bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Texto para Discussão sobre o Desenvolvimento, n. 2 | 2024
Authors: Tavares João Marcos Hausmann
Published: October 2024

O ciclo de austeridade fiscal no Brasil, entre 2015 e 2022, gerou intensa discussão entre economistas liberais e críticos. Enquanto os liberais argumentavam que era necessário para controlar a dívida pública e recuperar a confiança empresarial, os críticos alertaram para seus impactos negativos em termos econômicos e sociais. A pesquisa em questão busca refutar a ideia de que a austeridade era a única solução, evidenciando seus efeitos deletérios na economia, emprego e distribuição de renda. Os objetivos específicos incluem a identificação dos mecanismos orçamentários usados, a avaliação dos resultados sociais e econômicos e a análise das "restrições" à política fiscal alternativa. A austeridade, imposta por medidas como o "Teto de Gastos", não gerou a retomada econômica prometida, levando a recessão e aumento do desemprego e pobreza. A análise dos dados sugere que, embora o Brasil tenha enfrentado desafios, havia espaço para uma política fiscal expansionista que poderia ter impulsionado o crescimento econômico de forma mais equilibrada.
Advances in Physiological Research: Consideration on Arterial Hypercapnia in Acute Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema (ACPE)
Authors: Andrea Bellone
Published: October 2024

The causes of hypercapnia in Acute Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema are still unknown. Our hypothesis recognizes an alteration of the ventilation-perfusion ratio in the apical areas of the lung as the major cause. The redistribution of blood to the apical lung zone in hypertensive pulmonary circulation determines an excess of perfusion compared to ventilation and consequently hypercapnia. Our suggestion might be in favor of Bilevel-PAP over Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) as the first line of therapy.
Semantic Valence and Cultural Representation of Phraseological Units (Kazakh and English)
Authors: Amirbekova Aigul , Talgatqyzy Gulnara , Kulmanov Sarsenbay , Sovetova Zaure , Biyazdykova Aliya
Published: October 2024

The rules for the compatibility of idiomatic units in the linguistic consciousness of native speakers are a particular problem that is related to the formation and evolution of the language norm. It is still unknown what is the catalyst for the transformation of language norms — usage or the laws and rules of the language. As a result of the cultural interpretation of a phraseological unit in the process of its use, the most important component of the cultural and linguistic meaning of the phraseological unit is formed, the content of which is the value-emotional attitude to what is happening. The focus of the article is the notion that phraseological valence - beyond grammatical structure to cultural and semantic dimensions. This perspective likely emphasizes the importance of cultural and semantic factors in shaping the meaning and usage of phraseological units, rather than purely grammatical considerations. Comparing English and Kazakh phraseological units with similar concepts but different cultural representations provides an insightful examination of how language reflects unique cultural perspectives and values. The article determines that there is a certain pattern in the semantic variation of phraseological units, and also compares the semantically equivalent and non-equivalent structure of English and Kazakh phraseological units. The purpose of the article is to prove that in the valence of phraseological units the role of the transitive meaning, rather than the literal meaning, predominates, and the grammatical construction has valency.
Integrating machine learning with causal inference for enhanced system dynamics modeling: A framework for predicting complex interactions
Authors: Yves Stephane Kamdem
Published: October 2024

Approaches and methods like System Dynamics Modelling (SDM) have been significant for assessing the behavior of many systems. However, classical methodologies applied in traditional approaches to SDM fail to identify nonlinear feedback and power dependencies, revealing hidden temporal casual relationships. In this paper, I present a novel approach that combines ML and causal inference methods to improve the forecast capability and semantics of system dynamics models. Incorporating ML algorithms for predictions and Causal Inference techniques for explanation, this combined strategy presents a new era for understanding the system interaction and quantifying the hidden causes within various systems. We illustrate the advantages of the suggested framework over traditional SDM and purely ML approaches by employing it to analyze a genuine circumstance for both prognosis and discovering causal relationships. Our findings indicate that such integration is effective in enhancing the comprehension of system interactions and deriving a reliable method for estimating subsequent state conditions in complex contexts. The results are relevant for various disciplines, starting with economics and ending with environmental protection sciences, where interactions and changes vary. As a result, it will give a foundation for further studies of integrating future computerized methods in the dynamical system modeling of the next generation.
Design and development of green energy microgrids for Agro-processing to minimize food waste in smallholder farms
Authors: Oluwaseun Francis Owolabi  , Kenneth Nwaojei  , Peter Makinde
Published: October 2024

This study explores the design, deployment, and evaluation of a green energy microgrid for Agro-processing in smallholder farms, integrating renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, and biomass. The primary goal was to address the energy challenges that smallholder farmers face, particularly in relation to post-harvest losses, operational costs, and environmental sustainability. The study utilized a hybrid system that combined energy generation from solar, wind, and biomass, supported by lithium-ion batteries for storage, to ensure a stable power supply throughout the year. The results demonstrated that the microgrid was effective in meeting the energy needs of Agro-processing units, including milling, drying, and cooling. Energy generation from solar and biomass was highest during peak harvest months, while wind energy provided a consistent, though smaller, contribution. The microgrid enabled significant reductions in post-harvest losses, averaging around 40% across the year, by ensuring timely drying and cooling of agricultural products. Moreover, the system achieved a 74–76% reduction in operational costs compared to traditional diesel generators, largely due to the elimination of fuel costs and reduced maintenance requirements. In terms of environmental impact, the microgrid reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 70%, contributing to the broader goals of climate change mitigation and sustainable agriculture. The use of biomass also contributed to waste reduction by converting agricultural residues into energy, supporting a circular economy model. The study further highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the microgrid, including job creation, local economic growth, and the potential for energy surplus sales to neighboring communities. These findings suggest that green energy microgrids are a viable, sustainable solution for improving energy access and food security in rural agricultural settings
Removal of moisture from air by cooling method
Authors: Trần Văn Hiếu
Published: October 2024

Moisture removal from air is a critical aspect of climate control in various industrial and residential applications. The cooling method, which relies on the condensation of water vapor by lowering air temperature below its dew point, is one of the most commonly used techniques for dehumidification. This study investigates the principles, effectiveness, and limitations of the cooling method in different environmental conditions. By examining the impact of factors such as ambient temperature, humidity levels, and cooling system design, this research aims to identify strategies for optimizing energy efficiency in dehumidification processes. Experimental results highlight the correlation between cooling temperature and condensation rates, emphasizing the need for advanced cooling technologies to reduce energy consumption. The findings contribute to the development of more sustainable and cost-effective dehumidification systems, offering valuable insights for enhancing HVAC performance and reducing environmental impact.
Comparative study of blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin in type 2 diabetics in Lubumbashi city
Authors: Manya Tsheko Donatien  , Tshibumbu Kabeya Edouard  , Ndibualonji Badibanga Victor
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a complex disease, with polymorphic clinical expression and diverse etiopathogenesis, creating an absolute (insufficiency of secretion) or relative (resistance, etc.) defect in insulin effect. This defect in insulin secretion and/or action leads to chronic hyperglycemia with disturbances in carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism. Objective: The objective of our study was to establish the relationship between variations in blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in type 2 diabetics in Lubumbashi city. Methods: The study involved a sample of 39 known type 2 diabetics treated at the University Clinics of Lubumbashi. Venous blood samples were taken from all patients for the measurement of blood glucose after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd month of antidiabetic treatment and for the measurement of HbA1c after the 3rd month of treatment. Results: The average blood glucose concentrations obtained after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd month of treatment were respectively 180.28 ± 51.09 mg/dl ; 154.20 ± 49.33mg/dl and 135.58 ± 36.45 mg/dl while the percentage of HbA1c after the 3rd month of treatment was 5.90 ± 0.55. Statistical analysis showed that the average blood glucose obtained after the 1st month of treatment was significantly higher (P<0.05) than those obtained after the 2nd and 3rd months of treatment. There was no significant difference between the average blood glucose obtained after the 2nd month of treatment and that obtained after the 3rd month of treatment. Furthermore, a positive correlation (r=0.56) was found between average blood glucose and HbA1c. Conclusion: On the one hand, our results show that the antidiabetic treatment followed by the patients was effective and, on the other hand, they highlight the need to associate the measurement of blood glucose with that of HbA1c in the diagnosis and treatment monitoring in diabetic patients.
Bindings of Manuscripts in the Vatican Library Between Current Condition and Ancient Inventories
A Study Sample (Vat. lat. 4195-4241)
Authors: Manfredi Antonio
Published: October 2024

A homogeneous group of manuscripts from the ancient Latin collection of the Vatican Library, Vat. lat. 4195-4241, is examined to describe their bindings and the changes and replacement interventions; therefore the study tries to reconstruct with information from ancient catalogues the condition of the bindings when these books arrived in the Vatican Library. Ancient inventories are in fact a precious source for better understanding the development of the material history of the manuscripts.
A Census of Medieval Bindings and an Experiment in Book Archaeology Applied to Codices in the University Library of Padua
Authors: Federici Carlo
Published: October 2024

Starting with the census of medieval bindings, which was carried out within the Istituto di patologia del libro from 1985 to 2002, an application of book archaeology is proposed to the manuscripts and incunabula kept at the University Library of Padua.
Ego ligavi hunc librum: legature, date e nomi
Ego ligavi hunc librum: Ligatures, Dates and Names
Authors: Giovè Nicoletta
Published: October 2024

Within those manuscripts that are generally referred to as dated, since they contain one or more explicit indications of their production – the date of transcription, the place of copying, the name of the copyist or, more rarely, of the illuminator – there is a small but not insignificant corpus of codices in which the bookbinder leaves a trace of his name or a date, and which are worth investigating, first of all with regard to their content and structural peculiarities, as well as their provenance.
Development of the architecture of the remote access system to educational laboratory equipment using automated solutions
Authors: Posashkov Oleh , Tsymbal Oleksandr
Published: October 2024

The subject of the study is remote access to Raspberry Pi-based training equipment and remote desktop software. The purpose of the work is to analyze the means of remote control of equipment and develop the architecture of the system of remote access of students to laboratory equipment for the implementation of distance learning. The following tasks are solved in the article: the branches in which application of means of remote access is the most critical are analyzed, among which the special place is occupied by the educational branch; analysis of existing methods of organization of remote access to training equipment was carried out, advantages and disadvantages of each method were allocated; justification is being made for choosing a Raspberry Pi minicomputer as a hardware platform for building remote access systems; describes the architecture of a complex of technical solutions based on Raspberry Pi for remote control of educational laboratory equipment; implementation of applied system of temperature and humidity monitoring using developed approach is described. Research methods include comparative analysis of existing remote control technologies, prototyping and experimental testing of the developed system. The following results were obtained: the feasibility of using the remote desktop approach and AnyDesk software for organizing access was substantiated, a system based on the Raspberry Pi minicomputer for managing equipment and visualizing data was developed, an applied system for monitoring temperature and humidity using Raspberry Pi and AnyDesk was implemented. Conclusions: The proposed approach of using Raspberry Pi and remote desktop software allows students to effectively organize remote access to laboratory equipment from engineering disciplines during distance learning. This solution combines ease of implementation, interaction with real physical equipment and low cost compared to the use of industrial PLCs.
Choosing strategies for deployment and ensuring the reliability of a UAV swarm to support communications in destruction conditions
Authors: Terenyk Dmytro , Kharchenko Vyacheslav
Published: October 2024

The subject matter of the article is the system of communication networks of UAVs (flying networks, FNs), which use LiFi technology for data transmission from the source to the receiver in conditions of physical obstacles and cyber threats, as well as deployment and reliability assurance strategies (DRAS) of FNs. The goal of the work is to develop criteria and algorithms for choosing DRAS of FNs that provide the necessary level of reliability and efficiency under given constraints. The following tasks were solved in the article: systematization of deployment strategies and ensuring the reliability of the flying network; formulation of principles and development of an algorithm for choosing the optimal deployment strategy and ensuring the reliability of FNs; providing recommendations on choosing the optimal deployment strategies and ensuring the reliability of the flying network. The following methods are used: system analysis for choosing the optimal DRAS; theory of reliability and system efficiency. The following results were obtained: the classifier of FNs deployment strategies was expanded due to additional features of repair and maintenance, as well as the presence of cyber attacks; the criteria for choosing deployment strategies and ensuring the reliability of FNs are formulated; an algorithm for choosing the optimal deployment strategy and ensuring the reliability of FNs was developed; the analysis is carried out and an example of the application of the developed algorithms is given to illustrate the step-by-step procedure for choosing a strategy, which is accompanied by calculations of reliability indicators. Conclusions: the proposed sets, criteria, and algorithm for choosing deployment and reliability assurance strategies of FNs enable the substantiation of a set of parameters and planning of the implementation of the optimal (according to the defined criterion) policy for the introduction of an automatic communication support system at critical infrastructure objects under conditions of destruction and cyber influence, as well as increase efficiency (minimize cost) of the use of flying networks.
Low-power coding method in data transmission systems
Authors: Vladyslav Yareshchenko , Kosenko Viktor
Published: October 2024

The object of the study is the Network-on-Chip (NoC) technology, which has become a popular choice for the on-chip communication architecture of modern System-on-Chip (SoC) devices. The subject matter of the article is methods of reducing dissipated power in NoC and SoC. The goal of the work is: development of a low-power coding method that allows for the efficient transmission or storage of information. The following tasks are solved in the article: analysis of classification methods for combinatorial structures, construction a system of typical representatives and analysis of their characteristics. The research methods are based on the use of set theory, system theory and combinatorics. The following results are obtained: analyzed factors that affect the dissipated power, considered principles of constructing energy-efficient codes. It is shown that switching activity significantly affects the total power and one of the effective methods for reducing switching activity during communication between devices or on-chip communication is the use of low-power coding methods. A method of hierarchical classification of unit distance codes and algorithms for solving step-by-step problems have been developed. The method is based on the invariant approach and construction of a system of different representatives. Estimates of their number have been obtained, characteristics have been determined, and catalogs of typical representatives have been formed. Conclusions. The article analyzes factors that affect dissipated power, and considers the principles of constructing energy-efficient codes. A method of hierarchical classification of single distance codes and algorithms for solving step-by-step problems have been developed, and catalogs of typical representatives have been formed. The application of the developed method will allow developers to analyze and select codes with the best properties and, as a result, obtain better results in terms of network delays, energy costs, and other design limitations for computer systems.
Chiefdom, Vassalage and Empire: The Political Structures of Arabia from the First CE to the Advent of Islam
Authors: Atlas Sabeeha , Qadir Altaf
Published: October 2024

No political system could ever evolve in isolation fr om the environment in which it emerged. Similarly, no particular system can be understood as stagnant. It is actually the culmination or an improved form of a long historical growth. Keeping in view this synopsis, Islamic political institutions could be placed in the time and space in which the salient political features and social trends of the Jahiliyah Arabia and the neighboring political cultures contributed to their foundation and evolution. In addition to the compact political structures of Aksum, Rome and Persia, and then Byzantine and Sassanid on the borders, internally the pre-Islamic Arabs had a diverse mechanism for managing their affairs. The Arabian South experienced organized governance as compared to the north and central regions. This diversity can be attributed to the geo-strategic location and ecological environment of the peninsula. The fertile South was more supportive to the growth of a political mechanism than the arid, geopolitically more vulnerable north and central regions. In a nutshell, a proper study of the less discussed Jahiliyah politics could minimize assumptions about the complete lawlessness and political unawareness of the Arabs in politics and governance.
Evolution of the Human Brain and the Myth of its Ten-Percent Use
Authors: Anum Shahzadi Raheela , Shafiq Maria , Fatima Sana , Bibi Abida , Khan Amjad Ullah , Naz Shaista , Hashmi Hamna Batool , Rustam Saqib Ali , Khan Sobia Ishrat , Iqbal Bushra , Amna  , Abbas Musavir , Khan Muzammil Ahmad , Khan Jabbar , Muzammal Muhammad
Published: October 2024

The human brain is a complex organ that controls nearly every function of the human body. As science believes, humans evolved from apes but over time, humans achieved domain specification and maturation in the nervous system due to which they gained sensory, language, and other social cognition functions, called higher-level cognitive functions. Neurogenesis, or brain development, is an organized process that starts from the early weeks of pregnancy to early childhood. During development, brain parts connect to each other directly and indirectly to process information. As the brain is a mysterious organ so many theories and myths are linked to its development and its use. A widespread misconception, a claim, is that most people use only about 10 % of their potential brain power. But there is no room for this myth because we have now mapped almost every region of the brain. Furthermore, PET scans and fMRI clearly show that almost all parts of the brain are connected to each other and all parts are functionally active. And if the parts of the brain are unnecessary and unused, then they must be removed or disappear, according to the rule of the theory of evolution. Now it is the time to put the myth to rest even though it has survived for a whole century.
Zhèng Hé's Indirect Impact on Europe: On Revolutionary Focal Groups of Production Revolutions
Authors: Plachetka Uwe Christian
Published: October 2024

According to the model on production revolutions, elaborated by Leonid and Anton Grinin, the Covid-19 pandemic and the fourteenth century's Black Death have similar impacts on economic trajectories in terms of production principles. Andrea Komlosy added the spatial dimension to the model, which allows the identification of the ‘focal groups’ of revolutionists and their seedling nurseries of a new production principle in late fourteenth and early fifteenth century Europe. Ming Admiral Zhèng Hé's voyages across the Indian Ocean (1405–1433) had an indirect impact on the European economy: Trading on the re-established ‘Maritime Silk Road’ required silver for payment, whose eventual shortage caused a credit crunch in Europe, jeopardizing the phase transition to the mercantile-industrial production principle. Renaissance Humanists promoted a revolutionary epistemology in the fifteenth century. Christopher Columbus's discovery of America, a by-product of efforts to reconnect Europe to the Maritime Silk Road in response to the credit crunch was portrayed as a revolutionary achievement. The author's participation at a focal group of the Cybernetic Revolution before Covid-19 motivated his tracing the Renaissance Revolution.
Rough Waters Ahead
Authors: Harper Antony
Published: October 2024

Review of Handbook of Revolutions in the 21st Century: The New Waves of Revolutions, and the Causes and Effects of Disruptive Political Change. Edited by Jack A. Goldstone, Leonid Grinin, and Andrey Korotayev. Springer, 2022. ISBN 978-3-030-86467-5.
Взаимодействие государства с институтами экономического развития в рамках корпоративной общественной модели
Authors: Шапкин Игорь Николаевич
Published: October 2024

Проблема взаимоотношения государства с институтами гражданского общества актуализируется в современных условиях. Решение стоящих перед странами проблем возможно при наличии единства и согласия. В отличие от представлений недавнего прошлого, носивших во многом конфронтационный характер, концепция корпоративизма направлена на разрешение противоречий посредством диалога и сотрудничества. Отношение к теории и практике корпоративизма отличалось в разные эпохи: от повышенного интереса до забвения. Вместе с тем хозяйственная история последних десятилетий свидетельствует, что страны с корпоративным устройством добиваются более существенных результатов, чем народы, ориентирующиеся на иные социальные модели. В представленной статье анализируются формы, методы, механизмы современного корпоративизма, взгляды его противников и апологетов.
Диалог Конфуция и диалог Сократа как «встреча» двух цивилизаций в условиях глобализации
Authors: Юнхун Цай , Фомина Марина Николаевна
Published: October 2024

В статье рассматриваются философские позиции китайских авторов о соотношении диалога Конфуция и диалога Сократа. Анализируется их интерпретация двух типов диалога как рефлексия национальной культуры, как результат отражения мышления в разных культурах и цивилизациях. Представлена позиция китайских философов, которые обосновывают корреляцию и отличие диалогов Конфуция и Сократа. Отмечено, что китайские авторы обращаются к диалогам как к инструментам, формирующим самосознание в эпоху глобализации. Анализируя два типа диалога как два самостоятельных инструмента формирования национальной мысли, исследователи рассматривают диалог Сократа на уровне рационального подхода, а диалог Конфуция – с позиций практического результата. Отмечая в диалогах особенности национальной культуры, национального мышления, ученые определяют, что диалог Сократа и диалог Конфуция объединяет одно – тема формирования морального человека. В статье представлен анализ работ китайских философов, к которым ранее не обращались российские исследователи.
Концепция многоконтурности в современных финансово-экономических отношениях
Authors: Астафуров Сергей Николаевич , Проскунов Сергей Сергеевич , Гордиенко Михаил Сергеевич
Published: October 2024

Исследование посвящено рассмотрению концепции многоконтурности в современных финансово-экономических отношениях. Авторами дается определение многоконтурности, детализируется специфика реализации данной концепции в финансово-экономической сфере. Представлены исторические предпосылки появления рассматриваемой концепции, перечислены критерии выделения различных контуров, а также ее характерные свойства. Проведено сравнение основных параметров традиционных и многоконтурных систем, а также приведены примеры их реализации на основе зарубежного опыта. Затронуты вопросы влияния глобализации и технологического развития в рассматриваемой сфере. В завершающей части статьи кратко рассмотрена практика применения и будущий потенциал многоконтурности в России.
Дальний Восток России: глобальные и региональные аспекты развития сельского хозяйства
Authors: Трофимов Илья Александрович , Трофимова Людмила Сергеевна , Яковлева Елена Петровна
Published: October 2024

Дальний Восток имеет важное геополитическое и геостратегическое значение для России. Он относится к числу наиболее богатых природными ресурсами регионов России и мира. Для соседних стран это самая привлекательная своими сырьевыми ресурсами часть территории России. Сельское хозяйство Дальнего Востока не может рассматриваться лишь как сфера бизнеса. Оно обеспечивает геополитические интересы России, сохраняет заселенность территории и территориальную целостность государства. На Дальнем Востоке с его большим разнообразием природно-климатических и экономических факторов создалась напряженная ситуация с обеспечением населения продовольствием. В макрорегионе не обеспечивается продовольственная безопасность, что создает угрозу национальной безопасности. Уровень сельскохозяйственной освоенности дальневосточных земель невысокий. Существующие проблемы Дальнего Востока могут найти свое положительное решение, направленное на конструирование сбалансированных отношений и в самом макрорегионе, и в России, и во взаимодействии с другими государствами, и во взаимодействии с природой, что соответствовало бы и региональным, и глобальным интересам всего человечества.
Sustainability Service Chain Capabilities in the Oil and Gas Industry: A Fuzzy Hybrid Approach SWARA-MABAC
Authors:   Department of Industrial Management, Semnan branch, Islamic Azad university, Semnan, Iran, Mehdiabadi Amir , Sadeghi Amir ,   Department of Industrial Management, Islamic Azad university, South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran, Yazdi Amir Karbassi ,   Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tarapaca, Arica, Chile, Tan Yong ,   School of Management, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Published: October 2024

This study aims to redefine the capabilities of the service supply chain in the Iranian oil and gas industry, where the concept of service chains has remained underdeveloped due to a traditional focus on conventional service chains. It seeks to compare the capabilities of the oil and gas service supply chain to those in other sectors and explore whether applied research is necessary to improve service chain performance. The study was conducted in three stages, involving ten petroleum and natural gas experts. The first stage focused on identifying key capabilities, yielding seven significant capabilities and 28 critical sub-capabilities. In the second stage, the SWARA fuzzy hybrid approach was employed to weigh and prioritize these capabilities, while the fuzzy MABAC methodology was used for strategic decision-making. Finally, the model’s sensitivity was assessed using fuzzy methods to validate the findings. The results highlight the highest priority capability for service providers: the ability to utilize information for updating information processing capacity in making decisions within the service supply chain. The selected location, G1, emerged as a key area of focus. This approach presents a novel method for optimizing service supply chain locations within the oil and gas sector. This paper introduces a unique approach to selecting optimal service supply chain locations in the oil and gas industry, addressing critical gaps in previous research. Employing advanced fuzzy hybrid methodologies provides valuable insights into improving service chain capabilities, offering a competitive advantage for companies operating in this sector.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Individual Differences in Musical Reward
Authors: Wang Jinyu , Kathios Nicholas , Ou Yongtian , Curtiss Joshua , Wu Daxing , Loui Psyche
Published: October 2024

Music is an important source of pleasure, yet sensitivity to the rewards of musical experiences varies greatly across individuals. The Barcelona Music Reward Questionnaire (BMRQ) is a frequently used scale to assess individuals’ sensitivity to musical reward. While the BMRQ has been translated into seven languages to date, its five-factor structure has not yet been compared across cultures. Here we compared musical reward sensitivity and its relationship with musical training in 1333 Chinese participants and 1433 US participants based on self-report survey data. Results showed both similarities and differences across the two cultures: while Chinese participants endorsed lower average BMRQ scores overall than the US participants, both groups showed four clusters of items in the musical reward sensitivity network. We also found that musical training was strongly related to social reward in the US group, but to emotional evocation and music seeking in the Chinese group. Network analysis revealed distinct motifs of Sensory-motor facet in reward sensitivity between the groups: the US group showed a single Sensory-Motor cluster, whereas dance separated from music-induced movement and vocalization in the Chinese group. These results underscore the importance of culture and musical training in contributing to individual differences in musical reward sensitivity.
High Throughput Reproducible Literate Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Goswami Rohit , S. Ruhila
Published: October 2024

We present a holistic approach from a literate programming perspective to frameand solve systems biology problems. In particular, given the large data-setsrequired for answering questions relating to evolutionary histories we focus onthe generalization and workflow required on a typical SLURM or PBS TORQUE queuedriven high performance computing cluster. We demonstrate how to leveragemultiple CLI tools compiled for efficient use in a portable manner onheterogeneous computational resources and further demonstrating the use of R togenerate literate data-driven plots and analysis. High Performance Computingcluster (HPC) bottlenecks and installation barriers are also discussed andmitigation strategies are developed. As a concrete example we demonstrate theestimation of a phylogenetic tree, used to pose and answer questions onevolutionary lineages. In this manner, a generalized approach which can be usedfor systems biology is elucidated for manipulating phylogenetic data, includingits validation, multiple sequence alignment, tree estimation through differentmodels and reproduction.
Prioritizing Along Prototypes: Implicit Citizenship Theories in Decision-Making at the Frontline
Authors: Hensel David , Liegat Marlen Christin , Vogel Dominik , Vogel Rick
Published: October 2024

Public employees are expected to treat all citizens alike but due to scarce resources and increasing demands, they often simplify their decisions and prioritize, which carries the risk of discrimination. This study shifts attention to the taxonomy of categories that public employees freely associate with citizens (i.e., implicit citizenship theories) and explores how frontline employees prioritize clients whose characteristics correspond to six prototypes of citizens. The results of a choice-based conjoint experiment show that citizens' compliance with employees' implicit theories is indeed relevant to their decisions on granting benefits and imposing obligations. Regardless of whether the decision has these positive or negative consequences for citizens, a negative prototype (i.e., determination) is most influential, suggesting that employees prioritize citizens to their convenience. Overall, the study advances the socio-cognitive foundations of state-citizen interactions by framing those encounters as multi-category decision-making settings emerging from employees' everyday theories about citizens.
The effect of a price reduction intervention on healthier menu items in the out-of-home food sector on energy purchased and consumed: a restaurant-based pilot experiment
Authors: Witkam Rozemarijn , Brealey Jane , Latham Rebecca , Jones Andrew , Robinson Eric
Published: October 2024

Background: Frequent out-of-home food sector (OOHFS) use is associated with poor dietary intake and obesity. There are limited real-world studies on pricing interventions to encourage healthy eating in the OOHFS. We performed a pilot study to collect preliminary trial data on the potential impact of a price reduction intervention on healthier menu items on purchasing and consumption of kilocalories (kcal) in a full-serviced restaurant among people from both lower and higher socioeconomic position (SEP). Methods: The main trial design was a pre vs. post price reduction comparison (within-subjects), where participants (adults aged ≥18 years) received a control menu with standard pricing at visit 1 and a menu with price manipulations (30% reduction for healthy items) at visit 2. A sub-study was conducted with a comparison sample to estimate potential pre-post changes to outcome variables in the absence of a pricing intervention. Linear mixed models assessed pre-post changes in kcal purchased and kcal consumed.Results: In total, 114 participants were recruited; 92 were randomised to the main study and 22 to the comparison sub-study. Of those participating in the main study, 78 completed and 14 were lost to follow-up. There were no participants lost to follow-up in the comparison study. Of the completers, 46 participants were considered higher SEP (i.e. bachelor’s degree or higher) and 32 participants were lower SEP (i.e. some college or associate degree or lower). Kcal purchased and consumed decreased from visit 1 to visit 2; however, this reduction was only statistically significant for total kcal consumed (regression coefficient: -98.0 (95% CI -181.9, -14.2), p=0.02). There were no notable intervention effect differences between higher and lower SEP participants. In the comparison study, kcal purchased and consumed was also lower at visit 2 compared to visit 1, although this should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size.Conclusion: A price reduction intervention on lower energy menu items is potentially effective in encouraging healthier eating in a restaurant setting. Larger studies with inclusion of a control group (e.g., randomised controlled trials) are now needed to confirm intervention effects and whether they are equitable across different socioeconomic groups.
Experienced Benefits and Challenges of Ecological Momentary Assessment among Treatment-Seeking Individuals with Past-Month Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Authors: Bonnier Rafaël , Beames Joanne R , Claes Laurence , Kirtley Olivia J , de Thurah Lena , Weermeijer Jeroen Dennis, Merlijn , Uyttebroek Lotte , Luijsmans Mirthe , Myin-Germeys Inez , Kiekens Glenn
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Although Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) demonstrates clinical utility, its benefits and challenges for treatment-seeking individuals who engage in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) are not well understood. This study evaluates self-reported benefits (i.e. increases in self-insight and self-efficacy) and challenges of EMA (i.e., beep disturbance, and negative emotional experiences) in this population.Methods: Ninety-seven in-treatment patients with past-month NSSI completed baseline assessments which assessed sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Following intake, they completed a 28-day EMA-protocol with six assessments each day. After this self-monitoring period, a feedback survey was completed in which general and NSSI-specific increases in self-insight and self-efficacy, compliance, beep disturbance, and negative emotional experiences related to EMA were assessed. Results: Average EMA compliance was 72.14% (SD=20.47) and decreased linearly over time (β=-0.50, p<.001). After using EMA, 32.98% reported increased general self-insight and 9.27% reported increased general self-efficacy. In contrast, 63.91% reported increased NSSI-specific self-insight and 41.24% reported improved NSSI-specific self-efficacy. Additionally, 21,62% experienced negative emotional experiences due to EMA. Higher levels of negative emotional experiences were significantly associated with lower compliance (r=-.297, p=.004), higher beep disturbance (r=.383, p< .001), and lower general self-insight (r=-.286, p=.005).Conclusion: EMA appears feasible and may promote NSSI-specific self-insight and self-efficacy for most patients.
Demand for Health Insurance: Financial and Informational role of Informal Networks
Authors: Bhattacharya Titir , Chakraborty Tanika , Mukherjee Anirban
Published: October 2024

In response to a remarkably high out of pocket (OOP) health expenditure in India, various state and the national governments in India, tried to introduce public health insurance programs. Despite being free, the take up and utilization of these programs remain low. In this paper, we seek to explain this puzzle by studying the role of informal networks in explaining insurance-adoption behavior in the context of the Arogyasri health insurance program introduced in the erstwhile state of Andhra Pradesh between 2007 and 2008. We use household panel data from the Young Lives Survey (YLS) to empirically study how the adoption of Arogyasri among poor households respond to their membership in informal networks. In this context, we differentiate between two types of network – financial network and information network. We find that adoption and utilization are significantly higher for households with access to informal financial networks. However, adoption and utilization increases much more for households outside informal networks, after they experience health shocks. Information sharing role of informal networks do not seem to affect the decision to adopt insurance. We also provide a simple theoretical framework to discuss the potential mechanisms underlying our empirical results.
Can Machines Think Like Humans? A Behavioral Evaluation of LLM-Agents in Dictator Games
Authors: Ma Ji
Published: October 2024

As Large Language Model (LLM)-based agents increasingly undertake real-world tasks and engage with human society, how well do we understand their behaviors? We (1) investigate how LLM agents' prosocial behaviors---a fundamental social norm---can be induced by different personas and benchmarked against human behaviors; and (2) introduce a behavioral and social science approach to evaluate LLM agents' decision-making. We explored how different personas and experimental framings affect these AI agents' altruistic behavior in dictator games and compared their behaviors within the same LLM family, across various families, and with human behaviors. The findings reveal substantial variations and inconsistencies among LLMs and notable differences compared to human behaviors. Merely assigning a human-like identity to LLMs does not produce human-like behaviors. Despite being trained on extensive human-generated data, these AI agents are unable to capture the internal processes of human decision-making. Their alignment with human is highly variable and dependent on specific model architectures and prompt formulations; even worse, such dependence does not follow a clear pattern. LLMs can be useful task-specific tools but are not yet intelligent human-like agents.
Highly Theoretical Differential Equations of the Afterlife
Authors: Ohnemus Alexander Luke
Published: October 2024

Theories are not facts. Differential equations are a common concept of applied mathematics. Science is roughly derived from philosophy. Engineering is roughly derived from science. The afterlife is worth researching. All research at first may seem far-fetched. Engineering may be the only way to know for sure if the afterlife is real and if so, what it is exactly. "The Differential Equations of Advanced Conception: (S + P)' = ~(S + E) S: science P: philosophy E: engineering The derivative of science plus philosophy equals approximately science plus engineering. Science is in both the differential equation and the approximate derivative because after the deriving process the thinking becomes less philosophical and more scientific due to the increased tangibility."(Ohnemus 2023). If we add the science of the afterlife and the philosophy of the afterlife then the approximate derivative may be the science of the afterlife plus the engineering of the afterlife. In conclusion, probably no machine has been created to preview the afterlife. And if one has, the probability of its accuracy may be null.
Association of Aquatic Invertebrates with the Water Quality in the Ponds of Bhaktapur
Authors: Karki Rosary , Karmacharya Dikpal Krishna , Dhakal Neeru
Published: October 2024

Aquatic invertebrates are representative of the health of habitats they live in. This study was conducted to evaluate aquatic invertebrate diversity and relate them with physico-chemical factors in the ponds of Bhaktapur. Rani pokhari, Bhajya pokhari, Na pokhari and Kamal pokhari were selected for the study. Plankton net was swiped out for approximately one minute in each corner of all the ponds. Five subsequent sweeps were taken repeatedly at each site. Invertebrates collected in the net were kept in a plastic container covered with a lid. The collected species were preserved in 70% alcohol. For physico-chemical analysis, water samples were collected from 10cm below the surface water in BOD bottles from each site and taken to the laboratory of Department of Zoology, Bhaktapur Multiple Campus for the further identification and laboratory work. Total 16 species of aquatic invertebrates belonging to five phyla, 10 orders and 16 families were recorded from the ponds of Bhaktapur. Species richness of aquatic invertebrates was found to be 13, 11, four and five in Rani pokhari, Bhajya pokhari, Na pokhari and Kamal pokhari respectively. Phylum Arthropoda was most abundant in all four ponds. The correlation of species richness with physico-chemical parameters showed a positive correlation with water temperature (r = 0.96), electric conductivity (r = 0.98), free carbon dioxide (r = 0.99) and dissolved oxygen (r = 0.51) while the negative correlation with pH (r = -0.83) and alkalinity (r = -0.83). The result obtained is valuable and useful for continuous water quality monitoring activities and the conservation of freshwater fauna in the ponds of Bhaktapur. Further detailed studies on aquatic invertebrates were highly recommended.
Role of Remittance in Economic Development of Nepal
Authors: Acharya Bashanti
Published: October 2024

The aim of this research paper is to analyze the impact of remittances in economic development of the country. The study is quantitative in nature and examines the impact of remittances on two economic development indicators: nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Per Capita GDP (PCI). This study employs both descriptive analysis and a simple linear regression model. The contribution of remittances to GDP was 10.28 percent in 2001/02 and increased to 22.68 percent in 2022/23. The impact of remittances has been seen positive on both indicators, GDP and PCI, but it is comparatively lower for PCI. The findings show that the relationship between remittances and GDP, as well as between remittances and PCI, is significant. This means remittances have been playing vital role in improving economic well-being and reducing poverty.
Pedagogika analityczna. Od porządkowania wiedzy naukowej do odkrywania jej nowych obszarów
Authors: Żywczok Alicja , Bobik Bogumiła
Published: October 2024

The monograph proposes viewing classification as not only a cognitive process that organizes knowledge, but also one that promotes the dynamic development of science: initiating new directions, concepts, branches of science, trends, sub-disciplines, etc. In structured knowledge it is easier to detect places yet unmarked in science. Thus the object of the presented research is the significance of ordering the scientific knowledge in the form of classification in the field of social sciences, in the discipline of pedagogy. Methodological resources of hermeneutics proved to be useful in analysis and interpretation of scientific source texts and official documents. The structure of the monograph consists of the table of contents, introduction, four chapters, conclusion, bibliography, list of diagrams and tables, personal index, summary and note about the authors.