bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bandgap design of 3D single-phase phononic crystals by geometric-constrained topology optimization
Authors: Xiong Cheng , Xiao Yi , Qin Qing-Hua , Wang Hui , Zeng Zhuo-Ran
Published: April 2024

Phononic crystals (PnCs) possessing desired bandgaps find many potential applications for elastic wave manipulation. Considering the propagating essence of three-dimensional (3D) elastic waves and the interface influence of multiphase material, the bandgap design of 3D single-phase PnCs is crucial and appealing. Currently, the main approaches for designing 3D single-phase PnCs rely on less efficient trial-and-error approaches, which are heavily dependent on researchers' empirical knowledge. In comparison, topology optimization offers a dominant advantage by transcending the restriction of predefined microstructures and obtaining topologies with desired performance. This work targeted the exploration of various novel microstructures with exceptional performance by geometric-constrained topology optimization. To deal with high-dimensional design variables in topology optimization, the unit cell structure of a PnC was confined by pyramid symmetry to maximumly deduct the variable number of the unit cell. More importantly, to alleviate mesh dependence inherent in conventional topology optimization, node-to-node and edge-to-edge connection strategies were adopted, supplemented by the insertion of cylinders to ensure the stability of these connections. Finally, unstable PnC structures were filtered out using extra geometric constraints. Leveraging the proposed framework for the optimization of 3D single-phase PnCs, various novel structures were obtained. Particularly, our results demonstrate that PnC structures with only one type of mass lump exhibit significant potential to possess outstanding performance, and geometric configurations of the ultimately optimized structures are intricately linked to the particular sequence of the bandgaps.
Characterization of imbricate-ruled surfaces via rotation-minimizing Darboux frame in Minkowski 3-space $ \mathrm{E}_1^3 $
Authors: Solouma Emad , Al-Dayel Ibrahim , Khan Meraj Ali , Lazer Youssef A. A.
Published: April 2024

Using a common tangent vector field to a surface along a curve, in this study we discussed a new Darboux frame that we referred to as the rotation-minimizing Darboux frame (RMDF) in Minkowski 3-space. The parametric equation resulting from the RMDF frame for an imbricate-ruled surface was then provided. As a result, minimal (or maximal for timelike surfaces) ruled surfaces were derived, along with the necessary and sufficient criteria for imbricate-ruled surfaces to be developable. The surfaces also described the parameter curves of these surfaces' asymptotic, geodesic, and curvature lines. We also gave an example to emphasize the most significant results.
Improving Working Conditions in Retail During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Vukmirović Goran , Marić Radenko , Marić Dražen , Vučenović Sonja , Leković Ksenija , Nuševa Danijela
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed the patterns of employees’ behaviour, especially in the retail sector, which requires continuous contact with consumers. The anti-pandemic measures based on physical distance, wearing medical and protective equipment, application of barriers, frequent disinfection of work surfaces and space, use of strict protocols, and safety standards significantly complicate working conditions. This paper aims to analyse and define incentives for upgrading work and working conditions in retail during the COVID-19 pandemic. The scientific importance of the paper is reflected in the fact that analytically and systematically, it defines incentives that will support the behaviour of employees during crises affecting the retail sector. Unlike existing research in trade and retail, which indicated the importance of individual incentives for improving working conditions in periods of crisis, the contribution of this paper is in the comprehensive analysis, systematization, and definition of the importance of all incentives for improving the working conditions of employees in the retail sector. In this context, empirical research was conducted on a sample of 255 employees and it tested the importance of incentives to improve working conditions such as: maintaining a safe and healthy working environment, how to treat infected workers and workers in contact, the existence of detailed instructions for employees and consumers, organizing transportation for workers, financial incentives for employees, reduction of the scope of business activities, shortening of working hours of facilities, security protocols and digitalization of work processes. The survey was conducted among employees in SMEs and large retail chains. The set hypotheses were tested using the Path Analysis or Structural Modeling (SEM) method. The correlation between the retailer size and the differences in the incentives’ impact was assessed by employing Multiple Regression Analysis. The research results showed significant deviations in the mentioned incentives depending on the size of the retailer. Based on the obtained results, a set of measures was proposed that social policymakers and retail facility management should implement to improve working conditions in retail and establish a social safety net that will support employees in times of crisis. Guidelines for future research are provided in the paper. Keywords: working conditions, work incentives, position of workers, retailing, COVID-19 pandemic.
Considering the Development and Evaluation of Engineers as Teachers
Authors: Wallwey Cassie , Singer Amanda , Hall Lynn , Delaine David , Herman Jennifer
Published: April 2024

Engineering faculty are required to teach but are rarely trained in evidence-based practices in teaching and learning. While many faculty often mirror how they were taught and slowly develop their curriculum and skills over time, the methods for their development cannot keep pace with the rapidly changing landscape of engineering classrooms. This includes changes in students’ needs, pedagogical advances, and the technology accessible to students. In response to the need for training, development, and continuous improvement of engineering faculty’s teaching beyond the limited feedback that student and peer evaluations provide, our department piloted a program offering 18 different options for teaching development activities. Faculty could choose from these options to enhance their teaching practices. Three focus groups were conducted with a total of 12 faculty participants to iterate and improve upon the piloted program. Qualitative analysis of these focus groups, involving multiple phases of coding and general theming of the focus group transcript data, revealed more than just the faculty’s impressions of the piloted program. Our analysis revealed that two value systems exist when it comes to teaching and teaching development: what is valued personally by a faculty member and what is valued systemically by the department, college, university, or field they work within. The identification of these two distinct value systems revealed that misalignments exist between them. What faculty personally value about their teaching and teaching development might not be valued by the systems in place, and vice versa. We present examples of how faculty discuss these two value systems and explore the implications of conflicting value systems, as well as opportunities for departments to enhance alignment between these value systems to boost faculty motivation for regular engagement with teaching development practices.
Graduate Students' ChatGPT Experience and Perspectives during Thesis Writing
Authors: Rababah Luqman M , Rababah Mahmoud Ali , Naji Al-Khawaldeh Nisreen
Published: April 2024

The artificial intelligence (AI) language model ChatGPT, created by OpenAI, can assist students with academic writing assignments in innovative and distinctive ways. Several studies have investigated how postgraduate students perceive various aspects and how gender could affect their perspectives. This study analyzes the perspectives of 80 male and female postgraduate students in various academic fields at Jadara University regarding the use of ChatGPT in writing their theses. This investigation adopts a quantitative approach and extensively utilizes a questionnaire as the primary tool for data collection. The survey aims to determine how students perceive ChatGPT in terms of its usefulness, ease of use, impact on writing quality, and challenges related to dependability and academic integrity. Descriptive statistics examine gender differences in these perceptions, shedding light on postgraduate students’ usage of ChatGPT and gender-related roles. This information could enhance academic writing through the use of AI technology and inform future studies and practices.
Un programme de lotissement antique à Saint-Romain-sur-Cher. Une dépendance domaniale à vocation artisanale ?
Authors: Salé Philippe
Published: April 2024

Le site de Saint-Romain-sur-Cher est une petite agglomération secondaire du Haut-Empire dont la régularité du parcellaire et l’organisation des bâtiments sont remarquables. Elle est associée à une carrière de pierres calcaires. Ces caractéristiques révèlent l’empreinte d’une autorité capable de mettre en place un tel programme architectural. Il pourrait s’agir d’un propriétaire foncier qui a créé un atelier extérieur à la villa en vue de développer une activité lucrative. Varron fait état de ces dépendances domaniales à vocation artisanale.
Fanum Martis au IVe siècle. Le démantèlement d’une ville pour la construction d’un castrum
Authors: Clotuche Raphaël
Published: April 2024

Dès la fin du IIIe siècle de notre ère, en Gaule, un nouveau système de défense de l’Empire est mis en place. Des fortifications sont érigées autour ou à l’intérieur de nombreuses agglomérations, qu’elles soient capitales de cité ou localité importante. Fanum Martis, actuelle Famars, située au sud de Valenciennes, s’inscrit dans ce dispositif. Cette ville prospère jusqu’au début du IVe siècle, grâce à sa localisation entre deux cours d’eau navigables, est complètement démantelée afin de construire le castrum destiné à abriter un praefectus laetorum Nerviorum. Couvrant auparavant plus de 150 hectares, elle se réduit à une fortification s’étendant seulement sur un peu plus de 2 hectares. Tous les bâtiments privés ou publics sont détruits et les éléments de construction sont récupérés pour l’édification des remparts qui ne seront démontés qu’au cours de la période carolingienne, lors du développement de la ville de Valenciennes.
La construction d’une enceinte à Orléans. La fortification des xive-xve siècles
Authors: Carron Diane , Guillemard Thomas
Published: April 2024

À travers l’étude de la Porte Renard, récemment fouillée, l’enceinte du XIVe siècle d’Orléans est dorénavant beaucoup mieux connue. Il s’agit d’un véritable programme architectural cohérent de mise en défense de la ville dans un contexte historique agité, la Guerre de Cent Ans. Du financement des travaux de l’enceinte à la construction des systèmes de défense avancés, il est possible de détailler chaque étape du projet, aux conséquences importantes sur l’urbanisme.
Financial Management Practices and Small and Medium-scale Enterprises' Performance in Sri Lanka
Authors: Sandaruwandi S. V. C. , Panditharathna K. M. , Rathnayake S. S.
Published: April 2024

Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) add value to an economy by creating employment, contributing to Gross Domestic Production (GDP), making innovations, and minimising poverty. They are partnering with the development of the country. Most small and medium-scale enterprises face issues like lack of knowledge, outdated skills, fear of taxation, adoption of accounting standards, and accounting information records. Therefore, this study aims to identify the relationship between financial management practices and SMEs' performance in the southern province of Sri Lanka. This study measures financial management practices using financial reporting analysis, working capital management, fixed asset management, and accounting information systems. SME performance was measured by the profitability of SMEs using return on assets. Considering data constraints, time constraints, and the COVID-19 situation, 107 Small and Medium Enterprises operating in the manufacturing and service sectors were selected as samples. A questionnaire was chosen as the primary data-gathering method. The sample was chosen using a convenience sampling procedure, and the data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) software. Multiple regression analysis was done to examine the hypothetical association. This study found that financial management techniques such as fixed asset management, working capital management, accounting information systems, and financial performance of SMEs have a significant association with performance. The findings support aiding investors, workers, and policymakers in making effective decisions.
Elevated left ventricular end diastolic pressure, chronic pulmonary oedema and valve disease
Authors: Banerjee Prithwish
Published: April 2024

As part of ageing and with increased longevity of older people, there has been a rise of those with increased left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). Comorbidities like hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, coronary artery disease and others appear to be contributing to this. Chronic interstitial pulmonary edema may be a part of the presentation of those with elevated LVEDP/LVDD. Progressive valvular heart disease may also complicate the picture and make clinical decision-making difficult. This case report discusses these issues.
Need for Exploring Meta-emotion Philosophy to Comprehend Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder
Authors: Chith Eleanora Nallu , Sathiyaseelan Anuradha
Published: April 2024

The impact parenting has on the development of personality is quite known. The influence of emotions on a dysregulation level has been researched and found to influence the same. Earlier research points out that the dismissing meta-emotion philosophies parents hold have impacted the development of various psychological ailments. Evidence also indicates how the parents’ emotion-coaching philosophies efficiently aid an individual’s development. This article reviews the need to explore and understand the meta-emotion philosophy of parents of individuals diagnosed with emotionally unstable personality disorder to better comprehend the emotional functionality of the parents and the individuals with the diagnosis.
Artificial Intelligence and Its Role in Medical Research
Authors: Gola Anurag , Das Ambarish , Gumataj Amar B. , Amirdhavarshini S. , Venkatachalam J.
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a revolutionary mechanism in the field of science and technology. The role of AI in scientific research is becoming broader day by day. While AI is making processes easier and smoother, it is also raising concerns among researchers regarding its ethical utility. Besides, the decision-making process of AI remains a black box for research scholars. This review seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the utilization of AI-based tools in medical research, along with an exploration of the associated challenges. The search strategy involved querying PubMed using keywords such as “Artificial intelligence,” “machine learning,” and “medical research” to identify relevant literature. The significance of AI in research is inevitable. Researchers need to accept the fact that AI will soon be an integral part of research, at the same time, the current limitations of AI need to be alleviated so that it will be embraced by the scientific community.
Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis Beyond Childhood in India
Authors: Medhi Priyanka , Isaac Barney Thomas Jesudason , Gupta Richa , Thangakunam Balamugesh , Chandy Sujith Thomas , Varkki Sneha Deena
Published: April 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting genetic condition with multisystemic manifestations. However, there are vast phenotypic as well as genotypic variations. This contributes to delay in diagnosis, especially in pancreatic-sufficient patients who may not manifest typical symptomatology. The last decade has witnessed significant breakthroughs in CF therapeutics. This in combination with early diagnosis through newborn screening, and aggressive supportive care can offer near-normal life expectancy for a majority of patients with CF (pwCF) worldwide. Even while addressing disparities in CF care around the world, it is crucial to train medical professionals to suspect and diagnose CF in children as well as in adults. Here, we share our experience of pwCF diagnosed beyond 16 years of age with an aim to highlight the clinical presentations in young adults, the need for screening family members of a newly diagnosed pwCF, and the negative effects of late diagnosis of CF.
Comparative evaluation of effect of modified triple antibiotic paste and calcium hydroxide as intracanal medicament on microhardness of root dentin: An in vitro study
Authors: Palekar Aparna , Mantri Piyush , Awinashe Minal , Biradar Basawaraj , Singh Mukund
Published: April 2024

Aim:

To assess and compare the impact of modified triple antibiotic paste (MTAP) and calcium hydroxide (CH) as intracanal medicament on microhardness (MH) of root dentin.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty single-rooted, noncarious, single-canaled permanent teeth were selected. They were decoronated and vertically sectioned into two equal parts to acquire 40 samples. These samples were submerged in acrylic blocks with their pulpal surfaces exposed. These samples were enclosed within acrylic blocks, with their pulp surfaces visible. They were then randomly allocated into four groups (n = 10). MH was measured at three steps: initial measurement of MH before irrigation with 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); after irrigation with 3% NaOCl; and after interaction with medications (MTAP or CH pastes at an interval of 7 days or 30 days). The degree of reduction in MH percentage was computed. The collected data underwent statistical examination at a significance threshold of P < 0.05.

Results:

All procedures led to a noteworthy decline in MH values when compared to both prior and initial measurement. The highest reduction in MH was seen after irrigation with 3% NaOCl (P < 0.05). CH showed a greater reduction in MH as compared to MTAP (P < 0.05). More reduction in MH was seen after 30 days as compared to that after 7 days for both CH and MTAP (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Use of intracanal irrigants and medicaments reduces the MH of root dentin. Lesser reduction in MH was observed when utilization of MTAP as compared to CH.
Premixed calcium silicate-based root canal sealers have better biological properties than AH Plus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo animal studies and in vitro laboratory studies
Authors: Malta Cristiana Pereira , Santi Samantha Simoni , Barcelos Raquel Cristine Silva , Zanatta Fabrício Batistin , Bier Carlos Alexandre Souza , Morgental Renata Dornelles
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

The aim was to determine whether premixed calcium silicate-based root canal sealers have better biological properties than AH Plus.

Materials and Methods:

Searches of studies published up to January 2023 were performed in the PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE and via other methods (databases of the International Endodontic Journal, Journal of Endodontics, and gray literature). The inclusion criteria were in vivo animal and in vitro studies that analyzed the response in the dorsal subcutaneous tissue of rats, cell viability, and genotoxicity. Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation Risk of Bias (RoB) tool for in vivo studies and modified CONSORT checklist for in vitro were appraised. Meta-analysis was performed using the Stata.

Results:

Fifty-two studies were included. In the RoB, in vivo studies fulfilled 20%–50% of the items and in vitro 60%–100%. The studies included in the meta-analysis demonstrated better histocompatibility with the premixed calcium silicate-based sealers at 30 days and greater cell viability with these sealers when used in undiluted extracts in experimental period of 72 h and in extracts with 1:2 and 1:4 dilution in 24 and 72 h. In contrast, no difference between materials was found concerning genotoxicity.

Conclusion:

Premixed calcium silicate-based root canal sealers have better histocompatibility and are less cytotoxic than the epoxy resin-based sealer AH Plus, demonstrating favorable biological behavior.
Comparative evaluation of the antibacterial efficacy of two experimental calcium silicate-based intracanal medicaments: An in-vitro study
Authors: Patri Gaurav , Bansal Sonali , Lath Harshita , Chatterjee Ishika , Majee Neelanjana , Sinha Yash
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Success of endodontic treatment relies on minimizing microbial load by chemo-mechanical preparation and intra-canal medication(ICM). Calcium hydroxide based ICMs have known disadvantages. Calcium silicate-based cements(CSC) exhibit antibacterial activity, thus promoting researchers to experiment with their formulations to use them as ICMs.

Aim:

Evaluation and comparison of the antimicrobial efficacy of two experimental CSC (MTA & Biodentine + 2%chlorhexidine) and Bio-C Temp against E.faecalis.

Methods and Material:

Test materials were divided into four groups namely Group1-Bio-C Temp, Group2-UltraCAL XS, Group3-Biodentine+2%CHX and Group4-MTA+2%CHX. Direct contact test was done by placing a standardized suspension of E.faecalis on test materials and bacterial growth was assessed spectrophotometrically using ELISA at one, three and seven days.

Statistical Analysis:

Data was analysed using one-way ANOVA, Tukey’s multiple post hoc test and paired-t test. Results: Intragroup comparison revealed decreased mean optical density(OD) in groups 1, 2, and 4; no significant difference in group 3. Intergroup comparison showed statistical differences in mean OD values between groups (3 and 4); groups (1 and 2) at days one(p-0.018) and three(p-0.035), but no difference individually. Group 4 showed the highest antimicrobial efficacy on day seven.

Conclusion:

MTA+2%CHX & Biodentine+2%CHX showed better antimicrobial efficacy and hence could be used as potential ICMs.
Topography of root-end surface after freehand and three-dimensional-guided apicoectomy procedure: A scanning electron microscope study
Authors: Damor Pradipkumar R. , Sharma Sidhartha , Kumar Vijay , Chawla Amrita , Logani Ajay
Published: April 2024

Background:

Dentinal microcracks formed during apical resection may lead to increased susceptibility to root fracture and improper sealing of apical preparation that may negatively influence the outcome of endodontic microsurgery.

Aims:

This study was performed to analyze the root-end surface for dentinal microcracks using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) after resection with high-speed bur and trephine drill.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty extracted single-rooted maxillary premolar teeth were selected and randomly distributed into two groups (n = 15). Working length was established using a #15 K-type file. Canals were prepared with a rotary Ni-Ti system to size 30/0.06 using endomotor, irrigated with 3% sodium hypochlorite, dried with paper points, and obturated with gutta-percha cones using a single-cone technique. All samples were mounted on preformed molds and poured using a mixture of sawdust and gypsum. In Group A; tungsten carbide bur was used to perform a freehand apicoectomy. In Group B; a trephine drill was used with a three-dimensional guide to perform 3 mm of root resection. Apicoectomy was performed in both groups under a dental operating microscope. Resected root ends were inspected for microcracks using SEM. The Shapiro–Wilk and Mann–Whitney U-test were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Microcracks were observed in all samples in both study groups. Trephine drill produced more microcracks on the resected root surface compared to the use of high-speed tungsten carbide bur with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The trephine drill used during targeted endodontic microsurgery produced more microcracks on the resected root dentine surface compared to the high-speed tungsten carbide bur used during freehand apicoectomy.
Techniques of detecting recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy in patients undergoing thyroid surgery: Pearls and pitfalls
Authors: Chilkoti Geetanjali Tolia , Gupta Anju , Bhandari Pallav , Mohta Medha
Published: April 2024

Though permanent vocal cord palsy consequent to recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury is rare following thyroidectomies, its consequences are grave enough for it to be the most feared complication postoperatively. Anesthesiologists and surgeons take various precautions to prevent its occurrence and employ various methods for its early detection. They include direct visualization of the nerve intraoperatively, use of intraoperative nerve monitoring, and post-extubation visualization of vocal cord mobility by use of direct or indirect methods. In the present narrative review, we aim to discuss the clinical evidence pertaining to the various methods adopted for the prevention and early detection of RLN palsy during thyroidectomy.
Facial acanthosis nigricans − a narrative review
Authors: Sarkar Rashmi , Bharati  , Mendiratta Vibhu
Published: April 2024

Background: Facial acanthosis nigricans (AN) is usually a misdiagnosed facial melanosis, most commonly seen in obese individuals. Though it is also associated with metabolic syndrome, malignancy, drug intake, or syndromes. The randomized controlled trials for treatment options are lacking. Aims: This review aims to focus on the clinical presentation of facial AN, clues for the diagnosis, close mimickers, and treatment options available. Methods: Literature search for this review was done on PubMed and Science direct. Only articles in English literature were included. Results: By reviewing the literature, we inferred that only subtle differences are present among different facial melanosis. Hence, for the diagnosis of AN, a thorough history and examination is a must and, along with this, dermoscopy plays a crucial role. Conclusion: Facial AN is a marker for multiple systemic diseases. Hence, diagnosing AN well on time, will give us an edge in recognizing systemic disease early. The treatment options for facial AN are not much studied. There is much scope for studying the same in future.
Unified Diagnostics Off-board Tool Development
Testing
Authors: Ayachit Vedashree Vikas , Gandhi Naresh , Kakade Suhas
Published: April 2024

In the rapidly evolving automotive landscape, integrating cutting-edge off-board
diagnostics tools has triggered a paradigm shift in diesel engine applications.
Simultaneously, engineers are compelled to transform conventional mechanical
engines into advanced common rail direct injection (CRDi) systems amidst India’s
changing pollution norms for industries. Aligned with Bharat Stage Emission
Standards, non-road vehicles face stringent emission limits, necessitating
complex electronic control predominantly managed by the engine control unit
(ECU). Government mandates require the ECU to detect NOx control malfunctions
and emission-affecting faults, storing data for off-board analysis. A tool that
can read engine data and monitor engine health is required to deal with this
situation.

Network protocols such as CAN enable remote communication with specialized ECUs.
This study examines implementing customized off-board tools, which helps easier
coordination with protocols such as the unified diagnostic services (UDS) guided
by ISO 14229, part 1 [1], keyword protocol
(KWP), J1939, and the like. UDS protocol offers technicians access to vital
engine parameters, helping in complex diagnostic procedures, and engine
performance optimization. Moreover, the research focuses on an off-board tool
that helps in diesel engine diagnostics.

This paper develops and validates a diagnostic tool for service engineers,
accurately collecting data including faults, freezeframes, engine parameters,
and emission data. It monitors engine health parameters such as rpm, oil
pressure, coolant temperature, rail pressure, and the like, capturing
part-specific data crucial for warranty considerations and does routine test
validations. This diagnostic tool uses OTX to script diagnostic test procedures,
while ODX is used for standardized ECU communication data. This method ensures
accuracy and optimizes operations. Also, this paper emphasizes the pretest bench
environment to avoid bugs during the initial stages of tool development using
MATLAB environment and executes the RDBi feature.
Positivity-hardness results on Markov decision processes
Authors: Piribauer Jakob , Baier Christel
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates a series of optimization problems for one-counter
Markov decision processes (MDPs) and integer-weighted MDPs with finite state
space. Specifically, it considers problems addressing termination probabilities
and expected termination times for one-counter MDPs, as well as satisfaction
probabilities of energy objectives, conditional and partial expectations,
satisfaction probabilities of constraints on the total accumulated weight, the
computation of quantiles for the accumulated weight, and the conditional
value-at-risk for accumulated weights for integer-weighted MDPs. Although
algorithmic results are available for some special instances, the decidability
status of the decision versions of these problems is unknown in general. The
paper demonstrates that these optimization problems are inherently
mathematically difficult by providing polynomial-time reductions from the
Positivity problem for linear recurrence sequences. This problem is a
well-known number-theoretic problem whose decidability status has been open for
decades and it is known that decidability of the Positivity problem would have
far-reaching consequences in analytic number theory. So, the reductions
presented in the paper show that an algorithmic solution to any of the
investigated problems is not possible without a major breakthrough in analytic
number theory. The reductions rely on the construction of MDP-gadgets that
encode the initial values and linear recurrence relations of linear recurrence
sequences. These gadgets can flexibly be adjusted to prove the various
Positivity-hardness results.
Biogas Production from Kitchen Waste Produced in College Canteens
Authors: Dinde Kedar , Pavate Vinayak , Chavan Sagar , Powar Yogesh , Deshmukh Vikram
Published: April 2024

This research paper delves into the possibilities of engendering biogas from the kitchenette waste produced in college canteens. The goal is to evaluate whether it is feasible and effective to use kitchen waste from college canteens as a cause for producing biogas, which can be exploited as an energy store. Moreover, trials will be led to recognize the conditions for producing biogas. The management of solid waste has grown significantly in importance as urbanization increases. The amount of solid waste produced has increased dramatically as a result of India's economy growing quickly. India's 429 million urban residents produce 62 million tonnes of waste annually. The monetary viability and environmental recompenses of employing biogas systems in college canteens will also be inspected. The research methodology encompasses assemblage data from college canteens scrutinizing the composition of the waste decisive how much waste is engendered and assessing the potential for biogas production. The discoveries will offer perceptions, into the viability of generating biogas from kitchen waste while endorsing waste management practices and renewable energy generation.
BLOCKCHAIN-BASED MANAGEMENT FOR ORGAN DONATION AND TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: S.S.Rajakumari  , Boya Lalitha  , Chintre Sravani  , Nediganti Rajeswari Devi  , Shaik Neha Samreen  , Pinjari Yasmin Begam
Published: April 2024

Today’s organ donation and transplantation systems pose different requirements and challenges in terms of registration, donor-recipient matching, organ removal, organ delivery, and transplantation with legal, clinical, ethical, and technical constraints. Therefore, an end-to-end organ donation and transplantation system is required to guarantee a fair and efficient process to enhance patient experience and trust.
In this paper, we propose a private Ethereum blockchain based solution to enable organ donation and transplantation management in a manner that is fully decentralized, secure, traceable, auditable, private, and trustworthy. We develop smart contracts and present six algorithms along with their implementation,testing, and validation details. We evaluate the performance of the proposed solution by performing privacy, security,and confidentiality analyses as well as comparing our solution with the existing solutions.
Options for subtitling English movie lyrics into Arabic
Authors: Hassan Sundus , Haider Ahmad S
Published: April 2024

Subtitling lyrics poses a problem regarding conveying the content and the form, which include meaning, rhyme, rhythm, and other musical features. This requires having well-trained professional translators to master the rendering of those features in the target language, bearing in mind the constraints imposed by subtitling as an audio-visual mode. This study examines the Arabic subtitled version of English movie lyrics and explores the translator’s options in rendering their content and form. To this end, sixteen lyrics were extracted from five movies that have been subtitled. The compiled lyrics were classified into different categories based on the translation options proposed by Franzon (2008). The option of “translating lyrics without taking the music into consideration” was used 11 times, while the option of “aesthetic translation” was opted for four times. “Not translating the lyric” was used only once, while the option of “creating new lyrics for the music” was not adopted in any of the five movies. The study recommends two research areas: exploring dubbed Arabic versions of English movie lyrics and analyzing subtitled lyrics in other language pairs.
Could marriage be a glorified transactional relationship? A cognitive blending approach to analogies of marriage in Dholuo
Authors: Ogal George Ouma , Khasandi-Telewa Vicky , Mahero Evelyn
Published: April 2024

The last few decades have seen declining marriage rates as people prioritize other life goals over marital commitments. While the explanations for this shifting tide are multifaceted, scholarly evidence suggests that portrayal of marriage in a negative light scares many young adults from the institution. Every community equips its people with experiences, attitudes and linguistic resources to conceptualize abstract phenomena such as marriage. Against this background, this study seeks to analyze analogies of marriage in Dholuo to reveal how cultural resources and experiences influence the conceptualization of marriage. The study adopts a descriptive research design. Data for the study was collected through interviews. Forty (40) speakers of the Kisumu South Nyanza (KSN) dialect were asked to provide analogies used to describe marriage in Dholuo. A total of 66 analogies were collected. Four annotators used the synectic method of analogy identification to verify the collected expressions. One analogy which implies that marriage is a transactional relationship was selected for analysis using the Conceptual Integration Theory (CIT). The study found that analogies pervade daily conversations but they are unconsciously used to describe abstract phenomena such as marriage. Additionally, the study found that in some marriages in the Luo community, love chemistry, compatibility and emotional investment take a backseat and partners see each other as a means to satisfy their selfish interests. The findings also indicate that conceptual mental spaces as a tenet of the CIT provide a plausible model for interpreting marriage as an abstract concept in Dholuo. The study concludes that analogy is culture-specific and should be investigated through the lenses of a cognitive linguist.
Psychological and emotional needs of cancer patients
Authors: DAȘCHEVICI Victoria , ROȘCA Tatiana
Published: April 2024

The issue of psychological assistance strategies, which must be implemented to respond to the needs of the oncological patient, represents a relevant interest in medical psychology. The paper focuses on the area of emotional and psychological needs of the cancer patient, in the advanced stage of the disease, as precisely these types of needs are the most present in this phase and the most difficult to satisfy against the background of the difficulties to express and recognize them, for that it does not manifest itself through specific and clear bodily sensations, detected by clinical parameters or laboratory analyses. Therefore, as future psychologists, it is important to identify these needs and try to fulfill them, because they affect the quality of life and the physical condition of the person, also resulting from the fact that man is a complex system, which is why it must be treated through a bio-psycho-socio-spiritual approach, to take care of him in a holistic manner. And since the human being is a set of complex processes, which gives us the self-understanding that we cannot focus only on the pathological and biological aspects, it is necessary to concern ourselves with the person and not only with the disease.
Methods of reducing affective, psychobehavioral and communication disorders in students with attention deficit and hyperactivity
Authors: CIOBANU Adriana
Published: April 2024

The article lists the ways to reduce affective, psychobehavioral and communication disturbances in students with attention deficit and hyperactivity, in which a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity- impulsivity that interferes with normal functioning or the development process of the individual. In the same way, the essence of psychopedagogical interventions for students with attention deficit and hyperactivity is analyzed, which consists in scientifically validated screening and the consistent application of practices based on scientific evidence, achievable through multimodal and psychoeducational approaches in the structure of which there is no lack of acceptance and empathic reflection.
The incitements of the disorienting dilemma
Authors: BOTNARI Valentina , REPEȘCO Gabriela
Published: April 2024

This article reveals theoretical-praxiological considerations regarding the essence of the intention of the disorienting dilemma, which has the status of the first phase of transformative learning. The genesis of transformative learning is argued, as a type of learning descended from the constructivist paradigm. The content of the article proposes the interpretations of learning and teaching, respectively, offered by the representatives of the constructivist paradigm. However, the nominated elements of the education process have a specific interpretation and categorically change the mission of trainers and trainees compared to the approaches of the traditional system. Respectively, specific actions are hinted at, which obviously condition each other. Methodological justifications are presented with regard to the trainer’s interventions aimed at provoking the trainee and propelling them into situations of active learning, viewed through the lens of the epistemic subject role. Task models are provided to stimulate the learning activity, implicitly, of the students’ independent thinking operations at the beginning phase of transformative learning – the disorienting dilemma.
Psychoemotional impact and inclusion of children with special educational needs in early childhood education
Authors: TĂNASE Liliana Georgiana
Published: April 2024

Inclusion of children with Complex Educational Needs (CES) in preschool education is an important and topical subject. Children with CES may have a variety of educational needs, including learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, or mental health problems. In this sense, preschool teachers must be prepared to provide additional and personalized support for each child with CES, so they can be effectively included in the learning process.These children may be more sensitive to stimuli and new situations, which can lead to anxiety and fear. To help these children feel safe, teachers must create a safe and comfortable environment in the preschool class and offer additional opportunities to become familiar with the learning environment. It is also important to provide positive feedback and emotional support during times of anxiety or fear.
The development of the motivation sphere in the context of human genetic evolution
Authors: STURZA Violina
Published: April 2024

Humans have an innate tendency and desire to thrive. We want to grow, develop and operate at full capacity. The human being is helped to discover himself, to shape his motivational resources, aptitudes and character, so that he comes to harness his native potential towards a creative end. From a structural-internal point of view, human motivation highlights a great diversity and heterogeneity. Personality is seldom at first what it becomes later. That is why there is, at least in the first half of life, the possibility of its enlargement or transformation. Therefore, if a great idea from outside captures us, we must understand that it captures us only because something within us meets it and vibrates to it. In a certain sense, almost any state of fact that characterizes the organism is itself also a motivational state. A correct theory of motivation should assume that motivation is constant, infinite, fluctuating, and complex, and that it represents an almost universal feature of all states of fact that characterize the organism.
Study of the utility of educational software in speech therapy of children with mental deficiencies
Authors: CRIȘAN Elena , STRATAN Valentina
Published: April 2024

Educational software represents any software product in any format that can be used on any computer and that represents a subject, a theme, a lesson, a course, etc., being an alternative or the only solution to traditional educational methods (blackboard, chalk, etc.). Educational software is a progressive and motivating method that contributes to the efficiency of teaching/learning/evaluation, the modernization of the didactic act, and the accessibility of knowledge. The questionnaire, applied online, highlighted the implementation of the educational software in speech therapy, the advantages, disadvantages, along with the challenges and opportunities of their use. The most used educational software in online speech therapy by the speech therapists who participated in the study is LOGOPEDIX. Another platform used to a significant extent is Tara, Geno-Pro, Timlogo, Voxi Kids, Octoplay, Tarabostes, Pictosonidos. The role and contribution of educational software in the therapy of language disorders, how it influences the results obtained in speech therapy and how it contributes to solving a number of existing cases, was mentioned. Educational software specially created for children with disabilities are important sources in correcting deficiencies. Using IAC can help people with disabilities overcome their disability, become less dependent and enrich their repertoire of skills and abilities. The use of educational software in the correction of language disorders in students with intellectual disabilities is obvious, but the full exploitation depends on the degree to which speech therapists are prepared to integrate them, as well as the available technological resources.
Scientific Library of the "Ion Creangă" State Pedagogical University - informational support for training and research
Authors: SCHERLET Ecaterina
Published: April 2024

The article describes the contribution of the Scientific Library of UPSC in the informational assurance of the education and research process in the context of substantial changes and restructuring in the respective fields. Under these conditions, the Scientific Library is directly involved in providing the university community with informational resources, offers services and facilities corresponding to educational, training and research needs, contributes to increasing institutional visibility in the process of registering publications in international databases. One of the basic objectives of the library is to ensure quality services and unlimited access to information resources, which is achieved by providing information services according to the service offer, diversifying / personalizing information skills development services, carrying out educational / partnership programs, developing skills and digital skills for finding and using information sources. The informational assurance of training and scientific research is possible based on a well-organized and structured information and documentation system in accordance with the informational needs of users and the objectives of scientific research.
The university library in the context of current challenges
Authors: CHERADI Natalia
Published: April 2024

The article describes the objectives of university libraries in the current context of the development of higher education in the Republic of Moldova. The library is an important part of the university infrastructure; it contributes to the development of education and science by satisfying the informational needs of users, capitalizing on document collections and modern informational resources. The current challenges in the operation of university libraries influence the quality of basic activities: acquisition of documents and resources, organization and use of collections, bibliographic and documentary information activity, cataloguing-classification activity, provision of information services, user training, etc. The place of the scientific library in the process of education and research in higher education institutions is determined by the degree of exploitation of the informational potential of the library and the accessibility of information, documents, services and resources. The library, without adequate support at the level of policies, regulations, funding, must adapt on the fly to the new social-economic realities. In order to continue implementing the mission of providing relevant information and services to its users, the university library must be connected to the trends of evolution manifested in the technological environment, while preserving the completeness of traditional functions and activities.
Standards - a means of scientific communication
Authors: BORDIAN Elena
Published: April 2024

Standards by definition are technical documents, applied in various fields of human activity. They are developed and approved on the basis of consolidated results of science, technology and experience, being used every day by enterprises, manufacturers, public bodies, and by institutions of education, science and culture. The understanding and the use of standards is essential for the entire academic community and they have a major impact on increasing the visibility of scientific production through the connection and interoperability of information. Today, intonational organisations for standartization try to unite the standardization activity with the research and innovation through a so-called „Integrated Approach”. This is a concept that offers a mechanism that ensures the integration of standardization in research and innovation. The standards integrate perfectly into different stages of scientific research, from studying the terminology and presenting the sources of information, to the compatibility standards, which aim to integrate innovation with existing technologies. The libraries, as institutions that provide information for the entire research cycle, and also manage the collections of data and provide access to various informational resources, quickly adapt to the new techniques and standardized rules across all the library processes.