bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Market Knowledge and Technological Awareness in Bangladeshi Publishing Industry
Authors: Tarannum Tanha
Published: January 2025

This dissertation endeavours to portray the designs for globalization and technological evolution in small-nation publishing industries such as Bangladesh. Publishing is an art form which involves an extensive use of technology. Alternatively, publishing inspires inventions that evolve with advanced technology. It is an acknowledged fact that globalization is connected intricately with technological revolution. Globalization observes that ideologies and modern thinking are inspired by widespread content readily accessible to global citizens. Measuring an unconstrained productive activity from the publishing industry helps navigate the robust growth perspective of a nation. This assessment also helps to decipher whether, as a small nation developing country, it is ready to adapt to the changes or not. While investigating if the Bangladeshi publishing industry is digitally efficient or ready to acclimatize to spontaneous changes in the modern world, a few of the industry’s leading authors and publishers came forward to help accomplish the objective of this research. The prime finding from the study is that there is keenness among the authors and publishers to explore advanced technological tools and opportunities and despair for no available service provision. Another critical revelation is the lack of research done to improve the conditions and find answers to the unanswered problems in the Bangladeshi publishing industry.
Analysis of Wheat Seed Supply System in the Wheat-Dominated Smallholder Farming System in West Arsi and East Showa Zones, Oromia National Regional State
Authors: Bukul Beriso
Published: January 2025

In Ethiopia, lower productivity of wheat production has been one of the significant contributors to food insecurity. Considerable efforts have been made by the government, NGOs and researchers in generating, introducing and disseminating appropriate wheat technologies to boost the production and productivity of wheat. The objective of this study was to identify the status and performance of wheat seed supply and factors that determine wheat seed supply system in West Arsi and East Shewa zones. A multi-stage random sampling procedure was used to select 240 sample wheat producers from both zones using probability proportional to size. Secondary data were also used. Descriptive statistics and econometric model were used to analyze data. Descriptive statistics and econometric model were used to analyze data. In both zones formal, informal, and alternative wheat seed systems co-exist which accounts for 18.955, 31.791 and 49.25%, respectively. Access to market and market information and credit service plays an important role in accessing of improved wheat seed supply system by smallholders’ farmers. Therefore, any interventions that make farmers access to above mentioned service of the households have better enhances farmer’s access to wheat seed in the area. Total land cultivated and farm experiences effect farmer’s access to wheat seed supply system. Therefore, total land allocated for wheat production and farm experience have a positive effect on farmers access to wheat seed supply system. Therefore, total land cultivated should be increased by using rent-in and shared-in land to enhance access of wheat seed supply systems and farm experience have to be increased by providing different training. Based on the results obtained, the study suggests that the government and stakeholders should focus on strengthening the provision of formal and informal training, arranging experience sharing program, enhancing farmer’s resource endowment in order to increase access to wheat seed supply in the study area. It is, therefore, expected that the seed producers should be capacitated through accessing credit and logistics, farm machineries, seed processing plant, store and capability (motivated and competent human resource) of seed producers to supply quality seed that could meet the zonal seed demand. Incentive mechanisms need to be devised and implemented to increase participation of cooperative unions, primary seed producer cooperatives, agents/agro-dealers and private sectors in the seed industry. Moreover, there is a need to provide training on the part of government to seed producers and agents/agro dealers on seed marketing mix.
Democratic Transition and Indonesia-Russia Bilateral Relations from 2001 to 2014: Trends and Emerging Actors
Authors: Archellie Reynaldo , Alkatiri Zeffry , Sunarti Linda
Published: January 2025

This paper explores and investigates the democratic transition impact on the bilateral relations between Indonesia and the Russian Federation from 2001 to 2014. It argues that the democratic transition affected foreign policy conduct which was indicated by the shift of a state's policy orientation becoming more liberal and gave way to the emerging of new actors in foreign policy conduct. Indonesia and the Russian Federation were experiencing a democratic transition within the same period of time: 1990s post-Soviet Russia and post-authoritarian Indonesia. This paper uses the historical method to explore how Indonesia and the Russian Federation conducted their bilateral relations from 2001 to 2014 and to what extent the democratic transition within the two countries affected the foreign policy orientation and diplomatic conduct among the countries. This paper is expected to enhance the discussion of the democratic transition's impact on foreign policy and diplomacy conduct from the historical approach. It tries to understand the democratic transition as a unique historical event from the actor's perspective, perceived norms, and institutional conventions that shape and constrain the foreign policy and diplomacy actors' behavior. It found that there is a particular configuration and the interplay of democratic institutions and actors that have a differential impact on democratic foreign policy and international outcomes.
Effect of Soil and Water Conservation Techniques’ Adoption Intensity on Farmers’ Technical Efficiency in Burkina Faso: A Stochastic Meta-Frontier Approach
Authors: Ouédraogo Hadji
Published: January 2025

In the context of soil degradation, resilient and sustainable production systems are needed to address the challenges of food security and poverty reduction in rural areas. In this prospect, farmers adopted various soil and water conservation techniques (SWCTs) in their production systems. The objective of this article was to estimate and compare technology gap ratio (TGR) and meta-frontier technical efficiency (MTE) between three groups of cereal producers in Burkina Faso. They were divided regarding the adoption intensity of SWCTs (low, medium and high). The data used was collected by questionnaire survey on a sample of 335 farmers from May to July 2022. Meta-frontier approach was applied in order to deal with the heterogeneity of techniques’ intensity of adoption. The results showed that medium or high intensity farmers have a TGR equals to 1. Conversely, their MTE (60%) is lower than that of low-intensity farmers (70%). This evidence implies that SWCTs intensive producers are technically less efficient compared to less intensive ones. It comes out that the adoption of several SWCTs leads to a suboptimal use of a set of factors. These results suggest that agricultural development stakeholders should develop the agricultural counselling system oriented to the optimal use of production factors.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus in Pregnant Women and Associated Risk Factors, Monitored at the Yaounde University Teaching Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Andre Mbongue-Mikangue , Carole Sake , Jacky Njiki-Bikoe , Honorine Riwom
Published: January 2025

Background and justification: Infection with the hepatitis B virus is a major public health problem; However, Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are the most affected by it. The status of hepatitis B virus in pregnant women is essential for the effective management of the disease and the prevention of mother to child transmission. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of HBV markers and risk factors associated with infection in pregnant women at the Yaounde University Teaching Hospital (YUTH). Methodology: A prospective, cross multicenter study was conducted from 17 September 2018 to 25 February 2019 in 102 pregnant women aged 15 to 44 years. After obtaining ethical clearance, obstetric and sociodemographic risk factors were collected; samples were also taken and analyzed by the immuno-chromatographic method for the detection of HBsAg, for anti-HBs, HBeAg, anti-HBeAc and the anti-HBc antibodies. Statistical analysis was performed by Microsoft Excel 2016; SPSS Version 22. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 102 pregnant women, 10.78% (11/64) tested positive for HBsAg; 15.68% (16/64) had developed anti-HBs, and 26.47% (27/64) had previous contact with HBV. The highest prevalence of HBsAg was recorded in the age group 25-35 years (11.76%, P = 0.95). Similarly, the single status (P = 0.001) scarification (P = 0.00) and tattooing (P = 0.00008) were significantly associated with HBV infection and previous contact with HBV. Scarification and tattooing were significantly associated with a probable chronic hepatitis profile4 (P = 0.00009) and the inactive carrier HBsAg profile3 (P = 0.0002). Conclusion: The HBV infection is high among pregnant women at the YUTH (10.78%), especially among single pregnant women. Scarification, tattooing and no knowledge of the disease are factors significantly associated with HBV carriages (p <0.05). It is therefore necessary to introduce routine in prenatal assessment of pregnant women routine screening for HBV markers and possibly a vaccination to prevent vertical transmission (mother to child).
Potentials and Challenges for Religious Tourism Development: The Case of Qoma Fasiledes Church, Ethiopia
Authors: Demelash Derebe
Published: January 2025

Religious tourism is one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors, expressing tourists' desire to engage for religious reasons and travel from their usual environment to another sacred place. Therefore, this study was intended to identify potentials, challenges and opportunities for religious tourism development at Qoma Fasiledes church. To this end, a qualitative research approach and a cross-sectional descriptive study design was employed to achieve the objectives of this study. The target populations were Zone and Woreda’s culture and tourism office experts, Qoma Fasiledes Betekihinet leaders and church scholars in Qoma Fasiledes church. 13 respondents were selected by non-probable sampling technique, using purposive sampling. Both primary and secondary data sources were employed. Hence, primary data were collected from interviews, focus group discussions and field observation. Whereas, secondary sources from published and unpublished documents. Findings indicate that; the long history of Qoma Fasiledes church, religious festivals, school education, Qomie Zema, mural painting, the Church building itself, treasure house and many movable heritages made from gold and silver including crosses, crowns and yisma Qoma Negarit as well as monastic activities were potentials for religious tourism development. Challenges were lack of infrastructure, lack of promotion, lack of professionals, absence of museums and lack of awareness. Therefore, to develop religious tourism in Qoma Fasiledes church, all stakeholders should collaborate to use potentials and mitigate the hindering factors by examining the opportunities.
Fifth Generation (5G) Network Rollout and Acceptability: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Amuka Joseph , Agu Anthony , Asogwa Fredrick , Odoemelam Miss
Published: January 2025

The Fifth Generation (5G) Network was rolled out in Nigeria in September 2022 to improve communication services in the country. More than two years after the rollout, penetration has been low while acceptance is very poor. The authors examined factors that may have affected the acceptability of the network to be able to inform policy. Data were generated through online questions and the distribution of questionnaires. The logit regression method was used for the analysis with the Probit estimation used for a robust check of the logit result. The probit result supports the logit analysis that the acceptability of a 5G network is significantly explained by the purpose of network use, which is in line with the theory of the Technology Acceptance Model, and secondly, by people’s feelings. The findings suggest that the more people have negative feelings (health risks) about 5G, the less the acceptance of the network in Nigeria. Therefore, proper sensitization about the series of network technologies is needed in the country to increase the 5G network acceptance. Nigeria is a high network using country in the world and the results indicate that proper sensitization of the people about the 5G network will increase its use. This can be done through promo by the network operators themselves or by the government through the print and electronic media highlighting the enormous benefits of the 5G network to users.
Carbon Farming, Climate Smart Agriculture Practice and Current Climate Change Mitigation Strategy- In the Case of Ethiopia
Authors: Bayata Adugna , Mulatu Getachew
Published: January 2025

Ethiopia is among the countries vulnerable to the impact of climate change due to its mostly resilient on rain-fed agriculture, but currently started crop production by irrigation even if it is not done in large, and largely rural population. Carbon farming is an emerging agricultural practice focused at mitigating climate change by increasing the carbon sequestration potential of farmlands. Both climate-smart agriculture and carbon farming encloses different approaches such as agroforestry, cover cropping, and application of bio-char and no-till farming, all of which promotes soil carbon sequestration and improves soil health; which help capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in soil and vegetation. This system not only mitigates greenhouse gas emission but also fortifies ecosystem resilience through enhancement of soil fertility, water retention and biodiversity. By incorporating carbon farming into worldwide climate action frameworks, agricultural landscapes can evolve from being major sources of greenhouse gases to functioning as net carbon sinks. As scalable strategies to address climate change, carbon farming presents a dual advantage fulfilling the pressing requirements to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels while promoting sustainable agricultural practice and enhancing rural economies. Climate-smart agriculture has emerged as a paradigm shifting approach aimed at improving agricultural productivity, adapting to evolving climatic conditions, and mitigating to the emission of greenhouse gas emissions. This review accentuates the significance of climate-smart agriculture and carbon farming as a crucial strategy for Ethiopia to fulfill its national determined contributions under the Paris agreement, while simultaneously bolstering the resilience of its agricultural system. By scaling up both approaches, Ethiopia can attain a harmonious equilibrium between food security and climate change mitigation; ensuring sustainable development for the rapidly expanding population.
Nutritional Quality of Nyam ngub, Traditionally Textured Product Derived from Wild Orchid Tubers Eaten as Meat in the North West and Western Region of Cameroon
Authors: Fonmboh Dobgima , Noumo Thierry , Ntungwen Fokunang , Aba Ejoh
Published: January 2025

The knowledge gaps in the nutritional composition and quality of traditionally textured plant-based products eaten as meat is affecting the global acceptance despite the acclaimed health, environmental, ethical, religious, and social benefits. This paper aimed to prepare and evaluate the nutritional quality of Nyam ngub for potential valorization and vulgarization. Standard methods were used to determine the chemical composition and to evaluate the quality of protein. Protein fractions were used to estimate the solubility and individual amino acids were analysed with rapid amino acid analyser. Nutrient bio accessibility was determined firstly by calculation through the phytate: mineral ratio for iron and while the simulated in-vitro gastrointestinal test evaluated the protein digestibility and mineral accessibility. Results indicated that nyam ngub had an ash content of 13.02±1.14g/g at a moisture content of 89.56±2.43% and dry matter of 12.86±0.30%. The reducing and total sugar content were 0.8±0.02 g/1000mL and 51.42±4.26 g/1000mL respectively yielding a moderate energy supply (67.26±0.72 Kcal/mol) compared to other tubers. The crude fibre, fat and protein were respectively 6.7±0.3 (g/100g), 3.07±0.42 (g/100g) and 6.03±0.15 (g/100g). The Calcium, iron, Zinc and Copper contents were 0.01±0.00 mg/100g, 1.60 g/100g, 0.25±0.04 mg/100g and 2.87±0.00 µg/g respectively while vitamin A after conversion from β- carotene was 1.65±0.77µgRE/g and vitamin C was 5.043±0.54 mg/100g. The albumin, globulin, prolamin, and glutelin fractions were 70.51±2.48, 65.93±1.44, 16.41±3.21 and 18.46±1.35 mgBSA/100g respectively. Iron and zinc were 57.32±0.58% and 51.73±0.23% accessible while protein had the greatest digestibility in the gastric phase (74.63%) compared to 70.15% in the intestines. The essential amino acids quantified in mg/ 100g were Arg (1.39), His (0.61), Leu (2.04), Lys (1.52) Met (0.59), Phe (1.40), and Thr (1.11). Despite the limited protein content and lack of some essential amino acids, the protein of nyam ngub was relatively soluble and available and the micronutrients are accessible.
Sarcopenia as a Predictor of Mortality and Complications in Cirrhosis Patients-A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Devadas Nidhin , Srijith Kadavanoor , Kandiyil Sunil , Balagopal Sithara , Kolassery Sandesh
Published: January 2025

Background: Sarcopenia has emerged as an important prognostic factor in cirrhosis patients. A standardized definition of sarcopenia was not used in many of the studies. EWGSOP2 2019 guidelines define sarcopenia in an objective manner. Ultrasound-guided measurement of thigh muscle thickness is a validated and cost effective tool for the assessment of muscle quantity. Aim of the study was to evaluate the predictive role of sarcopenia on mortality and complications in cirrhosis patients. Methods: It was a prospective cohort study with 143 consecutive patients each in sarcopenia and no sarcopenia groups. Sarcopenia was diagnosed as per EWGSOP2 guidelines incorporating ultrasound-guided thigh muscle thickness measurement. They were studied at 6 months for development of complications and mortality. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare survival and Cox proportional hazards model was used to determine risk factors of mortality. Results: Cirrhosis patients with sarcopenia [M:F=97:46] and without sarcopenia [M:F=111:32] were followed up for 6 months. Survival analysis showed a six-month cumulative survival of 58.0% (95%CI 57.92-58.08) and 76.2% (95% CI 76.13-76.27) in sarcopenia and no sarcopenia groups respectively (p-value 0.001). Six-month cumulative survival in patients with severe sarcopenia was 23.8% and in non-severe sarcopenia was 70.1% (p-value 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed sarcopenia (HR=1.498,95%CI 1.081-2.148), female sex (HR=1.86,95%CI 1.102-3.089), Child Pugh class C (HR=1.458,95%CI 1.214-1.775) and MELD-Na score>15 (HR=1.122,95%CI 1.068-2.212) as independent predictors of mortality. Complications like ascites, HE, Covid 19 infection and UGI bleed were significantly higher in the sarcopenia group. Conclusion: Sarcopenia is an independent prognostic marker of mortality in cirrhosis patients and is associated with an increased risk of complications. Severe sarcopenia has even poorer outcome.
The Rorschach Test: An Investigative Tool for Assessing Parenting Skills in Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Authors: Giannini Chiara , Marielli Francesca , Balestra Sofia
Published: January 2025

In the Italian legislative system, the technical assessment by an expert appointed by the court is conceived as a psychological and psychodiagnostic investigation aimed at exploring the relational situation between the various members of the family, in particular between parents and children, and assessing the parental suitability for providing the judge with useful indications for the protection of the child's welfare. Given the increasing importance attached to the quality of the parent-child relationship, a wide debate has opened in the scientific literature regarding the concept of parenting skills. These are seen in the light of evolving development processes, necessarily influenced by the personological style of the subject. The complexity of mental processes has led psychology to use increasingly refined techniques in order to expand the cognitive data related to the study of personality development. These techniques certainly include the Projective Tests, with the Rorschach Test in particular being recognized as the most accurate and "reliable" scientific tool for assessing personality as well as cognitive, affective-adaptive, and relational functions of the individual. The purpose of the research study discussed in this presentation is to observe, investigate and demonstrate through the Rorschach Test how narcissistic personality disorder specifically, negatively affects parenting skills.
Defect State Dynamics in Lead-Free Perovskite Solar Cells for Enhanced Efficiency
Authors: Antwi Louis - , Huang Shihua
Published: January 2025

Perovskite photovoltaics have emerged as highly promising candidates for next-generation solar cells, achieving impressive power conversion efficiencies surpassing 22%, rivaling traditional silicon solar cells. Their advantages include lower manufacturing costs, tunable bandgaps, and potential for flexible, lightweight designs. However, the widespread use of lead (Pb) in perovskite absorbers raises significant environmental and health concerns. As a solution, researchers are exploring tin (Sn) as a non-toxic alternative due to its comparable electronic configuration, which may enable it to substitute lead without substantially compromising efficiency. In this study, SCAPS-1D software was employed to simulate lead-free tin-based perovskite solar cells, with a focus on analyzing how varying interface defect densities affect cell performance. Key cell parameters examined included the doping concentration of the perovskite absorption layer and the defect density within the perovskite bulk. Defect density is critical as it creates recombination centers that impede charge transport and decrease device efficiency. Findings from this simulation show that reducing defect density in the perovskite absorption layer notably improves overall cell performance, enhancing charge carrier mobility and reducing recombination losses. To further investigate interface effects, two specific interfaces were introduced: the TiO₂/perovskite interface, which serves as an electron transport layer, and the perovskite/hole transport material (HTM) interface. Analysis revealed that the TiO₂/perovskite interface plays a more substantial role in device performance, primarily due to its influence on carrier density and recombination rates, which are higher at this interface and critical in determining cell efficiency. Optimization of these parameters enabled the simulation of a device reaching a maximum efficiency of 24.63%. This research highlights the importance of interface engineering and defect management in tin-based, lead-free perovskite solar cells, demonstrating a feasible pathway toward environmentally sustainable, high-efficiency photovoltaics.
Degree with Comparison of Freedom of Will
Authors: Ibnat Mst.
Published: January 2025

This article explores the idea of "Freedom of Will" from a philosophical viewpoint, comparing key theories like Fatalism, Determinism, Indeterminism, and Self-Determinism. It starts with the age-old question: are humans truly free to make their own choices, or is everything in life already decided? The article looks at this debate by examining how fate and freedom interact. Drawing from Western philosophy, it discusses ideas from famous thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, and Locke, showing how they contributed to the understanding of free will. It also includes insights from Islamic philosophy, focusing on the Jabariya and Qadariya schools of thought, and how they view the balance between divine control and human freedom, supported by Quranic interpretations and scholarly analysis. The article goes further by looking at how free will plays out in real life-within families, societies, and political systems-where people’s freedom is often limited by external pressures. It also touches on the link between free will and morality, suggesting that true freedom should come with a sense of responsibility to do what is right. In conclusion, the article compares different views on free will, pointing out their strengths and weaknesses. It emphasizes the need for a balance between personal freedom and social responsibility, highlighting how understanding free will shapes our lives and communities.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Education: Impacts on Student Learning and Innovation
Authors: Treve Mark
Published: January 2025

This study explores the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in an educational context and its impact on data-driven decision-making related to student engagement, academic success, and creativity. Contextually, considering the necessity of utilization AI tools in education as a predominant factor in educational practice, this research provides full-fledged knowledge and approach on the overall implementation and significance of AI tools using hypothetical situation evidence (background materials), which are required to understand their prominence. We use a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of institutional records and surveys capturing student engagement, academic performance and innovative thinking pre-post AI implementation with qualitative case studies which provide detailed insights into how AI tools can be implemented effectively in educational settings. This study is based on secondary data source, major publications available in the Scopus database related to AI in education. Search terms for data search were "Artificial Intelligence in Education," "AI-driven tools," "Impact of AI on classroom dynamics", "Personalized learning", "Educational technology, AI, and creativity in education", Critical thinking in the classroom, Adaptive learning systems), intelligent tutoring systems)." Student engagement. The results demonstrate significant gains in multiple metrics, with engagement scores increasing by 20–23%, GPA from 9% to 14%, and innovative thinking skills levels swelling from 44% to 57%. About 65%-75% of teacher surveys indicated a positive impact of AI on teaching and learning. The study also notes constraints including confounding whereby the inability to control for factors that may affect odds of innovative thinking and conceptualization in measuring innovative thinking. This is role, it should also advocate for longitudinal inquiries, establish standardized ways of assessing, and be analytical about the ethical implications raised by AI in education. Overall, this study underscores that AI has considerable potential to improve educational achievement and the necessity of systematic research in order to actualize its benefits. This study reinforces the possibility of AI making a big difference in improving educational results. As such, it illuminates the importance of systematic investigations into AI´s function in education to obtain full knowledge on how best to take advantage.
Fault Analysis of 600MW Generator Stator Bars in a Power Station
Authors: Yuan Fang
Published: January 2025

The stator bar, as the component connecting the coils in the generator to the external circuit, is the main carrier of current and electric field. It is hailed as the "heart" of the generator and plays a crucial role in it. Based on the specific fault phenomena of the stator bar of a 600MW large power station generator under complex operating conditions, this paper analyzes the fault causes in combination with the disassembly inspection. The direct cause of the fault is determined to be the grounding of the stator bar and the iron core. Furthermore, a three-dimensional numerical model of the stator bar is constructed based on the high-precision finite element analysis method, focusing on internal defects and their mechanism of partial discharge characteristics. It is pointed out that internal defects caused by different reasons will lead to increased partial discharge at the defects, and the main insulation will deteriorate due to the continuous influence of partial discharge during operation. The research and analysis results can provide a reference for the operation, maintenance, and fault diagnosis of the same type of stator bars to a certain extent, and have positive significance for promoting the continuous optimization, improvement, and professional management of the same type of equipment.
Ethnic-Based Politics and Electoral Reforms in Ghana: Pathways to a United Democracy
Authors: Salifu Hafiz
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of ethnic-based politics on Ghanaian elections, particularly as the country approaches its December 2024 elections. Despite significant strides in democratization, Ghana’s political landscape remains deeply influenced by ethnic affiliations, which pose challenges to national unity and democratic consolidation. Through a mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, focus groups, and content analysis, this research examines the extent of ethnic-based voting, the effectiveness of electoral reforms, and the role of civic education in mitigating ethnic political mobilization. Quantitative data analysis reveals persistent ethnic voting patterns, with a significant proportion of voters influenced by the ethnic backgrounds of candidates. However, the data also indicates that electoral reforms and civic education initiatives have begun to reduce the salience of ethnicity in voting behavior. Qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups highlight the complexities of ethnic politics and the need for inclusive political practices to foster national cohesion. The study underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to addressing ethnic-based politics, involving electoral reforms, continuous civic education, and responsible media coverage. By promoting transparency, fairness, and inclusivity, Ghana can move towards a more democratic and united political environment. The findings offer valuable implications for policymakers, political parties, civil society organizations, and the electorate in the lead-up to the 2024 elections and beyond.
Real-Time Big Data Analytics for Detecting Credit Card Fraud in Cyber Forensics Using Deep Learning Models
Authors: Prince Chukwudum , Uzoamaka Ekwealor , Ikenna Uchefuna , Ogochukwu Ezuruka
Published: January 2025

Real-time big data analysis and deep learning techniques for credit card fraud have been described, along with the effectiveness of a framework that has been proposed to improve the speed and accuracy of fraud detection. The framework implemented state-of-the-art technologies so that credit card transactions were monitored consistently, and dynamically developed algorithms recognized fraudulent activities. The work reflected that detection rates of deep learning models like Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) were higher and false positives negligible. Moreover, the analysis covered the circumstances in which the system operated in real-time interfaces and stressed that low latency and high speed in processing the many transaction records are crucial to the effective functioning of a system. The identified results highlighted the effectiveness of real-time analytics over the more conventional practices, presenting the opportunities these technologies could open for improved and more rapid fraud identification and preventing or addressing potential security threats. Specific recommendations were made concerning how financial institutions can manage big data analytics and deep learning models for fraud detection and prevention; a primary requirement was the establishment of effective data architecture, consistent training staff, etc. The implications of this research apply to cyber forensic investigators because real-time fraud detection mechanisms that stem from this research can result in more efficient identification and prosecution of fraud cases and, therefore, lower levels of loss and higher levels of security in the banking sector.
The Instrumental Beyond the Human: Transhumanism, Emanation Theory, and Critical Posthumanities for the 21st Century
Authors: Moore Nathan
Published: January 2025

Being “Instrumental Beyond the Human” proposes a radical reconceptualization of transhumanism through the lenses of emanation theory, post-humanist critique, and avant-garde cultural studies. It builds upon the traditional foundations of classical liberalism and the history of science by juxtaposing it with emerging digital humanities. Informed by the works of historical and contemporary cultural theorists, this treatise explores how socioeconomic narratives shape technological prosperity and its implications for humankind’s enhancement toward the avant-garde. By drawing upon critical infrastructures, this essay will move beyond traditional techno-optimism to interrogate how power, labor, gender, and race all intersect with emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, prosthetics, and even virtual reality in enigmatic ways. They do so by combining speculative narratives with an examination of sociocultural hauntologies rooted in anthropology. Avant-garde scholarship also investigates how immersive storytelling and posthuman narratives challenge conventional notions of selfhood, agency, and justice. By integrating new perspectives from the critical posthumanities, transhumanist discourse argues for a more inclusive and ethically reflective transhumanism rooted in the modern avant-garde. Rather than envisioning human enhancement as a centered, neutral, or utopian project, it highlights the necessity of confronting biases, power imbalances, and sociopolitical consequences embedded in the development of new technologies from all ends. Ultimately, this treatise provides a blueprint for the ongoing cultural, ethical, and political negotiation that reflects the broader avant-garde academic currents of the 21st century.
A Study of Social Capital on the Social Health of Students (Field Survey of First Secondary Schools in Shahrood City)
Authors: Jelodar Shahram , Khorsandi Jafar , khani Alireza , Samiei Mostafa , Jamali Maryam
Published: January 2025

Social health is defined as how a person evaluates his or her performance against social. So the issue of health and well-being is socially structured. Social health is affected by many factors. In this study, students' social health has been researched under the influence of the effective factor of family social capital. This research is a descriptive and survey research in terms of applied purpose and in terms of data collection. The statistical population of the study consists of students of public schools in Shahroud, which is equal to 6200 people, and according to Cochran's formula, 291 people were selected to collect research data. According to random sampling, three schools (Ikhlas, Moallem and Motahhari) were selected from public schools to collect information. The theoretical foundations selected and used in this study were combined. Keyes and Shapiro theories were used for the dependent variable of the research and theories were used to analyze the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable: Keys, Reef, Larsen, Block & Breslow, Francis Fukuyama, Robert Putnam, James Coleman, Pierre Bourdieu, Marx and Durkheim. The results showed that all three components of social capital (family social trust) had a positive and strong relationship with Pearson coefficient: 0.61 and (family social cohesion with relationship coefficient: 0.54 and family social participation with relationship coefficient: 0.47) with dependent variable (Social health of Shahroud students) has had a positive and direct impact on the average. Family social trust in the first place and family social cohesion in the second degree were able to explain 39% of the variance of the dependent variable.
Physicochemical Properties of Fruit Purees and Sensory Attributes of the Puree Blends Produced from Mango, Orange and Watermelon
Authors: Amedu Ankeli , Gilian Igbum , Godwin Okibe
Published: January 2025

This research investigated the proximate composition and functional properties and sensory attributes of mango, orange, and watermelon purees to assess their potential for reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing food formulations. These tropical fruits are highly perishable, leading to significant post-harvest losses in regions like Nigeria. By processing them into purees, shelf life can be extended, and nutritional value preserved, offering a viable solution to food wastage. The study analyzed key parameters such as bulk density, viscosity, water holding, and oil holding capacities to determine their applicability in the food industry. The results revealed that watermelon puree had the highest moisture content (93.85%) and water holding capacity (93.03%), while mango puree showed the highest bulk density (1.11 g/cm³), viscosity (3.84 cP), and oil holding capacity (27.01%). Orange puree had the highest fat content (0.96%) and a moderate water holding capacity (84.49%). The carbohydrate content was highest in mango puree (16.81%) followed by orange (12.91%) and watermelon (8.36%). Sensory evaluations were conducted to assess consumer acceptance, revealing that the puree blend of 20% mango, 30% orange, and 50% watermelon (Sample B) received the highest overall acceptability score of 7.72 out of 9. The research also examined the effects of incorporating maltodextrin as an additive to improve the texture and stability of the purees. The findings provided insights into the development of sustainable and nutritious fruit-based products, contributing to food security and economic sustainability in agricultural regions prone to fruit spoilage.
Total Prehospital Time and Tractor Injuries: A Nebraska State Trauma Registry Analysis
Authors: Rich Curtis , Lu Stevin , Narveson Joel R. , Hall Alex G. , Flores Adrian , Kuncir Eric
Published: January 2025

Background

Agriculture is a hazardous industry, with tractor-related incidents being among the leading causes of traumatic injury and death. These injuries tend to take place far away from hospitals, thus leading to increased prehospital time to receive care. Understanding the relationship between prehospital time and outcomes such as hospital length of stay and mortality in the state of Nebraska could inform resource allocation for tractor related injuries.

Study Design

A 10-year retrospective study abstracting adults involved in tractor injuries using The Nebraska State Trauma Registry was performed. Mortality was evaluated using standard logistic regression, while length of stay outcomes were estimated using the negative binomial distribution. Adjusted model covariates included age, arrived from status, and Injury Severity Score.

Results

A total of 100 tractor-related injuries were included. Extremity injuries made up the largest percentage of injury types (44%). Injury severity scores were considered low in most patients. The majority of injuries were experienced by a party not operating the tractor. After adjusting for age, the scene of patient arrival, and Injury Severity Score, total prehospital time was not a significant predictor of facility length of stay or mortality.

Conclusion

Access to care is an ongoing problem for many communities in the United States, with the Midwest having some of the largest regions with poor access to care. We did not find a significant relationship between prehospital time and outcomes related to length of stay or mortality. Future studies should assess for differences in outcomes among accident types such as roll-over accidents vs collisions.
Aerodigestive Approach in Evaluating Pediatric Patients With Recurrent Croup
Authors: Chen Xiaoxuan , Pereira Nicola , Graw-Panzer Katharina , Ciecierega Thomas , Maresh Alison M.
Published: January 2025

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of coordinated endoscopy with otolaryngology, pulmonology, and gastroenterology in diagnosing and managing recurrent croup in pediatric patients.

Methods:

We reviewed our REDCap Pediatric Aerodigestive Database for patients with recurrent croup who underwent coordinated endoscopy between January 2013 and July 2023. We reviewed patient demographics, comorbidities, surgical findings, treatments, and outcomes.

Results:

Twenty-five patients were identified with recurrent croup. Their mean (SD) age was 37 (27) months (range = 9-98 months) with half of the patients younger than 25 months. The most common findings noted on combined endoscopies were positive bacterial culture on BAL (n = 10), and tracheomalacia (n = 7), and subglottic stenosis (n = 4). A history of prematurity was significantly associated with the presence of SGS ( p = 0.01). Snoring/sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) was associated with a positive bacterial BAL culture ( p = 0.03). About half of our cohort (48%) had multiple abnormalities identified by at least 2 different specialists at the time of endoscopy.

Conclusions:

For patients experiencing frequent or severe recurrent croup episodes, a thorough aerodigestive evaluation and management plan should be pursued. Coordinated endoscopy may be considered for select patients who do not respond to medical treatment.
Tracing the Trajectory of Tshwao: A Socio-Historical Analysis of a Khoisan Language’s Endangerment in Zimbabwe
Authors: Gotosa Kudzai , Matende Tawanda
Published: January 2025

This paper gives a socio-historical account of factors that may have contributed to the current state of endangerment of Tshwao, the Khoisan people’s language in Zimbabwe. The premise of the paper are observations that interventions being put in place to revive the language are failing and thus the need to go back into the past to establish factors that contributed to the impending demise of the language. Content for this paper was extracted from a doctoral thesis that utilised qualitative methods to gather data. Findings revealed that linguistic and extra-linguistic factors may have affected the maintenance of Khoisan languages. Among these are numerical domination of the Khoisan by the Bantu people, subjugation by Mzilikazi during his conquests as well as selective development of languages by missionaries which led to assimilation and language marginalisation. Furthermore, the implementation of discriminatory land, wildlife and language policies by the colonial government which resulted in relocations, language contact situations and dispersed settlements, also affected language maintenance. The study concludes that Khoisan language endangerment spans from history and interventions need to include redress of historical injustices first for them to be successful.
Effect of single and hybrid multiwalled carbon nanotube and carbon black fillers on ethylene-butene copolymer composites for potential sensor applications
Authors: Theravalappil Rajesh , Vattathurvalappil Suhail Hyder , Alshammari Mohammed , Riaz Shahina , Albareeki Mansour , Rahaman Mostafizur
Published: January 2025

Polyolefin elastomers are widely used for engineering applications due to their balance of toughness, hardness, and strength. However, there is a need to enhance their mechanical and conductivity properties by adding more reinforcements. In this study, ethylene-butene copolymer (EBC) with a 14 mol% butene content was investigated for its potential application in sensors using multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and carbon black (CB) as reinforcements. The study explored the effect of these fillers on the mechanical characteristics and electrical conductivity of the EBC composites, which showed higher strength and modulus. Further, 0.5 wt% of CB reinforcement showed the best tensile properties started to decline with further addition of reinforcements. It was also noted that only a 10% increment was observed in the shore-A hardness of composites even with the highest loading level of fillers, which shows that there is not much compromise in hardness, making these composites suitable candidates for stretchable sensors. This study also concluded that hybrid particle morphology (mixture of MWCNT & CB) has a strong influence on augmenting electrical conductivity. Since these composites possess considerably good softness even at high filler loadings, they can be considered as potential candidates for strain or pressure sensors or in wearable electronics. Overall, the strategy used in this work can be employed to study the effect of reinforcement morphology in other polymer combinations to enhance the conductivity and mechanical properties.
Peace Negotiations and Civilian Targeting
Authors: Sener Ipek Ece
Published: January 2025

Does the participation of armed actors in peace talks influence their strategy of targeting civilians? I argue that before peace talks belligerents have incentives to demonstrate their military strength and respect for humanitarian standards to international third parties. Thus, they are more likely to spare civilians and discriminately target enemy combatants before international talks. Using change point analysis and surrogate data testing on the daily casualty and territorial control data for the Syrian Civil War, I show that belligerents engaged in negotiations incite more combatant and fewer civilian casualties in the enemy territory immediately before an international meeting is to be held. These findings underscore that international parties can drive combatants to avoid civilian victimization before peace talks by offering them a seat at the negotiation table.
Politeness and Prosody: The Effect of Power, Distance, and Imposition on Pitch Contours in Spanish
Authors: Staszkiewicz Bruno
Published: January 2025

Research in the last few decades has examined the intersection between phonetics and politeness in multiple languages. While most of the studies have analyzed the role of politeness on suprasegmental features (i.e., pitch or duration), few have considered the key contextual variables of power, distance, and imposition. This study investigates the systematic effects of power, distance, and imposition on the final intonational contours of polar questions in Central Peninsular Spanish native speakers. A total of 36 native speakers from Madrid completed a contextualized reading-sentence task in which they read aloud paragraph-length contextualizing situations and the target polar questions. The situations were balanced for two levels of power (high/low), distance (high/low), and imposition (high/low). The results from the contextualized reading-sentence task showed that the low-rising final intonational contour (L*H%) was the most employed intonational contour in every context, while the remaining contours were H*H%, H*L%, L*L%. The results confirm that L*H% is the prevailing final intonational contour in Spanish polar questions while also shedding light on the variability of other intonational configurations. In addition, the study determines whether final nuclear contours are impacted by power, distance, and impositions. The findings are discussed within the framework of Politeness Theory and the work on the phonetics and pragmatics interface.