bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ai and nanotechnology integration in the development of biodegradable food packaging materials
Authors: Timothy Adewale ADEYI  , Christy Olanike JAIYEOLA  , Olakunle Ibrahim ORESEGUN  , Abiodun Dolapo OLORUNFEMI  , Mohammed Issa ABDUL-RAHMAN  , Kehinde Oladayo BABALOLA  , Oladipupo Tolulope BABALOLA
Published: January 2025

This review paper examines how nanotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI) are combining to advance biodegradable food packaging, with a focus on innovation to solve issues of food safety and environmental impact. Despite its effectiveness, conventional plastic packaging generates a lot of trash and pollution, which makes sustainable alternatives necessary. Although biodegradable polymers, such polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), are becoming more and more attractive, they frequently struggle with cost-effectiveness, durability, and barrier qualities. AI speeds up development and improves functionality by evaluating large datasets on characteristics and performance to help optimize these materials. For instance, machine learning supports quality control and traceability via computer vision and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, and it allows for the correct formulation of packaging materials to optimize sustainability and efficiency. In the meantime, packaging is being innovatively improved by nanotechnology, which uses materials like graphene oxide and nanocellulose to increase strength, flexibility, and moisture resistance. Safety is further improved by real-time food quality monitoring provided by smart packaging equipped with Nano sensors. AI and nanotechnology work together to produce packaging solutions that increase shelf life, decrease waste, and provide opportunities for intelligent and active applications. A revolutionary stride toward more environmentally friendly and safe food packaging is represented by this integrated strategy.
Conceptual similarity about the word ‘Daiva’ And ‘Karma’ and its ethical impact in Hindu society
Authors: Vijayalekshmi R
Published: January 2025

Humans hold a unique place among living beings due to their remarkable capacity for thought and resilience in facing life's challenges. This quality stems from a deep well of wisdom gained through the pursuit of knowledge, which elevates individuals into sages possessing insights that transcend ordinary understanding. The teachings of these sages relate to the karma theorem, or Daivam, a universal law that dictates that every action has corresponding consequences. This principle binds all beings to a moral framework. As humans interacted with divine entities, the tendency to seek favors without understanding led to a disconnect from genuine spirituality and accumulated negative karma through misguided actions. Hindu philosophy, however, teaches that individuals can change their karmic paths. One can create positive change and harmonize with natural law by aligning with dharma—the ethical order of the universe. By purifying actions and intentions, individuals can influence their destinies, fostering balance within the universe and embodying the ideals of ancient wisdom.
DEFINING A SUSTAINABLE TOURISM PERSPECTIVES IN EASTERN PART OF BALKHASH-ALAKOL BASIN
Authors:   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Tourism Department, Astana, Kazakhstan, GULNUR Rakhimzhanova , KAMSHAT Mussina ,   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Tourism Department, Astana, Kazakhstan
Published: January 2025

This study focuses on the existing shortcomings of greening, absence of parks for long-term development of
Eastern part of the Balkhash-Alakol Basin (Destination). We identifyed these issues through GIS analysis. And study aims to
underline the importance of Destination's green development. We had done verification visually by radar and optical images
by using GIS technology, as well as by field survey methods land surface cover with a wide homogeneous flatland and the
absence of forest cover in the territory of the study Eastern part of the Balkhash-Alakol Basin. In addition, using GIS analysis
we identified Destination's area growth from 944 to 1 437 square meters (in the period from 2013 to 2023). In order to define
Destination's sustainable perspectives, we carried out regression analyses of air traffic of domestic and international
destinations with the correlation of national currency to USD. Analyses show that regression reveals a 38.9% of error of
prediction, indicating a moderate level of explanatory power in the model. This suggests that nearly 60 % of the variability in
domestic air passenger numbers can be explained by the combination of international passenger volumes and fluctuations in
the national currency rate (Tenge) to USD. Given the Destination's growth and the variability in domestic, international
passenger numbers, it is necessary to create conditions for the development of Alternative Ecosystem Services in the form of
specialized green parks, green lanes, and tourist pathways. This approach can lead to the creation of green areas and parks
that not only provide recreational opportunities but also contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, cultural integrity and
the overall well-being of the local community. Also, considering the existing environmental issues, an important perspective
is to sustain the life cycle of the Destination in the stage of green development.
CBA BIDIRECIONAL - UMA FERRAMENTA DE USO INFANTIL E ADULTO PARA FACILITAR A ALFABETIZAÇÃO COM BRAILLE
Authors: Vieira Carlos Wagner Costa , Oliveira Radamese Lima De
Published: January 2025

None
A IMPORTÂNCIA DA TECNOLOGIA ASSISTIVA (TA) NA EDUCAÇÃO: PROMOVENDO A INCLUSÃO E A EQUIDADE NO AMBIENTE ESCOLAR
Authors: Vieira Carlos Wagner Costa , Oliveira Radamese Lima De , Lima Thávilla Roany De Queiroz Freitas , Mota Raimundo Nonato Ferreira
Published: January 2025

None
An Update on Prevalence and Trajectories of Perinatal Anxiety and Depression: Electronic Medical Records Analysis in a Large Hospital System
Authors: Solomonov Nili , Dai Yinglin , Kwon Minhee , Kerchner Daniel , Callaghan Delaney , Schier Maddy , Zhang Yiye , Benda Natalie C. , Osborne Lauren
Published: January 2025

Objective: Perinatal depression and anxiety are common, underdiagnosed, undertreated, and increase the risk of poor maternal and infant outcomes. There is a need to accurately estimate prevalence and persistence of these disorders to inform development of scalable and timely interventions. We aimed to estimate screening rates, prevalence and persistence of perinatal depression and anxiety in a large diverse sample. Methods: We analyzed data from medical records of 27,393 women who gave birth at NewYork-Presbyterian hospital between 12-01-2020 and 02-01-2024. Our final sample included 3051 women who completed a depression and/or anxiety screening within 1 year pre- and post-delivery (PHQ-9, GAD-7, and EPDS). Mixed-effects models examined predictors of severity persistence over time (i.e. age, ethnicity, race, marital status, months pre-post-birth, and mental health visits). Results: Screening rates for anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), and perinatal depression (EPDS) were 2%, 3%, and 9% respectively. Screening rates for perinatal depression increased from 1% to 14% after 3 clinics covering half of the births mandated screening. Women reported moderate anxiety severity (peaking shortly post-delivery and declining after), and low to moderate depression severity (22% clinically significant depression), with 9% of women endorsing suicidal ideation. Mental health services were associated with faster reduction in depression over time. Conclusion: In this diverse sample, 1 of 5 perinatal women experienced significant depression symptoms, underscoring the need for mandatory routine screening. Faster depression reduction among women receiving mental health services, along with the peak in anxiety shortly after birth, highlights the potential impact of timely postpartum psychological interventions. Together, our results highlight the imperative to screen, diagnose and treat perinatal depression and anxiety disorders.
Increasing perceived happiness in neutral faces by posing a smile: an EEG frequency-tagging study
Authors: Baker Joshua , Van der Donck Stephanie , Boets Bart , Korb Sebastian
Published: January 2025

Previous research using EEG has so far failed to provide strong and convincing evidence for the effects of facial feedback on the visual processing of emotional facial expressions. To fill this gap, we harnessed the power of EEG frequency tagging, which offers excellent objective indication of implicit stimulus processing with high signal to noise ratio. Healthy adult participants (N=47) from diverse backgrounds (tested in 2023/2024) viewed rare happy and angry oddball faces, interspersed with frequent neutral faces, while either producing a smile or keeping a neutral face. Smiling resulted in reduced neural discrimination of happy vs. neutral faces over the left occipito-temporal region, as shown by decreased power at the oddball frequency. These findings could reflect that voluntary smiling, and the associated change in facial feedback, leads to neutral faces being perceived as happier, providing evidence for the facial feedback hypothesis.
Are Smartphones Stress-inducing or Stress-buffering for Adolescents? An Experience Sampling Study
Authors: Lebedíková Michaela , Beyens Ine , Lacko David , šmahel David
Published: January 2025

Despite the far-reaching impact of stress on overall well-being, current research offers little information on whether smartphone use is stress-inducing or stress-buffering for adolescents. Building on the transactional theory of stress, this study is the first to address the effect of smartphone use on perceived stress in adolescents (17,152 observations, N=184, 13-17 years old) with an experience sampling design combined with trace data. Our results show that smartphone use is stress-inducing for approximately 20% of our sample. There were no adolescents for whom using smartphones is stress-buffering. The results point to the importance of smartphone usage patterns besides the time spent using smartphones. Furthermore, the results also provide evidence for recent scholarship, arguing that media effects are not universal and that adolescents cannot be regarded as a homogenous group. Our work has important implications for future research, as well as for parents and educators.
Nepal's Services Exports : Trends and Prospects
Authors: Panta Laxmi
Published: January 2025

Available with full text.
Government Budget Deficits and Inflationary Pressure in Nepal
Authors: Paudel Balram
Published: January 2025

Available with full text.
Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Nepal Utilization and Commercialization
Authors: Malla Pushpa Shrestha
Published: January 2025

Available with Full text.
The Spending Equation: Unpacking Remittances, GDP, and CPI in Nepal’s Private Consumption
Authors: Poudel Omkar , Acharya Pradeep , Simkhada Daya
Published: January 2025

This study examines the determinants of private consumption in Nepal, focusing on remittances, GDP, and inflation. Private consumption plays a critical role in economic growth, yet its drivers in Nepal remain underexplored, particularly concerning cross-border inflation impacts. Utilizing an ARDL framework, the study analyzes time-series data from 1975–2023. Unit root and F-Bounds tests were employed to ensure stationarity and confirm long-run relationships among variables. The Error Correction Model (ECM) captured short-run dynamics and adjustment speeds. Diagnostic tests ensured model robustness and stability. The findings reveal significant positive long-run effects of remittances (coefficient: 0.0256) and GDP (coefficient: 0.0433) on private consumption. Inflation exhibits mixed impacts, with Indian inflation negatively affecting consumption. The ECM demonstrated a rapid adjustment speed (−1.0095), indicating strong reversion to equilibrium. Diagnostic tests confirmed model stability and robustness. The results align with Keynesian theory, emphasizing income’s role in consumption, and highlight the novelty of incorporating cross-border inflation dynamics. The findings emphasize the need for policies stabilizing remittance inflows, promoting inclusive growth, and managing inflation. This study offers novel insights into the interconnectedness of macroeconomic variables and provides a framework for future research on consumption behavior in Nepal.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Epilepsy in Kashmir: Application of the ILAE 2017
Authors: Raina Adnan Firdous , Nazir Muzaffer , Kawoosa Atif , Hilal Sheikh , Baba Tanveer , Paul Shabeer , Sanie Bashir
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Recently, the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) has proposed new classification schemes for seizures and epilepsy. The applicability of these classification schemes has not been studied in resource-poor countries. Our aim was to  find the relative frequency of different types of epilepsies in Kashmiri population presenting to the Department of Neurology, Superspeciality hospital.
Materials and Methods: The data collected during the first visit included clinical details including details of seizure semiology. All patients  had EEG and MRI BRAIN. All these data were used to classify seizure type and epilepsy using ILAE classification schemes. The ILAE 2017 epilepsy definition was used to diagnose epilepsy. The average annual incidence rates (AAIR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for epilepsies by onset and by etiology.
Results: The present study was done on 500 patients with a mean age of 34.1±12.89 years. Majority of patients i.e. 151 (30.2%) were <10 years followed by ≥ 60 years in 138 (27.6%) patients, 10-20 in 118 (23.6%) patients. There were 60 (12%) patients who were aged between 40-60 years while 33 (6.6%) patients aged between 20-40. In our study participants, about 59.6% [n=298] had focal epilepsy, whereas 38.2% [n=191] had generalized epilepsy. About 2.2% [n=11] had unknown onset epilepsy. About 37% [n=185] of our participants had focal motor epilepsy, 22.6% [n=113] had focal non-motor epilepsy, 32.6% [n=163] had generalized motor epilepsy, and 28 [5.6%] patients had generalized nonmotor epilepsy.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the ILAE 2017 classification of epilepsies can be applied in resource-poor countries with limited workup. Lesional epilepsies seen in this study is geographically specific to resource-poor countries.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning Environment: A case of using Chat GPT
Authors: Dhakal Aishwarya Prashad , Devkota Bipana
Published: January 2025

This paper review and analyzed research paper to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is incorporated into teaching and learning environment. The integration of Artificial Intelligence in teaching and learning environments offers significant opportunities to enhance educational experiences for both students and educators. AI technologies, such as adaptive learning systems, intelligent tutoring, and automated administrative tools, are transforming traditional teaching methods by providing personalized, data-driven learning experiences. The results demonstrate AI's innovatory impending to improve teaching strategies, elevate student interest, and make difficult subject matter easier to understand and perform their duty and response. Intellectual tutoring systems, robotics, and generative AI models like Chat GPT are some of the solution; AI technologies that have been investigated. These solutions address long-standing issues in teaching and learning by enabling interactive problem-solving settings, real-time feedback, and individualized learning experiences. It has also point out certain drawbacks, such as moral dilemmas, difficulties in putting the plan into practice, and contextual restrictions in various learning environments. The purpose of this paper is to identify the use of artificial intelligence in academia especially in teaching and learning environment.  In order to gain optimize the advantages of artificial intelligence in educational field while minimizing its drawbacks, the study emphasizes the significance of a well-rounded strategy that blends technological innovation with flourishing pedagogical approaches. This thorough analysis lays the groundwork for further study and real world implementations, especially in underserved areas, to promote the widespread use of AI in educational learning and teaching.
Transcending Spiritual Crisis in Arun Joshi's The Last Labyrinth
Authors: Thakur Ram Sebak , Singh Ajita
Published: January 2025

The present research paper focuses on the spiritual journey actualised by the protagonist Som Bhaskar in Arun Joshi's novel The Last Labyrinth (1981). Its main objective is to explore the why and the how of the protagonist's spiritual attainment. Perturbed by the hollowness of the society, the inner chaos and the uncertainty of life, and fretted by the insubstantial hunger and spiritual alienation, Bhaskar experiences a profound discomfort and disconnectedness from both the external world and his inner self, and therefore, he is in constant search for the meaning of life in this materialist world. He is the representative of the modern men, signifying the turbulence and trauma in life. Torn between illusion and reality, life and death, luxury and peace, he is seeking the purpose of living. Although he is a millionaire and great businessman, he searches for something that will transcend him from all the troubles and turmoil of life. He wants to taste the ambrosia of life. And it is this urge of his that makes him a 'seeker', who navigates through his labyrinthine journeys, and accosts profound questions about existence, selfhood and the existence of God. Living in the world and maintaining all sorts of strained personal and professional relations, and meeting societal expectations, Bhaskar oscillates between hopes and despair, between logic and faith, between identity and alienation, and finally he, through ontological explorations, transcends his spiritual crises and feels ultimate unity with Brahman. Peace and serenity pervade and permeate all around him, transporting him to the divine ecstasy. He achieves his spiritual equilibrium through intense self-examination. The research is done through the application of qualitative research method, analysing the dialogues, narratives and anecdotes in the text.
Patient Satisfaction and Sanitation Standards: A Study of Hospital Environments in Kathmandu
Authors: Adhikari Surakshya , Pandey Gita , Raikhola Pushkar Singh
Published: January 2025

Background: Hospital environments and sanitation play a critical role in influencing patient satisfaction and overall healthcare outcomes. Despite its significance, this aspect often remains underexplored, particularly in the context of diverse patient demographics in urban healthcare settings. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction with hospital environments and sanitation practices in Kathmandu, focusing on demographic influences and patient experiences. Methods: A deductive and descriptive research design was employed, involving 109 patients from various hospitals in Kathmandu. Participants, aged 15 years and above, were selected through a convenient sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic factors, hospital admission methods, and patient perceptions of sanitation and treatment outcomes. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used to analyze the data. Results: The majority of participants were aged 20-25 years (38.5%), with a near-equal gender distribution (52.3% male and 47.7% female). A significant portion were single (67%) and held graduate-level education (39.4%). Nearly half of the respondents were students (49.5%), and 45.9% reported monthly incomes between NPR 5,000-10,000. Most participants accessed hospitals via the Outpatient Department (73.4%) and had been admitted 1-2 times (56%). Short hospital stays (2 days) were most common (47.7%). An overwhelming majority (98.2%) reported health improvements after treatment, highlighting patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Patient satisfaction with hospital environments and sanitation in Kathmandu is influenced by demographic factors such as age, education, and income. Findings underscore the need for tailored strategies to improve hospital sanitation and enhance patient experiences, particularly for young adults and economically disadvantaged groups.
Electronic Contracts in Nepal: Analyzing IT Bill, 2019 and Judicial Challenges
Authors: Rawal Khagendra
Published: January 2025

The rapidly growing use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Nepal has revolutionized business transactions particularly through electronic contracts (e-contracts) although there are still legal, technological and economic challenges in its implementation. Exploring security, adjudication, judicial capacity and challenges of e-contracts in Nepal, this study aims to recommend the ways such challenges could be addressed for a robust digital economy. In addition, it aims to analyze e-contracts in Nepal concentrating on the capacity of Nepali court system in handling diverse e-contract disputes, and provisions for security, settlement mechanisms, adjudication powers, and remedies in the IT Bill, 2019. Employing an analytical research design, this study uses secondary data obtained from various legal documents, academic literature, and industry reports. The findings show that there are disputes on Nepal's legal framework for e-contracts such as the Information Technology Bill, 2019. There are issues to be considered including legal recognition, authentication, jurisdiction, and consumer protection. Strengthening digital infrastructure, adopting block chain, enforcing cyber security, and promoting training and awareness programs could make the legal practice, policy, business, infrastructure, capacity building, dispute resolution, and international collaboration more effective.
Causes and Impacts of Internal Migration in Quality of Life (In the Reference to Birendranagar Municipality Ward no-2, Surkhet)
Authors: Paudel Balkrishna
Published: January 2025

Background: This study explores the causes and consequences of internal migration in Nepal, specifically focusing on Birendranagar Municipality, Surkhet. It investigates the impacts of migration on both origin and destination areas, highlighting issues related to education, healthcare, employment, and socio-economic dynamics. Objective: The primary objective of the study is to explore the factors driving internal migration in Birendranagar Municipality and its subsequent effects on local communities, with a focus on challenges faced in both rural and urban contexts. Methods: The research employs a descriptive design and utilizes a simple random sampling method to select 56 households from a total of 367 migrant households in Birendranagar-2. Data collection was done through structured interviews, providing primary information for analysis. Findings: The study reveals that poor infrastructure, lack of employment opportunities, and social insecurity in rural areas are key drivers of migration. In contrast, urban areas face issues such as overcrowding, strain on public services, and cultural shifts. Additionally, migration is influenced by physical difficulties, climatic conditions, Nepalese civil war, and scarcity of essential facilities. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure in rural areas and the development of policies to manage migration in a sustainable manner. The rapid population increase in urban areas presents significant challenges for local governments and development programs. Novelty: This research provides new insights into the socio-economic impacts of internal migration in Surkhet, offering recommendations for better migration management strategies and highlighting the role of local government and community awareness in addressing these issues.
Stylistic Exploration of Existential and Spiritual Themes in Sitaram Adhikari’s Poem Unseen Existence
Authors: Neupane Pravin
Published: January 2025

This study examines the application of stylistic elements in Sitaram Adhikari’s poem "Unseen Existence", focusing on how these elements enhance the poem’s thematic depth and philosophical significance. Through a detailed analysis of diction, tone, imagery, symbolism, structure, and rhythm, the research explores how Adhikari conveys the existential and spiritual themes central to the poem. The reflective tone and symbolic imagery engage readers, prompting introspection about their relationship with an unseen guiding force. The findings highlight the interplay between style and meaning, demonstrating how stylistic devices amplify the poem’s universal relevance. Additionally, the study underscores Adhikari’s contribution to Nepali literature, showcasing his ability to bridge traditional spiritual concepts with modern poetic techniques. This research offers valuable insights into the stylistic richness of contemporary Nepali poetry, paving the way for further exploration of literary craftsmanship in philosophical and existential contexts.
Students’ and Teachers’ Perceptions and Perspectives on Homework
Authors: Pandey Shiv Ram , Kaudal Durga Nidhi
Published: January 2025

This study uncovers perceptions and perspectives of teachers and students on homework from grade eight. The main objectives were to explore teachers’ and students’ perception on homework. It follows qualitative research method to gather and analyze data. We have reviewed some related articles on homework. To conduct this study, we have used primary as well as secondary sources of data. The major findings of this study are although some of the students who are weak, lazy and low performing feel homework as a load, however, they did not deny the fact that homework leads to invention. They were found to be doing homework. When the given homework is creative and rewarding, it can be taken as a notion of creativity for students. The study found that homework always benefits both students and teachers for improved learning, remembering, reading, and writing habits. It increases knowledge, skill and values on the part of students. Homework is essential to get involved in learning. It is an exercise to excavate creativity and critical thinking in learning, An evaluation of homework provides teachers a feedback to take right action for effective teaching and learning. Despite some issues such as burden, stress and anxiety on homework, the study concludes that giving homework to the students is always good, rewarding and meaningful. Homework supports to the students to take part in competitive tests and examination. Moreover, taking feedback can be a good source of information to design better assignment to the students from the side of teachers.
Challenges to Implement Technology Assisted English Language Teaching in Nepal: An Explorative Study
Authors: Lamichhane Sujana
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the various dimensions of the challenges to the technology assisted English language teaching faced by the secondary level English teachers of public schools from Kathmandu. The emergence and use of ICT and other innovative technologies in the teaching learning process demands restructuring in the English classrooms. Even though there exist a number of challenges and obstacles to adopt technology assisted teaching of English language skills, the study is focused towards prioritizing those challenges and suggesting some possible solutions to tackle them. The study is based on the qualitative research design and includes the in-depth interview with five purposively selected English teachers from the different schools. The study also includes the classroom observation for data collection. The data obtained were recorded and analyzed thematically based on the participant’s perception and experiences. The findings indicate that the poor economic status, insufficient physical resources, lack of digital competency among teachers to adopt technology and the conventional curriculum design remain as the major challenges. The article recommends some policy intervention for improving the socio-economic condition of the families sending their children to the public schools so that they can afford to access the necessary devices, ICT tools and platforms. Allocation of sufficient budget as an investment in the technology friendly classrooms, periodic training to the teachers for enhancing teaching skills and timely amendment in the curriculum are the few suggestive measures to combat the challenges.
LANGUAGE ACQUISITION THROUGH SYNTACTIC STRUCTURES AND VOCABULARY UNITS (BASED ON THE UKRAINIAN FOLK TALE ‘RUKAVYCHKA’)
Authors: Kalytiuk Lilia P.
Published: January 2025

Based on the Ukrainian folk tale ‘Rukavychka’, this paper seeks to highlight how the basic syntactic structures are introduced to young children acquiring Ukrainian as their first language. The findings of the paper allow to maintain that Ukrainian in the folk tale is exposed in a variety of recurrent syntactic structures, which are specific parameters featuring the Ukrainian language. These are: 1) the structure with the null Subject and null Verb + Complement ØS ØV С; 2) the inverted word order in an unextended simple sentence VS(A); 3) the inversion of an extended simple sentence VSOA, 4) the pleonastic, materially identical subject SSAV. These structures are repeatedly used throughout the folk tale and are intensively supported by lexical cohesive ties (either materially identical units or hyponyms of topically related words). The word classes in use of the folk tale are semantically compliant with Morris Swadesh list: nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, prepositions of place. The verbs are monosemantic denoting movement (ішов, бігла, уліз), state (жити, бути, пустити). Notably, the folk tale does not contain adjectives or adverbs which require the child’s abstract thinking or some operations like comparison or evaluative judgement of actions, emotions, states. Onomatopoeic words (шкряботушка, скрекотушка, гав-гав, хро-хро-хро, гу-гу-гу) are also used.
WOMEN AND THE CRIMINAL QUESTION: A CRIMINOLOGICAL APPROACH
Authors: Halima Menani  , Soufyane Badraoui
Published: January 2025

Rising female criminality, a less common phenomenon, is sparking criminological interest. There’s a marked contrast in the nature of crimes committed by men and women. Men predominantly engage in violent crimes, robberies, and drug-related activities, while women are more likely to commit less serious offenses, including fraud, pick-pocketing, and economic crimes. These inequalities are partially due to sociocultural elements, such as traditional gender roles and varied criminal opportunities. Criminological study, which initially focused on male delinquency, gradually favored the emergence of feminist criminology as an autonomous discipline. This innovation tackles the roots and forms of female delinquency. Women’s social, economic, and cultural contexts and their relation to crime were studied. This led to a specialized field of gender-aware criminology emerged.
Exploring the Social Determinants of Health in Nutrition Care for South Asian Communities: A Narrative Review
Authors: Balakrishnan Sharmini , Benea Cristina , Banerjee Ananya , Mahajan Anisha
Published: January 2025

The South Asian (SA) diasporic communities in Canada experience a greater burden of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to white populations. Nutrition interventions often focus on individual behaviours and fail to consider that the social determinants of health (SDH) have a greater impact on chronic disease risk. A narrative review was conducted to identify the SDH in nutrition care interventions for the SA diaspora in Canada. The final analysis included fourteen articles from which SDH were identified and categorized based on the Social Ecological Model (SEM). The study analysis yielded the following needs in dietetic practice based on the SEM: (1) intrapersonal – need for language appropriate services, and representation of cultural foods and non-Western health perspectives in dietary guidelines, (2) interpersonal – understanding family and friends as social supports, (3) community – incorporating peer and community leader influences, (4) institution – importance of faith-based locations as community hubs, and client workplaces as a barrier to attending appointments, and (5) policy – advocacy for transportation and childcare access, adequate and secure income, and equitable care. These findings urge dietitians to move beyond cultural awareness, sensitivity, and competence to practicing cultural safety and humility in their practice, which is integral to providing equitable care.
Carcass and Gut Characteristics of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Containing "Masakwa" Sorghum (Sorghum Bicolor L.) Variety as Replacement for Maize
Authors: Yalwandamai Y.I. , Nyifi A.S. , Torhemen L.N. , Torhemen M. , Abel-Achimugu J. , Mundi H.L. , Odiba J. , Edidiong F.D.
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of "Masakwa" sorghum in place of maize as energy sources in broiler diets on gut and carcass characteristics of broiler chicken. Methods: Five (5) diets were formulated in which "Masakwa" Sorghum variety (MSV) replaced maize at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% levels coded as diets 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 respectively. One-hundred-and-fifty-day old broiler chicks were brooded and randomly allotted into the five dietary treatments with three replicates per treatment in a completely randomized design. Feed and water were provided ad libitum and the experiment lasted 8 weeks, On the last day of the experiment 3 birds were slaughtered from each replicate, bled, eviscerated and dressed. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using the methods outlined by Steel and Torrie (1980) Samples of the experimental feeds were analysed for their proximate composition using the methods of AOAC (2000). Results: The dressing percentage ranged from 68.15 - 85.07% and were significantly different Prime cuts showed that drumstick (P<0.05) and wing (P<0.01) were affected by the dietary levels. The values ranged from 4.79 - 10.63 % and 3.19 - 9.39% However, live weight, dressed weight, breast, back, neck and other organs such as head, liver, intestine, caeca, lungs and heart indicate no significant difference (P greater than 0.05). The intestiunal length fell within the values of 4.58 - 5.78% and the weight of the heart was 0.44 - 0.58%. Conclusions: The study revealed that using "Masakwa" Sorghum Variety (MSV) to replace maize had no adverse effect on the carcass and Gut characteristics of broiler chicken. Sorghum can replace maize completely in broiler diets for optimum carcass yield and quality as well as normal gut morphology.
Samanid Epoch – Golden Erain History of Persian-Tajik People
Authors: Fayzulloeva M.Sh.
Published: January 2025

The Samanid state was formed as an independent state from the Abbasid Caliphate and ruled in Khorasan and Maverennahr (or Transoxiana) in the IX-X centuries. The article deals with the advancement and achievements of society in the Samanid period.
Sustainable Reinforcement in Concrete: Evaluating Bamboo’s Flexural Strength, Cost Benefits, and Material Properties
Authors: Soomro Rabia , Abideen Zain Ul , Aqsa Aqta Urf
Published: January 2025

The high costs and the increased negative effect on the environment when using steel-reinforced concrete prompted the studies on sustainability with bamboo recognized as green steel. Bamboo is a versatile, sustainable, and affordable material, which has great tensile strength. This research assesses the viability of bamboo as a reinforcement candidate in structural concrete based on its mechanical properties and compares it with steel. Tensile and flexural strengths of the reinforced concrete beams enclosed with bamboo or steel and plain concrete respectively were investigated on days 7, 14, and 28. RC beams strengthened with bamboo provided 95% of the control steel's performance in the 7 days but raised to 69% at 7 days later because of moisture lump and bond deterioration. Nevertheless, bamboo is even cheaper than steel and costs 58% less.
ОЦІНЮВАННЯ ВОДОПОТРЕБИ ТА ЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ ЗВОЛОЖЕННЯ ОСУШУВАНИХ ЗЕМЕЛЬ ЩОДО ЗМІННИХ ПОГОДНО-КЛІМАТИЧНИХ ТА АГРОМЕЛІОРАТИВНИХ УМОВ
Authors: Кузьмич А. А. , Волк П. П. , Рокочинський А. М.
Published: January 2025

Представлені дані про випаровування та водопотребу сільськогосподарських культур у різні періоди їхнього розвитку залежно від наявних погодно-кліматичних умов та традиційних технологій зволоження осушуваних земель. Вони є основою розробки проєктних і формування експлуатаційних режимів водорегулювання, що здійснюється шляхом вибору й обґрунтування необхідних способів водорегулювання, типів, конструкцій і режимів роботи гідромеліоративних систем, розрахунку їхніх параметрів. Для досягнення поставленої мети авторами виконано оцінювання погодно-кліматичних умов Західного Полісся України, спланований і здійснений широкомасштабний машинний експеримент на ЕОМ, в основу якого покладено комплекс прогнозно-імітаційних моделей щодо основних режимно-технологічних змінних параметрів гідромеліоративних систем, кліматичних умов місцевості, водного режиму, технологій водорегулювання та продуктивності осушуваних земель для схематизованих природних, агротехнічних та меліоративних умов. Об’єктом досліджень обрано дренажну систему «Цирська» Волинської області, яка за природно-агромеліоративними умовами є типовою для даного регіону. За довготерміновим прогнозом визначено вегетаційні значення сумарного випаровування та формування водопотреби осушуваних земель щодо змінних погодно-кліматичних та агромеліоративних умов. Виконано оцінювання технологічної ефективності різних технологій зволожування осушуваних земель. Отримані результати можуть бути ефективно використані при обґрунтуванні режимнотехнологічних рішень у проєктах будівництва і реконструкції гідромеліоративних систем Західного Полісся України, необхідності подальшого удосконалення технологій водорегулювання осушуваних земель у змінних кліматичних умовах та розробці гідротехнічних адаптивних заходів до прогнозованих змін клімату в регіоні.
Venusian Volcanic Xenolandscapes
Authors: Kyryliuk Serhii
Published: January 2025

The study of Venusian xenolandscapes presents a significant scientific challenge due to their limited exploration and the specificity of available data. Research primarily focuses on impact ring structures and volcanic formations, which serve as key subjects for xenogeological and xenogeomorphological interpretations. Using radar imagery from interplanetary spacecraft, detailed relief models of Venus have been constructed, enabling the identification of numerous volcanic and tectonic features, their distribution, and characteristics. Venus exhibits prolonged volcanic activity, driven by its thermal potential. Approximately 80 % of the planet's surface is covered with extrusive volcanic materials, including lava plains – the largest in the Solar System. Notably, data from the Magellan mission revealed over 1 660 volcanic features of varying scales, ranging from small shield volcanoes to large coronae and lava channels. The primary types of volcanic plains – heavily deformed, moderately deformed, and undeformed – reflect successive stages of planetary evolution. The Venusian crust is predominantly basaltic and lacks water, which defines its unique geodynamic properties, including the absence of plate tectonics and the dominance of sub-lithospheric volcanic mechanisms. The concentration of volcanic structures in regions such as Beta, Atla, and Themis indicates ongoing activity, supported by localized thermal anomalies, radar data, and analyses of lava flows. Additionally, the stability of Venus’s global cloud layer, primarily composed of sulfuric acid droplets, further suggests persistent volcanism. Investigations into Venusian volcanic structures enhance our understanding of planetary evolution and geodynamic processes operating under high pressure and temperature conditions. Future missions and advancements in radiometric technologies promise new opportunities for monitoring contemporary volcanic activity and detailed surface mapping of Venus.

Keywords: xenolandscape, morphostructure, Venus, volcano, relief.
Geological and geomorphological structure of the Prut River valley in the Chernivtsi city area (according to engineering-geological exploration data)
Authors: Shavranskyi Vasyl , Ridush Bogdan
Published: January 2025

Based on the engineering and geological surveys, the geological and geomorphological structure of the Quaternary-Pliocene deposits of the Prut River valley around the Chernivtsi area has been revealed. The morphometric parameters of the Prut River floodplain terraces have been characterized, with particular attention to the structural features of the sections of their accumulations. It has been found that the geological and geomorphological structure of this section of the Prut Valley is heterogeneous both due to the valley asymmetry and the presence of a transverse uplift in the form of the Tsetsyn and Khotyn Uplands, which at the intersection with the valley form the so-called Chernivtsi Gates. Outside the Gates, the asymmetry of the valley is manifested in the steeper right side of the valley and the more stepped left. Within the valley, its bottom is clearly distinguished, within which the high and low floodplains, as well as terraces 1 and 2, are located. The right bank of the valley is strongly affected by landslide processes, which are manifested mainly in the displacement of large blocks that involve the underlying clays. Therefore, terraces 7–10 are only fragmentarily traced here, and terraces 3 to 6 are not traced. Channel alluvium is absent in the sections of the middle and high terraces. The Pliocene 12th terrace is widely developed. Four paleovalleys of a diagonal north-western extension are cut into its surface, partially filled with lake-marsh deposits. In the southeastern part of the range, sections of the 11th terrace are available for study. On the valley's left bank, the terrace complex upstream and downstream of the Gate is more completely observed. However, here, they are also partially deformed by slope processes. Like on the right bank, the 12th terrace is widely spread. However, like on the right bank, its structure lacks channel alluvium. The presented stratigraphic division of the geological structure of most terraces is preliminary and requires further clarification using paleogeographic methods.

Keywords: river terraces, floodplain, river valley, buried valleys, alluvium, geological sections, engineering geology, “Chernivtsi Gates”, geological and geomorphological structure.
Optimising Fungal Spore Cultivation and Inoculation Methods for Enhanced Antifungal Performance Testing of Textiles
Authors: Deng Hongying , Yang Chen , Zhang Zhenzhu , Xu Xiaoling , Chen Qixuan , Zhang Yanan , He Xuefen
Published: January 2025

To improve the precision and operability of antifungal performance testing, this study systematically examines the cultivation time, spore suspension preparation, and inoculation protocols for fungal spores commonly used in mildew and rot resistance testing. Key optimisations were achieved in inoculum time, centrifugation conditions, and spray inoculation methods, enhancing experimental reliability. The findings indicate that Aspergillus brasiliensis and Trichoderma lignorum spores form abundantly within 5–7 days, while Chaetomium globosum requires 17–20 days. Penicillium funiculosum, Aureobasidium pullulans, Paecilomyces variotii, and Trichoderma virens reach sufficient spore production in 13–15 days. Effective spore separation was achieved via centrifugation at 6000 r/min for 10 minutes. Uniform and quantitative spore inoculation was ensured using 20–50 μm spray nozzles. Quantitative methods, including specific turbidity, hemocytometer counting, and the plate count method, were evaluated, with turbidity and hemocytometer methods offering efficiency and simplicity, while plate counts provided verification. These findings contribute to establishing standardised and reproducible antifungal testing procedures, addressing operational guidelines gaps and supporting the development of antifungal technologies.
A hierarchical Quality of Service control architecture for configurable multimedia applications
Authors: Li Baochun , Kalter William , Nahrstedt Klara
Published: January 2025

In order to achieve the best application‐level Quality‐of‐Service (QoS), multimedia applications need to be dynamically tuned and reconfigured to adapt to fluctuating computing and communication environments. QoS‐sensitive adaptations are critical when applications run in general‐purpose systems, with no mechanisms provided for supporting resource reservations and real‐time guarantees. Such adaptations are triggered by resource availability variations caused by best‐effort resource allocations in unpredictable open environments.

In this paper, we argue that adaptations are most effective to achieve a better QoS when performed within applications, where they may be optimized towards the best performance tradeoffs across various application parameters with different semantics. However, we believe that decisions about when and how adaptations should occur need to be coordinated, and formalized as a generic algorithm to be applied to a wide range of applications. For this purpose, we first identify an application model to focus on a set of application‐specific tuning ‘knobs’ and critical parameters, then propose a polynomial‐complexity QoS probing algorithm to quantitatively capture the run‐time relationships between the two sets of parameters. Finally, we present a hierarchical adaptive QoS control architecture to bridge the gap between original ‘triggers’ of adaptation and actual tuning ‘knobs’ to be invoked. To prove the validity of our architecture and algorithms, we present Agilos, a middleware implementation of our hierarchical architecture. Under its control, we show that a configurable multimedia tracking application is able to deliver optimal performance even when operating in unpredictable open environments.
The national statistical agency as educator
Authors: Townsend Mary
Published: January 2025

Every national statistical agency should encourage statistical literacy in order to ensure ongoing support for the national statistical system. Statistics Canada does this through its exemplary programs in statistical education. Best known is its innovative Education Outreach Program that makes statistics interesting for young people, by educating teachers and students at the primary, secondary and postsecondary levels. Other programs include public education of respondents, online data users, aboriginal communities and journalists, as well as broad employee training and international technical support. The visionary work of educating the public, particularly young people, about the world of data will benefit statistical agencies in the long term.
Asymptotically Periodic and Bifurcation Points in Fractional Difference Maps
Authors: Edelman Mark
Published: January 2025

The first step in investigating fractional difference maps, which do not have periodic points except fixed points, is to find asymptotically periodic points and bifurcation points and draw asymptotic bifurcation diagrams. Recently derived equations that allow calculations of asymptotically periodic and bifurcation points contain coefficients defined as slowly converging infinite sums. In this paper we derive analytic expressions for coefficients of the equations that allow calculations of asymptotically periodic and bifurcation points in fractional difference maps.