Contemporary Research Articles

Laterality of Radiation Therapy in Breast Cancer is Not Associated With Increased Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in the Contemporary Era

BackgroundExternal beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is a critical component of breast cancer (BC) therapy. Given the improvement in technology in the contemporary era, we hypothesize there is no difference the development of or worsening of existing coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with BC receiving left vs right sided radiation. MethodsFor the meta-analysis portion of our study, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus and included studies from January 1999 to September 2022. CAD was identified using a homogenous metric across multiple studies included. We computed the risk ratio (RR) for included studies using a random effects model. For the institutional cohort portion of our study, we selected high cardiovascular risk patients diagnosed with BC between 2010-2022 if they met our inclusion criteria. We performed a Cox proportional hazards model with stepwise adjustment. ResultsA pooled random effects model with 9 studies showed that patients with left-sided BC receiving EBRT had a 10% increased risk of CAD when compared to patients with right-sided BC receiving EBRT (RR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.02 - 1.18, p = 0.01). However, subgroup analysis of 6 studies that included patients diagnosed after 1980 did not show a significant difference in CAD based on BC laterality (RR: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.95 – 1.20, p = 0.27). For the institutional cohort portion of the study, we found that patients with left-sided BC who received EBRT did not have a significantly higher risk for CAD when compared to their right-sided counterparts (HR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.34 - 1.54, p = 0.402). ConclusionOur study suggests a historical trend of increased CAD in BC patients receiving left-sided EBRT. Data from patients diagnosed after 2010 in our institutional cohort did not show a significant difference, emphasizing that modern EBRT regimens are safe, and laterality of BC does not affect CAD outcomes in the short term after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Self-Assessment of the Intercultural Competences of Medical Doctors and Nurses in Poland in the Face of Current Refugee Challenges

Health care is one of the most important systems in both society and the economy. At the same time, it is a highly complex system that is subject to an increasing number of challenges in the contemporary world. For example, the health care system in Poland struggles primarily with inadequate numbers of nurses and medical doctors, as well as insufficient funding. A relatively new challenge is to provide for the health needs of refugees, whose number is increasing due to the war in Ukraine beyond Poland’s eastern border. This raises the question of the substantive preparation of nurses and medical doctors to work in a culturally diverse environment. Have they had the opportunity to train in intercultural competences? How do they assess their own intercultural competences? Do they see challenges in their interactions with foreigners? The aim of this paper is therefore to present a self‑assessment of the intercultural competences of medical doctors and nurses in Poland, in particular in the context of current refugee challenges. In order to achieve the assumed goal, a proprietary questionnaire form was created, and a nationwide survey was conducted among a group of professionally active medical doctors and nurses. The results of the research, in addition to providing valuable knowledge, were used to draw up specific recommendations for improving the continuing education of medical and nursing staff in the area of intercultural competences. Based on the research results, guidelines for better management in public health organisations were also created. This text may be of interest to researchers of management in public health care organisations, and in particular human resources management in health care institutions, as well as practitioners trying to deal with the current problems facing public health management.

Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking in the Classroom: Strategies for 21st-century Education

In the rapidly evolving landscape of 21st-century education, fostering creativity and critical thinking skills has emerged as a fundamental imperative. This research paper delves into the intricate and essential process of nurturing creativity and critical thinking within the classroom, recognizing their profound significance in preparing students for the multifaceted challenges of the contemporary world. Drawing on an extensive synthesis of current educational literature and practical insights, this study underscores the critical roles these cognitive abilities play in equipping students with the adaptability and problem-solving capabilities necessary for success in an ever-changing global environment. The research begins by establishing the contextual importance of creativity and critical thinking. It explores how these skills are integral to addressing complex problems, making informed decisions, and generating innovative solutions in various facets of life, from careers to civic engagement. In the context of education, the paper illuminates how fostering creativity and critical thinking cultivates students' abilities to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information, laying a foundation for a lifetime of learning. The heart of this research lies in the identification and analysis of a spectrum of pedagogical strategies and approaches aimed at fostering creativity and critical thinking.

Eksistensi Taqlid dalam Konteks Pengalaman Keagamaan di Era Kontemporer

The practice of taqlid is part of the Islamic legal tradition which has an important role in maintaining legal consistency and stability during the classical period. However, in the context of modern times, the practice of taqlid faces various problems, such as legal rigidity, madhhab fanaticism, and excessive dependence on ulama. The subject of this research focuses on the nature and law of taqlid as well as the existence of taqlid and Islamic law in the contemporary era. This research uses a type of normative research, a qualitative approach with a literature review method that involves searching, collecting and in-depth analysis of various references from books and scientific journals. This reference specifically discusses reflections on ushul fiqh in the context of taqlid, including related issues. The results of the research show that taqlid is divided into two according to the ulama, there are those that are forbidden or not allowed and there are also those that are permitted. Because basically taqlid is haram, but we see a phenomenon in society, that not all people can perform ijtihad on their own, so scholars divide two types of taqlid, namely those that are forbidden and those that are obligatory. It is haram for people who are capable of ijtihad but obligatory for ordinary people. Therefore, there needs to be an effort to improve religious education that emphasizes the ijtihad method, as well as encouraging the renewal of Islamic law that is relevant to current developments. In this way, taqlid can be carried out in a moderate and balanced manner, while still opening up space for dynamic and contextual ijtihad.

Optimization Analysis of Smart Energy Systems in the Fresh Supply Chain Based on Differential Games

The energy issue has gradually become a major focus of strategic competition among major nations in the contemporary world. Achieving a balance between energy, cost, and ecology is crucial, particularly in specific contexts. As one of the critical factors influencing global climate, carbon emissions have consistently been a green indicator of concern for countries worldwide. This paper addresses optimizing energy costs in the cold chain transportation of the fresh supply chain to obtain a model with low carbon emissions and transportation costs. Initially, the paper explores the equilibrium between energy and cost optimization using the theoretical framework of differential games in game theory. Building upon this, an intelligent energy system is proposed, and a basic model for constructing a smart grid is provided based on commonly used electric power. Using this as the foundational concept, a game model is constructed, considering the conflicting objectives of cost minimization, time efficiency, and energy conservation in addressing the primary issue of energy savings in the fresh supply chain, specifically the transportation path optimization problem. Compared to traditional models, the model presented in this paper reduces the scheduling of two refrigerated trucks. By optimizing this model, the transportation path's length is shortened by 5.50%, the carbon emission is decreased by 8.9%, and the model's overall cost is reduced by 4.94%. This study presents a game model that may efficiently optimize the fresh product transportation chain, reducing carbon emissions and expenses. The model has certain practical applications and serves as a guide.

Enhancing Legal Protection of Children's Rights in the “Internet Plus”

In the contemporary era of the internet, safeguarding children's rights emerges as a critical concern necessitating immediate attention. Given children's heightened vulnerability within society, the legal framework must prioritize their protection, reinforcing their agency and safeguarding their rights through legislative measures. This study proposes an innovative differential clustering algorithm specifically designed to uphold children's rights. Through rigorous experimentation, the algorithm achieves an Adjusted Rand Index (ARI) approaching 2, showcasing its effectiveness in offering targeted differential protection for children's rights while maintaining high clustering precision. The paper emphasizes the importance of noise reduction through iterative central point optimization to stabilize cluster configurations, with the fusion of multiple clusters serving to mitigate noise impacts on data points and yield robust clustering outcomes. Consequently, this research delivers reliable clustering results while preserving the confidentiality of children's rights information.

Experiencing Gospel: Luther, Men, Women, and Children around the Table in Reformation and Contemporary Eras; A Tribute to Gordon Jensen

Experiencing Gospel: Luther, Men, Women, and Children around the Table in Reformation and Contemporary Eras; A Tribute to Gordon Jensen

A Financial Analysis and Valuation of BYD

In the contemporary era, the depletion of traditional energy sources has become an increasingly pressing concern. In response, the development of new energy technologies has emerged as a pivotal strategy to alleviate energy shortages while aligning with ambitious carbon neutrality objectives. Understanding and properly assessing the financial landscape and risks faced by new energy enterprises are paramount for effective management and sustainable growth. This paper delves into this imperative by focusing on BYD, a prominent player in the new energy sector. Employing a comprehensive approach, this study begins with a SWOT qualitative analysis, dissecting BYD's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This analysis illuminates the nuanced landscape within which BYD operates, shedding light on both its potential and the challenges it must navigate. Subsequently, the study employs the Price/Earnings (P/E) model to assess BYD's valuation, providing quantitative insights into its financial standing and market positioning. Key findings from this research reveal a promising trajectory for BYD. Over the past two years, the company has demonstrated rapid growth in operating income, coupled with an enhanced debt repayment capacity, indicative of its robust developmental potential. However, the evaluation using the P/E model suggests that BYD's true value may be underestimated, hinting at further upside potential and market opportunities. This holistic examination underscores the importance of integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies to comprehensively evaluate new energy enterprises, offering valuable insights for strategic decision-making and sustainable growth in the evolving energy landscape.

Application of Machine Learning Techniques for Fake News Classification

ABSTRACT Fake News consists of disseminating fake news in various social and digital media such as newspapers, television networks, and the internet. Fake news is not a new phenomenon in human behavior. However, the current dissemination is very different from what happened in the past. Social networks and the contemporary world have made it possible for the spread of lies to occur quickly and even intentionally. This causes serious problems, and its impacts can be felt in the real world. The identification of fake news can be useful in several contexts and can be used, for example, as a news filter in the virtual space. Thus, the present work aims to propose and evaluate strategies for processing and applying machine learning models, to improve the performance of classifiers in the problem of identifying fake news in Brazilian news.

Women’s Psychosexual Disorders: An Overview

Purpose: This paper examines the issue of women psychosexual disorders in our contemporary world. Methodology: Concept and categories of women psychosexual disorders were adequately explained. The study itemized ten types of women’s psychosexual disorders with relevant factors that are responsible for the disorder. Furthermore, appropriate treatment strategies were equally thoroughly explained. Findings: The paper concludes that the problem of women psychosexual disorder can be overcome or reduced to the minimal once there is proper enlightenment, education and sensitization among women folk. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: With the adequate knowledge on psychosexual disorders and unpleasant experience of women as far as sexual related issues are concerned will be a thing of the past.

Impact of Globalization on Consumer Food Behaviour: A Comprehensive Review

The current market dynamics, including consumer food behaviour, are profoundly influenced by the processes of civilizational and cultural evolution, as well as the ongoing globalization phenomena. The discourse begins with an exploration of the theoretical underpinnings of globalization and its intersection with consumer food behaviour. It further delves into the broader phenomenon of globalization in the contemporary era and elucidates its specific impacts on the dietary and purchasing habits of consumers. The reviewed studies indicate that globalization has significantly influenced various aspects of consumer food behaviour. These include changes in grocery shopping patterns, an increased frequency of fast food consumption, and a heightened interest in both comfort foods and novel dining experiences. The pervasive reach of global media, multinational food corporations, and international supply chains has facilitated the widespread availability and popularity of diverse food products and dining practices across different cultures and regions. However, globalization's impact is not unidirectional. It has also catalysed the emergence of counter-movements and alternative consumer attitudes. There is a growing preference for locally sourced and environmentally sustainable food products, reflecting a backlash against the perceived homogenizing effects of globalization. Movements such as the Slow Food movement advocate for traditional and regional cuisine as a means of preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, heightened awareness of food safety and quality has led to an increased demand for organic and non-genetically modified food products.

Aesthetic Transcendence: Fashion's Evolution, Philosophical Reflections, and Societal Impact

This research paper explores the evolution of fashion from its utilitarian origins over 170,000 years ago to its contemporary role as a symbol of cultural expression and individual identity. Tracing the historical trajectory through ancient civilizations, the Renaissance era, and significant societal shifts post-World War II, the study highlights the dynamic interplay between culture, external forces, and fashion. It also delves into the commodification of beauty in the contemporary era, examining the persuasive techniques used by beauty brands in advertisements, such as leveraging emotional states to connect deeply with consumers. The global impact of beauty standards and the perpetuation of white-centric ideals are scrutinized, emphasizing influential figures like Marcus Garvey, who challenged these norms. The study sheds light on the beauty industry's promotion of skin-lightening and hair-straightening products, particularly in Asian markets, and offers philosophical reflections on these beauty standards. Engaging with the works of Hume, Kant, Santayana, and Schiller, the paper dissects the subjective and objective dimensions of beauty, including Hume's emphasis on pleasure and pain, Kant's categorization of beauty, Santayana's concept of objectified pleasure, and Schiller's influence on German Idealism. It culminates with an exploration of Jean Baudrillard's "Death of the Real," examining the implications of a society immersed in creating identities detached from objective reality. This paper weaves together the historical evolution of fashion, beauty brand strategies, and philosophical reflections on beauty, offering a nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between aesthetics, identity, and societal perceptions.

The Theory of Projection

Abstract Whitehead’s process philosophy offers a wide range of speculatively generalized concepts that allow for an application in transdisciplinary research. The notion of projection is an often-overlooked detail of his philosophy that not only appears in his far-reaching theory of perception, but also constitutes an integral part of his theory of extension as the formal foundation of his metaphysical project. His perceptive theory relies on the idea of projection as the fundamental ontological relationship that lifts the past into the present. Projections of sensa describe one side of the ‘double-barreled’ theory of perception and the spatial relations of the contemporary world. The microscopic projection is just as fundamental for perception and for the integrity of a relational theory of becoming, as the perceptual projection is necessary ingredient for symbolic modes of experience. The simple projection in the mode of presentational immediacy is the basis of temporary stability of events and of any perceptual situation in the biological realm. Whitehead was aware of the possible misconceptions that this term might lead to. Discussing his remarks on the hierarchical variety of different modes of projection can resolve those misconceptions and throw a new light on the importance of projection for interdisciplinary inquiries.

Model Penafsiran Kontemporer: Kajian Epistemologis terhadap al-Tafsîr al-Wasîț li-al-Qur’ân al-Karîm

Tafsir in the contemporary era is required to be able to present the instructions of the Qur'an dynamically in order to answer the challenges of the times. In order to fulfill this need, quite a few contemporary commentators have tried to compose their interpretations with a style, approach and method that are different from classical interpretations. Al-Tafsi>r al-Wasi>t} li-al-Qur'a>n al-Kari>mby Muh}ammad Sayyid T{ant}a>wi>is one of the tafsi>r works written to meet this need. This article does not agree with the view that considers contemporary tafsir as a genre of interpretation that has its own epistemological distinction, but supports the opinion that understands contemporary tafsir openly as tafsir works written in the present with its various genres. Using qualitative methods and an interpretive approach, this article shows that al-Tafsi>r al-Wasi>t}is a contemporary commentary of the Qur’a>n written to respond to various problems in today's life. Its tafsir epistemology is based on three main principles, those are presenting the exegesis in an easy way to understand; integration between narrated tradition and reason; and orientation towards solving contemporary problems. Even though it relies on traditional tafsir methodology, this tafsir is relatively capable of presenting flexibleinterpretations related to certain contemporary issues, without negating commonly agreed principles (al-qat}‘iyya>t).

Effect of Leadership on the Employee Satisfaction and Attitude in the Automobile Distributing Firms

Leadership in the contemporary world is about leading the ever-changing business environment with sheer resilience, courage, honesty, and integrity. This paper examines the relationship between leadership style, role, and functioning of the organization effectively and scientifically as well as explores the relationship between leadership style and employees' satisfaction with their job. The research paper is based on primary data based on a survey of managerial-level and middle-level employees of automobile industries through a structured questionnaire. All the collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the assistance of SPSS version 20. Results revealed that the leadership style has a significant influence on the smooth functioning of the business firms as it affects the employees’ satisfaction. Leaders demonstrate a democratic leadership style that makes workers happy at work and fosters favorable attitudes toward both the organization and their work.

Digital empowerment of rural teachers: towards an innovative pedagogy in the 21st century

This study focuses on the digital empowerment of teachers in rural areas of Colombia, a region where less than 40% of schools have broadband internet access. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly exacerbated the digital divide, we propose the innovative Digital Empowerment Model for Rural Teachers (MCDDR). This model is based on a rigorous systematic literature review that identifies and synthesizes successful educational practices adapted to similar contexts. The MCDDR is specially designed to be flexible and adaptable to local needs, seeking to promote a profound pedagogical transformation through the effective integration of information and communication technologies (ICT). Based on the successful practices identified, the model has a strong potential to revolutionize education in rural Colombia. Its strategic implementation is expected not only to effectively address the educational digital divide, but also to substantially improve the quality and equity of education in these areas. By anticipating the positive impacts of the MCDDR, the study underscores the urgent need for policies that support the implementation of innovative digital solutions in rural education, which could guarantee equitable access to educational opportunities in the contemporary digital era.

Periodisation and modernity: an introduction

ABSTRACT Dividing time into separate epochs is fundamental to historical research. However, while periodisations reflect particular interpretations of political, economic, social, and cultural developments, they often rely on the concept of ‘modernity’ as a foundation. This nexus between modernity and periodisation is well-established yet deeply problematic. Pre- or non-modern times and spaces are deemed deficient and backward, as not yet modern. This bias extends to colonial and postcolonial regions, where Western historical paradigms were imposed to interpret political and social realities. Confronting these biases unveils how historians conceptualize space and time and highlights the normative assumptions embedded within different forms of periodisation. However, simply expanding the scope or timeframes of research alone does not address the dilemma. Historians do well to historicise this nexus and develop alternative approaches to writing history. The intricate relationship between periodization and modernity forms the intellectual starting point of this special issue. Originating from dialogues between medieval and modern European history, this issue aims to critically reevaluate classical periodisation models and explore alternative paradigms. By integrating contributions from scholars of medieval, early modern, modern, and contemporary European history, this issue bridges previously separated debates, promotes a comprehensive understanding of historical temporalities and challenges established historiographical norms.

L’accrochage de Aïn Draham

Abstract This article is the result of a set of investigations performed in Tunis over a period of two years. The scope of this article is to better investigate a series of events that happened in Aïn Draham on May 31st 1957, by proposing the accurate description that is largely missing in the existing literature. The aim is to devote a broader space to those events by placing them in the context of the post-independence period, as well as in Habib Bourguiba’s (al-Ḥabīb Būrqība) actions, by trying to demonstrate the existence of a link between Aïn Draham clashes and overstudied events such as Sakiet Sidi Youssef and the Bizerte war. The ultimate goal is to challenge current literature’s approach, which moves directly from the independence (1956) to the Bizerte evacuation (1961), having as the only intermediate event the bombardment of Sakiet Sidi Youssef in 1958. Aïn Draham battle occurred during a crucial and delicate period of Tunisian history, as a result of internal and external tensions, in an area under extreme pressure (the Algerian–Tunisian border) and on the edge of an international crisis. The main idea behind the article is to re-evaluate resistance pathways and understand the value of understudied histories, as well as their contribution to and influence over well-known events of Tunisian contemporary history.

Membumikan Ushul Fiqh: Kajian Terhadap Definisi, Objek Pembahasan, dan Urgensi Mempelajarinya di Era Kontemporer

Ushul fiqh, as a branch of Islamic law, has a significant role in establishing laws based on the main sources of the Koran and Sunnah. The aim of this research is to explain the definition of ushul fiqh comprehensively and explore and identify the main objects of discussion in ushul fiqh and their relevance to contemporary issues. The research method used is library research with a qualitative approach. The result of this research are that Ushul Fiqh is a very important science for Muslims to understand Islam comprehensively and accurately, and to be able to apply it in everyday life. Studying Ushul Fiqh in the contemporary era is very important for various reasons, such as the era of globalization and modernization, the emergence of many schools of thought and ideology, and the need to understand and apply Islam comprehensively and accurately.

Cassius Dio and Contemporary History (on A. Scott, An Age of Iron and Rust: Cassius Dio and the History of His Time.)

Cassius Dio and Contemporary History (on A. Scott, An Age of Iron and Rust: Cassius Dio and the History of His Time.)