bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internally consistent and fully unbiased multimodal MRI brain
template construction from UK Biobank: Oxford-MM
Authors: Arthofer Christoph , Smith Stephen M. , Douaud Gwenaëlle , Bartsch Andreas , Alfaro-Almagro Fidel , Andersson Jesper , Lange Frederik J.
Published: October 2024

Anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) templates of the brain are essential to group-level analyses and image processing pipelines, as they provide a reference space for spatial normalisation. While it has become common for studies to acquire multimodal MRI data, many templates are still limited to one type of modality, usually either scalar or tensor based. Aligning each modality in isolation does not take full advantage of the available complementary information, such as strong contrast between tissue types in structural images, or axonal organisation in the white matter in diffusion tensor images. Most existing strategies for multimodal template construction either do not use all modalities of interest to inform the template construction process, or do not use them in a unified framework. Here, we present multimodal, cross-sectional templates constructed from UK Biobank data: the Oxford-MultiModal-1 (OMM-1) template and age-dependent templates for each year of life between 45 and 81 years. All templates are fully unbiased to represent the average shape of the populations they were constructed from, and internally consistent through jointly informing the template construction process with T1-weighted (T1), T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (T2-FLAIR), and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data. The OMM-1 template was constructed with a multiresolution, iterative approach using 240 individuals in the 50–55-year age range. The age-dependent templates were estimated using a Gaussian process, which describes the change in average brain shape with age in 37,330 individuals. All templates show excellent contrast and alignment within and between modalities. The global brain shape and size are not preconditioned on existing templates, although maximal possible compatibility with MNI-152 space was maintained through rigid alignment. We showed benefits in registration accuracy across two datasets (UK Biobank and HCP), when using the OMM-1 as the template compared with FSL’s MNI-152 template, and found that the use of age-dependent templates further improved accuracy to a small but detectable extent. All templates are publicly available and can be used as a new reference space for uni- or multimodal spatial alignment.
Two new species of the genus Zaitzevia Champion (Coleoptera: Elmidae) from Guangdong Province, China
Authors: BIAN DONG-JU , HU YU-QI
Published: October 2024

Two new species of Zaitzevia Champion, 1923, Zaitzevia acuta sp. nov. and Zaitzevia nanlingensis sp. nov. are described from Guangdong Province, China and photographs of habitus and male aedeagus are provided. This genus is recorded from Guangdong Province for the first time.
The Sericini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Sericinae) from the Nanling Mountains, China
Authors: LI WEI , YANG ZHI-YU , LIU WAN-GANG , AHRENS DIRK , ZHENG YING-JUAN , BAI MING , LIU YANG
Published: October 2024

In this paper we update the knowledge on the species of Sericini occurring in the Nanling Mountains, China. This includes new records of 19 known species. Furthermore, six new species are described: Maladera paradaanensis Liu, Ahrens, Li & Yang, new species, M. tianqiae Liu, Ahrens, Li & Yang, new species, Neoserica (s. str.) parajingangshanica Liu, Ahrens, Li & Yang, new species, Tetraserica dabuensis Liu, Ahrens, Li & Yang, new species, Trioserica shimen Liu, Ahrens, Li & Yang, new species, and Lasioserica siyuanae Liu, Ahrens, Li & Yang, new species. The habitus and male genitalia of the new species are illustrated, and a map shows the distribution of the new species.
Three new species of the genus Oedichirus Erichson, 1839 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae: Pinophilini) from China
Authors: DUAN JUN-DONG , YUE CUI-MENG , MA HONG-YE , LIN HAN-QING , LI XIAO-YAN
Published: October 2024

Three new species of Oedichirus Erichson, 1839 are described: Oedichirus haishengensis Duan, Yue & Li sp. nov. from Guangxi Province, O. ovalisis Duan, Yue & Li sp. nov. from Fujian and Hainan Province, and O. tibetanus Duan, Yue & Li sp. nov. from Tibet Autonomous Region. Color plates of the habitus, antenna, abdominal segments VII–IX of the males, as well as the aedeagal structures in different views are provided. In addition, an updated key to the species and a checklist of all known species of the genus Oedichirus from China are included.
Taxonomic notes of the genus Ripiphorus Bosc d’Antic (Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae: Ripiphorinae) from China, with description of a new species
Authors: JIANG LAN-XING , WANG SHAO-PENG , PAN ZHAO
Published: October 2024

The Chinese species of the ripiphoride genus Ripiphorus Bosc d’Antic, 1791 are taxonomically reviewed. A new species, R. curvispinus Pan, sp. nov., is discovered from Beijing and distinguished from its congeners by the distinctly curved metatibial inner spur. The difference between R. curvispinus Pan sp. nov. and R. chalcidoides (Gressitt, 1941) is confirmed using phylogenetic analysis and molecular species definition based on mtDNA COI sequences. Furthermore, Ripiphorus subdipterus Fabricius, 1792 is newly recorded for China. All Ripiphorus species occurring in China are described, illustrated and keyed.
A new species of the genus Anoplophora Hope (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae: Lamiini) from Nanling Priority Area for Biodiversity Conservation
Authors: LIN MEI-YING , WEN DONG
Published: October 2024

The diversity of the genus Anoplophora Hope, 1839 of Nanling Priority Area for Biodiversity Conservation is surveyed, with the discovery of one new species, A. xuei Lin & Wen, sp. nov. This species is described from Guangxi and Guizhou, China. Illustrations of the habitus and male genitalia of A. xuei Lin & Wen, sp. nov. and the similar A. leechi (Gahan) are provided. Additional locality data for A. leechi is provided.
Associations of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) for Enhancements in Soil Fertility and Promotion of Plant Growth: A Review
Authors: AjemaGebisa Leta
Published: October 2024

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi are used for soil fertility enhancements and stimulating plant growth in which they association with other organisms like terrestrial plants. Mycorrhizas create an association between fungi and the roots of plants. Therefore, the review was made to point out important fungal species involved in fungal plant interaction and their major roles in agriculture as well as ecosystem. 80% of plants form associations with mycorrhizal fungi. The fungal are used to use their different organs like chain, arbuscular, vesicle, supportive cells and spore to interact with the other plant/ plat’s organ. The mycorrhizal fungi can be categorized into two principal classifications based on their anatomical interactions with the roots of host plants. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal and Ectomycorrhizal fungi utilize two distinct strategies for nutrient acquisition. The main categories of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal associations are linear or coiling and of ectomycorrhizal associations are epidermal or cortical. The rhizospheric and endophytic microbes promote plant growth as inoculated with crop. AM fungi as an obligate symbiont share a distinct feature called arbuscules as a site of nutrient exchanges between host and fungi. Arbuscules developed between cell wall and plasma membrane of root cortical cells and differentiated from plant plasma membrane by periarbuscular membrane. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play an indispensable role in augmenting plant nutrient acquisition, enhancing plant resilience and tolerance to various environmental stresses, improving soil fertility and structure, and providing numerous beneficial effects. AMF engage in interactions with other soil microorganisms, such as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, resulting in a synergistic effect that promotes plant growth and offers protection against pathogens associated with Rhizobia. Both AMF and Rhizobia utilize the same signaling pathways, which facilitate their association with host plants and enable nitrogen fixation within the soil ecosystem. A positive relationship has been established between AMF colonization and the diversity of soil microbial communities. Nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, mycorrhizal fungi, and root nodule symbioses typically exhibit synergistic interactions concerning infection rates and their effects on mineral nutrition and plant growth, thereby significantly enhancing the status of soil fertility, particularly with respect to soil quality characteristics.
Review of Drought Stress and Seed Priming Effects on Upland Rice Yield and Longevity
Authors: Assaye Yilikal
Published: October 2024

Unequal plant stand and poor germination are major constraints in seeds under areas which receive erratic and low rainfall. Seed priming has emerged as a crucial strategy to enhance the biochemical, physiological, and ecological resilience of seeds and seedlings. Employing suitable priming methods at different developmental stages can significantly improve drought tolerance in plants. Research indicates that the primary factors leading to seed deterioration are the combined effects of low temperatures and moisture levels, which trigger abnormal biochemical and physiological responses. Seed priming techniques show promise due to their simplicity and adaptability in local agricultural practices. However, one of the challenges associated with primed seeds is their relatively short storage lifespan. This review aims to explore the biochemical, physiological, and molecular aspects of rice seed priming while proposing innovative techniques to extend seed longevity, improve stand establishment, and increase overall yield. Furthermore, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying seed priming can lead to the development of more effective priming protocols. This could ultimately contribute to sustainable agricultural practices in regions vulnerable to climate variability.
Analysis of Technical Efficiency on Orange Fleshed Sweet Potatoes Production Among the Smallholder Farmers in Migori County Kenya
Authors: Jabuya Lawrence , Munyiri Shelmith , Njogu Martin
Published: October 2024

Sweet potatoes (Ipomea batatas L.), particularly the orange fleshed variety, have become increasingly popular due to their ability to thrive in various environmental conditions with minimal inputs. Orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSPs) show potential for productivity, yet smallholder farmers in Kenya still struggle to maximize their yields. The factors influencing OFSP production efficiency among these farmers in Western Kenya have not been thoroughly examined. This study evaluated the technical efficiency of OFSP production among smallholder farmers in Migori County. Using a descriptive research design, a sample of 225 OFSP farmers was randomly selected by a cluster sampling technique. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire on inputs and selected socio-economic factors. The data was analyzed using the frontier stochastic model in STATA. Smallholder farmers estimated mean technical efficiency was 77.82% significant variables were; size of the land, availability of planting vines, access to hired labour, gender of the household decision maker, farming experience, household size, land ownership status, participation in training programs and extension services, and proximity to markets, indicating a need to improve OFSP production by 22.18%. These findings suggest that to reduce inefficiencies among smallholder OFSP farmers, targeted training programs are needed to enhance farmers' agronomic knowledge specific to OFSP production. Further, policy interventions should prioritize the provision of extension services to support and improve the performance of OFSP smallholder farmers.
Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Quality of Life in Smart Cities
Authors: Ullah Aman , Quddusi Syeda , Haider Iftikhar
Published: October 2024

Rapid urbanization and low residential resources in cities are serious issues that are making city life difficult day by day. The development of smart cities is becoming a need of the present era due to the swift increase in population and environmental issues globally. Smart cities are being introduced in different regions of the world with the incorporation of latest technologies. The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the tools that can be used in smart building and cities. AI technologies are transforming public safety, trash management, healthcare, traffic control, and resource management, making cities more sustainable, effective, and responsive to their citizens' demands. There are still lack of awareness in some areas of the world on the efficacy of smart building and construction that is impacting negatively on the economy and growth of those countries.; such as Pakistan is one of those countries that is facing serious challenges due to increased population, urban migration, and poor management of natural resources. The need of planning smart strategies for smart building is very crucial to manage population and housing issues. Smart buildings and cities provide unique and convenient facilities to its residents so that they can contribute positively towards the economy of country. This paper focuses at important areas where AI has the most effects in order to investigate how integrating AI improves quality of life in smart cities. The aim is to highlight artificial intelligence's contribution to improving urban operations, streamlining resource management, and advancing sustainability. Additionally, potential concerns about privacy, data security, and fair access will be discussed. In order to show how AI-driven innovations like predictive analytics, machine learning, and IoT-enabled systems are changing the urban environment, the study synthesizes existing research and real-world examples. The evaluation also covers how AI promotes smart government, tailored urban services, and citizen involvement. The conclusion emphasizes that although AI has great potential to improve the quality of life in smart cities, implementation of the technology must be done in a balanced way to prioritize inclusive policies and ethical concerns for the general welfare of residents.
The Effectiveness of Parental Management Training Based on Nahj Al-Balagha on Adolescent Identity Styles
Authors: Askarpour Naser , Cheharazad Yusuf , Abade Mina , Salajeghe Mahsa , Joudaki Tahereh
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Adolescence is a very important period that can be difficult for the teenager and can cause challenges for the family. Raising and educating teenagers is very important for families. Acquiring identity is the most important aspect of every person's personality, so the methods of achieving identity are very important, and in the book of Nahj al-Balagheh, various methods for educating parents are suggested. Purpose: This research was conducted with the aim of the effectiveness of parent management training based on Nahj al-Balagheh on adolescent identity styles. Method: The studied population were all adolescent girls of Yazd city. The sample size was 30 people who were selected by cluster random sampling and divided into two experimental groups (15 people) and control (15 people). Data were obtained by Berzonsky's identity style questionnaire (1989), the experimental group was trained in 8 45-minute therapy sessions, while the control group did not receive any training. The data was analyzed using the statistical method of analysis of covariance. Findings: The results showed that parental management training based on Nahj al-Balagheh has an effect on adolescent identity styles. Also, education can have a direct impact on the type of identity of teenagers. Conclusion: The period of adolescence is called the period of crisis, and the parents of these adolescents can learn the necessary training to understand this period and how to deal with their adolescent's problems at the beginning or before the beginning of adolescence. Accordingly, they can use various treatment methods. and use different books. The use and extraction of educational tips using Nahj al-Balaghah can help these parents.
Niger Delta Oilfields Produced Water Characteristics and Treatment Technologies: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Nwokoma Darlington , Dagde Kenneth
Published: October 2024

The Nigerian Niger Delta oilfields have high water-to-oil ratio ranging from 50% to 95% water content, due to its secondary and tertiary production phases. Oil and gas producers could shut-in such wells, or develop cost effective approach for Produced Water, PW handling to meet reinjection or environmental permissibility. Thus, the study investigated the compositions and treatment techniques of Niger Delta oil and gas fields PW, and proffered solutions for actualizing minimal hazardous contaminants in PW. Characterization of PW from a Flow Station, an Oil processing and a Gas processing facilities showed biogeochemical homogeneity in the PW compositions with high organic and inorganic constituents, which are above injection and disposal specifications. The results of treated PW from the extant PW treatment (PWT) techniques showed that the total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration (6105.9 mg/l) from the Flow Station PW treatment facility did not meet the required specifications for injection into depleted wells or disposal into the environment (2,000.00 mg/l for inland, and 5,000.00 mg/l for nearshore). The salinity contents in the treated PW from the three PWT configurations were 2411.0 mg/l, 2218.6 mg/l, and 2165.4 mg/l, respectively, which were slightly above Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) specification (2000.0 mg/l) for nearshore disposal. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration in the treated PW from the three PWT configurations were 153.0 mg/l, 148.1 mg/l, and 141.2 mg/l, respectively, which were above the NUPRC standard (125.0 mg/l). The oil and grease (O&G) concentration in the treated PW were 84.7 mg/l, 51.5 mg/l, and 58.0 mg/l, respectively, which also were above regulatory stipulation (30.0 mg/l) for nearshore disposal. The modular Bio-Unit + Ultra/Nanofiltration achieved more than 95% removal of both organic and inorganic constituents in the PW. Therefore, this study suggests that reconfiguring the extant PW treatment equipment with this cost-effective innovation would be the solution to PW treatment challenges in the Niger Delta oil and gas operations.
Perception and Trust in Autonomous Vehicles Post Cyber Security Incidents
Authors: Gorine Adam , Khan Sana
Published: October 2024

The integration of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) into modern systems of transportation brings with it a new and transformative era. Central to the successful realisation of this transformation is the public’s trust in these vehicles and their safety, particularly in the aftermath of cyber security breaches. The following research therefore explores the various factors underpinning this trust in the context of cyber security incidents. A dual-methodological approach was used in the study. Quantitative data was gathered from structured questionnaires distributed to and completed by a cohort of 151 participants and qualitative data, from comprehensive semi-structured interviews with AV technology and cyber security experts. Rigorous Structural Equation Modelling of the quantitative data then allowed for the identification of the key factors influencing public trust from the standpoint of the research participants including the perceived safety of AV technology, the severity of cyber security incidents, the historic cyber security track record of companies and the frequency of successful cyber security breaches. The role of government regulations, though also influential, emerged as less so. The qualitative data, processed via thematic analysis, resonated with the findings from the quantitative data. This highlighted the importance of perceived safety, incident severity, regulatory frameworks and corporate legacy in shaping public trust. Whilst cyber incidents no doubt erode trust in AVs, a combination of technological perception, regulatory scaffolding and corporate history critically impacts this. These insights are instrumental for stakeholders, from policymakers to AV manufacturers, in charting the course of AV assimilation successfully in future.
Exploring AES Encryption Implementation Through Quantum Computing Techniques
Authors: Gorine Adam , Suhaib Muhammad
Published: October 2024

A coming great revolution in technology is quantum computing, which opens new attacks on most of the developed cryptographic algorithms, including AES. These emerging quantum capabilities risk weakening cryptographic techniques, which safeguard a vast amount of data across the globe. This research uses Grover's algorithm to explore the vulnerabilities of the Advanced Encryption Standard to quantum attacks. By implementing quantum cryptographic algorithms and Quantum Error Correction on simulators and quantum hardware, the study evaluates the effectiveness of these techniques in mitigating noise and improving the reliability of quantum computations. The study shows that while AES is theoretically at risk due to Grover’s algorithm, which demonstrates a theoretical reduction in AES key search complexity, current hardware limitations and noise levels encountered in today’s quantum computers reduce the immediate threat and limit practical exploitation. The research also examines NTRU encryption, a quantum-resistant alternative, highlighting its robustness in quantum environments. The findings emphasize the need for further development in QEC and quantum-resistant cryptography to secure digital communications against future quantum threats. Future work will focus on advancing QEC techniques and refining quantum algorithms, addressing both hardware and theoretical advancements, including the potential use of high-capacity processors like Jiuzhang 3.0. These improvements will ensure the scalability of quantum-resistant systems to practical key sizes and usage scenarios.
Peripheral Ischemia and Necrosis Revealing Buerger's Disease in an Internal Medicine Department
Authors: Mansour Diallo , Ndour Jean , Yanidou Ndiaye , Faye Faye , Diop Moustapha , Sow Aboubakry , Baba Nana , Adama Wade , Khadr Mbaye , Mamadou Diack , Adama Berthé , Souleymane Touré , Magatte Diop , Mourtalla Ka
Published: October 2024

Buerger's disease is a systemic vasculitis strongly correlated with tobacco use. It entails a heavy socio-occupational impact. We report the case of a 26-year-old patient with ischemia of the lower limbs revealing Buerger’s disease. He is known smoker with passive exposure to Indian hemp. He was seen for ischemic foot pain that had been progressing for a year. Involvement began in the left big toe. Subsequently, hyperalgesic necrotic lesions were observed on the 3rd, 4th and 5th toes of the foot. Biological investigations revealed an inflammatory syndrome with normocytic anemia and increased C-reactive protein. Retroviral, syphilitic, Hepatitis B and C viruses and SARS-CoV-2 serologies were negative. Antinuclear antibodies were initially borderline at 100 IU with speckled fluorescence, then negative on control. Neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and antiphospholipid antibodies were negative. Investigation of thrombophilia was non-contributory, notably factor V mutation testing, antithrombin III assay, proteins C and S and fibrinogen. An arterial ultrasound revealed extensive arterial thrombosis with thickening of the femoral arterial vessel walls. Thromboangiitis obliterans was confirmed and the patient was put on corticosteroids and adjuvant therapy. Surgical treatment was performed 4 months later. Buerger's disease is a serious vascular disorder which must be diagnosed very early in order to prevent complications. Early smoking cessation leads to remission in the early phase.
Application of Nursing Project Management in Increasing the Utilization of GCS in Patients at High Risk for DVT
Authors: Lai Xiaohui , Zhou Yan , Wu Shuixiang
Published: October 2024

Objective: To investigate the effect of nursing program improvements on improving the utilization rate of gradient compression stockings in patients at high risk of deep vein thrombosis. Methods: To set up a special project improvement group, determine the topic of special project improvement, set 40 patients with postoperative Caprin score >5 before the implementation of special project improvement activities, i.e., from January to May 2022 in our hospital, as the control group, and 40 patients with postoperative Caprin score >5 after the implementation of special project improvement activities, i.e., from July to November 2022 in our hospital as the experimental group, and count the number of patients using gradient compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis, and investigate the effect of using gradient compression stockings in improving the utilization rate of patients with high risk of deep vein thrombosis. The number of patients using gradient compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis, the survey of patients' knowledge about deep vein thrombosis and satisfaction with care, and the comparison of the differences between the two groups before and after the project improvement. Results: The use rate of gradient compression stockings in the experimental group was 82.5% higher than that of gradient compression stockings in the control group, which was 15%, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05); the experimental group's knowledge of DVT was higher than that of the control group, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05); and the experimental group's satisfaction with nursing care increased from 91.73 points to 98.75 points, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Project management can effectively increase the utilization rate of gradient compression stockings for high-risk patients with deep vein thrombosis and improve patients' knowledge of deep vein thrombosis and satisfaction with nursing care.
Child Abuse Incidences Per Child Year Predicted from the Available Average Incidence Combined with Foreign Incidences Per Child Year: Towards a New Policy
Authors: Vlaming Marianne , Gemert Martin , Sauer Pieter
Published: October 2024

Child abuse is a worldwide recognized serious problem. Reliable child abuse incidences, preferably per child year, are fundamental for a sound detection and prevention program. Unfortunately, in most countries where child abuse data is available, incidences are not determined per child year but as an average over the child age range. In this paper we suggest a possible "next-best" solution for deriving child abuse incidences per child year when only an average value is available in an area or country. As method, we combined the country's measured average incidence with available (foreign) incidences per child year. The country's next-best incidences per child year will be estimated from its average, multiplied by the foreign incidences per child year divided by the foreign average. As results, we calculated the next-best Dutch age-dependent incidences by combining the Dutch average value with US and Ontario age-related incidences. We found comparable results for infants above 1 year and marked differences for children <1 year, likely due to cultural differences between the US and Ontario. In conclusion, next-best age-related child abuse incidences are obtainable in large areas or countries by choosing a smaller but representative region, the latter estimated from Ontario-data as ≥210,000 inhabitants, and establishing as perfectly as possible the optimal infra structure. A future perspective towards a new policy could be to initiate and stimulate this approach in the various European Union and United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child member states.
Measuring Size and Causes of Shadow Economy in Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Wondimu
Published: October 2024

The paper estimates the size of the Shadow Economy (SE) in Ethiopia from 1995 to 2022 and rigorously tests the statistical relationships between the SE and various causal variables. In order to carry out the comprehensive econometric analysis, a multiple indicator multiple causes (MIMIC) model was effectively applied. The main causes of the Ethiopian SE are carefully analyzed, and several economic policies aimed at reducing it are thoughtfully suggested. An appraisal of the reliability of these estimates is conducted, along with an alternative benchmark strategy for the MIMIC approach that was proposed for enhanced accuracy. The findings reveal that the causal variables, including tax burden, inflation rate, trade openness, and economic freedom, significantly influence the shadow economy. Furthermore, it shows that indicator variables, such as currency in circulation and official economic growth rates, significantly indicate the presence and extent of a shadow economy. Thus, based on the insightful findings of the research, the author recommends that the government increase trade relations with the rest of the world and promote greater economic freedom. It also endorses adjusting inflation and tax burdens to effectively minimize the shadow economy in Ethiopia.
A Finite Element Analysis for Investigating the Effects of Moving Loads on Flexible Pavements
Authors: Saha Swapnil , Hossain Md. , Nibir Shekh
Published: October 2024

To assist researchers in solving challenging structural mechanics engineering problems, finite element modeling (FEM) has grown to be a very popular technique. The several layers of various materials that make up a pavement's complicated structure and affect how it responds to stress have an impact on how it behaves. In this study, finite element analysis is done on a real existing road which is named Nowhata-Chowmasia road, situated in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. FEM is used to study this flexible pavement, which consists of 7 layers (surface, binder, base type-1, base type-2, sub-base, enhanced subgrade, and subgrade). The effect of the depth of the base layer on vertical stresses and displacements is examined using the ABAQUS/CAE 2017 modeling and simulation program. The base layer of the real existing road is 150 mm provided by the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) Rajshahi, Bangladesh. The analysis is done by measuring stress and displacement under wheel load by decreasing the base layer thickness to 100 mm and further increasing it to 200 mm. The modeling approach assumes that all materials function in a linear elastic manner. The Poisson's ratio, layer thickness, and material elastic modulus are the major inputs used in the modeling procedure. In this work, flexible pavement is simulated using a conventional axle load of 100 kN, which corresponds to a single four-wheeled axle. Finally, FEM analysis showed that the maximum stresses are 0.35 MPa, 0.27 MPa, and 0.21 MPa and maximum displacements are 0.52 mm, 0.34 mm, and 0.21 mm for 100 mm, 150 mm, and 200 mm base layer thickness respectively. So, for the increase of base layer thickness the stress and displacement are decreased.
Exploring the Use of Fengyun-3 Meteorological Satellite for Monitoring Sea Ice to Provide Services for Polar Navigation
Authors: Chen Lixiong , Wu Dongkui , Shen Chun
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the feasibility and effectiveness of using the Fengyun-3 meteorological satellite to monitor sea ice, providing services for ships navigating in polar regions. Firstly, it analyzes the impact of Arctic sea ice changes on ship navigation and the importance of sea ice monitoring in route planning. Next, it provides a detailed introduction to the data sources and processing methods of the Fengyun-3 satellite, including radiometric calibration, geometric correction, image registration, and cropping. Subsequently, it discusses the characteristics of sea ice in the visible spectrum and successfully extracts sea ice information using MERSI-II data with land, cloud, and seawater masking techniques. The study indicates that the comprehensive use of multi-spectral data and other observation methods can significantly enhance sea ice monitoring capabilities. In the future, integrating more advanced technologies is expected to achieve refined identification and short-term prediction of sea ice movement, thereby providing more scientific and efficient support for ships navigating in polar regions, enhancing navigation safety and efficiency, and offering a scientific basis for the development of Arctic shipping routes.
A Review of CiteSpace Visualisation and Analysis of High-Temperature Corrosion Inhibitors for Oil and Gas Fields
Authors: Gong Wenbo , Lao Jingyi , Zhao Bolin , Zhang Jinlei , Wu Shuang , Wang Songtao , Shi Anyang , Fei Ruhui , Huang Chenyang , Wang Mengxiao , Wen Pengpeng
Published: October 2024

With the increasing global energy demand, the exploitation depth of oil and gas fields is gradually increasing. At the same time, importing many high-acid crude oil makes it increasingly heavy and inferior, and its acid value is constantly improving. This change has led to the increasingly severe corrosion problem of oil and gas field equipment, which has become an essential factor affecting the national economy and society's sustainable development. As an economical and practical anticorrosion measure, corrosion inhibitors play a crucial role in the anticorrosion of oil and gas field equipment. Through the research method of biorientation, retrieve the Web of Science database in 2008-2024 about oil and gas field high-temperature corrosion inhibitor research literature information, using CiteSpace measurement analysis software visual analysis in the literature keywords, publications, high citation frequency, cooperation and word clustering information change trend, analyze the research situation of oil and gas field in recent years, summarizes the research hotspot of oil field high-temperature corrosion inhibitor, prominent authors and institutions, reference relationship and development trend. The number of documents on high-temperature corrosion inhibitors in oil and gas fields is smaller, and the authors, institutions, and countries are not closely related. There is less research cooperation on high-temperature corrosion inhibitors in oil and gas fields, and more independent studies exist. China University of Petroleum has the first number of publications, and China is the country with the first number of publications. The study of mass spectrometry for corrosion inhibitors in oil and gas fields is prominent, while the literature on high-temperature corrosion inhibitors is rare.
Military System Culture Archetype and Humanistic Thinking-In Sunzibingfa, Focusing on the Practical Will of Military System and Strengthening of Discipline
Authors: Lee Juongme
Published: October 2024

Regardless of the time and space differences between eastern and western countries before and after their origin, the improvement of military systems and solutions to problems all reflect the practical will of national defense strategic responsibility and tactics. From the anthropological point of view, no matter the development of the xianqin civilization and the victory or defeat of the war history, the establishment, development and changes of the system and discipline are discussed as the boundary and module of historical dialectics. This is a myth of the victory of the country's social and political diplomacy, a basic sanction of the security strategy, and a specific matter for the interpretation of the structural and institutional principles. Then, as a cultural prototype, can the other appearance and symbolic significance of this military system, as the AI social language view in the 21st century, become another status and security awareness of dominating the world? The positive answer to this is that as an individual country, its multiple roles are sufficient to enhance political strategies, diplomatic security, social tranquility and individual spirit of challenge. This issue actually plays a role as the boundary and module of the historical dialectics of military system through the changing process of the history of the times before discussing the concept and essence of a liberal democratic society.
Identification and Mapping Groundwater Potential Zones Using Geospatial Analysis for Genale-Dawa Bale Sub-Basin, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Eshetu Mulugeta , Alemu Mersha , Haile Getachew
Published: October 2024

Groundwater is one of the most crucial natural water supplies because of continuously directly or indirectly supports many domestic, agricultural, and industrial activities but is now being degraded due to various causes. Therefore, this study aimed to iddentfy and map the factors that determine groundwater potential and produce a groundwater potential zones map for Genale-Dawa Bale Sub-Basin. Accordingly, in this study, ten (10) factors affect groundwater potential at varying degrees namely: rainfall, geomorphology, LULC, lithology, soil texture, slope, elevation, topographic wetness index, drainage, and lineament density were used. Criteria weights and rankings were assigned based on expert opinion, literature review, and field survey experience, using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and ArcGIS 10.3 software to map potential groundwater zones. The results show that thematic factors such as rainfall, geomorphology, LULC, lithology, soil texture, slope, topographic wetness index, elevation, drainage density, and lineament density affect groundwater potential with weight values of 24.2%, 18.7%, 10.7%, 13%, 7.9%, 6.9%, 3.8%, 3.8%, 5.4%, and 5.7% respectively in the study area. Maps of groundwater potential zones classified into five categories: very low 366,001.80 ha (24.36%), low 249,151.07 ha (16.58%), moderate 271,817 ha (18.09%), high 278,343.13 ha (18.53%), and very high 337,194.06 ha (22.44%) for the Bale Zone and the Genale-Dawa Sub-Basin. The low to very low groundwater potentiality has been seen on the map at different distances due to the presence of hills and steep slopes, rock outcrop surfaces, clay soil textural class, low rainfall areas, very high drainage density, low lineament density, bare land are the main reasons. The validation analysis revealed a 91% confirms the very good agreement between the groundwater inventory data and the developed groundwater potential zone. The groundwater potential zones assessment and map of the current research results serve as a baseline information for planners, decision-makers, and adopters of sustainable management options, to identify suitable sites for groundwater exploration, and initial for further studies. Further studies, detailed water chemistry surveys, geophysical surveys at potential drilling sites, and grade analysis should recommended.
Internal Quality Control and the Role of Learning Management Systems (LMS) in Higher Education Institutions in Sierra Leone: Then, Now, and Later
Authors: Sesay Gibrill , Sesay Isaac
Published: October 2024

The paper explores the evolution of Internal Quality Control (IQC) in Sierra Leone's higher education institutions (HEIs) with a specific focus on the transformative role of Learning Management Systems (LMS). Beginning with the colonial era, the paper traces the historical context of IQC, emphasizing its informal nature. The post-independence expansion of HEIs introduced quality challenges compounded by economic constraints and political instability. The civil war further disrupted the education sector, and the reconstruction period saw the establishment of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), formalizing IQC processes. The introduction of LMS platforms, such as Moodle and Google Classroom, marked a pivotal shift in enhancing educational quality. LMS has significantly contributed to data-driven decision-making, standardized educational processes, and continuous feedback mechanisms. However, challenges remain, including infrastructural limitations and the urban-rural digital divide. The paper also projects the future of IQC, highlighting the potential integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and blockchain in LMS platforms. These advancements promise to revolutionize the educational experience, offering new possibilities for quality assurance and student engagement.
Students’ Academic Self-Concept and Their Academic Achievement in Mathematics in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State
Authors: Afufu John
Published: October 2024

The study looked into the relationship between senior secondary two (SS2) students' academic self-concept and their mathematics achievement in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State. This study was directed by three research questions and three matching null hypotheses. A sample of 318 senior secondary two (SS2) students offering Mathematics which comprised two hundred (200) female and one hundred and eighteen (118) male SS 2 students drawn from six (6) secondary schools from a population of 1544 SS2 students offering Mathematics in Bekwarra Local Government Area, Cross River State using Taro Yamane's sample size formula and A simple random selection method was employed, namely by balloting. Two instruments were used for data collection titled; Academic Self-Concept Scale (ASCS) and Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) used for data collection. Cronbach Alpha (∝) method was used to determine the internal consistency of the Academic Self-Concept Scale (ASCS). The reliability coefficient of the Academic Self-Concept Scale (ASCS) was 0.81. Kuder-Richardson 20 formula method was used to determine the reliability coefficients for the Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT). The reliability coefficients obtained was 0.91 for BAT. The research questions and all null hypotheses were answered and tested using simple linear regression at 0.05 level of significant. Results of the study revealed that: % variation in academic achievement of male students in mathematics was due to their self-concept, and that the academic achievement of male students in mathematics is not significantly correlated with their self-concept. On the other hand, 17% variation in the academic achievement of female students in mathematics was due to their self-concept, and the academic achievement of female students in mathematics is significantly correlated with their self-concept. Finally, students’ self-concept accounted for 23% variation in their academic achievement in Mathematics, and that students’ self-concept significantly relate with their academic Achievement in Mathematics in Bekwarra Local Government Area. The researcher recommended among other things, that parents should help their children have a positive self-concept in mathematics from an early age.
A Study on the Activating Tradition and the Will to Practice in the LiuTao
Authors: Lee Juongme
Published: October 2024

LiuTao is one of the WuJingQiShu compiled during the Yuanfeng reign of Emperor Shenzong of the late BeiSong Dynasty (1078-1085), which delineated the vertical and horizontal aspects of East Asian military science. Throughout the history of East Asia in this period, library science and bibliography, as official books, formed a huge collection. At the end of the reign of Emperor Shenzong, due to the failure and death of WangAnshi's reform, this was a historical period that could predict the trend of imperial power in the reigns of Emperor Zhezong and Emperor Huizong for more than 40 years. It also foreshadowed a large-scale war, as the capital of the BeiSong Dynasty was relocated to Hangzhou in the NanSong Dynasty (today) due to political struggles and chaos during the war. In addition, the political, social, historical, religious, linguistic, artistic and other cultural areas in this period, in addition to the geopolitical factors in East Asia, also through the textual research of various scholars in the ChunQiuZhanGuo periods, indicate the areas where ancient customs [易俗] can change the development of knowledge and information in the Middle Ages. The distribution and staging of the gains and losses in history, regional, and sociology during the ChunQiuZhanGuo periods have played a role in the development of human civilization and the spirit of war and political humanism in the common track. This is both an economic and moral, legal and educational issue, and also lies in rediscovering the ‘TaoHai (韬海)’ of hegemonic victory to inquiry the Probability variable. In order to investigate the outcome of the ‘Wuyi (无疑)’ military expert hegemony, specifically criticized the traditional activation of military politics based on probability variables and the differences in mercenary techniques and utilitarian positions reflected in the outbreak of war.
Corpus-Based Studies on Translator’s Style: Retrospect and Prospect
Authors: Li Yi
Published: October 2024

The past 20 years have seen significant advances in the corpus-based studies on translator’s style, an important subfield of corpus-based translation studies. However, there is still a lack of a coherent and clear understanding of the research models, objects of study, and methodologies. This paper classifies different research models, reviews the representative achievements of the studies, analyzes the limitations of current research, and provides suggestions for future studies. This paper argues that the existing research methods need to be expanded, the objects should be enriched, and the research model requires further investigation. Studies in the future should expand the current research methodology from primary quantitative studies to semantic, pragmatic and socio-cultural parameters. Greater focus should be placed on analyzing the translator’s style as demonstrated by linguistic features, such as language collocation and semantic prosody, as well as the subtext of the translated work, and non-linguistic features, such as the translator’s choice of material for translation. Furthermore, attention must be paid to the examination of both the preferred linguistic patterns that the translator uses to reproduce the source text and the recurrence of these patterns across the translator’s other translations of works by different authors.
Comparison of Urine and Cervical Samples for Genotyping Via HPV DNA Test
Authors: Nihar Fatema , Ara Rowson , Ferdous Jannatul , Akter Naznine , Islam Jannatul , Yasmin Lubna , Akther Moushume , Rahman Md.
Published: October 2024

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a key factor in cervical cancer development. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of urine and cervical samples for HPV genotyping, evaluating their diagnostic performance in detecting high-risk HPV genotypes. Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study conducted over one year at the Department of Gynaecological Oncology, BSMMU, Dhaka, the study enrolled 74 women aged 30-60 years with positive visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) results or abnormal Pap test findings. Urine samples (20 ml) and cervical samples were collected from each participant. The samples were analyzed using multiplex real-time PCR to amplify high-risk HPV types (16, 18, and others). DNA was extracted using the Qiagen viral DNA extraction kit. Sensitivity and specificity of HPV detection in urine samples were compared to cervical sampling, the gold standard. Data were analyzed with SPSS 22.0, and agreement was assessed using the Kappa index. Result: Cervical samples detected HPV in 17.56% of participants, while urine samples identified HPV in 5.40%. The agreement between urine and cervical samples was moderate, with a kappa value of 0.743. Among 74 cases, 5 cases were detected as HPV 16 and HR (co-injection) in both cervical and urine sample, 2 cases as HPV 16 in both cervical and urine samples, 2 cases as only HR type in both cervical and urine sample. The kendall’s correlation of agreement was 0.361 and a significance of 0.002. Conclusion: Cervical samples are more reliable for HPV detection compared to urine samples, though urine testing shows high sensitivity.