. A dataset including real driving cycles including map data from Open Street Map (OSM) is used. However, the investigations are limited to the consideration of traffic signal (TS) positions on the upcoming route. Simulation results focus on the interaction between the energy management strategy (EMS) and usable battery energy. More than 1 % average saving potentials compared to a non-predictive implementation are shown. The highest saving potentials are found with a usable battery energy of 100 Wh.
A GRASP Approach for the Energy-Minimizing Electric Vehicle Routing Problem with Drones
Authors: Kyriakakis Nikolaos A. , Stamadianos Themistoklis , Marinaki Magdalene , Marinakis Yannis
Published: December 2023

This study addresses the Electric Vehicle Routing Problem with Drones (EVRPD) by implementing and comparing two variants of the Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure (GRASP). The primary objective of the EVRPD is to optimize the routing of a combined fleet of ground and aerial vehicles, with the aim of improving delivery efficiency and minimizing energy consumption, which is directly influenced by the weight of the packages. The study assumes a standardized packing system consisting of three weight classes, where deliveries are exclusively performed by drones, while ground vehicles function as mobile depots. The two employed GRASP variants vary in their methods of generating the Restricted Candidate List (RCL), with one utilizing a cardinality-based RCL and the other adopting a value-based RCL. To evaluate their performance, benchmark instances from the existing EVRPD literature are utilized, extensive computational experiments are conducted, and the obtained computational results are compared and discussed. The findings of the research highlight the considerable impact of RCL generation strategies on solution quality. Lastly, the study reports four new best-known values.
A Journey in Servant-Leadership
Authors: Spears Larry C.
Published: December 2023

Introduction by Larry C. Spears
Under the Surface
Authors: Dela Cruz Carmen
Published: December 2023

poem by Carmen dela Cruz
An Inward Journey
Authors: Greenleaf Robert K.
Published: December 2023

A reprint from Robert K. Greenleaf’s Servant leadership: A journey intothe nature of legitimate power and greatness, edited by Larry C. Spears andpublished by Paulist Press in 2002
A Brief Introduction to Better Boards for a Better World
Authors: Bohley, JR. John P. , Spears Larry C.
Published: December 2023

This short essay includes the Introduction and Advance Praise from Better Boards for a Better World:  An Integrated Practice of Policy Governance® and Servant-Leadership, by John P. Bohley, Jr. and Larry C. Spears (2023, BookBaby Publishing).  244 pages.  $35.  ISBN 978-1-66789-954-1.  Better Boards for a Better World – a daunting challenge. In the pages that follow, we will describe an approach to board governance that we believe will enable boards to unleash their potential to become better boards and to make significant contributions to the creation of a better world through embracing Policy Governance and servant-leadership.

Our approach involves bringing together the comprehensive system of board governance called Policy Governance that was developed by John Carver and the constellation of core values embodied in the servant-leadership concept articulated by Robert K. Greenleaf. Policy Governance provides the logical governance framework promoting efficient, effective, accountable governance while servant-leadership provides the altruistic values that can drive the system. You might say that Policy Governance is the head while servant-leadership is the heart of the powerful synergistic approach to board governance that we are envisioning. While the “head and heart” analogy may be somewhat of an oversimplification, it is helpful in understanding what we see as the major contributions of Policy Governance and servant-leadership to the approach that we delineate in this book.  Our hope is that you will be able to find in our book guidance that will assist your board and other boards to unleash their potential for governance excellence and to make significant contributions to the creation of a better world through an integrated practice of Policy Governance and servant-leadership.
Would Jesus Build a Pyramid? Servant-Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Song Jiying
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this article is to examine corporate social responsibility (CSR) from a Christian perspective and to study Jesus’ leadership and speculate whether Jesus would have built a CSR pyramid. First, literature is reviewed in the areas of servant-leadership, how Jesus leads, and corporate social responsibility. Following is a discussion of faith integration perspectives and models, biblical and theological approaches, and whether Jesus would build a pyramid. This article ends with a conclusion.
DISCOURSE OF IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY: THE TALIBAN’S WOMEN EDUCATION BAN POLICY IN AFGHANISTAN
Authors: Lubis Nurbaity
Published: December 2023

Online newspaper is one of the media in the present time that can convey modified information according to the ideology of the institution. It can create a public opinion amongst its readers depending on how the media represents the state of the world. In addition, Stuart Hall (1997) clarifies that no accurate representation exists because there are many different ways to represent them depending on the person. The news discourse within a media can represent a problem within a nation from the perspective of ordinary people in which it may portray more about its effect on their daily life, but can also represent the problem from a general point of view in which it may only portray the general scale of effects on the people. To understand the meaning or ideology behind the text, one would need to conduct a discourse analysis. It is noted that Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is one of the more appropriate perspectives that can be used in analysing discourse in a news item. According to van Dijk (2008), CDA is a discourse investigation that investigates social power, dominance, and imbalance. There are many frameworks within the category of CDA. However, this essay only uses the framework proposed by Theo van Leeuwen, which is social actor analysis..

 

Keywords: newspaper, CDA
THE EFFECT OF DIGITALIZATION ON LANGUAGE AND CULTURE IN MANAGEMENT PRACTICE MODERN EDUCATION
Authors: Samsudin Samsudin , Mujab Syaiful , Safar Muh. , Munandar Haris
Published: December 2023

This research is motivated by the important role of digitalization in language and culture in modern management practices. This research aims to determine and analyze the influence of digitalization on language and culture in modern educational management practices. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative method. The data collection techniques used were observation, interviews and documentation. The data analysis technique used in this research is the Miles and Huberman interactive analysis model which consists of data reduction, data presentation or data display and drawing conclusions. The results of this research explain that 1) Digitalization is the process of changing various information or news from analog format to digital format so that it is easier to produce, manage, store or distribute to the general public, 2) Language is not only a communication tool, but also a cultural expression that reflects worldview, values, and identity of a group or society, 3) Modern educational management practices take steps to integrate technology, personalization, collaboration, and skill development in learning and 4) The influence of digitalization on language and culture in educational management practices modern is combining the use of technology with efforts to preserve and respect local language and culture, as well as the development of holistic communication skills in an increasingly connected era.
FOSTERING STUDENT’S VOCABULARY MASTERY THROUGH YOUTUBE CHANNEL MR. D AT TENTH GRADE OF SMA YATAMA
Authors: Astiyandha Tauricha , Ningratry Gita
Published: December 2023

: This study aimed to fostering student vocabulary by utilizing Mr. D YouTube channel. This research The study was carried out in the SMA yatama academic year 2021/2022 to increase students' vocabulary skills through the use of the YouTube channel. This study's participants included 31 students. The method used in this study was Classroom Action Research (CAR). This study was conducted following Kurt Lewin model with the following procedures of the action research: planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. The study was carried out in two cycles. Each cycle consisted of three meetings. The data were gathered in this study through observation and test. The results of this research utilizing YouTube indicating that the students' vocabulary skills had improved. At the end of the cycle, getting high grades gradually. Criteria worth the minimum sharpness (KKM) value is 75. (seventy-five). The average student score on the Beginning exam is

In the first cycle, the average student score is 70. In cycle two, the average student is 82. Furthermore, there is a reaction. Mr. D's YouTube channel has received great feedback from English students and teachers. Finally, the YouTube channel has helped students enhance their language

Keywords: Vocabulary Mastery, YouTube Channel MR. D
La Transición Educativa en la Superación del Maestro de Preescolar y Escolar en el Contexto Rural
Authors: Elías Gómez Dorelia , Fumero Pérez Ariolki , Escalona Vázquez Irelis C.
Published: December 2023

El artículo expone actividades de superación para los maestros de preescolar y primer grado sobre la transición educativa en el contexto rural. Tiene como objetivo la elaboración de una metodología para la superación de los maestros del multigrado que potencie su desempeño en la orientación familiar en la conducción de la transición educativa en el contexto rural entre los niveles educativos Primera Infancia y Escolar para el continuo desarrollo integral de los niños para su plena incorporación escolar y vida en general. Para su conformación se utilizaron métodos del nivel teórico análisis y síntesis y empíricos observación pedagógica a la práctica de desarrollo profesional que revelaron la existencia de carencias pedagógicas y didácticas que deben resolverse para responder a las necesidades y exigencias del contexto rural. La experiencia significa como resultados técnicos las precisiones teórico-metodológicas del contenido de la transición educativa en el proceso de superación del maestro de preescolar y escolar en el contexto rural.
La Orientación Educativa a Los Maestros para Favorecer la atención a Niños con Dificultades en el Aprendizaje
Authors: Ricardo Castañeda Yaliuska , Piña Batista Odalys , Bringas León Sheila
Published: December 2023

La orientación educativa a los docentes tiene como finalidad ayudar al correcto desarrollo del alumnado mediante la personalización del proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje adaptado a las características de cada individuo para el asesoramiento a estudiantes y familias, desde la actividad profesional de psicólogos y orientadores, con un carácter pedagógico y sistemático. La investigación se relaciona con la orientación educativa al maestro primario para favorecer el aprendizaje del escolar, las necesidades educativas, relacionadas con las ayudas pedagógicas que determinados alumnos requieren para su desarrollo y crecimiento personal. Así pues, estos niños son los que presentan limitaciones para el aprendizaje que, por diferentes causas, puede necesitar ayuda para encauzar de una manera normal, su proceso cognoscitivo. De igual forma se aborda la importancia de trabajar con escolares que presentan dificultades en el aprendizaje para que le permitan un mejor desarrollo y mejor calidad de vida. Para el desarrollo de la investigación fueron utilizados diferentes métodos científicos como la observación, entrevistas, análisis-síntesis y análisis documental, donde se pudo ofrecer recursos para su inserción en el proceso de enseñanza- aprendizaje a partir del desarrollo de los modos de actuación. La aplicación de los diferentes métodos aplicados condujo a un cambio en el trabajo del maestro a partir de la elevación de la motivación profesional, necesidades de autorrealización, autovaloración, aceptación de los otros, comunicación con los otros, actitudes entre las tareas asignadas para un mejor desarrollo personal.
Adelanto de las mujeres en el siglo XIX: Textos revelan conciencia de género en Santiago de Cuba
Authors: Castillo Almaguer Danay , Piña Batista Odalys
Published: December 2023

Durante el siglo XIX hubo en nuestra ciudad un ambiente cultural que favoreció la aparición de diferentes publicaciones periódicas; la mayoría periódicos literarios, noticiosos y comerciales que se encargaron de divulgar las creaciones de esos años. Publicaciones como El Mercurio, El Redactor, El Álbum, El Semanario Cubano, Prosa y Verso, entre otros, constituyen una fuente documental de incalculable valor patrimonial, pues desempeñaron un importante papel como órganos difusores de la literatura tanto nacional como extranjera, contribuyendo así al desarrollo cultural de la ciudad. El presente trabajo presenta la importante labor de rescate, estudio y conservación de dichos documentos ubicados en la sala de Fondos Raros y valiosos de la Biblioteca Provincial Elvira Cape.
Kur’an Tilavetinde Ses Ve Mana İlişkisi
Authors: KELEŞ Mehmet
Published: December 2023

Kur’an Tilavetinde Ses Ve Mana İlişkisi

The Relatıonshıp Of Sound And Meanıng In The Quran

Mehmet KELEŞ

Dr. Öğr. Üyesi. Ağrı Üniversitesi İslami İlimler Fakültesi, Temel İslam Bilimleri, Kuran-ı Kerim Okuma ve Kıraat İlmi Anabilim Dalı,

Assist. Prof., Ağrı University Faculty of Islamic Sciences, Basic Islamic Sciences, Department of Reading and Recitation of the Holy Quran,

Ağrı, Türkiye

ORCİD: 0000-0003-0984-3875 e-posta mkeles@agri.edu.tr

Öz

Kur’an-ı Kerim Hz. Peygamberden günümüze dek dünya ve ahiret dengesini korumak için ihtiva ettiği hususlar çerçevesinde merak edilen bir hayat rehberi olmuştur. Evrensel mesajlarına başvuran herkesin kendi anlayış dünyasına göre anlam bulduğu bir hakikattir. Kur’an’da verilmek istenilen mesajların anlamları kadar tilaveti de son derece önemli bir husustur. Zira anlamın bozulmaması ve mesajının yerine ulaşması adına tecvid kurallarına riayet edilerek, her bir harfin doğru telaffuz ve ses tonlamalarıyla birlikte tilavetinin yapılması gerekir. Bu araştırmanın konusu Kur’an tilaveti esnasında sesin mana ile olan ilişkisini ortaya koymaktır. Kur’an’da okuma anlamında kullanılan tabirlerden biri olan “tilavet/تِلَاوَة” kelimesi: “te-le-ve/تَلَوَ” kök fiilinden türetilen bir mastar olarak, “Kur’an’ın lafzını tahriften koruyup anlamlarını tedebbür ederek, manası anlaşılamayan kısımları bilenine havale ederek, yanlış bir te’vilde bulunmadan, tecvidli olarak huşu halinde okumak, hükümlerine uymak ve samimi olarak onunla amel etmek” demektir. Araştırmada tilavet esnasında ses-anlam ilişkisini gösteren durumlarla ilgili örnekler tetkik edilmiş, kıraat ve tefsir kaynaklarında meselenin doğru bilinmesine yönelik bilgi ve bulgular incelenmiştir. Öncelikle Kur’an okumayla ilgili bulunan tilavet, kıraat ve tertîl ile birlikte tilavet çeşitleri (tahkik, tedvir, hadr) ayrı başlıklar halinde ele alınarak ses olgusuna da yer verilmiştir. Azdan çoğa doğru sırasıyla harf, kelime, âyet, sûre, kıraat farklılıkları ve tecvid usulleri bağlamında ele alınan örneklerle birlikte Kur’an’da ses-anlam ilişkisinin doğrudan ya da dolaylı olarak gerçekleştiği sonucuna varılmıştır. Bağlamı içinde değerlendirildiğinde Kur’an tilavetinin, tecvid usullerine göre icra edilmemesi, kulağa hoş gelmeyen bir armoni oluşturup dinleyenlerde bıkkınlık meydana getireceği; tilavetin usulünce yapılması halinde ise ses ve anlam ilişkisindeki insicamı göstermesi yönünden okuyan ve dinleyenlerde gönlü teskin eden, huzur veren etkiler bırakacağı, bunun bir sonucu olarak da manayı araştırmaya ve anlamaya yönelik çabaların artabileceği düşünülmektedir.

Anahtar Kelimeler: Kur’an, Kıraat, Tilavet, Ses, Mana.
Avaliação do desempenho térmico e acústico do 11º Batalhão da PMMG, Manhuaçu/MG
Authors: Da Silva Fábio Gomes , Gomes Adriano Pinto , Ribas Rovadávia Aline de Jesus , Lage Camem Miranda
Published: December 2023

O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar o desempenho térmico e acústico do 11º Batalhão de Polícia Militar do Estado de Minas Gerais. Os procedimentos metodológicos adotados neste trabalho englobam a simulação computacional para a avaliação do desempenho térmico da edificação e medições in loco dos níveis de pressão sonora (NPS) para avaliação do desempenho acústico. Em relação ao desempenho térmico, as estratégias de condicionamento térmico passivo, como o sombreamento das aberturas, reduziram em 24,7% a carga térmica da Seção Administrativa, e a pintura do telhado do Centro de Operações Policiais Militares e da Sala de Aula com cores claras reduziu em 23,8% e 15,8% a carga térmica de resfriamento, respectivamente. O desempenho acústico dos ambientes internos está em desacordo com a norma vigente da área e, no ambiente externo, apenas um ponto de medição ficou acima dos critérios das normas. No entanto, as medições na zona auditiva indicam que os ambientes são salubres.
Intracellular Protein Delivery: Approaches, Challenges, and Clinical Applications
Authors: Chan Alexander , Tsourkas Andrew
Published: December 2023

Protein biologics are powerful therapeutic agents with diverse inhibitory and enzymatic functions. However, their clinical use has been limited to extracellular applications due to their inability to cross plasma membranes. Overcoming this physiological barrier would unlock the potential of protein drugs for the treatment of many intractable diseases. In this review, we highlight progress made toward achieving cytosolic delivery of recombinant proteins. We start by first considering intracellular protein delivery as a drug modality compared to existing Food and Drug Administration-approved drug modalities. Then, we summarize strategies that have been reported to achieve protein internalization. These techniques can be broadly classified into 3 categories: physical methods, direct protein engineering, and nanocarrier-mediated delivery. Finally, we highlight existing challenges for cytosolic protein delivery and offer an outlook for future advances.