bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Subsea System for Hydrogen Production from the Black Sea
Authors: Shah Samkit , Cekirge Huseyin
Published: February 2025

The Black Sea is a unique sea since it is one of the most isolated seas in the world. It is also the world’s largest sea containing H2S layers from the depths of 200 m. Water up to 150 m is the only water that supports the unique ecosystem of the Black Sea. The more saturated the water, the deeper it goes. These dense water layers have been saturated with H2S because of the decaying organic matter. H2S is generally considered a pollutant; however, it is also an excellent source for the production of H2 which is an excellent fuel. In this paper, we will discuss the various methods for production of hydrogen from the Black Sea. We will also look into the feasibility of an offshore Hydrogen production plant. The Black Sea is one of the most unique seas in the world. The African and Eurasian plates, among other tectonic plates, converge at the Black Sea basin. A depression was formed in the area millions of years ago as a result of stretching Earth’s crust due to tectonic forces. The Black Sea was originally a much smaller freshwater lake. It was connected to the Mediterranean Sea at different times in Earth’s history by natural waterways like the Bosporus and Dardanelles Straits. The Black Sea was a part of a wider, connected body of water when these straits were open. Isolation: The Black Sea became isolated from the Mediterranean as a result of the Bosporus and Dardanelles becoming shallower and narrower over time due to geological processes and sea level fluctuations. A closed sea that was brackish formed as a result of this isolation, which is thought to have happened between 7,000 and 9,000 years ago. After being cut off from the Mediterranean, the Black Sea started to develop on its own. The Black Sea’s Sea level varied because of a number of causes, such as shifts in the water balance and glacial cycles. At the Last Glacial Maximum, which occurred about 20,000 years ago, the Black Sea’s water level was much lower than it is now. The Black Sea gradually filled as sea levels rose and the glaciers withdrew; however, the sea water up to only 150 m keeps the Black’s sea ecosystem. Near the deepest parts of the Black Sea, H2S is produced by sulfur reducing bacteria at a rate of 10000 tons per day. This poses a threat to the ecosystem of the Black Sea. It is also mentioned the existence of hydrogen isotopes which are deuterium and tritium and their production possibilities.
The Influence of Lifecycle in Shaping the Underlying Project Portfolios in the High-Technology Market
Authors: Koplyay Larissa , Koplyay Tamas , Mitchell Brian
Published: February 2025

High-technology markets have a tendency to be extremely dynamic, undergo periods of rapid market growth, and exhibit market-based developments that align with a firm’s lifecycle, which is generally based upon the influence(s) exerted upon them by innovation within the market space. Likewise, how firms navigate the market will depend on the types of innovation(s) they experience, their corporate size, the amount of time spent within selected market positions, and the projects they ultimately implement. These various elements will ultimately shape how a firm manages projects and its associated organizational structures. The question is how managers do and entrepreneurs know what to do in the face of periods of changing market conditions? This paper explores the rational underlying the change from agile early start-up companies that grow and mature into increasingly rigid organizational structures that influence the types of projects as the firms progress along the high-tech lifecycle. The type and attitude of customers also evolves through time and this also has to be taken into consideration as each stage of the lifecycle will have customers with different drivers and requirements influencing their purchasing decisions. This paper uses the Lifecycle Theory to analyze this phenomenon and explain how and why this evolutionary process occurs within the market, including the factors and characteristics associated with projects during various market phases throughout the lifecycle. Ultimately, this exploration illustrates the evolutionary process firms undergo in relation to the implementation of innovation strategies within high-tech market spaces. The implications to industry include enabling entrepreneurs and managers to recognize and react to the complexity of the multi-dimensional changes in the market, strategically plan their next steps for their compay’s project management approach, product development, portfolio development, and to gain insight to competitor’s actions.
Geoinformatics-Based Assessment of Salt Mining and Its Socio-economic Impact on Uburu Community, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Bello Innocent , Uta-Daniel Blessing , Iheanacho Nnaemeka , Oluyomi Helen
Published: February 2025

The aim of the study is to assess the geo-economic impact of salt mining activities on the people of Uburu community in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The objective of the study is to identify, map and examine the geographic pattern of the salt mining lake in the area using Geoinformatics method to capture (GPS and Remote Sensing), analyze and map (GIS and cartography) the time series changes in salt lake. Questionnaire was used to solicit for information on salt mining method, health, tools/materials and financial challenges in salt business in Uburu. The study shows the spatial location of the Salt Lake where salt mining activities take place. The study revealed that within a period of twelve years (12) between 2010-2022, there has been changes in the spatial extent of the lake. GIS analysis revealed that in 2010 the salt lake covered an area of 89.8 m2. In 2016 it was revealed to be 89 m2 which shows a spatial decrease in the extent of 0.8 m2. The shrinking of the lake can be attributed to mining activities and the effects of climate change. Conversely, the study showed that in 2022, the extent of the Salt Lake was 114.5 m2 indicating an increase of 25.5 m2. This is, however, attributed to the decline in the salt mining activities in the area. Since the lake has no outlet other than evaporation, the minerals accumulate and give the lake high salinity. The methods adopted by the miners in salt processing were identified to be mainly traditional as about 95% of the respondents indicated having no health challenge since they have been part of the activities. The study further revealed the use of locally made tools and materials such as clay pot, drum, calabash, firewood, bucket, etc. for salt mining and processing. The majority of the respondents (65%) incurred cost of more than N5,000 in the purchase of tools and materials and labor for salt mining business. Likewise, the study revealed factors such as modern technology, cost of materials and good market, if put in place, can improve salt mining business in the area. The t-test revealed that respondent’s monthly income from the salt mining business has no significant determinant relationship with the respondent’s educational qualification and housing type in the study area. Improved modern salt mining system is recommended.
Emergency Control Scheme Decision with Two-Stage Optimization for Hvdc Blocking
Authors: Huarui Li , Xinyao Zhu , Yongyong Jia , Zheng Li , Xiaobo Wang
Published: February 2025

In view of the fact that the existing offline decision making methods cannot meet the requirements for accurate control of the actual operation mode under severe power disturbance events such as DC blocking, a two-stage optimization method of emergency control scheme including pre-optimization and online optimization is proposed by comprehensive application of time domain simulation and machine learning technology First, typical scenarios reflecting the possible future operation mode of the system are generated in the pre-optimization stage, and multi-resource coordination emergency control schemes in each scenario are optimized by using trajectory sensitivity and machine learning methods, and stored in the knowledge base In the online optimization stage, the information of the actual operation mode of the system is obtained. Based on metric learning, the appropriate control scheme is selected from the knowledge base as the initial value, and the optimal control scheme under the actual operation mode is obtained by rapid iterative optimization. A multi-dc fed terminal system is taken as an example to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
M-Learning and Open Educational Resources in Higher Education Are Significant to Women’s Empowerment: An Insight from National Education Policy-2020
Authors: Islam Anowarul , Roy Chhanda
Published: February 2025

Education is the essential element for unleashing all of human potential. Since no nation can claim to be developed if half of its citizens are incapacitated in terms of education and skills, women's education is a perennial global concern. After 34 years, India's educational policy has changed with the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP). In addition to aiming to achieve universal education in India with equal participation for women, this new strategy plans to reach 100% gross school enrolment by 2030. The provision calls for the creation of special education zones and a gender inclusion fund to support fair education for disadvantaged girls. The government is always trying to make its open educational resources (OER) initiatives better and more advanced. In order to support the empowerment of women in our country, the study aims to critically assess the importance of OERs, mobile learning, and associated policy concerns within the NEP framework. The use of OERs and the scope of the existing M-Learning system are examined through contextual analysis. The outcome supports the assertion that m-learning is one of the main and alternative teaching methods that students will have access to both now and in the future. The Indian government's OER initiatives are always being developed and improved. This study helps policymakers understand current trends in open educational resources (OERs) and mobile learning, provides some suggestions for improving the implementation of NEP, and identifies a few gaps in OERs and m-learning that should be addressed going forward. The present study is descriptive in nature and is based on a comprehensive investigation and use of secondary data retrieved from related research papers, books, websites, databases, etc. The findings of the study suggest that the transformation in the educational system with its emphasis on skilled education is the vital component of the New Education Policy in the context of global demands.
A Study of Interactive Video Resource Teaching Model in Universities
Authors: Zhao Shuo , He Yijie
Published: February 2025

The article introduces the essence of interactive teaching which is to promote students’ self-directed learning, inquiry-based learning and collaborative learning to fully exert learning subjectivity. Then it clarifies the mode of interactive video teaching used in university education between individuals and between individuals and devices, mainly composed of interactive devices, interactive subjects and interactive behaviors. Next it analyzes the mode of interactive video teaching, which consists of interactive devices, interactive subjects, interactive behaviors, etc. The application of interactive videos resources is studied in creating teaching scenarios, effectively exploring teaching, innovating teaching modes, changing evaluation methods, and storing dynamic resources. Further it analyzes the curriculum system and evaluation system, software and hardware facilities, and teaching supervision so as to provide corresponding inspiration for teacher teaching and school management. Based on the above research and problems discovered during the review process, the article provides some opinions and suggestions from several aspects such as educators, teaching managers, software and hardware equipments. First, in terms of instructional design, educators can make more use of the characteristics of interactive video teaching to meet the learning needs of students with different learning styles. Second, in terms of teaching process, teachers can use the generative function of interactive video teaching to create a relaxed and enjoyable learning atmosphere. Third, in terms of teaching strategies, teachers should combine teaching content to formulate corresponding learning goals and continuously improve educational and teaching strategies. Fourth, in terms of post-class testing, teachers will utilize the storage function of the interactive video resource library to enable learners to review the learned content after class and effectively expand students’ different learning needs. Fifth, universities will regularly conduct training in interactive video teaching to enhance the literacy and ability of teachers and learners in using interactive videos. At last, universities will establish interactive video teaching and research teams to conduct experimental teaching.
Research on the Aesthetic Value and Development Trend of Shandong Traditional Furniture Based on Cultural Inheritance and Innovation
Authors: Sun Yan , Jiang Yitong , Zhang Meimei
Published: February 2025

Traditional furniture has long been present in people's social lives due to its unique functional use, artistic form, and spiritual consciousness. Traditional furniture has surpassed the functional and aesthetic value of furniture itself, and the cultural characteristics of Shandong have endowed traditional furniture with special attributes. There are many precious cultural heritages in Shandong region, which have various values such as history, culture, technology, and art. These heritages are not only important materials for studying historical culture, but also historical witnesses of social and cultural changes. As a result, traditional furniture in Shandong exhibits a humanistic sentiment and distinctive style that sets it apart from traditional furniture styles in other regions. The objective of this study is to investigate the aesthetic value and development trend of traditional furniture in Shandong based on cultural inheritance and innovation. In traditional Chinese folk dwellings and decorations, furniture is a very important object that has both practical and humanistic value. Furniture and its display methods can particularly reflect the state of folk life and folk culture. The style, color, material, and arrangement of furniture can reflect the characteristics and significance of an indoor place, conveying important information between people and the place, people and the environment, people and people, and furniture and the environment. It is the carrier and medium of folk culture. The analysis of the significance of folklore in traditional folk furniture and its related culture is indispensable. Its folk cultural connotations and folk mentality have important practical significance for today's interior furniture and its display and design.
Application of Curvilinear Analytical Surfaces in Forms of Architectural Objects and Machine Building Products
Authors: Alain Bock , Nikolaiv Krivoshapko , Arnaud Kouamou , Emmanuel Yamb , Benjamin Bahel
Published: February 2025

The principal achievements of science and engineering in the sphere of static and dynamic analysis of thin-walled objects, structures, and shells in the shape of analytic surfaces are used for practical needs of people. Classes of surfaces that found the application in forms of architectural erections and machine building products are considered. This is confirmed by presented illustrations of real products and erections. Classes of surfaces which did not attract the attention of architects and designers working with curvilinear forms are pointed out too. The presented materials confirm conclusions of most scientists, structural engineers, and architects on increasing interest to design and building of objects of curvilinear forms. The analysis noted the end of the recession of interest in thin shell and parish structures in the 21st century. These shell structures are produced due to the presence of new structural materials and the expansion of the list of analytical, point, spline, and frame surfaces that can be used as middle surfaces of shells. These surfaces are used for the study of certain physical processes, for solving particular mathematical problems and for determining surfaces isometric to surfaces of revolution, thus allowing the creation of more precise methods of calculating the strength of shells. This review paper contains 47 references, and these are practically all original sources dealing with applications, classifications, definition of analytical surfaces, and analysis of shells with middle surfaces in the form of analytical surfaces on strength, stability, and dynamic. It gives to use the opportunity of parametrical architecture.
Access to Informal Lending Networks and Its Impact on Household Consumption Expenditure: A Case of Marginalized Agropastoral Communities in Kenya
Authors: Odari Calvin , Ngigi Margaret , Muluvi Augustus
Published: February 2025

Informal lending networks play a vital role in marginalized communities by providing financial support where formal institutions are limited. These networks enable households to access credit for financing agricultural activities, smoothing consumption, and managing risks. This study examines the effects of informal credit access through lending networks on the consumption expenditure of agropastoral households in rural Kenya. Using a subgraph sampling methodology, 198 network nodes were analyzed, and an endogenous switching regression model was employed to identify key determinants and impacts of informal credit access. The findings reveal that households with higher incomes, greater social group memberships, and stronger network centrality are significantly more likely to access informal credit. Access to informal credit positively influences household consumption expenditure, with high-access households experiencing a 24.61% increase in consumption expenditure. Additionally, low-access households have the potential to increase their consumption expenditure by 31.49% if they achieve higher informal credit access. These results underscore the critical role of informal lending networks in improving economic welfare in marginalized communities. Strengthening informal lending networks through policy interventions such as fostering social capital, promoting social and welfare groups and promoting income diversification can enhance economic development and support sustainable livelihoods among marginalized agropastoral households in rural Kenya.
Influence of Collateral Requirements on Performance of SMEs Business in Meru County, Kenya
Authors: Kaimenyi Muriungi
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of collateral requirements on the performance of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Meru County, Kenya. A proportional random stratified design was used to select the 234 SMEs that make up the study's sample. Data was gathered from registered business owners and/or employees using questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, frequency tables, and chi-square tests were used to examine the data. The study established that demand of collateral affected performance of SMEs negatively by a proportion of 74%. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between collateral requirements and the performance of SMEs in Meru County. It is proposed in this study that financial institutions should consider accepting non-tangible collateral. However, this should take place after thorough customers’ background checks have been done. The findings are significant for addressing credit and financial concerns, which are critical to the growth and long-term sustainability of the SME sector.
The Effect of Insulin Glargine in Control of Diabetes Among Sudanese Patients in 2024: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abdelgadir Hiba , Abdlraheem Husam , Ali Housameldin , Jadallah Hussam , Abdelgadir Hind , Elnour Eltoum , Ahmed Mosab , Awad Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by elevated blood sugar levels due to impaired insulin production, action, or both. Insulin glargine, a long-acting insulin analog, is widely used for patients who do not achieve adequate glycemic control with oral medications. In Sudan, where diabetes is increasingly prevalent, assessing the effectiveness of insulin glargine is essential to address local healthcare challenges and population-specific needs. This study explored the role of insulin glargine in managing diabetes among Sudanese patients, focusing on its impact on glycemic control, reduction in hypoglycemia, and patient satisfaction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2023 and March 2024, involving 52 adult diabetic patients using insulin glargine. Data was collected using pre coded and pretested structured online questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 27. All data were summarized in frequency tables. Results: All participants achieved glycemic control after initiating insulin glargine. The frequency of hypoglycemic episodes decreased from 86.5% to 53.8% after insulin glargine use. While 98.1% of participants were satisfied with the treatment, a significant number (76.9%) found the cost prohibitive. Side effects of insulin glargine include hunger (19.2%), sweating (9.6%) and sweating (9.6%), although 38.5% of participants experienced none. Some patients continued to experience diabetes-related complications, including visual and neurological issues. Conclusion: Insulin glargine was effective in improving glycemic control and reducing hypoglycemia, with high patient satisfaction rates. Addressing cost-related barriers and incorporating this treatment into health insurance schemes could enhance diabetes care in Sudan.
Application of Potassium-Based Film-Forming Drilling Fluid in the Exploration of Wzk-4 Hole in Tanjianshan Gold Deposit, Dachaidan Town, Qinghai Province
Authors: Yinglong Duan , Xianjun Wang , Huaiwei Pang , Limin Xie , Baoshan Li , Xueting Ha , Yuanhong Mu , Long Chen , Weijun Ji
Published: February 2025

Hole WZK-4 of "Tanjianshan Gold Mine Exploration Project in Dachaidan Town, Qinghai Province" is a key exploration well. During the early stage of construction, the alluvial-diluvial layer is loose and expanded, the stratum is broken and collapsed, the diameter shrinks and the spalling phenomenon is serious, during the drilling process, it is difficult to raise and lower the drill, and it is necessary to clean the hole to the bottom each time the drill is lowered. Conventional polymer drilling fluid systems cannot meet the construction requirements. In view of that above complicate difficulties, a potassium-based film for flushing solution system is adopted, and the main formula is as follows: 0.1%~0.2% caustic soda +0.5%~ 1% soda ash +3%~ 5% sodium clay +0.2%~ 0.6% salt resistant polymer STQ+1%~2% filtrate loss agent +3%~ 5% film forming system SCM+0.1%~0.2% liquid viscosity increasing inhibitor SN+0.5%~1% sloughing prevention plugging agent while drilling +3 - 5%KCl, by incorporating film-forming SCM treatment agent and liquid viscosity enhancer inhibitor SN, the above complex issues have been resolved, and no such difficulties arose during the construction process. The density 1.03~1.11g/cm3, API=5.2ml, the quality of mud cake is thin yet tough, drilling quantity planned for the project is 300m, The actual final hole is 303.8m. The effective drilling time of Tanjianshan Gold Mine in Dachaidan is about 15 days, which is equivalent to about 74.54 yuan/meter of washing fluid material cost per meter of footage, which can provide reference for subsequent construction.
The Effect of Enterprise Risk Governance on the Financial Performance of Ghanaian Commercial Banks
Authors: Darko Theophilus , Apau Samuel , Ampong Kwabena , Acquah Catherine , Asamoah George , Bobie Stephen , Kodua Eric , Ibrahim Jamil
Published: February 2025

In an attempt to ensure that banks in Ghana are strong and safe from any risk inherent in their operational activities, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) recently embarked on a massive revamping of the financial services sector. According to financial experts, this could be a result of weak enterprise risk governance practices. However, studies in Ghana ascertaining the implications of enterprise risk governance indicators on bank performance have received little attention in the literature. This study is therefore aimed at examining the implications of Risk Management Committees (RMCs), independent RMCs, Risk Management Officers (RMO), and overall Risk Index (RI) on bank performance. The dynamic System GMM was employed for the analysis of the enterprise risk governance-bank performance relationship. Panel data from the annual reports of 14 banks spanning the period of 10 years from 2013-2022 was employed. The results suggest that the existence of RMCs sees to a better asset performance of banks. However, independent RMCs provide rigorous governance frameworks which tend to reduce excessive risk-taking behavior by banks which adversely affects bank performance. Further, RMOs present on the executive board are found to be stronger and have a powerful influence to be rigid against riskier investment projects adopted by banks during economic growth, which acts against performance of banks. Finally, banks tend to perform better when they take on riskier investment projects. This study is an attempt to certify independent RMCs, the presence of an RMO on banks’ boards, and vigilance when undertaking riskier investments with respect to emerging economies like Ghana.
Exploring the Nodus of Treatment, the Philosophical Status of Non-pharmacologic Treatment
Authors: Zhao Chi
Published: February 2025

Non-pharmacologic treatments (NPTs) based on homeopathy is being paid more and more attention, but because of its lack of theoretical foundation, it is difficult to become the mainstream of medicine. Although homeopathy has a history of nearly 200 years and has remedied the shortcomings of current medicine, it is still questioned by many people. Homeopathy is actually an NPT, because the diluted liquid has almost no medicinal component, only the water in it and the act of shaking the medicine bottle give people a belief, many patients who have no effect with drug treatment benefit from homeopathy treatment. Supporters of homeopathy believe that the human body has a strong ability to repair itself, and the spiritual strength of people actually occupies a very important status. However, many people still question the science of homeopathy, meantime also do not clarify whether current medicine is scientific. High morbidity and mortality are indisputable realities, careful analysis of current medical research theory, the reason why cannot be a good guide to medical practice, is because cannot withstand the scrutiny of philosophical theory, deviated from the correct law of thinking. There should be a place for NPTs and needs to be supported by philosophical theories and principles. NPTs should be become in the mainstream of medicine with the support of philosophical theories.
The Impact of Ministerial Direction 110 on Australia's International Law Obligations
Authors: Donnelly Jason
Published: February 2025

Ministerial Direction 110 (Direction 110), introduced under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), is a pivotal policy document in Australia that provides guidance for visa refusal and cancellation of non-citizens under sections 501 and 501CA. Direction 110 prioritises the protection of the Australian community and other domestic concerns while relegating international law obligations—such as non-refoulement and human rights protections—to secondary considerations. This article critically examines the implications of this hierarchy of considerations, which reflects Australia’s prioritisation of national security and community safety over its international commitments. The analysis begins with an exploration of the framework established by Direction 110, highlighting its emphasis on domestic priorities, including community protection and expectations of the Australian public. It critiques the relegation of international obligations to a lower tier, arguing that this undermines Australia’s adherence to treaties like the Refugee Convention, the Convention Against Torture, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Such an approach risks breaching fundamental principles of international law and diminishing Australia’s reputation as a global leader in human rights advocacy and the rules-based international order. The article further explores the practical and ethical consequences of Direction 110, noting its potential to create inconsistencies in decision-making and prolonged judicial reviews. These inconsistencies arise from subjective interpretations of the hierarchical framework, particularly in deportation cases involving non-citizens facing serious risks in their home countries. The article concludes by proposing reforms to Direction 110, recommending the elevation of international law obligations to primary considerations. Such changes would align Australia’s domestic policies with its international commitments, reduce legal conflicts, and restore its global reputation. By integrating international obligations more meaningfully into visa decisions, Australia can safeguard its national interests while upholding its longstanding commitment to human rights and international law, strengthening its role as a responsible global actor.
Psittacosis with Abnormal Mental Behavior: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sheng Shanfeng , Lin Zhaohua , Li Lianmao , Zhuang Zhiquan , Yang Chunqiong , Li Zheng
Published: February 2025

Psittacosis, an infectious disease caused by Chlamydia psittaci, has clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic infection to severe atypical pneumonia, and even rare fatal meningitis. Psittacosis is difficult to identify early due to its nonspecific clinical presentation. In this report, we describe a male patient with atypical severe pneumonia and meningitis caused by Chlamydia psittacosis. The patient presented to the Department of Neurology with a fever for 5 days, abnormal mental behavior for 5 h, and no history of avian or poultry exposure. Following empirical antimicrobial therapy, the patient’s condition deteriorated rapidly, and he suffered respiratory failure, shock, and psychiatric disorders. The patient was rapidly transferred to ICU, where he received antishock, invasive mechanical ventilation therapy, and organ support therapy. Sputum and cerebrospinal fluid metagenomic secondary sequencing (mNGS) identified sequence reads related to Chlamydia thermosum. The patient was administered targeted drugs, as well as fluoroquinolone antimicrobial agents. As a result, the patient improved and left the ICU after 25 days, before returning to a near-premorbid condition after discharge. Psittacosis and meningitis should be considered in patients suffering from atypical pneumonia with fever, headache, and neuropsychiatric symptoms, and mNGS is a useful test for etiological screening. The case reports in this study hopefully help to provide some references for earlier diagnosis of psittacosis and development of life-saving treatment plan.
Parametric Analysis and Optimization of TIG Welding for Enhanced Structural Integrity of Mild-Steel Sktm13a Pipe Butt Joints
Authors: Iremia Sunny , Okechukwu Izelu , Otanocha Omonigho
Published: February 2025

The structural integrity of welded joints are critical factors that influence the overall safety and durability of various engineering structures, especially in the fields of construction, automotive, and pipeline industries.. This research systematically investigate the effects and interactions of welding parameters such as welding current, welding voltage, gas flow rate and welding speed for enhanced structural integrity of mild-steel SKTM13A pipe butt joints. Central Composite Design (CCD) based Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to investigate and optimized these Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding process dependent variables to minimize responses such as residual stress, distortion in weld-ment, heat flux, and maximize Peak Temperature, tensile strength of the welded joints. The results indicated model F-values of 29.81 at a P-value of <0.0001 for the tensile strength explained the significance of the employed model. Optimal tensile strength of 308.56Mpa, minimum distortion in weldment of 0.2, Peak Temperature of 1518.45°C, residual stress of 282.724Mpa and heat flux of 1500.26Kw/min were achieved at a welding current of 140A, welding voltage 24V, gas flow rate 12lit/min and welding speed of 150 cm/min. Overall, these statistics suggest that the regression model for the desired responses are robust and adequately captures the relationship with the predictor variables. In conclusion, this research has provided valuable insights into the optimization of welding parameters using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) that can be effectively apply to drive innovation and competitiveness in the welding industry.
Effect of Stress in Unilateral Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Patients
Authors: Shrestha Palpasa , Shrestha Bibek , Chen Jun
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to investigated the relationship between stress markers and Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss patients. This retrospective study was approved by the Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University. We collected Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images and data of 41 patients in our hospital. All patients underwent conventional MRI. An independent sample t-test was utilized for continuous data, and a chi-square test was employed for categorical data. We utilized logistic and linear regression analyses to evaluate the relationship between Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) and clinical variables for constant variables (p <0.05 was considered statistically significant). The logistic regression shows all these factors (stress level, neurophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and White blood cell count (WBC)) play a significant role in SSNHL. Odds ratio (OR) value was 10.06 for stress (95% CI:2.81-36.08; p<0.001), 1.47 for PSS (95%CI:1.31-1.80); p<0.001), 50.73 for NLR (95%CI: 2.76-931.15; p<0.001), 1.03 for PLR (95%CI:1.01-1.05; p<0.05), 1.87 for WBC (95%CI:1.34-2.63; p<0.001). In SSNHL patients, a significant relationship was observed with NLR (F-statistic=9.05, p-value= 0.003), WBC (F-statistic= 14.51, p-value= 0.0003), PLR (F-statistic= 5.6, p-value = 0.02). Our study has provided substantial evidence supporting the involvement of stress and systemic inflammation in the development of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). We found that elevated stress levels and inflammatory markers such as NLR, PLR, and WBC were statistically significant factors related to the disease. This suggests that these markers could be utilized for both diagnosis and prognosis. Additionally, our research explored the relationship between inflammatory markers and the severity of SSNHL. Consequently, targeting inflammation may offer therapeutic benefits for patients with SSNHL, potentially aiding in the prevention of its onset and the reduction of severity.
William Fontaine’s (Forgotten) Kantian Analysis of Ernest Everett Just’s Mathematical Biology
Authors: Vilbig Ryan
Published: February 2025

The African-American philosopher William Fontaine (1909-1968) inaugurated a neo-Kantian philosophical analysis of the original biological theories of fellow African-American Ernest Everett Just (1883-1941), and his thesis regarding the “space-time” structure of biological systems deserves our renewed consideration today. First comparing Just’s methodology in his 1939 text Biology of the Cell Surface to Immanuel Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason (1781/1787), Fontaine then suggested a parallel reading of Just’s irreducible theory of cellular structure to Samuel Alexander’s (1859-1938) Gifford Lectures of 1920 on the metaphysical possibility of non-Euclidean or multidimensional space-time — Along these lines, Just had written of life’s constituents, because “assembled both in space and time, its investigation is limited”. Since Kant was well-known and also later criticized for his logical commitments to three-dimensional Euclidean space-time, it is clear that Fontaine’s reading of Just’s statements departed from traditional Kantian philosophy. However, since Just’s Biology of the Cell Surface emphasized the whole-part relation of living organisms as well the distinction between reductionistic mechanism and emergent theories — metaphysical views that Kant also expounded — Fontaine’s analysis charted a new route for bringing Kantian philosophy into the context of contemporary theories of non-Euclidean and higher-dimensional space-time. This paper first reviews the original contributions of Ernest Everett Just to biology as well as William Fontaine’s philosophical commentary upon them, and then considers the current scientific basis for non-Euclidean and higher-dimensional geometries in the biological sciences.
Cerebral Morphometric Markers and Molecular Profiles in Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Su Yanan , Ren Xiaohang , Sun Ziyan , Li Shufang , Li Guangfei
Published: February 2025

Pregnancy induces a range of hormonal and physiological changes and also affect the brain. Yet the specific cerebral morphometric markers and their associated molecular profiles throughout pregnancy remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the cerebral morphometric changes in 23 pregnant women using T1-weighted MRI scans, with pregnancy progression quantified by post-menstrual age (PMA). We performed a whole-brain regression analysis to examine how gray matter volume (GMV) was influenced by PMA, and further explored the molecular profiles of these changes by integrating GMV findings with the JuSpace toolbox. Our analysis revealed that with PMA increased, there was a significant reduction in the left medial frontal gyrus (MFG) GMV, suggesting structural brain changes associated with pregnancy progression. Spatial correlation analyses did not reveal any significant associations between neurotransmitter distribution and the observed GMV changes. Gene enrichment analysis pointed to an important molecular shift: protein binding was the most significantly enriched term during pregnancy. This suggests that molecular mechanisms related to protein binding may play a crucial role in the neurobiological adaptations observed during pregnancy. In conclusion, our findings provide new insights into how pregnancy is associated with alterations in both brain structure and molecular profiles. The decreased GMV in the left MFG and the changes in molecular functions contribute to our understanding of the neural and biological mechanisms underlying pregnancy. These findings offer a foundation for future research into maternal brain health and the long-term effects of pregnancy on brain structure and function.
Contours of Nepal-China Relations: A People-Centered Perspective
Authors: Adhikari Sudip
Published: February 2025

China's rise has sparked intense debate around the world, particularly over its growing influence in neighboring countries such as Nepal. As a Himalayan country interspersed between two major powers, Nepal's relationship with China is strategic and multifaceted. While existing literature focuses primarily on China's increased aid and investment in Nepal, more research is needed to determine how China's presence affects Nepali citizens' daily lives. This study takes an ontological approach, viewing the reality of Nepal-China relations as a dynamic and evolving process influenced by historical, geographical, cultural, economic, linguistic variables. The research is epistemologically based on constructivism, with an emphasis on Nepali people's subjective experiences and perceptions of Chinese influences. The axiological perspective acknowledges the value-laden nature of this inquiry, as well as the potential biases and ethical considerations that come with studying cross-cultural interactions. The study's goal is to investigate the impact of Chinese food, language, economy, and culture in Nepal, providing a comprehensive understanding of what China means to Nepal today. This study not only adds to the academic discourse on Nepal-China relations, but it also sheds light on the broader implications of China's rise for smaller countries in the region. Methodologically, this study takes a qualitative data collection techniques to provide a thorough analysis.
Impact of Demand and Supply Sides Policy on Financial Inclusion in Iringa Hope Joint SACCOS in Southern Highland Zone of Tanzania
Authors: Ugulumu Enock , Nyankweli Emmanuel , Lyanga Timothy
Published: February 2025

In economics and finance industry in particular, financial growth promotes allowing circumstances for evolution through supply-led or a demand-pull method. Through monetary enclosure it helps establishment of reasonable financial amenities, such as access to payments and remittance amenities, reserves, credits and insurance services by the official financial structure to the excluded. This study examines impacts of supply and demand sides policy on financial inclusion in Iringa Hope Joint SACCOS based in Southern Highland Zone of Tanzania majoring Iringa and Njombe Regions. The study used Probit Model and a Cross-Sectional Survey Design. The quantitative analysis was calculated using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS ver. 20, IBM, USA). The study findings revealed that, factors influencing supply and demand on financial inclusion are strongly significance since its P-value approaching to one (1). The study found out that, management, leadership and financial literacy, accountability, loans affordable costs, human and physical resources, quality of supportive staff, location of financial services, financial mobile, self-efficacy, easy loans processes, awareness on financial services and gender equality increase the access to financial services hence opens the possibility of many people being included in financial sector. These results also highlight that, as the demand of financial services increase leads to increase in supply of services and its products, thus increasing the possibility of financial inclusion. Therefore, the government and other stakeholders need legal and institutional transformations which will help meet the needs especially in the rural communities, to broaden the scope of financial services hence making them financially inclusive. Policymakers should focus on developing policies considering a sustainable banking services delivery model and need-based products for rural and urban consumers.
Comparison of Crack Measurement and FEM Analysis Using Infrared Camera for Concrete Surface of Coating-type Resin Sensor
Authors: Shimoi Nobuhiro , Nakasho Kazuhisa , Yamauchi Yu
Published: February 2025

Infrastructure safety inspections typically rely on visual inspections and hammering tests by inspectors. However, a significant challenge is the variability in inspection results due to differences in inspectors' technical expertise. To address this issue, we propose an inspection method and preventive work using a coating-type resin sensor combined with an infrared camera. The use of thermography as a nondestructive evaluation technique is increasingly popular for maintaining concrete structures. Most inspections only evaluate the locations and shapes of defects on surfaces. Yet, no method has been developed to assess the depth of defects. In our approach, infrared-reactive resin is applied, and thermographic images of the target area are captured sequentially. Temperature curves obtained at each pixel during the cooling process are analyzed using the Fourier transform to differentiate defect states in various parts of the temperature distribution. The temperature change correlates with the defect size. Approximately 5% aluminum powder is mixed into the applied gel resin; due to its specific gravity, it tends to concentrate in areas damaged by compression failure or float. This report discusses technologies for identifying defects and measuring their size in infrared-reactive resin. It examines the effectiveness of preventive measures to prevent the scattering and collapse of defects caused by structural degradation. This paper presents a concentric loading test on reinforced concrete columns confined by gel resin ties. Test variables include concrete compressive strength and FEM analyses, ranging from 232-244 N/mm2, both below and above the equipment hole that caused the defect, and a comparison with test specimens free of defects to measure the relationship.
Three-State Non-Stationary Hidden Markov Model for an Improved Spectrum Inference in Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Rabiu Emmanuel , Akande Damilare , Adeyemo Zachaeus , Fawole Ayobami , Adeleke Job
Published: February 2025

Spectrum manufacturers, operators and regulators are faced with the challenge of meeting the astronomical increase in demand by spectrum users due to the limited available radio spectrum already fixed for licensed or Primary Users (PUs). The emergence of Cognitive Radio Network (CRN) allows unlicensed or Secondary Users (SUs) to opportunistically access spectrum holes left unused by the PUs through spectrum sensing, management, sharing and mobility functionalities with the aid of algorithms and protocols. However, CRN suffers prolonged delay with negative impact on spectral efficiency. In order to improve the spectral efficiency, spectrum inference was introduced. Yet, inaccurate spectrum inference by existing mechanisms could not solve spectrum underutilization effectively due to persistent false alarm, interference and missed detection of PUs. Two-state Non-Stationary Hidden Markov Model (NSHMM) focused only on idle and busy states of PUs while previous work on three-state Stationary Hidden Markov Model (SHMM) did not consider the time-varying property of channel states obtainable in real scenarios where the state transition probability of a PU is time-varying. This work has proposed three-state NSHMM for spectrum inference in CRNs by formulating its parameters and modelling PU's dwell time distributions to realize the time-varying property of the stochastic PU behavior apart from the fuzzy state that takes care of noisy effects and undetermined or incomplete observations in the existing mechanisms where only idle and busy states were mostly recognized. The performance of the proposed mechanism was evaluated using Probability of Detection (PD), Prediction Accuracy (PA) and Spectrum Utilization Efficiency (SUE). The results were compared to the performance metrics obtained from spectrum inference of existing 2-state NSHMM and 3-state SHMM. The simulation results obtained revealed that the proposed three-state NSHMM spectrum inference mechanism gave the best performance with the highest PD, PA and SUE which curtailed PU collision because of its least possible chances of incorrect detection of primary users and least false alarm. The outstanding performance of the proposed NSHMM was due to its non-stationarity as well as the fuzzy state incorporated in the development of the mechanism. Therefore, the proposed three-state NSHMM for an improved spectrum inference in CRNs has grossly abated PU collision, false alarm and spectrum underutilization.