bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PERSEPSI PEMUSTAKA TERHADAP KOLEKSI DIGITAL DI PERPUSTAKAAN IAIN KEDIRI
Authors: Aulawi M Basith , Mauludin M Soleh
Published: February 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis persepsi pemustaka terhadap koleksi digital di Perpustakaan IAIN Kediri. Seiring dengan perkembangan teknologi, perpustakaan modern semakin mengandalkan koleksi digital untuk memenuhi kebutuhan informasi penggunanya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan survei. Data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara kepada pemustaka yang terdiri dari mahasiswa IAIN Kediri. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sebagian besar pemustaka memiliki persepsi positif terhadap koleksi digital Perpustakaan IAIN Kediri. Mereka menilai bahwa koleksi digital mudah diakses, relevan, dan bermanfaat untuk mendukung kegiatan akademik dan penelitian. Namun, beberapa pemustaka juga mengidentifikasi beberapa kendala seperti keterbatasan akses internet dan kurangnya sosialisasi terkait koleksi digital. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa Perpustakaan IAIN Kediri telah berhasil menyediakan koleksi digital yang berkualitas dan relevan bagi pemustaka. Meskipun demikian, upaya berkelanjutan diperlukan untuk mengatasi kendala yang ada dan meningkatkan pemanfaatan koleksi digital secara optimal.
Kata Kunci: Persepsi, Pemustaka, Koleksi Digital
Innovation Strategies of Transnational Companies
Authors: Nosova Olga
Published: February 2025

The article aims to consider transnational companies’ strategies in the high-tech sector of the economy for
profit maximization. Transnational companies minimize costs via the transfer of research and development results to
regional divisions.
The comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of the transnational company’s basic strategies is outlined.
Research and development effects through the location of branches of foreign enterprises, advanced technologies
application, and the spread of new forms of management organization analyzed. The model of developing a strategy
for transnational companies to promote innovative products on the market is considered.
The ability of transnational companies to use a flexible mechanism of investment activity, and organizational methods
in the global economic changes proposed. The role of the usage of artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and
platforms by transnational companies has been determined. The key factors for achieving transnational companies’
technological leadership by using global production systems are well-grounded.
Promotion of Luxurious Cosmetics Through Emotion Manipulation
Authors: Ingram Keisha LaRaine , Dorbahani Dorsa , Sargsyan Anzhela , Kamble Mannhas
Published: February 2025

Considering the rising importance of emotions in influencing the purchase decisions of consumers, this
research highlights emotions and the ways in which they impact the purchase behaviour. This is significant regarding
information the marketers use to develop the strategies and practices for targeting consumer emotions, which
ineffectively influence their purchase decisions for luxury cosmetics products. Indeed, this a challenge that marketers
have faced in correctly aligning their marketing mix strategies to connect with these consumer groups. Conventional
marketing strategies used to capture emotion as a factor to determine consumer choices have historically enable commercial
success for luxury brands, however, this research explores emotions and moods using the Mood Congruency
Model and Affect-as-Information Model to determine consumer purchase behaviour for luxury cosmetics products.
Prototype of the Electronic Voting System. Security Implementations Using Database Facilities
Authors: Šulus Vytautas , Voitkun Pavel
Published: February 2025

Electronic Voting Systems (EVS) has become more popular and has progressed despite many concerns
about auditing and transparency. Authors present a technical solution for a prototype of a possible EVS. This prototype,
with additional improvements, could be used as an EVS in Lithuania and other countries worldwide. This
article is intended to show how EVS requirements relate to software solutions using open-source products.
Human Rights in Transition: a Comparative Analysis of Perceptions in Lithuania During and After the Soviet Era
Authors: Kirdeika Tomas , Sulik David , Loeffler Moritz , Draghiciu Mihaela Izabela , Stângă Adriana Gabriela , Hehnen Alexander , Jordt Nick
Published: February 2025

The Soviet Union (USSR) was known for violating human rights all around the countries it occupied, one
of them Lithuania. Since the collapse of the USSR, human rights have significantly improved. While we believe
this to be true, the main indicator would be the people who lived during the Soviet Union times. To understand
how human rights have evolved in their eyes, we conducted interviews with people who were born in the Soviet
Union under various leaders. It is important because seeing how they see human rights now and then can help us to
understand how far we improved or down proved. To understand the meaning of human rights and how far we have
progressed since Lithuania's independence, it is important to look back and ask people from that period about their
perception of human rights in their day-to-day life. This reflection helps us trace the evolution of human rights and
their significance to the population of Lithuania. Through this, we can gain valuable insight into the changes that
have occurred, the changes that are still happening, and those that will need to happen in the future.
Innovations in Human Resource Management. An Overview from the Guest Editor
Authors: Peyravi Bahman
Published: February 2025

The International Conference of Business and Entrepreneurship
seeks to create a vibrant forum for academics, business leaders, and
aspiring entrepreneurs to come together, share ideas, and investigate
creative strategies tackling the contemporary issues and best practices
in the domains of business and entrepreneurship. By means of
cooperative dialogue and knowledge exchange, the conference aims
at business solutions towards current entrepreneurial activities, business
challenges and drive global sustainable development.
Improvement of Career Management Skills of Adults in Information Technology through Non-Formal Education
Authors: Pilege Evita
Published: February 2025

This study aims to identify effective models and methodologies for improving the career management
skills of adults transitioning into IT roles through non-formal education. Through a literature review, expert interviews
and evaluation of data from the Riga TechGirls non-formal education programme 'DiscoverTech', the study
highlights the critical need for tailored career guidance in the context of digital transformation and human rights.
Key findings show that the models developed for digital transformation, career guidance and management skills,
together with the career counselling programme developed, significantly improve participants' career management
skills. The study makes a practical contribution by providing an evidence-based framework and exploring the role
of career guidance in a human rights context, supporting adults to navigate the growing demand for digitally skilled
workers.
Exploring Inclusivity in Higher Education: Perceptions, Experiences, and Barriers Among Students
Authors: Muraeva Polina , Uygur Mehmet Recai
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the development of inclusive education and the social dynamics of inclusivity at
SMK College of Applied Sciences and Vilnius Business College (VVK). With inclusivity becoming a critical aspect
of modern education, this research explores students' perceptions, experiences, and perceived barriers to inclusivity
within these institutions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative
insights from open-ended responses. Findings indicate that familiarity with social inclusion, awareness of
disability issues, and a supportive social environment contribute positively to students' perceptions of institutional
inclusivity. However, personal experiences of bias, cultural isolation, and limited engagement with inclusive initiatives
present notable barriers. The results underscore the need for comprehensive, multidimensional strategies that
address both structural and social inclusivity, fostering an equitable and empathetic educational environment. These
insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and educators seeking to enhance inclusive practices in higher
education institutions across Eastern Europe.
Determinants and Support Mechanisms in Social Entrepreneurship: An Empirical Analysis of Intentions and Development
Authors: Chikha Ines Ben , Jarboui Anis
Published: February 2025

In recent years, social entrepreneurship has emerged as a powerful solution to various global challenges
in the social, environmental, and economic spheres, gaining significant recognition. Promoting this form of entrepreneurship
on a global scale is essential. Understanding its determinants has attracted the attention of numerous
researchers. To effectively stimulate social entrepreneurship, it is crucial to investigate its determinants, particularly
the factors that influence social entrepreneurial intentions. Through a statistical analysis using the PLS-SEM method,
this study demonstrates that psychological characteristics, skills, motivations, and conducive environmental factors
positively influence social entrepreneurship. Furthermore, mechanisms provided by support organizations for the
creation of social enterprises; such as awareness-raising, network integration, access to resources, learning opportunities,
and psychological support, play a significant role in shaping intentions through the dimensions of desirability
and feasibility.
Effectiveness of Guerrilla Marketing in Lithuania: a Case Study of the Swedbank's "Life under the Oak" Campaign
Authors: Syed Basil Ahmad , Ozero Edafe Anderson , Abiodun Samson Toye
Published: February 2025

In response to the current issues of catching customer attention amidst information overload, guerrilla
marketing has evolved as a disruptive technique that prioritizes creativity and uniqueness over standard advertising
tactics. This research looks at the efficacy of guerrilla marketing using a case study of Swedbank's "Life Under
the Oak" campaign in Lithuania. The study intends to assess the campaign's effects on Swedbank awareness, engagement,
and cost-effectiveness in comparison to traditional advertising strategies. Data was acquired directly from
Lithuanian consumers using a cross-sectional survey methodology, using a quantitative research method. Chi-square
tests were used to determine the association between campaign exposure and awareness rates, customer engagement
with Swedbank, and cost-effectiveness. The data indicate that, while the "Life Under the Oak" campaign successfully
piqued customers' curiosity, it did not consistently result in substantial increases in awareness or long-term
involvement with Swedbank. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in cost efficiency between
the guerilla marketing campaign and standard advertising tactics in the Lithuanian market. Based on these findings,
the study recommends that marketers should continuously assess and adapt guerrilla marketing campaigns, proactively
monitoring consumer responses and adjusting strategies based on empirical data, to maximize effectiveness
and campaign goals. Overall, this study adds to our understanding of guerrilla marketing efficacy by showing its
potential and limits in terms of drawing consumer attention, increasing engagement, and producing cost-effective
results.
Impactful Nature of Social Media on The Movement of Democracy in Vilnius of Lithuania: A Potential Merit and A Looming Threat to Democracy
Authors: Mariač Deividas , Noumen Naomi Manuela Ngabo , Monsur Abdullah Al , Kolosko Toms , John-Agu Deborah Chisa , Bernatas Darius , Masoka Brenda Wabulakombe , Udo Gabrielle Edima , Sever Fatma
Published: February 2025

This study examines how digital media communication impacts the democratic political movement in
Vilnius by conducting an in-depth analysis of digital platforms and the perspectives of Vilnius residents. It aims to
consider both sides of the issue to ensure a balanced and equitable approach. By using 140 valid responses from
the online survey with 5 in-depth interviews that we have conducted and collected from the residents of Vilnius, we
can examine the impactful relationship between the phenomena of social network and democracy in Vilnius. From
the results, it shows that their relationship is rather complexed and nuanced as it can be, which can strengthen its
democracy by empowering the civic engagement, amplifying the marginalized voices and even enhancing the sense
of transparency and accountability on social media, but it can also facilitate the spread of misinformation, political
propaganda and even the phenomenon of echo chambers, which might undermine its very foundations of democracy.
If the social platforms, policymakers and citizens want to navigate a balance of showing true democratic potential, it
needs to consider the ways of leveraging their civic participation, digital literacy and even content moderation while
mitigating those potential risks in the process as they need to be more aware of the complex dynamics behind its
powerful tool of social media as well as the proactive efforts of supporting democracy with pure responsibility.
Impact of Lithuanian Cultural Norms on Consumer Behaviour
Authors: Mackevič Paulina , Bicic Edgar , Toye Samson Abiodun
Published: February 2025

The market is endlessly evolving each day, and the choices of consumers are influenced by a wide range of
different factors, one of which is the cultural norms of a country, which by itself consists of many other factors. This
study aims to research Lithuania’s cultural norms and the degree of their impact on day-to-day consumer behavior
in Lithuania. In this research we analyzed Lithuanian cultural norms, which consist of unspoken rules, laws, habits,
taboos that exist within the behaviors of Lithuanians as well as the culture and history that has impacted and shaped
the mentality of Lithuanians along with their values. Sometimes cultural norms can be easy to identify but some
unwritten rules require thorough research to be understood fully. For the quantitative part of this study Lithuania’s
major city was targeted which is: Vilnius. A survey has been given to get a better understanding of the people’s
behavior and how they view and associate themselves with Lithuanian and International brands. Additionally, there
was a written interview made with a Lithuanian national food producing company to identify if Lithuanians tend
to buy some traditional sweets, because of the festive holidays or country’s fests do not have an influence. This
research aims to contribute to the overall knowledge of consumer behavior in Lithuania, which could potentially
help businesses get a better understanding of the Lithuanian market and how it can be targeted.
Understanding the Market Trends: A Hybrid Approach to Stock Price Prediction Using RNNs and Transformer-Based Sentiment Analysis
Authors: VALLARINO Diego
Published: February 2025

Stock price prediction is a critical yet challenging task in financial markets due to the complexity and volatility of asset movements. This paper presents a hybrid approach that combines Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), particularly Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models, for time-series prediction with Transformer-based text analysis to capture sentiment from financial news. The study focuses on predicting Apple Inc.'s (AAPL) stock price, using three years of historical data alongside news sentiment analysis. The LSTM model captures temporal dependencies in the stock prices, while the Transformer model extracts relevant features from unstructured textual data, offering insights into market sentiment and external events. The results demonstrate that integrating sentiment data with stock price predictions significantly improves model accuracy, as reflected by a reduction in mean squared error (MSE) compared to models based solely on price data. This hybrid model offers a more holistic approach to financial forecasting, combining quantitative and qualitative data for enhanced prediction.The paper contributes to the field of machine learning in finance by highlighting the benefits of hybrid modelling approaches, and it opens avenues for future research on broader applications in other asset classes and more diverse data sources.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Does Co-location Scam Really Exist? A Review of National Stock Exchange Co-location Scam
Authors: PATHAK Harsh Raj
Published: February 2025

The present paper provides the comprehensive review of co-location facility and related technical glitch or scam at National Stock Exchange (NSE). The previous technological advancements such as algorithmic trading (AT) and high-frequency trading (HFT) contributes the market positively by controlling volatility and as liquidity provider. Particularly, Algorithmic trading has been praised for providing liquidity and controlling volatility, particularly for retail traders. However, some argue that it harms both small and institutional traders and the market's order. This article analyses the influence of co-location on the major characteristics affecting market quality: Price discovery, liquidity, transaction costs, volatility, and punishing slower traders. The findings of the paper suggest that co-location is not a scam it is a glitch of servers which has given loopholes to the institutional traders and ultra-speed of information flow.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Range Volatility Spillover across Sectoral Stock Indices during COVID 19 Pandemic: Evidence from Indian Stock Market
Authors: DATTA Susanta , HATEKAR Neeraj
Published: February 2025

This study examines volatility spillover across sectoral stock indices in India, an emerging market economy, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our research makes three key contributions: (a) incorporating range volatility measures to capture the pandemic's impact on stock market volatility, (b) providing a comparative assessment of volatility spillover across sectoral indices, and (c) identifying evidence of volatility spillover across different sectoral indices. Using daily historical open, high, low, and close price data for 11 NIFTY sectoral indices during first wave of pandemic; the findings reveal that open-to-close returns outperform close-to-close returns in forecasting sectoral stock indices, underscoring the importance of incorporating range-based volatility measures in forecasting models. Furthermore, the multivariate Range DCC model confirms significant volatility spillover across sectoral indices, highlighting the interconnectedness of Indian sectoral stock markets during crisis periods. The findings offer actionable insights for the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to develop targeted, sectoral-level market surveillance strategies and robust risk management frameworks, ultimately enhancing the resilience of India's capital markets in post-pandemic scenarios.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The Impact of Liberalisation on Women’s Economic Participation and the Incidence of Gender Equality on Morocco's Economy: A Gender-Sensitive CGE Model Analysis
Authors: EZ-ZETOUNI Adil , El BAOUCHARI Nabil , HAJOUI Yassine EL , RAOUF Radouane
Published: February 2025

The labour market participation of Moroccan women remains significantly lower than that of men. This issue has sparked academic and political debates in recent years. Numerous studies suggest solutions, including evaluating the effects of trade liberalisation on female employment. Using a gender-sensitive computable general equilibrium (CGE) model calibrated to Morocco's 2019 Social Accounting Matrix (SAM), this study simulates the impact of trade liberalisation on women's employment and wages.The results of this study show that full national liberalisation is pro-feminine in competitive and female labour-intensive sectors. However, it disadvantages women in less competitive and less female labour-intensive industries. This leads us to consider additional policies to stimulate women's employment in these latter sectors. Among these policies, the most effective are those targeting gender equality in social, legal, and financial aspects.  These policies yield favourable labour market outcomes: increased female labour supply in various sectors and a reduction in the gender wage gap. However, they have unfavourable macroeconomic consequences, such as production, exports, income, and investment declines. This is mainly due to the low productivity of Moroccan women compared to their male counterparts. This leads to the following conclusion: any policy aiming to increase women's participation in the labour market in Morocco must be accompanied by initiatives to improve their productivity.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Cryptocurrency Market Dynamics: Interconnectedness and Interdependence with Global Uncertainties
Authors: CHITTINENI Jyothi
Published: February 2025

The study aims to understand the interconnectedness and interdependence of cryptocurrency with global uncertainties. The study employs quantile regression and Markov regime-switching models to understand the time-varying connectedness between the cryptocurrency market and uncertainties. The study findings reveal that geopolitical risk positively influences cryptocurrency returns at all quantiles, highlighting the significance of understanding geopolitical risk before considering the investments in cryptocurrency market. On the other hand, economic policy uncertainty negatively affects with the returns during economic expansions and at higher quantiles. Cryptocurrency market is independent of gold price volatility and oil price volatility significantly reduces cryptocurrency returns. The results suggest that cryptocurrency investments are attractive during geopolitical uncertainties, they are unfavourably affected by economic policy uncertainty and oil price volatility, reflecting complex investor behaviours.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Green Bonds for a Greener Tomorrow: Evaluating G20 Strategies in Emission Reduction and Sustainable Development
Authors: GUPTA Amit , SARAWAGI Aditi , SINGH Moirangthem Sanjoy , SINGH BHADOURIA Shailendra
Published: February 2025

This study examines the green finance strategies of G20 economies, with a particular focus on green bond issuance and its impact on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Utilizing secondary data from the Statista database and the Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research, the analysis employs percentage evaluation, simple linear regression, heat maps, and cluster analysis. A Python-based algorithm in Jupyter Notebook facilitates the data processing.Findings indicate that China leads in both green bond issuance and GHG emissions, followed by the United States. Regression analysis confirms that green bonds contribute to reducing GHG emissions. Notably, developed and developing countries exhibit similar patterns in green bond issuance and emissions, suggesting that these variables are not necessarily aligned with their respective development levels.This research offers a wide assessment of the interplay between green bond issuance and environmental sustainability among G20 economies, highlighting the potential of green finance in fostering sustainable and inclusive growth. The findings provide insights into areas for improvement and policy recommendations for G20 nations to enhance their green financing strategies, increase green bond issuance, and reduce emissions in pursuit of global sustainability goals.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The Influence of Social Advertising on Consumer's Online Purchase Intention: The Mediating Role of Brand Loyalty
Authors: BUI ANH Cuong , HOANG THI Thanh , LE THI THANH Truc , NGUYEN HUU THIEN Duc , THAI DONG Tan , TO CONG Truong , TRA THI My
Published: February 2025

Social media advertising plays a crucial role in brand development within consumer awareness, influencing purchase intentions, and is emphasised and utilised by businesses in their strategies. The objective of this study is to analyse the impact of social media advertising on consumers' purchase intentions in Ho Chi Minh City. The research employs two main methods: qualitative and quantitative. Data was collected from 656 consumers living in Ho Chi Minh City. The results show that there are six factors - entertainment value, informativeness, celebrity endorsement, interactivity, trust, and brand image of social media advertising - that affect consumers' online purchase intentions in Ho Chi Minh City through the mediating variable of loyalty. Based on the research results, several solutions are proposed to help businesses realise that social media advertising can enhance their sales and potentially achieve brand loyalty from consumers.Copyright© 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the license CC-BY 4.0., which permits any further distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Analysis of Effective Marketing Strategies in Facing Tight Competition in the Marketplace Global
Authors: Salam Karta Negara , Aslim Sandi , Palinggi Prudence Patricia Hieroploise , Marsela Ibrahim , Megawaty Megawaty
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of marketing strategies in addressing intense global competition, focusing on digital transformation, differentiation, and adaptive strategies. It examines how artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and omnichannel marketing enhance customer engagement and competitive advantage. Additionally, it explores challenges small and medium enterprises (SMEs) face in global markets and evaluates key performance indicators (KPIs) for marketing effectiveness. This study adopts a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, synthesizing findings from existing academic research on global marketing strategies. The research integrates theoretical frameworks such as Porter’s Competitive Advantage theory and digital transformation models to assess how businesses leverage AI, data analytics, and innovative marketing techniques. Relevant literature from credible sources, including Emerald, Elsevier, Wiley, and Springer, is analyzed to identify trends and practical insights. The findings highlight that AI-driven marketing and data analytics enhance precision in market segmentation, real-time engagement, and personalization. Differentiation through innovation, branding, and omnichannel marketing is critical for maintaining competitive positioning. While SMEs face resource constraints, digital strategies like SEO and social media marketing offer cost-effective, competitive tools. However, barriers such as high technology adoption costs and resistance to change must be addressed for successful digital transformation. This study provides practical insights for businesses to adopt data-driven marketing strategies, enhance brand positioning, and optimize marketing investments. It offers recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders on fostering digital adoption and innovation to sustain competitiveness.
Evaluation of the Sustainability of Organizational Welfare and Human Resources to Improving Long-Term Performance
Authors: R.A Ria Andriany , Hardy Hardy , Asrul Asrul , Maslim Maslim , Megawaty Megawaty
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the sustainability of organizational welfare and human resource (HR) management in enhancing long-term corporate performance. It explores how sustainable HRM strategies and employee welfare policies contribute to workforce stability, engagement, and corporate resilience while aligning with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. This research adopts a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach to synthesize existing studies on HR sustainability, employee well-being, and corporate performance. The study systematically reviews academic literature from leading databases, focusing on theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and best practices in HR sustainability and organizational welfare. The analysis identifies critical themes, trends, and research gaps to understand the topic comprehensively. The findings suggest that sustainable HR policies positively impact employee productivity, innovation, and corporate reputation. Organizations that integrate HR sustainability within their business strategies experience higher workforce engagement, lower turnover rates, and improved adaptability to industry disruptions. However, challenges persist, including the trade-off between cost efficiency and long-term workforce investment and difficulties in aligning HR sustainability with ESG frameworks and digital transformation. This study underscores the need for strategic HR investments, emphasizing continuous learning, workforce well-being, and ethical leadership. The findings provide business leaders, policymakers, and HR professionals with actionable insights to develop sustainable workforce policies that drive corporate growth, employee satisfaction, and competitive advantage.
THE EFFECTS OF INTEREST RATE AND MONEY SUPPLY ON SYSTEMATIC RISK ASSOCIATED WITH RETURN IN NIGERIAN EXCHANGE
Authors: Adedokun Rofiat , Abdullahi Prof. Sani , Mohammed Dr. Ibrahim , Dogarawa Prof. Ahmad
Published: February 2025

Stock market investors are largely compensated for taking systematic risks as idiosyncratic are controlled through effective portfolio construction but systematic risk cannot be diversified. As such, there is increasing concern among academics to understand systematic risks and its determinants in emerging markets. Hence, the need to investigate the effect of interest rate and money supply as determinants of systematic risk associated with return in the Nigerian Exchange. The study was correlational in nature, and data for the study was collected from the CBN statistical bulletin and the Nigerian Exchange. Monthly data from April, 2012 to December, 2022 were used for the analysis. The study conducted data analysis using autoregressive distributive lag model and other preliminary analysis. Result from the study revealed that money supply has positive significant effect on systematic risk. On the other hand, interest rate exhibited negative and statistically insignificant effect on systematic risk. The study came to the conclusion that money supply is a determinant of systematic risk as it can influence its behaviour significantly while interest rate can affect systematic risk but the magnitude is statistically insignificant. Therefore, the study recommended that investors should continuously study the changes in the behaviour of the determinants in order to make sound investment decision and maximize their return from the market. The government through the CBN should also ensure that they consistently improve their policies on interest rate and money supply. This will help the market to operate efficiently.
The a to Z of African American Cinema
Authors: Berry S. Torriano , Berry Venise T.
Published: February 2025

On 4 July, 1910, in 100-degree heat at an outdoor boxing ring near Reno, Nevada, film cameras recorded-and thousands of fans witnessed-former heavyweight champion Jim Jeffries' reluctant return from retirement to fight Jack Johnson, a black man. After 14 grueling rounds, Johnson knocked out Jeffries and for the first time in history, there was a black heavyweight champion of the world. At least 10 people lost their lives because of Johnson's victory and hundreds more were injured due to white retaliation and wild celebrations in the streets. Public screenings received instantaneous protests and hundreds of cities barred the film from being shown. Congress even passed a law making it a federal offense to transport moving pictures of prizefights across state lines, and thus the most powerful portrayal of a black man ever recorded on film was made virtually invisible. This is but one of the hundreds of films covered in The A to Z of African American Cinema, which includes everything from The Birth of a Nation to Crash. In addition to the films, brief biographies of African American actors and actresses such as Sidney Poitier, James Earl Jones, Halle Berry, Eddie Murphy, Whoopi Goldberg, Denzel Washington, and Jamie Foxx can be found in this reference. Through a chronology, a list of acronyms and abbreviations, an introductory essay, a bibliography, appendixes, black-&-white photos, and hundreds of cross-referenced dictionary entries on actors, actresses, movies, producers, organizations, awards, film credits, and terminology, this book provides a better understanding of the role African Americans played in film history.
In Silico Study to Discover the Possible Mechanism of Herbal Components Against the SOS Induction and Mutagenesis
Authors: Honarbakhsh Armaghan , Pourahmad Jaktaji Razieh
Published: February 2025

Background: Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve and develop the ability to withstand the effects of medications that once effectively treated infections caused by them. One strategy to combat antibiotic resistance is identifying protein networks relevant to pathogenesis and ligands that interact with those proteins. The SOS network is a protein network that causes resistance to several antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the interaction of known herbal components with antibacterial activity against the SOS network. Methods: Google Scholar and PubMed search engines were used to select bioactives with antibacterial activities. The STRING database was applied to retrieve the RecA network and to gain SOS protein interactions. The LPIcom module, Enrichr dataset, and Cytoscape software version 3.10.2 were used to predict target-ligand interactions, identify relevant proteins, and generate the network, respectively. Results: Network analysis showed interactions between bioactives and SOS proteins. Camphor and myristic acid interacted with all targets. RecA, LexA, UmuC, and RecN interacted with all bioactives. The CLPP, HGS, and RPSE proteins were possibly associated with four SOS proteins, including RecA, RecN, LexA, and UmuD proteins (P-value < 0.05). Conclusions: For the first time, network pharmacology was used to predict anti-SOS herbal bioactives. This in-silico investigation recommended two bioactives, camphor and myristic acid, for further study to develop ciprofloxacin adjuvants and proposed an antibacterial mechanism for these known bioactives.
The Prevalence and Underlying Factors Related to Hookah Smoking Among Female Students
Authors: Ashtarian Hossein , Ijadi Elaheh , Almasi Afshin
Published: February 2025

Background: Smoking, particularly hookah use, has become a growing public health concern among adolescents globally. Objectives: The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the prevalence and underlying factors related to hookah smoking among female students in Kermanshah-Iran. Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 secondary school girls in Kermanshah in 2021. In this study, an electronic, confirmed, valid and reliable questionnaire was used. The participants were selected through a simple random sampling from the secondary schools. The data were entered into SPSS 22 software and analyzed. Results: The results showed that 5.6% of students have used hookah during the last year and 10.5% in their lifetime. The starting age of hookah smoking among students was 13.4 years old. 19.2% of families and friends of students had used hookah. A relationship was found between hookah smoking in students with hookah smoking family and friends. The risk of hookah smoking in students whose family use hookah is 28.1 times those whose families do not use hookah (95% confidence interval = 5.8, 2.92). The first place of hookah smoking was at home (43.5% of cases). Conclusions: The current study clarified the role of family and friends in the use of hookah in female students. Considering the increase in hookah smoking among adolescent girls and the important role of family and friends, the inclusion of this subject in future preventive interventions is suggested.
A Case of HIV-Related Cerebral Toxoplasmosis with Hydrocephalus and Literature Review
Authors: Cui Yahui , Hou Hui , Zhang Binhai , Zhou Yupeng
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Acute Toxoplasma gondii infections are usually subclinical in individuals with normal immune system function, with severe clinical symptoms rarely observed. However, in immunocompromised hosts, particularly those with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), it can lead to severe conditions. Case Presentation: This paper presents the case of a patient with unilateral progressive ventriculomegaly caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in combination with cerebral toxoplasmosis. The patient underwent preoperative ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS), resulting in an excellent prognosis. Conclusions: This case illustrates that early surgical intervention may result in an excellent prognosis for HIV patients with cerebral toxoplasmosis and hydrocephalus when anti-infective therapy proves ineffective.
A Successful Management of Concurrent Infection with Cranial Nocardia gipuzkoensis and Pulmonary Klebsiella pneumoniae: A Case Report
Authors: Fang Jincai , Li Shuo , Wang Jianchao , Song Yunnong , Li Dan
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Successful management of concurrent infection with cranial Nocardia gipuzkoensis and pulmonary Klebsiella pneumoniae has never been previously described. Case Presentation: A 71-year-old female was referred to our hospital due to an intracranial space-occupying lesion persisting for over 20 days. Her initial chief complaints suggested cranial and pulmonary inflammation. Subsequently, drainage of the brain lesion was performed, and N. gipuzkoensis infection was confirmed through microbial culture and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Sputum culture identified K. pneumoniae infection. Based on antimicrobial susceptibility test results and allergic history, the patient showed improvement after two weeks of intravenous meropenem (2 g/8 h) combined with vancomycin (1 g/12 h). Neurological recovery was achieved, followed by over six weeks of oral Linezolid (0.6 g/12 h) and Levofloxacin (0.5 g/24 h). Conclusions: This case reports the successful management of concurrent infections, providing supporting evidence for the potential to shorten intravenous administration in nocardiosis treatment.
Exploring the Role of Psychological Support and Social Factors in Resilience Among Traumatic Amputees in North Batinah, Oman: Mixed Methodology
Authors: Al Ghailani Amal , Rafa Amar Mohammed , Mary Metilda , Amr Mostafa
Published: February 2025

Background: The absence of an obligatory psychological component in amputee rehabilitation services can delay post-amputation adaptation and may amplify the influence of psychological variables on adjustment among Omani individuals. The integration of mental health practices into recovery could significantly enhance the overall integrity of the rehabilitation process. Objectives: This study explores the experiences of traumatic amputees in North Batinah, Oman, focusing on the impact of professional psychological support, social support factors, and self-esteem on their resilience. Methods: A mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative analysis of three psychological scales—the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10 (CD-RISC-10), and the Protective Factors of Resilience Scale (PFRS)—with thematic analysis of narratives from nine participants. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and group comparisons. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis, with themes generated from the participants' shared experiences. Results: The descriptive statistics indicated variability in protective factors, while self-esteem and resilience scores were more consistent. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between self-esteem and resilience (r = 0.76). Thematic analysis identified four major themes: Self-perception as a determinant of resilience, perceived social support, impact of professional psychological support on resilience, and key contributors to resilience. Participants with positive self-perception and strong social and psychological support networks reported higher levels of resilience. Additionally, prosthetic acceptance and employment emerged as crucial factors in promoting recovery. Conclusions: This study highlights the pivotal role of professional psychological support in enhancing resilience and facilitating post-amputation adaptation among traumatic amputees. The findings underscore the importance of integrating tailored psychological interventions into rehabilitation programs. For clinical practice, these results suggest the need for customized rehabilitation programs and treatment plans that address the psychological well-being of amputees. Future research should address the limitations of this study, including sample size and demographic diversity, and explore additional factors influencing resilience in this population.
DEFENCE AGAINST FIRE: TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL OF INNOVATIVE GRILL LADDER FOR TERRACE HOUSES
Authors: S. Adlina , Ren Ying , Ibrahim Nadiah , Wan Ahmad Fakuradzi Wan Farizatul Shima
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this research is to determine the acceptance of the usage of innovative grill ladder by terrace house owners at Taman Subang with reference to the community acceptance towards innovative grill ladder, their practices and attitude towards fire safety. Sample size calculation was done using sample calculator. With the confidence level of 95 % and confidence interval of 15 of 400 population size, a sample of 39 required for this study was revealed. 40 house owners were then chosen using systematic sampling. The approach that was used for this study was interviewer-based questionnaire uploaded into google form which had Cronbach Alpha value of 0.89 which meant that the questions were reliable. Collected data were analysed using SPSS version 20. The results proved that majority of the community of Taman Subang agreed towards the usage of innovative grill ladder. However, most of them did not agree to the commercialised price of the grill ladder, which is RM1,500. They suggested that the price will be affordable if it lies below RM1,000. On the other hand, most of the participants were lacking practices towards fire safety but they still have positive attitude towards fire safety.
The Effective English Teacher: Perceptions from Student Teachers and Teacher Educators
Authors: Samosir Sahat Maringan , Ke I-Chung , Manik Kresna Ningsih
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to determine student teachers’ and teacher educators’ perceptions of an effective English teacher in terms of content, pedagogical, and personal knowledge in the English study program at Universitas Prima Indonesia (UNPRI). To achieve this objective, this study was designed as a mixed-methods study. To achieve this objective, this study was designed using a mixed method to look for the perceptions of 82 student teachers and 10 teacher educators. Data were collected through a 36-item Likert-type questionnaire and follow-up interviews. The results indicate that both groups agree that combining all the components is important for an effective teacher. Comparing both groups’ perceptions, the results showed a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) for 11 out of 36 items. It was found that student teachers place higher importance on some effective attributes than teacher educators do and vice versa. Additionally, the study found that pedagogical and personal knowledge was equally, if not more, important than content knowledge in defining an effective English teacher. This study highlights the significance of balancing content, pedagogical, and personal knowledge in teacher effectiveness, particularly in the EFL context of Indonesia, and discusses its pedagogical implications and limitations. This study was small due to a lack of participants. Future research should include more participants for comparison.
Socio-economic Impact of Livestock Diseases: The Case of Nandi and Taita-Taveta Counties in Kenya
Authors: Ndubi Jessica , Makokha Stella , Mailu Stephen , Danda Kengo , Thuranira Elias , Matere Stella
Published: February 2025

Aim: The dairy sector significantly contributes to Kenya's economy, accounting for 3.5% of the total gross domestic product, and 14% of agricultural gross domestic product. However, three main diseases; Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), East Coast Fever (ECF) and Trypanosomosis hamper this sector's growth because they cause significant losses to smallholder farmers. The objective of the study was to determine the economic and social impacts of these diseases to enable farmers and other stakeholders to realize the losses caused and therefore initiate prevention and control measures.
Methods: Data were collected using multiple methods. These included a formal survey that covered 473 households, Key Informants' Interviews (KIIs), focused group discussions (FGDs) and a literature review. Household data were collected through a combination of purposive and systematic sampling techniques. This data was fed in SPSS Version 20 and analyzed through descriptive statistics (percentages, chi-squared, paired t-test, and means).
Results: Results showed significant milk yield losses (litres/per cow/day) of at least 0.6 from each disease. Overall case fatality from ECF was about 20% while that from FMD was about 12% in both Nandi and Taita-Taveta counties. Besides, the overall case fatality due to Trypanosomosis in Taita-Taveta was 12%.
Conclusion: The study concluded a significant economic loss of household milk and the accruing benefits caused by ECF, FMD and Trypanosomosis in the two counties. Socially, the death of the animals through these diseases disrupted the cultural epitome of the two communities as cattle played a pivotal role in their social fabrics, especially as currencies for dowry payment and as a symbol of prestige.
Recommendations: There is a need for early detection of the disease that would enable timely treatment of the diseases, thus saving on drugs and reducing the risk of animals dying. Institutions like the Kenya Agricultural and Research Organization should develop diagnostic kits that are affordable to farmers and can give quick results. Additionally, farmers should be empowered to diagnose livestock diseases early and have access to trained animal health practitioners.