bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Corporate Governance in Strengthening Competitive Advantage through Strategic Project Procurement
Authors: Ackah David , Dadzie Eric Boafo , Yornu Isaac Kofi
Published: February 2025

Strategic project procurement, a vital component for organizational competitiveness, has been a subject of continuous exploration, yet it presents mixed findings in research literature. The ambiguity mainly revolves around the moderating role of corporate governance in the relationship between strategic procurement and competitive advantage. This study is dedicated to unraveling this relationship, applying the resource-based view as its theoretical underpinning. Utilizing a quantitative approach and conducting a survey on a sample of 136 employees from manufacturing firms in Ghana, the research offers substantial insights. The findings reveal that strategic procurement has a definite positive impact on competitive advantage, reinforcing the importance of deliberate procurement strategies in business performance. Furthermore, corporate governance, a vital aspect of organizational structure, not only enhances competitive advantage directly but also acts as a strengthening force on the effect of strategic procurement on competitive advantage. It highlights the synergistic relationship between governance practices and procurement strategies. These results emphasize the recommendation for organizations to embrace and implement strategic procurement practices aligned with strong and transparent governance policies. The intertwining of these two aspects may foster organizational success and sustainability. The importance of this study is accentuated by its contribution to filling existing gaps in the procurement literature, particularly regarding the moderating role of governance. By addressing this significant aspect, the research adds valuable insights that may guide both academic discourse and practical applications in the industrial sector, enhancing the understanding of strategic procurement in modern organizational dynamics.
Assessment Of Heavy Metal Pollution In Soils Of Ifie Community, Warri, Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Oluwatomilola Andre Obayanju , Jubemi A Pajiah
Published: February 2025

Twelve soil samples (11 soil samples and 1 control sample) were collected to assess the level of pollution and its distribution in soils around Ifie Community, Warri South, Delta State, Nigeria, including one control sample from Federal Government College Warri. An Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) machine (model 210 VGP) was used and seven heavy metal parameters were analyzed: iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and Copper (Cu). The following results were obtained: iron (110.5 - 201.5 mg/kg), nickel (20.5 - 47.5 mg/kg), chromium (1 - 23 mg/kg), lead (1 - 3.5 mg/kg), zinc (8 - 20 mg/kg), and copper (27 - 46 mg/kg). The heavy metal distribution patterns identified in this study from highest to lowest were as follows: iron, copper, nickel, zinc, chromium, lead, cadmium. Cadmium was below the detection level in all samples. The study findings indicate high nickel and copper levels, surpassed the World Health Organization's (WHO) target values, and high nickel levels exceeding the Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente(CONAMA) prevention values, suggesting that industrial and domestic activities in the area contribute to heavy metal pollution. The Contamination Factor (CF) and Geo-accumulation Index (GeoI) indicate moderate to considerable levels of Ni and Cu contamination, while statistical analysis shows that these two metals are most likely from the same source and influenced by the same factors.
Morphological characterization and evaluation of cyanide content of lablab purpureus l. (hyacinth bean)
Authors: Odunayo J Olawuyi , Kaosarat O Oyewole , Abiodun A Azeez
Published: February 2025

Lablab purpureus L. (Hyacinth bean) is an underutilized leguminous plant with notable nutritional and medicinal value commonly found in tropical regions. This study aimed to characterize the morphological traits of twenty Lablab purpureus accessions and to evaluate the cyanide content in six selected accessions (TLn28, TLn28-B, TLn28-A, TLn37, TLn43, and TLn52). The field experiment followed a completely randomized design with three replicates. Results revealed significant variation (p < 0.05) among the accessions in growth and yield traits. Accession TLn2 showed superior performance in plant height (23.82 cm) and leaf count (12.71), whereas TLn70 exhibited the highest values for leaf length (11.68 cm) and width (11.73 cm). Accession TLn37 excelled in pod count per replicate (36) and seed count per replicate (134), while TLn28, TLn11, and TLn4 demonstrated the highest values for fresh pod weight (37.00 g), pod length (8.03 cm), and pod width (2.10 cm), respectively. The cyanide content, assessed using the alkaline picrate colorimetric method, was significantly lower in TLn37 than in the other five accessions and fell well below the toxicity threshold (36 mg/100 g) for humans and animals. Consequently, accessions TLn2 and TLn70 are promising candidates for breeding and cultivation based on desirable foliar traits, while TLn37 is particularly suited as a low-cyanide planting material for safe hyacinth bean production for human and animal consumption.
Fdm Study On Cross-Diffusive Effect On Heat Absorbing And Radiative Transient Hydromagnetic Flow Of A Nanofluid Past A Propagating Upright Porous Plate
Authors: Lengai Sademaki Joseph , Philemon Enock Exavery
Published: February 2025

This investigation delves into the impact of double diffusion on the heat-generating hydro-magnetic transport of water-based nanofluids flowing past a moving permeable plate subjected to heat flux. The nanofluids considered incorporate copper (Cu) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles. The study is characterized by the formulation of dimensional quasi-linear partial differential equations (PDEs) with well-defined initial and boundary conditions, which are rendered dimensionless by introducing appropriate non-dimensional parameters. These equations are then resolved numerically using the implicit Crank-Nicolson finite difference scheme implemented in MATLAB. The research meticulously examines the influence of pertinent physical parameters on the velocity profile, temperature distribution, and concentration of reactive species, complemented by graphical illustrations. Furthermore, the study elucidates the impact of these physical variables on the wall shear stress, heat transfer rate, and mass transfer rate, presented in tabular format and subjected to comprehensive analysis. The findings underscore that an increase in the Soret parameter enhances fluid velocity and reactive species concentration, whereas the intensification of the magnetic field and heat flux parameter diminishes fluid velocity. The rate of thermal transfer is observed to escalate with higher values of the heat source, radiation-absorption, and radiative heat flux parameters; conversely, it diminishes with an increase in the Prandtl number. The study reveals superior thermal performance for Cu nanoparticles compared to TiO₂. A comparative analysis with prior published results substantiates the accuracy of the computational framework, with the outcomes exhibiting exceptional concordance.
Examining the phenomenon of destoolment in the chieftaincy institution: An analysis of six cases from the Ashanti Region, Ghana
Authors: Boateng Kwabena , Osei-Wusu Adjei Prince , Afranie Stephen
Published: February 2025

The chieftaincy institution in Africa existed before the continent’s historical encounter with European missionaries. However, the African intelligentsia were not enthused about the incorporation of chiefs in the colonial administration and even questioned their significance in nation-building. In Ghana, for instance, the postindependent political terrain was characterised by destoolment and attempts to subvert the powers and functions of chiefs by political actors. Constitutionally, parliament is debarred from enacting laws that either confer or withdraw recognition or derogate the honour and dignity of the institution of chieftaincy. This notwithstanding, there have been numerous destoolments currently by the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the King of the Asante Kingdom. Using a case study approach, this study examined the rationale for destoolment. The study found that chiefs were destooled due to the utilisation of land guards, multiple sales of land, bribery and corruption, and illegal mining among others. The paper recommends that chiefs engaged in bribery and corruption be sent to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for prosecution.
Grossesse molaire partielle avec fœtus vivant : à propos d’un cas et revue de la littérature
Authors: Tongou P , Douaguibe B , Bararmna-Bagou F , Ketevi A , Mawougbe R , Kambote Y , Seddoh1  , Mussengelwa F , Ajavon D , Aboubakari S.
Published: February 2025

La môle hydatiforme partielle (MHP) est définie comme la fécondation d’un ovocyte par deux spermatozoïdes (dispermie), donnant un œuf triploïde (69 XXX, 69 XXY ou 69 XYY) et le plus souvent associée à la présence d'un fœtus malformé. La circonstance diagnostique la plus commune étant le tableau d’avortement spontané au premier trimestre. Nous rapportons un cas de grossesse molaire partielle avec fœtus normal de 18 semaines d’aménorrhée (SA) chez une femme âgée de 24 ans vivant en zone rurale.
Partial hydatidiform mole (PMH) is defined as the fertilization of an oocyte by two spermatozoa (dispermia), resulting in a triploid egg (69 XXX, 69 XXY or 69 XYY) and most often associated with the presence of a malformed fetus.The most common diagnostic circumstance being the picture of spontaneous abortion in the first trimester. We report a case of partial molar pregnancy with normal fetus of 18 weeks of amenorrhea (AS) in a 24-year-old woman living in a rural area.
Diabète sucré de l’enfant au CHU Campus de Lomé, Togo
Authors: Fiawoo M , Hemou M , Guedenon KM , Tchapide-Traor A , Agbeko F , Djadou KE , Douti NK.
Published: February 2025

Introduction : Le diabète est devenu l’une des urgences sanitaires mondiales du XXIème siècle qui connait l’évolution la plus rapide.
Objectif : Décrire les aspects épidémiologique, diagnostique, thérapeutique et évolutif du diabète sucré de l’enfant.
Méthodes : Il s’est agi d’une série de cas sur le diabète sucré chez les enfants de 0 à18 ans moins 1 jour, hospitalisés dans le service de pédiatrie du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Campus de Lomé. L’étude a été menée sur la période du 1er janvier 2011 au 31 décembre 2020.
Résultats : Au total, 16 patients diabétique étaient enrôlés sur 12 437 enfants hospitalisés soit une fréquence hospitalière de 0,13 %. Le diabète de type 1 était retrouvé chez quatorze patients et le diabète de type 2 chez deux patients. L’âge moyen était de 10,06 ± 3,57 ans avec des extrêmes de 2 et 17 ans. La sex-ratio était de 0,78. La découverte fortuite en hospitalisation était le mode de révélation chez huit patients. Deux patients étaient obèses. Un antécédent familial de diabète avait été noté chez huit patients. Le coma (N=7), le syndrome polyuro-polydipsique (N=6) et l’amaigrissement (N=6) étaient les principaux motifs d’admission. Le coma acidocétosique (N=3) était la complication inaugurale la plus fréquente. La glycémie à l’entrée était > 4 g/L dans huit cas. L’évolution était marquée par un décès chez six patients.
Conclusion : Le diabète de l’enfant est une urgence diagnostique et thérapeutique. Des efforts méritent d’être consacrés à son dépistage systématique et à sa prise en charge.
 
Introduction: Diabetes has become one of the most rapidly evolving global health emergencies of the 21st century.
Objective: To describe the epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects of diabetes mellitus in children.
Methods: This was a case series on diabetes mellitus in children aged 0-18 years minus One days hospitalized in the pediatrics department of the teaching hospital Campus of Lomé. The study was conducted over the period from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2020.
Results: A total of 16 patients were enrolled out of 12,437 hospitalized children, representing a hospital frequency of 0.13%. Fourteen patients had type 1 diabetes and two had type 2 diabetes. Mean age was 10.06 ± 3.57 years, with extremes of 2 and 17 years. The sex ratio was 0.78. Eight patients were diagnosed by the fortuitous discovery of the disease during hospitalization. Two patients were obese. Eight patients had a family history of diabetes. Coma (N=7), polyuropolydipsic syndrome (N=6) and weight loss (N=6) were the main reasons for admission. Acidoketotic coma (N=3) was the most frequent inaugural complication. Eight cases had blood glucose levels > 4 g/L on admission. Six patients died.
Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus in children is a diagnostic and therapeutic emergency. Efforts deserve to be devoted to systematic screening and management.
Performance evaluation of different electrode materials and substrate modifications on bioelectricity generation from bacteria fuel cells
Authors: Oluyide O. O. , Oloke J. K. , Adenigba V. O. , Elufisan T. O. , Ojo B. A.
Published: February 2025

The global energy crisis is caused by high energy demand and insufficient resources. Non-renewable energy sources are diminishing, while renewable energy sources are underutilized. An urgent search for alternative energy generation routes is necessary. A microbial fuel cell is a process that makes use of microorganisms like bacteria or fungi as biocatalysts that oxidize waste organic matter to release electrons which in turn are used to produce electricity. An MFC reactor is made of a cathode, an anode, and a substrate onto which microorganisms are fed so that electrons are released for bioelectricity generation .A two-chamber cathode was fabricated in this study. The chamber has a total volume of 120ml and a working volume of 100ml. The chamber was used to investigate the influence of substrate enrichment and type of electrode on electricity production by some selected bacteria (Pseudomonas Tawanensis (PT), Myroides Odoratimimus (MO), Sphingobacterium Mizutaii (SM). The substrate used is locust beans wastewater. The substrate was enriched with either sucrose or acetate. The electrodes include copper, aluminum, aluminum-zinc alloy, soft zinc, and zinc. To determine the most suitable enrichment sources (sucrose and acetate) a mixed culture of the three bacteria was inoculated in the substrate (locust bean wastewater) with a standard graphite electrode. Cellulose acetate was used as the membrane for the chamber in place of the cation exchange membrane. The setup was operated for 20 days. The effect of substrate enrichment and electrode use on bioelectricity and stability was later analyzed. The results from the mixed culture showed that the substrate enriched with sucrose generated a higher voltage (2.15x10-3 mA) when compared with an acetate-enriched substrate (this generated a voltage of 1.62x10-3 mA) with graphite as the electrode. Following this result, we selected sucrose as the enrichment source in the remaining experiment. Each bacterium used in this study generated electricity in the chamber containing sucrose-enriched substrate with each of the electrodes used. This implies that all the adopted electrodes are sufficient site for the formation of biofilm through which bioelectricity can be generated. However, the highest voltage (1.72mA) was recorded in the chamber containing Pseudomonas taiwanensis with zinc as the electrode in the chamber. We noted that in all the bacteria used in this study, bioeletricity generation was more stable and consistent with copper as the electrode of choice.
Differentials in chips and reused oil quality of fried plantain
Authors: Ugwuona Fabian Uchenna , Ibewuike Nkiruka Precious , Ejinkeonye Uju Bridget , Agwo Obinna Eni
Published: February 2025

Background: Plantain chips are popular snack enjoyed by all ages in Nigeria; however, repeated use of oil for frying is a common practice among Nigerians.Objective: This study evaluated the oxidative stability of groundnut oil used repeatedly for frying the plantain chips and physicochemical characteristics of the fried chips.Methods: Plantain fingers were peeled, sliced into chips (2 mm thick), soaked (3 min) in 5% salt solution, drained out (5 min) and fried in groundnut oil (2.5 litres) within 12 – 15 minutes on the first day. On the 3rd, 5th, 7th and 9th days of the experiment, fresh plantain chips were similarly prepared and fried with the same groundnut oil. The groundnut oil was analysed for oxidative stability while chips were analysed for physicochemical characteristics.Results: Repeated use of the same oil in subsequent frying significantly (p < 0.05) decreased quality of both the oil and chips. The chips appearance darkened; and its protein and ash contents decreased from 3.59% and 9.48% in the 1st day chips; and to 3.11% and 8.84% in the 9th day chips respectively. Calcium (Mg/100g) and β-carotene contents (Mg/100g) respectively decreased from 10.37 and 1077.67 in the 1st day chips to 9.59 and 257.12 in the 9th day chips. Physicochemical parameters of the oil deteriorated. Iodine value decreased while free fatty acid, peroxide value and thiobarbituric acid number increased.Conclusion: The oil darkened in colour with increasing rancid characteristics as it was being used repeatedly for frying fresh plantain chips while this decreased physicochemical characteristic of the fried chips The same oil, particularly groundnut oil, should not be used over time for frying chips in order to protect consumers from health-related issues that might arise from consuming such oil and chips.
Modelling beta-carotene Retention in three Nigerian palm oil soups
Authors: Afolami Ibukun , Okafor Chisom
Published: February 2025

Background: Pre-heating of crude palm oil during the preparation of soups is a common practice in Nigeria, used to enhance flavour and taste. However, it leads to degradation and loss of pro-vitamin A carotenoids.Objective: The study modelled the effect of pre-heating and cooking on beta-carotene retention in commonly consumed palm oil soups in Ibadan North LGA in Nigeria.Methods: Seventy-five people participated in a quantitative dietary recall, and 60 participants were selected based on their frequent consumption of palm oil soups. Three most-frequently consumed palm oil soups – egusi (melon soup), efo-riro (vegetable soup) and obe ata (palm oil stew) were selected from 15 palm oil dishes recalled by participants. Retention of beta-carotene in the composite soups was calculated using an exponential decay model (model I) at 190°C for the pre-heating phase of palm oil and a polynomial model (model II) for the cooking phase of the soups. Beta-carotene retention in palm oil was calculated experimentally by simulating the pre-heating process and measuring beta-carotene concentrations at 5 minutes, 15 minutes and 30 minutes. Beta-carotene content of soup ingredients was calculated using nutrient values from the West African Food Composition Database, while considering the yield factors for each soup.Results: Seventy-eight percent, 82%, and 91% of carotenoid loss was estimated for egusi, efo-riro, and palm oil stew respectively, corresponding to 13,822 μg/100g, 12,297 μg/100g and 5,880 μg/100g of betacarotene retained in the soups respectively.Conclusion: Pre-heating of palm oil contributed mostly to carotenoid loss. Caution should be taken when preheating of palm oil to minimize nutrient loss.
Chemical compositions of Cussonia bateri (Jansa Seed) - An underutilized spice in Nigeria
Authors: Arua Chidimma P , Anyika-Elekeh J. U. , Eze Scholastica N. , Ani Peace N , Onyeke Nkechi G. , Anoshirike C.O.
Published: February 2025

Background: The potentials of most indigenous crops have not been fully exploited. The underutilized crops, if well-harnessed, can play a great role in promoting food security both in Africa and globally.Objective: Chemical (nutrient and antinutrient) compositions of Cussonia bateri - an underutilized spice in Nigeria was evaluated.Methods: The jansa seeds were procured from Orie Ugba Market in Umuahia. The seeds were sorted, washed with water, oven dried using hot air oven at 55oC for 6 hours and milled into fine powder. The proximate, vitamin, mineral and antinutrient contents of the spice were determined using standard analytical methods. The data generated were statistically analyzed, and presented as means of triplicate analyses.Results: The results showed that the spice was high in fat (25.71%), carbohydrate (51.23%), crude fibre (3.42%), thiamin (2.69mg/100g) and riboflavin (0.90mg/100g). The spice also contained appreciable amounts of crude protein (9.18%), pyridoxine (0.64mg/100g), magnesium (22.89mg/100g), phosphorus (47.72mg/100g) and potassium (69.67mg/100g). The spice contained 6.45mg/100g of tannin and 0.82mg/100g of phytate.Conclusion: The nutrient compositions of jansa seeds spice were comparable to those of many other wellknown indigenous spices; hence, incorporating this spice in diets can contribute significantly to people's nutrient intakes. The phytate and tannin contents of the spice were low; thus, will not pose health hazard or decrease bioavailability of minerals, but will be beneficial to health. Creation of awareness of benefits of this spice in food preparation is recommended.
Stakeholder`s Relationship and Influence Level in Integrating the Industrial Construction Technology in Tanzania-The Structural Model
Authors: Said Tekka Ramadhani
Published: February 2025

The prevailing sustainable approach for improving the performance of the construction sector is the use of industrialized construction technology, or ICT that has drawn much attention of several international construction community researchers. The objective of this paper was to examine the stakeholder’s relationship and influence level towards integration of industrial construction Technologies in Tanzania. One-hundred fifty-nine (159) structured questionnaires were completely administered via online media to experienced construction sector professionals. The findings documented eight influential stakeholders including developer, manufacturer, government, consultant, contractors, supplier, public institutions and education institutes who plays a significant role towards integration the industrialized construction technology. Also, the findings have recognized the structural model showing the correlation between the stakeholders. This study offers the essential insights for future research in this field aimed at informing the construction industry about the fundamental stakeholders and their influence power towards industrialized construction technology integration in the Tanzania construction industry.
Efficacité insecticide des extraits de la pelure des fruits de Citrus sinensis (L.) visà-vis de Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch.), ravageur des grains de maïs (Zea mays L.) en stock à l'Extrême-Nord du Cameroun
Authors: Wangkaqué Sylvain Bayang , Tinkeu Léonard Simon Ngamo , Goudoum Augustin
Published: February 2025

Description du sujet: L’usage des insecticides de synthèse demeure la méthode de lutte la plus pratiquée contre les ravageurs des  denrées alimentaires stockées. Cependant, leur utilisation de façon répétitive et à concentration élevée, présente des effets néfastes tant  pour les consommateurs que pour l’environnement et la biodiversité.
Objectif: Evaluer l’efficacité de la poudre de pelure des fruits de Citrus sinensis obtenu par le procédé de tamisage différentiel sur le  contrôle de Sitophilus zeamais.
Méthodes: Les extraits poudreux obtenus après tamisage successif d’une masse de poudre avec des  tamis de mailles décroissantes superposés, ont été utilisés pour déterminer le screening phytochimique, le dosage des métabolites  secondaires et l’activité insecticide de chaque fraction formulée sur le cycle évolutif du ravageur.
Résultats: Les résultats de la  caractérisation qualitative et quantitative des métabolites secondaires montrent que les teneurs varient de 22,44 à 38,31 mg EAG/g MS  pour le polyphénol, de 4,45 à 5,72 mg ER/g MS pour les flavonoïdes, de 11,25 à 14,23 mg EC/g MS pour les tanins, de 2,15 à 11,28 mg ECG/ g MS pour les alcaloïdes et de 0,22 à 0,58 mg/g de poudres pour les saponines. L’activité insecticide de chaque fraction à différentes  doses (3; 5 et 8 g/kg), a induit une mortalité supérieure que celle du témoin sans poudre. La dose 8 g/kg de la fraction 200 µm, a induit un  taux de mortalité le plus élevé durant toute les périodes de traitements entre les jours 5 (95,55 ± 4,71 %) et 35 (94,95 ± 5,85 %),  comparé au taux de mortalité (100 %) provoqué par Antouka super insecticide de référence.
Conclusion: Cette étude suggère la  possibilité d’utiliser la poudre de pelure de C. sinensis comme une alternative aux insecticides chimiques dans la lutte contre le ravageur  Sitophilus zeamais.
The Dead Author and the Living Body. Roland Barthes’ Sanatorium Treatment and His Theory of Authorship
Authors: Gacek Norbert
Published: February 2025

The purpose of my paper is to demonstrate that the theory of the “death of the author” formulated by Roland Barthes in the late 1960s can be read in the context of the sanatorium treatment he underwent between 1942 and 1946, since the experience of tuberculosis was inscribed in two unpublished drafts Barthes wrote after leaving the sanatorium, namely Esquisse d’une societe sanatoriale [Sketch of a Sanatorium Society] and L’Avenir de la rhetorique [The Future of Rhetoric]. By pointing out the similarities between The Future of Rhetoric and The Death of the Author, I seek to prove that some of Barthes’ concepts, hitherto seen as inspired by structuralist ideas, appeared in his writings much earlier. An additional consideration is given to the use of metaphors that clearly links the 1946 and 1947 texts to the 1967 The Death of the Author.
SqueezeCall: nanopore basecalling using a Squeezeformer network
Authors: Zhu Zhongxu
Published: February 2025

Nanopore sequencing, a third-generation sequencing technique, enables direct RNA sequencing, real-time analysis, and long-read length. Nanopore sequencers measure electrical current changes as nucleotides pass through nanopores; a basecaller identifies base sequences according to the raw current measurements. However, accurate basecalling remains challenging due to molecular variations and sequencing noise. Here, we introduce SqueezeCall, a novel Squeezeformer-based model for accurate nanopore basecalling. SqueezeCall uses convolution layers to down-sample raw signals and model local dependencies. A Squeezeformer network captures the global context, and a connectionist temporal classification (CTC) decoder with beam search generates DNA sequences. Experimental results demonstrated SqueezeCall’s ability to resist noise, improving basecalling accuracy. We trained SqueezeCall combining three types of loss, and found that all three loss types contribute to basecalling accuracy. Experiments across multiple species demonstrated the potential of a Squeezeformer-based model to improve basecalling accuracy and its superiority over recurrent neural network-based models and Transformer-based models.
VOICE AND SILENCE OF THE GENDERED SUBALTERN IN MARY SHELLEY’S FRANKENSTEIN
Authors:   Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Karamanidou Niki-Grigoria
Published: February 2025

The present paper examines the production and perpetuation of Orientalist discourse,
as well as the voicing and silencing of the gendered subaltern Other in Mary Shelley’s
worldwide classic Frankenstein.
More specifically, the analysis argues that there are specific characters of Oriental
ancestry or appearance in the novel, namely Safie and the creature, which are
attributed essentialized and stereotypically Orientalist characteristics when juxtaposed
to the white European characters of the novel. Furthermore, the paper stresses that the
female subaltern, that being Safie, as well as the female creature, who is destroyed by
her creator, are not allowed to claim a voice. More specifically, Safie’s story is fully
narrated by the creature and the female creature is killed before she can actually narrate
her own story. It is further argued that although the male subaltern, Frankenstein’s
creature, is presented as a savage figure of terror, he is given a powerful voice, as he
is educated and eloquent, openly defying his master and demanding his freedom. This
condition reveals a complex differentiation in the representation and access to power
of the subaltern subject depending on the subject’s gender.
In particular, this study employs Gayatri Spivak’s theory Can the Subaltern Speak?
which focuses on the epistemic violence that the subaltern subjects, especially the
female, experience as they become silenced. Edward Said’s theory on Orientalism,
which discusses the stereotypical representation of the Orient based on which the
Occident is constructed, is also used to facilitate this study. The paper thus, aims to
contribute to the rich research which examines Frankenstein in a post-colonial context
for its Orientalist discourse, by focusing on the less explored voice and silence of the
gendered Subaltern.
SEX, LIES, AND GRAND THEFT AUTO: THE CONTEMPORARY EFFECT OF RACIST CARICATURES ON THE PERCEPTION OF THE BLACK FEMALE BODY
Authors:   Criminal Justice Studies of the University of Portsmouth, UK, Kliagkona Konstantina
Published: February 2025

The Grand Theft Auto (GTA) Saga (1997-2013) developed by Rockstar North has been one of
the most successful action-adventure videogame productions with millions of fanatic players
globally and billions in earnings (Wright, 2022: 1). Yet, in spite of its commercial frenzy, it has
often been denounced for the debasing depiction of non-playable female characters designed
to function as ornaments, be ridiculed, killed for fun or level upgrading, sexually objectified
to serve the “male-gaze” experience as described by Mulrey (1979: 837) and others (Malone,
2014: 11-25; Ruberg, 2018: 314-27; Waszkiewicz, 2019: 175, 180; Wright, 2022: 150). Still,
literature proves scarce in terms of research on the lack or the negative representation of
Black female characters in the game even if the preponderance of playership consists of
mainly Black male adolescents (Wright, 2022: 142). Hence, the focal point of this paper
rests upon the deconstruction of the image of certain female figures of Black descent that has
been denounced as being prejudiced across the GTA series (particularly the installments of
Vice City (2002), San Andreas (2004), and V (2013), where such characters appear the most)
via the introduction and systematic analysis of the following deep-rooted and long-standing
racial stereotypes, namely the Mammy, the Jezebel, the Sapphire and, finally, the Ghetto
Hood Girl/Angry Black Woman, and their effect on male and female playership.
EMILY DICKINSON AND THE POETICS OF LABOR
Authors:   American Studies of the University of Kent, UK, Lopez Sanchez Irene
Published: February 2025

This article explores Emily Dickinson’s poetics of labor and the relationship between
work and leisure in both nineteenth-century and contemporary US culture. Historically,
labor has been perceived as the axis of social and economic values. Individuals,
however, are frequently encouraged to deviate from their work routines, making it
difficult to appreciate them. Using a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, this
study examines Dickinson’s oeuvre in dialogue with the philosophical and sociological
framework on the distinction between work and leisure and its implications for
people’s lives, as well as how the value of work has changed over time. Through a
close reading of selected poems and letter fragments, this article demonstrates how
Dickinson’s work blurs traditional boundaries between labor and leisure, suggesting
that creative work can hold intrinsic, self-validating worth irrespective of economic
or societal pressures. Finally, Dickinson’s perspective on work and time may inform
contemporary debates around meaningful labor and life balance in a capitalist society.
Percepción de mujeres estudiantes, docentes y administrativa sobre la violencia sexual en el contexto universitario ecuatoriano
Authors: Segovia Neira Jorge Antonio
Published: February 2025

El presente estudio analiza el impacto de la violencia sexual en universidades ecuatorianas, considerando estudiantes, docentes y personal administrativo femenino. La investigación tiene como objetivo identificar la prevalencia de esta problemática, su efecto en el desempeño académico y profesional, y evaluar la respuesta institucional. Utilizando un diseño mixto, con encuestas y entrevistas a 40 estudiantes y 40 trabajadoras universitarias, se identificó que el 68.5% de las participantes han experimentado acoso sexual y el 32.5% violencia sexual directa. Además, el 82.5% considera inadecuada la respuesta institucional y solo el 27.5% conoce los protocolos de denuncia. Los resultados reflejan consecuencias graves, incluyendo impactos psicológicos como ansiedad y dificultades interpersonales, y un deterioro en el desempeño académico y profesional. El estudio concluye que las universidades carecen de políticas efectivas para abordar esta problemática y resalta la necesidad urgente de implementar estrategias integrales de prevención y atención. Este trabajo contribuye al entendimiento de la violencia de género en contextos educativos, sentando las bases para investigaciones y acciones futuras.
Knowledge, Postures and Practices of Patients Followed for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) in the Ophthalmology Department of Bouake’s University Hospital
Authors: EFK Bile Philippe
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Glaucoma is a chronic and silent disease whose clinical care is based on early detection and patient adherence to treatment. The aim of this study was to identify the level of knowledge and attitudes of patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) followed at the ophthalmology department of Bouake’s University Hospital.

Materials and methods: This was a retrospective and prospective study that was carried out on 55 glaucoma patients in Bouake’s University Hospital for 35 days. This study focused on the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of patients suffering from POAG.

Results: Fifty five patients were able to respond to our questionnaires, with an average age of 42.64 years, with a female predominance of 51.40%, a sex ratio of 0.94. Patients with knowledge of glaucoma were the most numerous (91.76%). This knowledge was taught to patients by health workers (82.35%). Self-medication was practiced by 47.14% of glaucoma patients. The majority of patients claimed to have respected the dosage of medication in 94.3% but the majority had stopped treatment without any medical advice (58.60%).
¿Era verdaderamente necesario para Descartes su dualismo antropológico?
Authors: Ortigosa Andrés
Published: February 2025

La coherencia del dualismo antropológico cartesiano entre el cuerpo y el alma es difícil de asumir desde su sistema filosófico. Por ello, en esta investigación se indaga por los motivos que le llevaron a mantenerlo. Para ello se presenta a la filosofía de Descartes como un voluntarismo que establece los límites de la razón. Luego se acude a las Meditaciones para comprobar que, aunque Descartes establezca dos entidades (cuerpo como res extensa y alma como res cogitans) también afirma que son una sola unidad. La hipótesis de esta investigación es que Descartes se enroca en su dualismo para justificar por una parte la inmortalidad del alma y, por otra parte, permitir el avance de la ciencia de su época.
Auralidad en el contexto del barroco novohispano. La dimensión sonora como médium intercultural en la construcción de una memoria sincrética.
Authors: Pinto Prieto Elsa
Published: February 2025

A lo largo del artículo presentamos metodologías interdisciplinares que revitalizan la dimensión sensorial del barroco novohispano, especialmente en relación con la experiencia sónica desde la agencia aural de emisión-escucha. A partir de esta posición, analizamos las categorías de la urbe establecidas por el historiado Ángel Rama de ciudad ordenada, letrada y escrituraria, aplicándolas al caso de estudio de la Ciudad de México. En consecuencia, nos replanteamos la presencia y permanencia de lo oral en los discursos letrados de naturaleza textual. Con esta perspectiva cuestionamos los mecanismos por los que se conformó la ciudad como lugar de memoria que solo recogía la experiencia de las élites, revelando una memoria sincrética que preserva un sentir indígena. Para ello trabajamos con fuentes de carácter simbólico y apologético para la idiosincrasia criolla y otras músico-literarias, así como los villancicos, siguiendo la impronta del ethos barroco criollo e indígena.
Reforzar el poder central en una época inestable: la creación de la secretaría del Despacho Universal en el siglo XVII
Authors: Hamer Flores Adolfo
Published: February 2025

Salvando las distancias, el Barroco y la figura del valido surgieron y se desarrollaron en la Monarquía Hispánica como respuesta a una necesidad de reafirmar el poder y la autoridad en un momento de crisis y transformación. En este sentido, la creación de la secretaría del Despacho Universal a comienzos del reinado de Felipe IV, de la que nos ocuparemos en este artículo, constituyó un elemento fundamental para reforzar al valido evitando, como había ocurrido en el reinado anterior, que este se ocupase directamente de asuntos que generasen excesivo malestar o incluso rechazo en la maquinaria administrativa de la monarquía. Dado que durante todo el siglo XVII se trató siempre de un empleo de confianza del rey, no son pocas las interrogantes que aún quedan acerca de estos secretarios; cuya relevancia llegó a ser tal que, ya en el siglo XVIII, se configuró un sistema de gobierno apoyado esencialmente en las secretarías de Estado y del Despacho.
Indigenous Sandy Loaches in Focus: Pioneering Breeding Success of Acanthocobitis Botia in Bangladesh
Authors:   Fisheries Research Institute, Freshwater Sub-Station, Saidpur, Nilphamari-5310, Bangladesh, Ahamed Saokat , Haidar Md Istiaque ,   Fisheries Research Institute, Freshwater Sub-Station, Saidpur, Nilphamari-5310, Bangladesh, Hossain Mou Maliha ,   Fisheries Research Institute, Freshwater Sub-Station, Saidpur, Nilphamari-5310, Bangladesh, Hasan Khandaker Rashidul ,   Fisheries Research Institute, Freshwater Sub-Station, Saidpur, Nilphamari-5310, Bangladesh
Published: February 2025

Successful spawning induction occurs when males and females exhibit synchronized behavior. In a previous study, we successfully demonstrated the
reproductive biology and induction of spawning in loaches by administering synthetic hormones through injections. Building upon this research, we have
applied the same technique to sandy loaches, specifically Acanthocobitis Botia. We injected the GnRH analog synthetic hormone ovaprim into the fish’s
body in this study. Within 6-8 hours of the injections, ovulation occurred, leading to the male and female engaging in spawning behavior. Our results
showed that administering 1ml/kg of ovaprim in T3 yielded the most favorable outcomes in terms of the number of fish laying eggs (100%), total spawning
eggs (290±42), fertilization rate (72±4.0), hatching rate (70±4.0), and survival of hatchlings (64±3.60) compared to the 0.75ml/kg in T2 and 0.5ml/kg in
T1 treatments. No spawning activity was observed in the control group that did not receive injections. These findings have significant implications for the
aquarium industry, as they can help promote the breeding of indigenous small fishes like loaches. Furthermore, this research contributes to the conservation
efforts aimed at preserving the vibrant and diverse population of these colorful fishes in their natural habitats.
Risk Mitigation Strategies in Healthcare Operations: Lessons from Transforming Pharmacy Operations and Controlled Substance Management
Authors:   USA, Taranekar Priyanka
Published: February 2025

This paper examines transformative approaches to risk mitigation in healthcare towards controlled substance
management, with a particular focus on modernizing pharmacy operations. The research addresses critical
challenges faced by healthcare organizations in maintaining operational efficiency while ensuring regulatory
compliance in controlled substance handling. Traditional approaches, characterized by manual workflows
and disconnected policies, expose organizations to substantial compliance and operational risks. Through
analysis of current practices and regulatory requirements, this paper proposes comprehensive risk mitigation
strategies including standardized procedures, secure tracking systems, and systematic training programs.
The paper presents specific recommendations for implementing technology-driven solutions such as
Controlled Substance Ordering Systems (CSOS), developing nationalized policies, enhancing cross-functional
collaboration, and establishing real-time monitoring systems. The economic implications of these measures
are evaluated using a risk-based approach, estimating an annual impact of USD 5.87 million based on excess
healthcare costs and assumed adoption rates in pharmacy organizations. This research contributes to the
growing body of knowledge on healthcare operations risk management while providing practical guidance
for pharmacy organizations seeking to strengthen their controlled substance management practices.
The findings emphasize that managing compliance and safety in controlled substance management has
evolved from an operational necessity to a strategic imperative, requiring innovative approaches that align
compliance with operational excellence.
Hyper Parameters Optimization for Gaussian Mechanism with Coyote-Badger and Kriging Model for EHR
Authors: Mr. Samadhan Palkar  , Prof. (Dr.) Raghav Mehra  , Prof. (Dr.) Lingaraj Hadimani
Published: February 2025

Differential privacy (DP) is a cornerstone of privacy-preserving data analysis.  Among its mechanisms, the Gaussian mechanism stands out for its ability to provide robust privacy guarantees by adding Gaussian noise to computations. However, the mechanism’s hyper parameters, including the noise scale (σ) and privacy budget (ϵ), require careful optimization to balance privacy and utility. This paper explores the application of Coyote Optimization Algorithm (COA) and Badger Optimization Algorithm (BOA) for hyper- parameter optimization, coupled with the Kriging surrogate model to enhance computational efficiency. Comparative evaluations demonstrate that these methods outperform traditional approaches, achieving better convergence rates and improved privacy-utility trade-offs.
Idiopathic lobular panniculitis. Clinical case
Authors:   Omsk State Medical University, Omsk, Russia, Ovsyannikov Nikolay V. , Zamakhina Olga V. ,   City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after A.N. Kabanov, Omsk, Russia, Mingulov Dmitrij R. ,   City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after A.N. Kabanov, Omsk, Russia, Gorshkov Vladimir F. ,   City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after A.N. Kabanov, Omsk, Russia, Klishin Vitalij V. ,   City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after A.N. Kabanov, Omsk, Russia
Published: February 2025

Panniculitis includes heterogeneous diseases characterized by an immuno-inflammatory process in the subcutaneous fat. Often the musculoskeletal system and internal organs are involved in the pathological process. The etiology and pathogenesis of panniculitis are not fully understood, however, the immunopathological nature of the disease is most likely. There is no uniform classification of panniculitis. Ideopathic lobular panniculitis (ILP) (synonyms: recurrent febrile non-suppurating panniculitis, nodular Pfeiffer-Weber-Christian panniculitis) is of particular clinical interest. ILP according to ICD-10 refers to systemic connective tissue lesions (M 35.6). The described clinical case of IPD demonstrates the difficulty of diagnosing this disease.
A clinical case of treatment HER-2 blockers cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction
Authors:   NMRC of Oncology named after N.N. Petrov of MoH of Russia, St. Petersburg, Russia, Kozyavin N.A. , Mureyko E.A. ,   NMRC of Oncology named after N.N. Petrov of MoH of Russia, St. Petersburg, Russia, Gluzman M.I. ,   City Clinical Oncology Dispensary, St. Petersburg, Russia; Saint Petersburg University, St. Petersburg, Russia, Nikiforov V.S.
Published: February 2025

This clinical case about of left ventricular systolic dysfunction with chronic heart failure associated with targeted therapy with trastuzumab and pertuzumab in a patient suffering from HER-2 positive breast cancer. The exogenous phosphocreatine (“Neoton”) was added to the standard treatment of chronic heart failure with sacubitril/valsartan, bisoprolol, spironolactone or empagliflozin. It made possible to achieve an additional increase in the left ventricular ejection fraction and preventing interruption of targeted therapy and continue it as before.
How to treat not causing harm?
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Medical University, Novosibirsk, Russia, Kulchaven Ekaterina V.ya ,   Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia,   Medical center "Avicenna", Novosibirsk, Russia
Published: February 2025

Difficulty selecting drug therapy for patients with intercurrent diseases is demonstrated, selection of drugs exerting the narrowest spectrum of undesirable effects in cases of compulsory polypharmacy is substantiated. In the cohort of patients with chronic cystitis there are patients with overactive bladder (OAB) occurring under the guise of cystitis and female patients with comorbid OAB and cystitis. Obviously, standard therapy for cystitis does not ensure restoration of normal urination in such patients. Thus, restoration of normal urination in patients with OAB can be considered as the cystitis prevention and treatment method and vice versa. When treating multimorbid and elderly patients with OAB, trospium chloride is the drug of choice, since it has a number of unique chemical and pharmacokinetic properties: trospium chloride is a positively charged quaternary ammonium compound, which does not allow it to cross the BBB; trospium chloride is not metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system, which significantly reduces the possibility of drug interaction; trospium chloride is excreted unchanged in urine as an active parent compound, ensuring extra local activity to achieve rapid and prolonged effect. Chronic prostatitis is another common disease in outpatient urology practice. The term “chronic prostatitis” (CP), like the term “chronic pelvic pain syndrome” includes a number of various symptomatic models, and many aspects of CP still remain a mystery. The association of oxidative stress with inflammation and inflammatory responses is beyond doubt. It has been proven that inflammatory macrophages release the glutathionylated peroxiredoxin-2 that later acts as a “danger signal”, triggering production of tumor necrosis factor alpha. It is emphasized that damage to DNA resulting primarily from oxidative stress is the main cause of sperm dysfunction. However, oxidative stress is caused by modifiable factors, and the use of simple measures, such as taking the antioxidant complex supplement, can reduce its severity. The following substances have antioxidant properties: vitamins А, Е, and С; minerals zinc, copper and selenium; glutathione, carnitine, N-acetylcysteine, coenzyme Q10, carnosine, L-arginine, lycopene, resveratrol, myo-inositol, folic acid, α-lipoic acid, pentoxifylline, quercetin, etc. We recommend to pay attention to the Selzinc® Plus antioxidant vitamin mineral complex containing both non-enzymatic low molecular weight antioxidants (α-tocopherol (47 mg), β-carotene (4.8 mg), ascorbic acid (180 mg)) and minerals (zinc (7.2 mg) and selenium (50 µg)).