Analysis Approach Research Articles

FS/DS: A Theoretical Framework for the Dual Analysis of Feature Space and Data Space.

With the surge of data-driven analysis techniques, there is a rising demand for enhancing the exploration of large high-dimensional data by enabling interactions for the joint analysis of features (i.e., dimensions). Such a dual analysis of the feature space and data space is characterized by three components, 1) a view visualizing feature summaries, 2) a view that visualizes the data records, and 3) a bidirectional linking of both plots triggered by human interaction in one of both visualizations, e.g., Linking & Brushing. Dual analysis approaches span many domains, e.g., medicine, crime analysis, and biology. The proposed solutions encapsulate various techniques, such as feature selection or statistical analysis. However, each approach establishes a new definition of dual analysis. To address this gap, we systematically reviewed published dual analysis methods to investigate and formalize the key elements, such as the techniques used to visualize the feature space and data space, as well as the interaction between both spaces. From the information elicited during our review, we propose a unified theoretical framework for dual analysis, encompassing all existing approaches extending the field. We apply our proposed formalization describing the interactions between each component and relate them to the addressed tasks. Additionally, we categorize the existing approaches using our framework and derive future research directions to advance dual analysis by including state-of-the-art visual analysis techniques to improve data exploration.

The Effect of Public Tolerance towards Corruptive Behaviour on Healthcare Efficiency and Equity – The Case of the UK’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme

Over the past four years, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant uncertainty, suffering, and economic disruption worldwide. Consequently, governments have faced pressure to ensure fair vaccine access while achieving vaccination targets quickly. Such challenging circumstances can create opportunities for nepotism and bribery, increasing attention to corruption risks associated with the pandemic response. This study investigates the relationship between public attitudes towards corruptive behaviour and the efficiency and equity of the UK's COVID-19 vaccination programme. It combines primary data on public tolerance towards corruptive behaviour with secondary data on the efficiency of the vaccination program at the local authority level in England and Scottland. We employ a survival analysis approach, estimating Cox Proportional Hazards Models, which examine the time taken to reach vaccination targets. Our findings suggest moderate tolerance towards nepotism/favouritism and bribery among the British public, with 28% of survey participants considering monetary bribery and 34% considering nepotism/favouritism as acceptable means to secure early vaccination access. Moreover, while public tolerance towards corruptive behaviour generally had a negative impact on the efficiency of the vaccination programme, it appears to have expedited the vaccination rollout in politically aligned local authorities governed by the Conservative and Unionist Party. However, this positive effect on efficiency appears to have come at the expense of reduced equity in vaccine distribution. These findings underscore the trade-off between efficiency and equity in vaccine distribution during public health crises, emphasising the need for health policies that balance efficiency with equity to ensure fair and effective distribution of vaccines in the future.

Decision Tree Analysis Approaches to Classify Sensors Data in a Water Pumping Station

Decision Tree Analysis Approaches to Classify Sensors Data in a Water Pumping Station

Integrated decision support framework for construction land reduction projects prioritization in China: a multi-criteria decision analysis approach

Integrated decision support framework for construction land reduction projects prioritization in China: a multi-criteria decision analysis approach

Metatranscriptomics: A Tool for Clinical Metagenomics.

In the field of bioinformatics, amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA genes has long been used to investigate community membership and taxonomic abundance in microbiome studies. As we can observe, shotgun metagenomics has become the dominant method in this field. This is largely owing to advancements in sequencing technology, which now allow for random sequencing of the entire genetic content of a microbiome. Furthermore, this method allows profiling both genes and the microbiome's membership. Although these methods have provided extensive insights into various microbiomes, they solely assess the existence of organisms or genes, without determining their active role within the microbiome. Microbiome scholarship now includes metatranscriptomics to decipher how a community of microorganisms responds to changing environmental conditions over a period of time. Metagenomic studies identify the microbes that make up a community but metatranscriptomics explores the diversity of active genes within that community, understanding their expression profile and observing how these genes respond to changes in environmental conditions. This expert review article offers a critical examination of the computational metatranscriptomics tools for studying the transcriptomes of microbial communities. First, we unpack the reasons behind the need for community transcriptomics. Second, we explore the prospects and challenges of metatranscriptomic workflows, starting with isolation and sequencing of the RNA community, then moving on to bioinformatics approaches for quantifying RNA features, and statistical techniques for detecting differential expression in a community. Finally, we discuss strengths and shortcomings in relation to other microbiome analysis approaches, pipelines, use cases and limitations, and contextualize metatranscriptomics as a tool for clinical metagenomics.

Sukuk structure and risk exposures: evidence from an originator perspective

Purpose Despite the growing prevalence of Sukuk issuances, there remains a significant knowledge gap concerning their specific risk exposures to originators of issuances rather than to investors, particularly compared to conventional bonds, and the implications of this for the corporate governance (CG) of originators. This study aims to examine the risks faced by originators and sponsors of Sukuk issuances, drawing insights from unique Sukuk case studies. The distinct characteristics of Sukuk include legal intricacies and Shari’ah compliance, which pose particular challenges to originators. Effective risk management is a key issue for CG in these areas. Design/methodology/approach A sequential explanatory case study method is employed, utilising the content analysis approach to extract information from various articles, reports and Sukuk case studies, including Tamweel Residential Mortgage Backed Sukuk and Tamweel Sukuk Limited. Findings The findings underscore the critical issues for originators in navigating risks within Sukuk structures, particularly concerning Shari’ah non-compliance and default risk. This highlights the importance of managing risks inherent in Sukuk structures, considering both Shari’ah compliance obligations and the sustainability of Sukuk in terms of default risk. Default scenarios raise unique questions regarding stakeholders' interests, specifically those of shareholders, investors and creditors, contingent on the Sukuk issuance's structure and contractual basis of the Sukuk issuance. Practical implications The need for a CG framework conducive to the effective management of these risks, thereby ensuring both Shari’ah compliance and long-term viability, which is crucial for the sustainable growth of Sukuk in the financial landscape. Originality/value This study offers a unique perspective by focusing on the risks faced by originators of Sukuk issuances, a largely unexplored area, and underscores the importance of effective risk management for CG and sustainability of Sukuk issuances.

Psychosomatic complaints are indicative of stress in young individuals: findings from a Swedish national cohort study.

Psychosomatic complaints are common in youth and are often assumed to indicate stress. Although several studies have confirmed that a cross-sectional association exists, few have empirically investigated whether or not perceived stress influences psychosomatic complaints. The objective of the present study was to build upon previous research by exploring whether changes in perceived stress over time are associated with corresponding changes in psychosomatic complaints. This analytical approach takes unmeasured time-invariant confounding into account, thereby offering more robust evidence for a causal association between the variables under study. Data was derived from the Swedish national cohort study Futura01, with information from 2,708 participants aged 17-18 in 2019 and 20-21 in 2022. Perceived stress was measured by Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale. Psychosomatic complaints were measured by questions on the frequency of stomach aches, headaches and difficulties falling asleep, which were added to an index. Information on gender, parental education, and parental country of birth was derived from registries. Linear regression analyses were conducted and the first difference (FD) approach was used. Perceived stress and psychosomatic complaints exhibited cross-sectional associations at both time points. The FD analyses showed that increases in perceived stress were associated with increases in psychosomatic complaints, and this was the case irrespective of sociodemographic characteristics. This study provides further empirical support for the assumption that psychosomatic complaints can be partially attributed to stress. Societal efforts aimed at reducing stressors and strengthening coping resources and strategies among young people may help mitigate perceived stress and, consequently, the likelihood of developing psychosomatic complaints.

Editorial Introduction to Issue 39: Managing Complexity and Knowledge in Enterprise Projects

This issue of CSIMQ includes five articles selected on the topics of complexity management and knowledge management in enterprises from various perspectives and towards diverse goals: the economic and societal perspective seeking strategy fulfillment with the help of enterprise architecture management, the operational performance perspective, which requires grounding management decisions on data insights, and the human aspect perspective to facilitate collaboration, creativity and innovation. Methodologically, the issue reports a mix of conceptual modeling and analytics approaches, suggesting an emerging requirement to balance or alternate, in complexity management, abstraction-based analysis, and data-oriented analytics.

Cam displacement curve optimization for minimal jerk using search and rescue optimization algorithm

Polynomials of a degree higher than 8th used for the rise phase of displacement curve of a cam profile were optimized for gaining minimal jerk using the search and rescue optimization algorithm. The algorithm was used to obtain the polynomial coefficients for the polynomials of the higher degree that cannot be calculated by using the analytical approach without adding additional boundary conditions other than displacement, velocity and acceleration in characteristic positions. The degree of the polynomial from which the optimal value of jerk using the optimization algorithm can be obtained was determined, as well as the degree after which the results of the optimization give worse values of the jerk.

The technological revolution’s impact on business management

The rapid advancement of technology in the era of the fourth industrial revolution has significantly transformed organizational management practices. This study examines the influence of technological progress on organizational management, specifically analyzing the effects of data analysis and digital management methods in response to these changes. The main objective is to determine how these technological advancements impact enterprises of various sizes in the Czech Republic. The research employed comparative and analytical approaches, utilizing survey data collected from numerous organizations. Concrete methods used in the study include a comprehensive questionnaire survey, comparative analysis, and statistical correlation analysis to assess the significance of technologies based on the classification of enterprise size. The findings demonstrate substantial disparities in the implementation and advantages of technology contingent upon the magnitude of the organization, with smaller and larger enterprises exhibiting enhanced flexibility and deliberate assimilation of novel technologies. The main conclusion is that proficient administration of technology results in competitive advantages and operational efficiencies. Companies are advised to customize their technology strategies based on their available resources and market requirements. Further analysis explores the connections between investments in technology and other organizational elements such as financial resources and personnel, highlighting the importance of developing coherent plans that successfully incorporate technology into the overall structure of the organization.

A Panoramic View on International Higher Education Studies from a Global Perspective

With globalization, international education has become much more accessible to more people around the world. International higher education (IHE) has been among the most studied topics in higher education in recent years. In this context, the present study aims to investigate the studies conducted on IHE through a systematic literature review by analyzing studies published between 1965 and 2021 and employs social network analysis (SNA) and text-mining techniques. All these findings show that global, national, and institutional strategies are effective in the increase of interest in international education and especially in the increase of research. In this connection, this study provides an overview of trends; academic production in IHE has been researched with the data mining and analytics approaches, bibliometric method and the analysis of social networks. Thus, a better understanding and interpretation of the leading themes in the literature of internationalization in higher education is possible to achieve a better understanding of the field of intellectual scientific knowledge in the literature on globalization and IHE.

Dynamic Robust Parameter Design Using Response Surface Methodology based on Generalized Linear Model

Purpose: When designing an input-output system susceptible to noise, engineers assume a functional relation between the input and the output. The Taguchi method, which uses a dynamic, robust parameter design (RPD) to evaluate the robustness of the input-output relation against noise, is employed. This study aims to address extending the scope of use of a dynamic RPD. Methodology/Approach: A target system in a typical dynamic RPD can be interpreted as one in which the relation between the input and the output is a linear model, and the output error follows a normal distribution. However, an actual system often does not conform to this premise. Therefore, we propose a new analysis approach that can realize a more flexible system design by applying a response surface methodology (RSM) based on a generalized linear model (GLM) to dynamic RPD. Findings: The results demonstrate that 1) a robust solution can be obtained using the proposed method even for a typical dynamic RPD system or an actual system, and 2) the target function can be evaluated using an adjustment parameter. Research Limitation/implication: Further analysis is required to determine which factor(s) in the estimated process model largely contribute(s) to changes in the adjustment parameter. Originality/Value of paper: The applicability of typical dynamic RPD is limited. Hence, this study’s analytical process provides engineers with greater design flexibility and deeper insights into dynamic systems across various contexts. Category: Research paper Keywords: robust parameter design; dynamic system; generalized linear model; response surface methodology; Taguchi method

Low-, moderate-, and high-risk obesity in association with cost drivers, costs over the lifecycle, and life expectancy

BackgroundThe prevalence of low-, moderate-, and high-risk obesity has been increasing globally. Our aim was to estimate the societal burden of these three obesity classes in the Austrian population by taking a societal–annual perspective and an individual–life-cycle perspective. Secondly, we sought to identify the respective cost drivers and the effects on life expectancy.MethodsWe used population-weighted survey data on the distribution of body mass index (BMI) and data on relative risks regarding 83 diseases. Using fractional polynomial regressions, we estimated relative risks per BMI unit for about 30 cost-intensive diseases up to BMI values of 50. The approach for the cost analysis was based on the use of population-attributable fractions applied to direct medical and indirect cost data. Macro-disease-specific data regarding cost factors came from cost-of-illness statistics and administrative sources.ResultsAbout 8.2% of deaths and 4.6% of health expenditure are attributable to obesity in Austria in 2019, causing 0.61% of GDP loss. A third of annual direct and indirect costs came from class 2 and class 3 obesity. From an individual perspective, life-cycle costs of class 2 and class 3 obesity were 1.9 and 3.6 times the costs of class 1 obesity, respectively. At the age of 45, people with high-risk obesity are about to lose approximately 4.9 life years and 9.7 quality-adjusted life years.ConclusionsWe have extended the method of population-attributable fractions, allowing us to estimate differences in the life-cycle direct medical and indirect costs between low-, moderate-, and high-risk obesity. We found that the lifetime costs of obesity are strikingly different between obesity classes, which has been veiled in the societal—annual perspective. Our findings provide a foundation for evaluating public health interventions aimed at combating obesity in order to mitigate the escalating individual and societal burden resulting from obesity prevalence and complications in the future.

Prediction of saccharides concentration in intact and ground Codonopsis root using near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy

Codonopsis root, a traditional Chinese medicine, produces saccharides that serve as key indicators for assessing its quality. In this study, we employ near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy to predict total polysaccharide concentration as well as the major individual saccharides of intact (surface and cross-section) and ground samples of Codonopsis roots. We developed regression relationships between the spectra and the concentration of fructose, glucose and polysaccharides for the ground spectra set (Rp2 > 0.8, RPD>2.0) based on partial least squares regression (PLSR) model. However, for the intact cross-section spectra set, only the dominant component of the fructose, could be quantitatively detected (Rp2 > 0.8, RPD>2.0). All models based on the intact surface spectra set were of unacceptable performance. This discrepancy could be attributed to the low concentration levels of different saccharides and the distinct chemical profiles reflected by the spectra sets from samples with varying homogeneity. The findings provide an approach for efficient and sustainable analysis for the purposes of quality control and standardization of Codonopsis roots.

WAVE SPECTRUM ANALYSIS FOR OPERATIONAL OFFSHORE PLATFORM IN MALAYSIA WATER

As an ageing platform has passed its design life of 20 to 30 years, it is crucial to identify wether it is still fit for operation based on the current environmental behaviour, particularly due to the wave impact. Hence, an analytical approach of wave spectrum analysis between the wave behaviour and offshore structural response will be conducted. The aim is to verify the stability and safety of ageing offshore platforms with the current wave behaviour based on identifying wave characteristics, developing a normalized wave energy spectral density, and analyzing the natural frequency of offshore structural response. The methodology includes data collection from structural dynamic monitoring assessments, wave spectrum development using empirical models, and evaluation of offshore platform stability. The results will provide insights into platform stability, resonance risks, and safety assessment of ageing offshore platforms in Malaysian waters. The findings will contribute to recommendations for modifications or improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of offshore platforms in the specific region.

Validation and Application of a Code for Three-Dimensional Analysis of Hydrogen–Steam Behavior in a Nuclear Reactor Containment during Severe Accidents

In a pressurized water reactor (PWR) during a loss of coolant accident (LOCA) or a station blackout (SBO) accident, water and steam are released into the containment building. The water vapor mixes with the atmosphere, partially condensing into droplets or condensing on the containment walls. Although a significant amount of water vapor condenses, it coexists with hydrogen generated by the reactor core oxidation. As water vapor condenses, the volume fraction of hydrogen increases, raising the risk of explosion or flame acceleration. As such, water vapor’s behavior directly affects hydrogen distribution. To conservatively evaluate hydrogen safety in a PWR during a severe accident, lumped-parameter codes have been heavily used. As a best-estimate approach for hydrogen safety analysis in a PWR containment, a turbulence-resolved CFD code called contain3D has been developed. This paper presents the validation results of the code and simulation results of hydrogen behavior affected by water vapor condensation and hydrogen removal by passive autocatalytic recombiners (PARs) in the APR1400 containment. The results provide insight into the three-dimensional behaviors of the hydrogen in the containment.

The energy mix dilemma in Indonesia in achieving net zero emissions by 2060

Background: The global responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions forces Indonesia to evaluate its energy policies and strategies. The energy mix dilemma in Indonesia arises as a consequence of rapid economic growth, rapid urbanization, and the continuously increasing energy demand. By 2060, Indonesia aims to have an energy mix dominated by renewable energy sources (RES) and to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions is becoming increasingly apparent, considering Indonesia is one of the countries highly vulnerable to climate change. Method: This study employs a combined approach of policy analysis and literature review. The method used in this research is an objective narrative literature review as a reference for conducting the literature study. Findings: In 2023, Indonesia is still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, primarily coal, oil, and natural gas. The Indonesian government has enacted several regulations related to energy use, including policies for the development of renewable energy. Despite efforts to reduce emissions through the application of clean technologies, the main challenge is significantly replacing fossil energy sources with renewable energy. Several inhibiting factors emerge as real challenges in the journey to achieve Net Zero Emissions. Technological and infrastructure constraints are the main obstacles. The strategic importance of sustainable economic growth is a central point in this dilemma. However, the transition to net zero emissions often requires structural adjustments that can impact the economy. Conclusion: The process of transitioning to renewable energy must be carefully implemented to avoid the risk of supply instability. The alignment between economic growth, energy security, and emission reduction is key to designing effective and sustainable policies. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study provides a comprehensive examination of Indonesia's energy mix dilemma in the context of achieving net zero emissions by 2060, specifically highlighting the intricate balance between sustainable economic growth, energy security, and global climate commitments. By adopting a holistic approach that involves the government, private sector, and societal participation, the research offers innovative policy recommendations for transitioning from non-renewable to renewable energy sources while addressing socio-economic challenges.

Indonesia's economic and environmental resilience in the face of climate change: Analysis and implementation strategies

Backgorund: Climate change is a significant threat to Indonesia, an archipelago that is vulnerable to the negative impacts of this phenomenon. This study aims to identify the effects of climate change in Indonesia and evaluate mitigation and adaptation strategies needed to improve economic and environmental resilience. Based on climate change projections, increases in surface temperature, changes in rainfall patterns, sea level rise, and changes in water salinity have negative impacts on various sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, infrastructure, and public health. Method: The research method includes secondary data analysis from various official sources and a study of relevant literature, with an analytical descriptive approach to identify critical challenges and necessary strategies. Findings: The results show that limited fiscal space and the need for budgetary reform are significant challenges that need to be addressed through the introduction of a carbon tax, budgetary incentives for green technologies, and the removal of fossil fuel subsidies. In addition, mobilization of non-budget funding sources is needed to support green projects, with strategies such as the development of public-private partnerships, access to international funds, and technical capacity building. Conclusion: In conclusion, implementation of the recommended mitigation and adaptation strategies can increase Indonesia's resilience to climate change, reduce its risks and negative impacts, and ensure the sustainability of economic and social development. Novelty/Originality of this study: This research provides practical guidance for policymakers to develop effective strategies to deal with climate change

The SOFA Score and EWS: Is It Time for an Update?

Background: Intensive care unit (ICU) functions as a structured environment dedicated to providing intensive medical attention to patients in critical condition, monitoring, and organ support to treat life-threatening organ failure. Sepsis occurs when the immune system reacts severely to infection, leading to damage to the body’s tissues and organs. Data from The Global Burden of Disease Sepsis Report estimates 48.9 million sepsis cases annually, with 11 million cases leading to death. Therefore, the early warning score (EWS) and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score systems have the potential to estimate the follow-up of patients treated in the ICU. Evaluation of prognosis based on SOFA and EWS scores is not yet confirmed for the medical state of individuals with sepsis.Objective: To determine the correlation of SOFA score and EWS by the duration of ICU stays for sepsis patients at Rumah Sakit Umum Imelda Pekerja Indonesia Medan.Methods: This study used an analytical observational approach employing cross-sectional design. The method of gathering data relies on medical records and samples are collected through total sampling.Result: On 64 patients diagnosed with sepsis and treated in the ICU of Rumah Sakit Umum Imelda Pekerja Indonesia Medan are obtained employing the Spearman correlation test revealed a significant correlation between EWS length of time sepsis patients spend in the ICU (p=0.001). However, a lack of notable correlation was found between the SOFA score and length of time sepsis patients spend in the ICU (p=0.719).Conclusion: No correlation exists between the SOFA score and the duration of stay among sepsis patients, whereas a correlation exists between EWS and duration of stay among sepsis patients.

In-Depth Comparison of Adeno-Associated Virus Containing Fractions after CsCl Ultracentrifugation Gradient Separation

Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) play a pivotal role in the treatment of genetic diseases. However, current production and purification processes yield AAV-based preparations that often contain unwanted empty, partially filled or damaged viral particles and impurities, including residual host cell DNA and proteins, plasmid DNA, and viral aggregates. To precisely understand the composition of AAV preparations, we systematically compared four different single-stranded AAV (ssAAV) and self-complementary (scAAV) fractions extracted from the CsCl ultracentrifugation gradient using established methods (transduction efficiency, analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC), quantitative and digital droplet PCR (qPCR and ddPCR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)) alongside newer techniques (multiplex ddPCR, multi-angle light-scattering coupled to size-exclusion chromatography (SEC-MALS), multi-angle dynamic light scattering (MADLS), and high-throughput sequencing (HTS)). Suboptimal particle separation within the fractions resulted in unexpectedly similar infectivity levels. No single technique could simultaneously provide comprehensive insights in the presence of both bioactive particles and contaminants. Notably, multiplex ddPCR revealed distinct vector genome fragmentation patterns, differing between ssAAV and scAAV. This highlights the urgent need for innovative analytical and production approaches to optimize AAV vector production and enhance therapeutic outcomes.