Transformation Approach Research Articles

Automatic source code generation for deterministic global optimization with parallel architectures

Trends over the past two decades indicate that much of the performance gains of commercial optimization solvers is due to improvements in x86 hardware. To continue making progress, it is critical to consider alternative/specialized massively parallel computing architectures. In this work, we detail the development of an open-source source code transformation approach built using Symbolics.jl to construct McCormick-based relaxations of functions that enables their effective parallelized evaluation. We then apply this approach in a novel parallelized branch-and-bound routine that offloads lower- and upper-bounding problems to a GPU. The effectiveness of this new approach is demonstrated on three nonconvex problems of interest, where it yields convergence time improvements of 22–118x compared to an equivalent serial CPU implementation and in two cases outperforms vanilla branch-and-bound versions of existing state-of-the-art solvers that use tighter bounding techniques. This work exemplifies how deterministic global optimizers using alternative hardware architectures can compete with—or eventually outclass—even the most powerful serial CPU implementations, and to the best of the authors' knowledge, represents the first successful demonstration of deterministic global optimization using a GPU.

Dynamic pricing for perishable goods: A data-driven digital transformation approach

In supermarkets, rapid pricing adjustments are crucial due to the short shelf life of products. Adopting a multi-case study approach, this study examines the application of dynamic pricing strategies for perishable goods through the lens of a data-driven digital transformation (DD-DT) approach. We introduce a three-phase model of DD-DT for dynamic pricing: initiation, facilitation, and strategic adaptation. In the initiation phase, we identify essential frameworks for robust data collection and analytical processes, which form the backbone of informed pricing decisions. During the facilitation phase, the study integrates sophisticated algorithms and real-time analytics to process and interpret the collected data, facilitating its seamless integration into pricing strategies. The strategic adaptation phase is critical as it focuses on the ongoing refinement and enhancement of pricing strategies, enabling supermarkets to adapt swiftly to market fluctuations and consumer behaviour changes. By presenting a comprehensive DD-DT framework, this research significantly augments the existing literature on dynamic pricing and offers actionable insights for practitioners seeking to optimize pricing strategies in a digitally transforming marketplace.

Nanoarchitectonics in Macromolecular Science: Integrating Molecular Dynamics with Smart Materials

Nanoarchitectonics represents a transformative approach in macromolecular science, extending beyond traditional nanotechnology by emphasizing the precise design and construction of complex materials through controlled molecular interactions. This review explores the integration of nanoarchitectonics with molecular dynamics, a powerful computational tool that enables the prediction and optimization of material behavior at the atomic level. The synergy between these two fields allows for the rational design of smart materials that respond dynamically to environmental stimuli, such as temperature, light and mechanical stress. These materials, including thermo-responsive hydrogels, photochromic polymers and self-healing coatings, demonstrate the significant potential of nanoarchitectonics in creating materials with tailored properties for diverse applications. By leveraging molecular dynamics, researchers can gain insights into the energy landscapes and interaction patterns that drive the self-assembly and functionality of these materials, leading to enhanced performance and novel functionalities. This review also examines the future perspectives of nanoarchitectonics, highlighting the potential of integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning with it to further revolutionize material design. As the field advances, the combination of nanoarchitectonics and molecular dynamics is expected to unlock new possibilities in macromolecular science, offering innovative solutions for applications ranging from biomedical devices to environmental remediation. The review concludes by discussing the challenges and opportunities in translating these innovations from the laboratory to real-world applications, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to fully realize the potential of nanoarchitectonic materials in addressing global challenges.

Topochemical Polymerization at Diacetylene Metal-Organic Framework Thin Films for Tuning Nonlinear Optics.

Developing the topochemical polymerization of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is of pronounced significance for expanding their functionalities but is still a challenge on third-order nonlinear optics (NLO). Here, we report diacetylene MOF (CAS-1-3) films prepared using a stepwise deposition method and film structural transformation approach, featuring dynamic structural diversity. The MOF structures were determined by the three-dimensional electron diffraction (3D ED) method from nanocrystals collected from the films, which provides a reliable strategy for determining the precise structure of unknown MOF films. We demonstrate the well-aligned diacetylene groups in the MOFs can promote topological polymerization to produce a highly conjugated system under thermal stimulation. As a result, the three MOF films have distinct NLO properties: the CAS-1 film exhibits saturable absorption (SA) while CAS-2 and CAS-3 films exhibit reverse saturable absorption (RSA). Interestingly, due to the topochemical polymerization of the MOF films, a transition from SA to RSA response was observed with increasing temperatures, and the optical limiting effect was significantly enhanced (∼46 times). This study provides a new strategy for preparing NLO materials and thermally regulation of nonlinear optics.

Online sustainability education: purpose, process and implementation for transformative universities

PurposeUniversities strategically organize themselves around sustainability, including transformative goals in teaching and learning. Simultaneously, the role of online education has become more prominent. This study aims to better understand the purpose and process of creating online sustainability education (OSE) and to identify challenges and opportunities for implementing these courses and programs to achieve universities’ broader transformative sustainability goals.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a multiple case study design to research three universities in diverse geographical and institutional contexts (Finland, the USA and Colombia). Qualitative data was collected by interviewing program-related experts (n = 31) and reviews of universities’ strategic documents.FindingsThe findings suggest that despite important advances, further attention is merited regarding aligning the purpose of OSE with student learning outcomes, clarifying the values underlying the process of online program/course creation and developing transformative and process-oriented approaches and pedagogies to implement OSE. The authors also highlight emerging challenges and opportunities in online environments for sustainability education in different institutional contexts, including reaping the benefits of multilocality and diverse student experiences regarding sustainability issues.Originality/valueThere is a paucity of studies on university-level sustainability education in relation to online environments. This research expands on the existing literature by exploring three different geographical and institutional contexts and shedding light on the relationship between the practical implementation of OSE and universities’ broader sustainability goals.

Large‐signal stability analysis for hybridized vehicular power supply systems of rolling stocks

AbstractHybridized vehicular power supply (HVPS) are acquiring widespread adoption in various applications such as providing power for passenger or heavy‐duty electric vehicles, more‐electric ships, electrified rolling stocks, and more. Stability analysis is a critical issue for HVPS, but it presents significant challenges due to their prominent high‐dimensional and nonlinear characteristics. This paper presents a large‐signal stability analysis scheme for HVPS of rolling stocks, enabling the assessment of system stability under sudden load changes. Based on the state‐space averaging method, a mathematical model for the large‐signal behavior of the system is established. Subsequently, the small‐signal stability parameter range of the system is determined by analyzing the eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrix. To further analyze the stability of the system during large‐signal disturbances, a nonlinear decoupling transformation approach is employed to decompose the original high‐order state equations into multiple lower‐order equations. For the decoupled lower‐order subsystems, their stability is analyzed using phase portrait, and the region of attraction (ROA) is determined using the inverse trajectory method. Based on the stability analysis results, the controller is enhanced to bring the points outside the ROA back within it, thereby mitigating the transient instability phenomenon of the system. The effectiveness of the proposed method was demonstrated using two case studies.

A stacked machine learning-based classification model for endometriosis and adenomyosis: a retrospective cohort study utilizing peripheral blood and coagulation markers.

Endometriosis (EMs) and adenomyosis (AD) are common gynecological diseases that impact women's health, and they share symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, chronic pain, and infertility, which adversely affect women's quality of life. Current diagnostic approaches for EMs and AD involve invasive surgical procedures, and thus, methods of noninvasive differentiation between EMs and AD are needed. This retrospective cohort study introduces a novel, noninvasive classification methodology employing a stacked ensemble machine learning (ML) model that utilizes peripheral blood and coagulation markers to distinguish between EMs and AD. The study included a total of 558 patients (329 with EMs and 229 with AD), in whom key hematological and coagulation markers were analyzed to identify distinctive profiles. Feature selection was conducted through ML (logistic regression, support vector machine, and K-nearest neighbors) to determine significant hematological markers. Red cell distribution width, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, activated partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio, and antithrombin III were proved to be the key distinguishing indexes for disease differentiation. Among all the ML classification models developed, the stacked ensemble model demonstrated superior performance (area under the curve = 0.803, 95% credibility interval = 0.701-0.904). Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the stacked ensemble ML model for classifying EMs and AD. Integrating biomarkers into this multi-algorithm framework offers a novel approach to noninvasive diagnosis. These results advocate for the application of stacked ensemble ML utilizing cost-effective and readily available peripheral blood and coagulation indicators for the early, rapid, and noninvasive differential diagnosis of EMs and AD, offering a potentially transformative approach for clinical decision-making and personalized treatment strategies.

SP1.14 - Advancing Surgical Education: A Pilot Study Evaluating the Impact of Augmented Reality in Post-Graduate Surgical Skill Training

Abstract Aim The landscape of post-graduate surgical education, influenced by the clinical pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted a shift towards prioritizing patient safety and embracing simulated technology for skill development and assessment. This study aims to evaluate the influence of (LapAR™) simulation on the acquisition of surgical skills and the overall training experience for junior surgical trainees. Methods 15 trainees and 2 consultants were recruited across five training sites. Participants used (LapAR™) at home to perform ten appendicectomies, interspersed with LapPass tasks. Objective metrics, including completion time and distance, were quantified, followed by comprehensive interviews. Results Junior surgical trainees demonstrated improvements in completion time, distance travelled, smoothness, acceleration, and ambidexterity during repeated laparoscopic appendicectomies. It is of interest that trainees were meeting consultant benchmarks across all modalities. Qualitative analysis emphasized the relevance of Augmented Reality in early surgical training, advocating for its mandatory integration. Participants sought prolonged access to (LapAR™), acknowledging its value for list preparation, skill acquisition, and knowledge enhancement. Home-based training offered flexibility, contrast to the pressures of traditional surgical environments. Despite technical challenges, (LapAR™) delivered realistic educational benefits. Conclusion (LapAR™) presents a scalable and transformative approach to enhancing surgical skills while addressing common challenges faced by trainees. This study validates its efficacy through improved skills aligned with objective metrics, positive evaluations of educational content, and unanimous agreement on the realism of the simulation. Augmented Reality bridges the gap between surgical training and practice, offering a scalable solution to elevate the standards of surgical education.

Eddy Currents Probe Design for NDT Applications: A Review.

Eddy current testing (ECT) is a crucial non-destructive testing (NDT) technique extensively used across various industries to detect surface and sub-surface defects in conductive materials. This review explores the latest advancements and methodologies in the design of eddy current probes, emphasizing their application in diverse industrial contexts such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and electronics. It explores the fundamental principles of ECT, examining how eddy currents interact with material defects to provide valuable insights into material integrity. The integration of numerical simulations, particularly through the Finite Element Method (FEM), has emerged as a transformative approach, enabling the precise modeling of electromagnetic interactions and optimizing probe configurations. Innovative probe designs, including multiple coil configurations, have significantly enhanced defect detection capabilities. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in calibration and sensitivity to environmental conditions. This comprehensive overview highlights the evolving landscape of ECT probe design, aiming to provide researchers and practitioners with a detailed understanding of current trends in this dynamic field.

Urban Odyssey: “Pioneering multimodal routes for Tomorrow's smart cities”

Getting around in modern cities has become a daily puzzle for both residents and travelers. As cities increasingly evolve into complex hubs of innovation and development, the demand for efficient transportation solutions has never been higher. In the multifaceted field of urban transportation, cost-effective and efficient mobility remains a high priority. This paper looks at how cities are planning better ways for people to travel and move within the growing scope of multimodal transportation, a paradigm shift beyond traditional single-mode transit systems. Our approach to improving urban transport revolves around a few key principles: integration, innovation, and collaboration. Integration means bringing together different modes of transportation – like buses, trains, bikes, and even new technologies like ride-sharing services to make it easier for people to switch between them. This transformative approach not only aims to reduce congestion and reduce environmental footprints but also prioritizes user experience while ensuring a harmonious blend of convenience, sustainability, and accessibility. We use new technology and ideas to ensure that travel is easy, quick, and good for the environment. Looking at new trends and examples from around the world, this overview shows how cities are shaping a better future for everyone's daily commute. In this paper, we use Lingo software to solve a numerical example related to multi-modal transportation, demonstrating practical solutions for real-world implementation. Through innovation, we can find creative solutions to urban transportation challenges. Additionally, public transportation enhancements, such as the introduction of synchronized bus routes and electric vehicle charging stations, underline the commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. In the dynamic urban transportation landscape, cities will revolutionize our approach to providing cost-effective and efficient mobility solutions.

Transformational Leadership: Women's Role in Building Competitive Integrated Islamic School

This study aims to analyze the principal's strategy in overcoming obstacles such as gender stereotypes and patriarchal culture and its impact on the management of educational institutions into competitive integrated Islamic schools. The research method used is field research with a qualitative case study approach. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. Data were analyzed thematically to identify themes of women's leadership and patriarchal challenges and interpreted to understand their impact on school culture. The results of the study indicate that women's leadership in schools has shown extraordinary abilities in overcoming the obstacles faced, especially gender stereotypes and patriarchal culture. With an inclusive, participatory, and transformational leadership approach, the principal has proven her capability to manage educational institutions with solid vision, integrity, and commitment. This study contributes to the field of educational leadership by providing empirical evidence of the effectiveness of women's transformational leadership in the context of Islamic education, especially in overcoming gender-based challenges.

Integrating Smart City Technologies for Enhanced Urban Sustainability

The concept of smart cities has emerged as a transformative approach to addressing urban challenges while promoting sustainability and enhancing quality of life. This paper explores the integration of smart city technologies as a strategic framework for achieving urban sustainability goals. Key components include the deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, data analytics, and digital infrastructure to optimize resource management, improve efficiency in public services, and mitigate environmental impact. By analyzing case studies and current trends, this study underscores the potential of smart city technologies to foster innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth in urban environments. Ultimately, it advocates for a holistic approach where technological integration is leveraged to create sustainable, livable cities for present and future generations.

Issues and Challenges of Online Counseling Services During Covid-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted the quality of counseling services. During the pandemic, e-counseling emerged as a vital and transformative approach to mental health support. With social distancing measures and lockdowns restricting in-person interactions, traditional counseling services faced significant challenges in maintaining accessibility and continuity of care. A significant effect can be seen in counselors' online counseling services through technology. The study aims to investigate the issues and challenges that arise in online counseling services and identify the advantages and disadvantages of these services. A quantitative approach was carried out when a questionnaire was sent to 100 registered counselors across the country, asking two (2) main questions, namely the experience of issues and challenges they experienced in conducting online counseling sessions and their opinions on the advantages and disadvantages of online counseling. These answers are collected and then analyzed with the support of previous studies. The study findings found that confidentiality issues and managing disabled clients are among the main challenges.

Waqf Business Model (WBM): Towards A Sustainable Social Business Model on The Mainstream Economics

The Waqf Business Model (WBM) represents an innovative and transformative approach to establishing a sustainable social business model within mainstream economics, rooted in Islamic economic principles. This paper explores the current state of waqf as an alternative model for social business, emphasizing its ability to combine social impact with long-term economic sustainability by preserving assets and generating ongoing revenue. It also advocates for integrating WBM into the mainstream economy to serve as a powerful mechanism for addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The paper highlights the challenges faced by traditional Islamic economic institutions, particularly waqf, which have struggled due to outdated management practices and a conceptual crisis regarding the role of waqf in modern economies. Revitalizing waqf institutions requires enhancing their capabilities and aligning them with contemporary business strategies. Additionally, this paper encourages future research to explore how WBM can be fully integrated into the existing economic ecosystem. In theory, WBM provides a framework for ethical and inclusive economies, while in practice, it has the potential to create self-sustaining institutions that reduce reliance on external aid, offering an innovative solution to global socio-economic challenges by blending sustainable innovation.

Ultrasound Guidance for Filler and Botulinum Toxin Injections: A Transformative Approach Avoiding Complications.

Ultrasound Guidance for Filler and Botulinum Toxin Injections: A Transformative Approach Avoiding Complications.

Multiscale mushy layer model for Arctic marginal ice zone dynamics

Perhaps the most dynamic component of the Arctic sea ice cover is the marginal ice zone (MIZ), the transitional region between dense pack ice to the north and open ocean to the south. It widens by a factor of four while seasonally migrating more than 1600 km poleward in the Bering–Chukchi Sea sector, impacting climate dynamics, ecological processes, and human accessibility to the Arctic. Here we showcase a transformative mathematical modeling approach to understanding changes in MIZ location and width, focusing on their seasonal cycles as observed by satellites. We view the MIZ as a liquid-solid phase transition region, or mushy zone, on the scale of the Arctic Ocean. Invoking the physics of phase changes, the MIZ is modeled as a dynamic, multiscale composite material layer; this model captures 96% of the annual cycle of MIZ location and 78% of the annual cycle of MIZ width. Temperature in the upper ocean is described by a nonlinear heat equation with effective parameters obtained using homogenization theory for a random medium of ice floes in a sea water host. Observations and simulations together indicate that MIZ location closely tracks the below-ice 273 K isotherm while the width of the MIZ follows vertical heat flux convergence, but with a three-week lag.

The social science of offshore aquaculture: uncertainties, challenges and solution-oriented governance needs

Aquaculture technology is on the move, enabling production in more open and exposed ocean environments around the world. These new systems offer solutions to environmental challenges facing conventional aquaculture, yet new technologies also create new social challenges while potentially exacerbating, or at minimum recreating, others. Offshore aquaculture research and governance are still in early stages, as is our understanding of the social repercussions and challenges associated with development. This paper provides an evaluation and reflection on offshore aquaculture from a social science perspective and is based on findings from a modified World Café group discussion method including the thoughts and experiences of social science experts. Key challenges and uncertainties including a lack of an appropriate regulatory framework, societal perceptions of offshore aquaculture, and offshore aquaculture’s contribution to society were identified. The governance implications of these challenges are discussed as well as the need for social sciences to address these challenges through transformative and transdisciplinary approaches that bridge science and society.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for HIV Drug Resistance Prediction and Personalized Treatment

Harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for HIV drug resistance prediction and personalized treatment represented a transformative approach in managing HIV/AIDS. This review explored the integration of AI methodologies, particularly machine learning and deep learning, to enhance the prediction of drug resistance mutations in HIV. By analyzing genomic sequences and clinical data, AI models can identify patterns associated with resistance, enabling clinicians to tailor antiretroviral therapy (ART) to individual patient profiles. The review discussed various AI techniques, including random forests, support vector machines, and neural networks, highlighting their effectiveness in predicting resistance and improving treatment outcomes. The methodology employed in this review involved a comprehensive analysis of recent literature and case studies to evaluate the performance and applicability of AI-driven predictive models in clinical settings. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, HIV Drug Resistance, Personalized Treatment, Machine Learning, Genomic Data.

THE SWAN PRINCIPLE AND MEDITATION FOR SELF-TRANSFORMATION

In today's fast-paced world, where the pursuit of material success often leads to adverse effects on our character and well-being, it is crucial to recognize the limitations of wealth and external validation. While these may momentarily boost our self-image, they often result in vices and a departure from inner confidence, leading to stress, anxiety, and an ongoing quest for true fulfillment. The cornerstone of a content and thriving society lies in relationships and family, serving as pillars of stability, care, and solace. However, maintaining harmony within these relationships can be complex due to diverse perceptions, communication styles, and lifestyles. The SWAN sadhana provides a transformative approach to foster understanding and respect among family members, promoting honest communication, balance, unity, and affection. By embracing the SWAN sadhana, individuals embark on a journey of self-discovery and improvement, cultivating empathy and understanding for their loved ones. Recognizing that everyone possesses a SWAN with varying degrees of shared qualities, the sadhana becomes a tool for clearing misunderstandings, resolving conflicts, and collectively finding solutions. Patience and open-mindedness are essential when listening to each other's experiences, allowing for honest expression without blame. The concept of Sanyam, emphasizing self-restraint and controlled responses, extends beyond conflict resolution to encompass a jointly agreed-upon daily routine, providing structure and promoting responsible contributions from each family member. Swadhyaya encourages self-analysis and correction, tailoring individual roles and responsibilities within the family context. Satsang, involving positive associations and shared activities, reinforces unity, creating a positive familial atmosphere.

Role of Entomology in the Era of Precision Agriculture: A Review

Precision agriculture (PA) represents a transformative approach to farming by utilizing advanced technologies like GPS remote sensing, and data analytics to optimize crop production and minimize environmental impacts. While technological advancements in PA are well-documented, the role of entomology is often overlooked. This review highlights the critical intersection between entomology and PA, demonstrating how understanding insect behavior, population dynamics, and ecological interactions enhances PA practices. Insects play pivotal roles in pest management, pollination, and ecosystem health, making their study essential for developing effective PA strategies. The review examines how entomological research has informed precision pest management, integrated pest management (IPM) systems, and the use of biological control agents within the PA framework. It discusses how integrating entomological insights with PA technologies, such as remote sensing and sensor networks, enables real-time monitoring and targeted pest control, thus improving crop yields and reducing pesticide use. Additionally, the review addresses challenges such as data integration, technology accessibility, resistance management, and environmental concerns, and highlights prospects including advancements in technology, innovation in monitoring techniques, and the integration of biological control methods. By emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, this review underscores the importance of combining entomological knowledge with PA tools to develop more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. The integration of entomology into PA not only enhances pest management but also contributes to broader goals of environmental sustainability and agricultural resilience. Overall, this review offers a comprehensive overview of how entomology can advance precision agriculture and foster sustainable food production systems.