bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inferring Fundamental Properties of the Flare Current Sheet Using Flare Ribbons: Oscillations in the Reconnection Flux Rates
Authors: Corchado Albelo Marcel F. , Kazachenko Maria D. , Lynch Benjamin J.
Published: April 2024

Magnetic reconnection is understood to be the main physical process that facilitates the transformation of magnetic energy into heat, motion, and particle acceleration during solar eruptions. Yet, observational constraints on reconnection region properties and dynamics are limited due to a lack of high-cadence and high-spatial-resolution observations. By studying the evolution and morphology of postreconnected field-lines footpoints, or flare ribbons and vector photospheric magnetic field, we estimate the magnetic reconnection flux and its rate of change with time to study the flare reconnection process and dynamics of the current sheet above. We compare high-resolution imaging data to study the evolution of the fine structure in flare ribbons as ribbons spread away from the polarity inversion line. Using data from two illustrative events (one M- and X-class flare), we explore the relationship between the ribbon-front fine structure and the temporal development of bursts in the reconnection region. Additionally, we use the RibbonDB database to perform statistical analysis of 73 (C- to X-class) flares and identify quasiperiodic pulsation (QPP) properties using the Wavelet Transform. Our main finding is the discovery of QPP signatures in the derived magnetic reconnection rates in both example events and the large flare sample. We find that the oscillation periods range from 1 to 4 minutes. Furthermore, we find nearly cotemporal bursts in Hard X-ray (HXR) emission profiles. We discuss how dynamical processes in the current sheet involving plasmoids can explain the nearly cotemporal signatures of quasiperiodicity in the reconnection rates and HXR emission.
Solar Wind Driven from GONG Magnetograms in the Last Solar Cycle
Authors: Huang Zhenguang , Tóth Gábor , Sachdeva Nishtha , van der Holst Bart
Published: April 2024

In a previous study, Huang et al. used the Alfvén Wave Solar atmosphere Model, one of the widely used solar wind models in the community, driven by ADAPT-GONG magnetograms to simulate the solar wind in the last solar cycle and found that the optimal Poynting flux parameter can be estimated from either the open field area or the average unsigned radial component of the magnetic field in the open field regions. It was also found that the average energy deposition rate (Poynting flux) in the open field regions is approximately constant. In the current study, we expand the previous work by using GONG magnetograms to simulate the solar wind for the same Carrington rotations and determine if the results are similar to the ones obtained with ADAPT-GONG magnetograms. Our results indicate that similar correlations can be obtained from the GONG maps. Moreover, we report that ADAPT-GONG magnetograms can consistently provide better comparisons with 1 au solar wind observations than GONG magnetograms, based on the best simulations selected by the minimum of the average curve distance for the solar wind speed and density.
The 50-year history of anglers' record catches of genus Carassius: circumstantial evidence of wiping out the native species by invasive conspecific
Authors: Šmejkal Marek , Thomas Kiran , Kořen Vladimír , Kubečka Jan
Published: April 2024

Successful invasive non-native fish species can cause enormous damage to native biodiversity. In mainland Europe, the introduction of the gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) has led to a decline in populations of the formerly widespread native crucian carp (C. carassius). Both invasive and native species develop two phenotypes, namely stunted and deep-bodied, which depend on the intensity of competition and predation in the water body. The deep-bodied phenotype is associated with a more diverse fish community composition, can attain large sizes and is very attractive to recreational anglers. This study analysed trends in the record sizes of native crucian carp and invasive gibel carp (individuals close to the maximum attainable size of the species) reported by recreational anglers over the last 50 years in Czechia, recording the invasion of gibel carp from its beginnings to the fully established population phase. The study provides circumstantial evidence that gibel carp is behind transition from the relative abundance of large crucian carp to near extirpation, while large gibel carp have taken over the reports of record catches in the genus Carassius. This indicates that the crucian carp, which is currently classified as critically endangered in the Red List of Czechia, has very limited possibilities to realise its deep-bodied phenotype. It also shows the potential of using data from recreational anglers for mapping invasion processes and as a source of relatively localised information on endangered species.
Two new records and description of a new Perinereis (Annelida, Nereididae) species for the Saudi Arabian Red Sea region
Authors: Teixeira Marcos A. L. , Fourreau Chloé Julie Loïs , Sempere-Valverde Juan , Carvalho Susana
Published: April 2024

Annelid biodiversity studies in the Red Sea are limited and integrative taxonomy is needed to accurately improve reference libraries in the region. As part of the bioblitz effort in Saudi Arabia to assess the invertebrate biodiversity in the northern Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba, Perinereis specimens from intertidal marine and lagoon-like rocky environments were selected for an independent assessment, given the known taxonomic ambiguities in this genus. This study used an integrative approach, combining molecular with morphological and geographic data. Our results demonstrate that specimens found mainly in the Gulf of Aqaba are not only morphologically different from other five similar Perinereis Group I species reported in the region, but phylogenetic analysis using available COI sequences from GenBank revealed different molecular operational taxonomic units, suggesting an undescribed species, P. kaustianasp. nov. The new species is genetically close and shares a similar paragnath pattern to the Indo-Pacific distributed P. helleri, in particular in Area III and Areas VII–VIII. Therefore, we suggest it may belong to the same species complex. However, P. kaustianasp. nov. differs from the latter mainly in the shorter length of the postero-dorsal tentacular cirri, median parapodia with much longer dorsal Tentacular cirri, posteriormost parapodia with much wider and greatly expanded dorsal ligules. Additionally, two new records are reported for the Saudi Neom area belonging to P. damietta and P. suezensis, previously described only for the Egyptian coast (Suez Canal) and are distributed sympatrically with the new species, but apparently not sympatric with each other.
Phase-Specific Healthcare Costs Associated With Giant Cell Arteritis in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Junek Mats , Barra Lillian , Kopp Alexander , Felfeli Tina , Gatley Jodi , Widdifield Jessica
Published: April 2024

Objective

To estimate the additional healthcare system costs associated with giant cell arteritis (GCA) in the 1-year prediagnosis and postdiagnosis periods and over long-term follow-up compared to individuals with similar demographics and comorbidities without GCA.

Methods

We performed a population-based study using health administrative data. Newly diagnosed cases of GCA (between 2002 and 2017 and aged ≥ 66 years) were identified using a validated algorithm and matched 1:6 to comparators using propensity scores. Follow-up data were accrued until death, outmigration, or March 31, 2020. The costs associated with care were determined across 3 phases: the year before the diagnosis of GCA, the year after, and ongoing costs thereafter in 2021 Canadian dollars (CAD).

Results

The cohort consisted of 6730 cases of GCA and 40,380 matched non-GCA comparators. The average age was 77 (IQR 72-82) years and 68.2% were female. A diagnosis of GCA was associated with an increased cost of CAD $6619.4 (95% CI 5964.9-7274.0) per patient during the 1-year prediagnostic period, $12,150.3 (95% CI 11,233.1-13,067.6) per patient in the 1-year postdiagnostic phase, and $20,886.2 (95% CI 17,195.2-24,577.2) per patient during ongoing care for year 3 onward. Increased costs were driven by inpatient hospitalizations, physician services, hospital outpatient clinic services, and emergency department visits.

Conclusion

A diagnosis of GCA was associated with increased healthcare costs during all 3 phases of care. Given the substantial economic burden, strategies to reduce the healthcare utilization and costs associated with GCA are warranted.
Interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy entropy and its application to multi-criterion group decision-making
Authors: Li Li , Hao Mengjing
Published: April 2024

Entropy is an important tool of information measurement in the fuzzy set and its inference. The research on information measurement based on interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy sets mostly involves the distance formula for interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy numbers, but seldom involves the measurement of fuzziness. In view of this situation, we have aimed to propose new interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy entropy and weighted exponential entropy schemes. Based on the interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy weighted averaging operator, a strategy based on weighted exponential entropy is proposed to solve the multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) problem in the interval-valued Pythagorean environment. Two examples illustrate that this paper provides a feasible new method to solve the MCGDM problem in an interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy (IVPF) environment. Finally, by comparing with the existing methods, it is concluded that the entropy measure of IVPF schemes and the corresponding MCGDM method can select the optimal solution of the practical problem more precisely and accurately. Therefore, the comparative analysis shows that the proposed measurement method has the characteristics of flexibility and universality.
Traffic Transformer: Transformer-based framework for temporal traffic accident prediction
Authors: Al-Thani Mansoor G. , Sheng Ziyu , Cao Yuting , Yang Yin
Published: April 2024

Reliable prediction of traffic accidents is crucial for the identification of potential hazards in advance, formulation of effective preventative measures, and reduction of accident incidence. Existing neural network-based models generally suffer from a limited field of perception and poor long-term dependency capturing abilities, which severely restrict their performance. To address the inherent shortcomings of current traffic prediction models, we propose the Traffic Transformer for multidimensional, multi-step traffic accident prediction. Initially, raw datasets chronicling sporadic traffic accidents are transformed into multivariate, regularly sampled sequences that are amenable to sequential modeling through a temporal discretization process. Subsequently, Traffic Transformer captures and learns the hidden relationships between any elements of the input sequence, constructing accurate prediction for multiple forthcoming intervals of traffic accidents. Our proposed Traffic Transformer employs the sophisticated multi-head attention mechanism in lieu of the widely used recurrent architecture. This significant shift enhances the model's ability to capture long-range dependencies within time series data. Moreover, it facilitates a more flexible and comprehensive learning of diverse hidden patterns within the sequences. It also offers the versatility of convenient extension and transference to other diverse time series forecasting tasks, demonstrating robust potential for further development in this field. Extensive comparative experiments conducted on a real-world dataset from Qatar demonstrate that our proposed Traffic Transformer model significantly outperforms existing mainstream time series forecasting models across all evaluation metrics and forecast horizons. Notably, its Mean Absolute Percentage Error reaches a minimal value of only 4.43%, which is substantially lower than the error rates observed in other models. This remarkable performance underscores the Traffic Transformer's state-of-the-art level of in predictive accuracy.
Exploring fermentation with lactic acid bacteria as a pretreatment for enhancing antioxidant potential in broccoli stem powders
Authors: Serna-Barrera M Alegría , Bas-Bellver Claudia , Seguí Lucía , Betoret Noelia , Barrera Cristina
Published: April 2024

Fruit and vegetable industries face a major environmental challenge with food loss and waste. Broccoli stems, comprising 38% of the plant's total weight, are usually discarded by the industry producing fourth-range and ready-to-use products, despite being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and glucosinolates. Addressing the challenge of reducing waste in this sector includes the production of stable and nutrient-concentrated powders, which can be consumed directly or used as ingredients in functional food formulation. This study investigated fermentation with lactic acid bacteria (Limosilactobacillus reuteri, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus salivarius) as a pretreatment for enhancing antioxidant and probiotic potential in broccoli stem powders. Results showed maximum counts 24 h after inoculation, and no effect of the previous disruption intensity on microbial growth was observed. Fermenting broccoli stems for 24 h with the three microbial strains led to a significant increase in total phenols and flavonoids but to a general reduction in the samples' capacity to scavenge DPPH and ABTS free radicals. Overall, ground broccoli stems exhibited the most favorable antioxidant properties following the 24 h fermentation step. The subsequent freeze-drying and final grinding had minimal impact on the microbial population but significantly enhanced the extractability of the antioxidant compounds. This study offers a valuable reference for researchers and stakeholders exploring the development of new products and innovations from vegetable waste.
Entre deux mondes : Sarmiento en Algérie
Authors: Jarak Diego
Published: March 2024

Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, éminent intellectuel du XIXe siècle, a exploré l'Algérie en 1846, révélant sa perspective eurocentriste et sa relation avec le monde arabe. Ce « détour » africain, bien qu'apparemment hors de son programme, a offert un chapitre fascinant dans la construction de sa vision coloniale et de ses idées préconçues. La connexion entre le colonialisme et la vision eurocentriste en Algérie met en évidence les tensions entre assimilation et résistance locale. De plus, dans ses relations complexes avec le monde arabe, Sarmiento présente une dualité entre admiration et perspective civilisationniste, nuançant ainsi sa vision de l'identité arabe.
Identifier les étudiants vulnérables en première année à l’université
Authors: Bachy Sylviane , Baillet Dorothée
Published: March 2024

En Belgique francophone, la majorité des filières d’études universitaires sont libres d’accès. Combinés à l’existence de grandes disparités entre types d’enseignement secondaire, établissements d’enseignement secondaire et mêmes options au sein d’un établissement, ces deux facteurs contribuent à faire de l’entrée à université une période particulièrement critique pour de nombreux étudiants. Dans ce contexte, identifier les publics cibles, c’est-à-dire les étudiants qui ont des besoins d’accompagnements pédagogiques spécifiques pour mettre toutes les chances de réussite de leur côté, a été l’objectif d’un travail mené à l’Université libre de Bruxelles. Le service d’accompagnement aux apprentissages a construit un questionnaire composé de cinq rubriques (métadonnées, perception du métier d’étudiant, indicateurs, stratégies volitionnelles, compétences numériques). Il est proposé aux étudiants de première année. En 2022-23, il a permis de recueillir les réponses de 3955 étudiants répartis dans les 12 facultés de l’université, dont 3742 en première année d’université. Les premières analyses font apparaitre des variations intéressantes dans la proportion de profils (classique et à risque) d’un secteur d’études à l’autre, des différences entre les étudiants primo-inscrits et les étudiants bisseurs et des comportements différents en fonction des caractéristiques d’entrée. Ces informations guident le service d’accompagnement à mieux cerner les besoins en matière d’aide à la réussite.
Processus de gestion des ressources éducatives. Le cas d’enseignants en IUT
Authors: Redondo Cécile , Cadet Rémi , Perrier Romain , Drot-Delange Béatrice
Published: March 2024

Notre étude vise à comprendre l’activité menée par les enseignants d’institut universitaire de technologie (IUT) dans le cadre de la préparation de leurs cours avec les ressources éducatives. Il s’agit également d’identifier ce qui fait ressource éducative pour ces enseignants. Nous nous demandons si des spécificités émergent du fait de la nécessaire et forte relation des enseignants avec le secteur professionnel. Quatre filières d’IUT sont étudiées : génie biologique (GB), gestion des entreprises et des administrations (GEA), informatique (INFO) et métiers du multimédia et de l’Internet (MMI). Avec comme point de départ la caractérisation de processus déjà identifiés chez les enseignants de l’enseignement secondaire technologique, nous relevons au travers de l’analyse d’entretiens semi-directifs, quatre processus en œuvre chez les enseignants de l’IUT : la transmission-héritage, la collection de ressources, la constitution d’un réseau de confiance, c’est-à-dire la reconnaissance de la fiabilité et/ou de la pertinence d’une ressource et la participation à des collectifs producteurs de ressources. Une grille de codage des entretiens est établie, avec l’unité sémantique comme unité de codage retenue. Si l’analyse des entretiens fait apparaître des différences en fonction de la filière, le processus de constitution d’un réseau de confiance est majoritairement présent. Nous confrontons nos résultats à ceux d’enquêtes par questionnaire sur les pratiques informationnelles des enseignants dans l’enseignement supérieur.
The heart of an AI
Authors: Barbosa Evandro , Alves Costa Thais
Published: April 2024

The article presents an analysis centered on the emotional lapses of artificial intelligence (AI) and the influence of these lapses on two critical aspects. Firstly, the article explores the ontological impact of emotional lapses, elucidating how they hinder AI’s capacity to develop a moral sense. The absence of a moral emotion, such as sympathy, creates a barrier for machines to grasp and ethically respond to specific situations. This raises fundamental questions about machines’ ability to act as moral agents in the same manner as human beings. Additionally, the article sheds light on the practical implications within human-machine relations and their effect on human friendships. The lack of friendliness or its equivalent in interactions with machines directly impacts the quality and depth of human relations. This concerningly suggests the potential replacement or compromise of genuine interpersonal connections due to limitations in human-machine interactions.
Reflexões sobre o futuro da inteligência artificial
Authors: Karasinski Murilo , Bez Birolo Candiotto Kleber , Mariano Vilaça Murilo
Published: April 2024

Nesta entrevista, mergulhamos nas reflexões de Luciano Floridi, uma figura proeminente na filosofia contemporânea e pioneiro na filosofia da informação. Reconhecido globalmente, Floridi desempenha um papel crucial na abordagem das implicações éticas das tecnologias digitais. O diálogo abrange temas cruciais da inteligência artificial, explorando o "Singularitarismo" e questionando se as perspectivas evoluíram com a ascensão da IA generativa. A discussão se estende aos modelos de linguagem de grande porte, destacando a falta de raciocínio real e a desconexão entre agência e inteligência. A entrevista destaca a importância do desenvolvimento da inteligência e do pensamento crítico diante dos desafios apresentados pelo ChatGPT, abordando preocupações sobre possíveis declínios cognitivos. Quanto ao futuro da inteligência artificial, Floridi delineia questões fundamentais no GELSI, mapeando implicações para governança, ética, legalidade e sociedade.
Society 5.0
Authors: Sadiq Sanusi Mohammed , Singh Invinder Paul , Ahmad Muhammad Makarfi , Usman Ummulqulthum Ndatsu
Published: April 2024

The sustainable development goals were underlined as needing significant societal changes, which were made even more urgent by the pandemic's advent. The future civilization should strive for sustainable growth, a strategy in which technology is a key component. Society 5.0 is a relatively new idea that serves as a framework for social development and has the potential to have a significant impact on societies at all aspects, including sustainability and quality of life. It seeks to maximize the capacity of the relationship between individuals and technology in the advocacy of the enhancement of everyone's quality of life through an incredibly smart society. Through the analysis of scientifically published works and the data from organizations and governments working on such schemes, it is possible to say that Industry 5.0 is far more than a pattern, and Society 5.0 would consequently open previously unimaginable prospects for the development of a highly smart globalized world.
A Comparative Analytics for Dynamic Load Balancing Mechanisms Intended to Improve Task Scheduling in Cloud Computing With Security Challenges
Authors: Patel Kiritkumar , Patel Ajaykumar , Patel Bhavesh
Published: April 2024

Cloud computing refers to a network of computing resources (servers, networks, applications, hardware, and software) interconnected globally. A good usage technique for resource utilization is load balancing. The practice of reassigning the total load to the individual nodes in a particular network is known as task distribution in the cloud. Since there is now no specific research carried out to perform comparative analytics in terms of different parameters of scheduling of task-based algorithms, it is crucial to develop a consistent comparison mechanism among them. FCFS, SJF, OLB, and GPA are the scheduling algorithms that are explored. Distribution of tasks is the main concern of crucial elements that boosts performance and optimizes resource usage. This study surveys the various scheduling methods employed by cloud service providers. There are so many scheduling approaches available to optimize performance and minimize execution time. It also discusses the security challenges in the cloud according to infrastructure and services.
ChatGPT and Ensemble Learning for Mobile Text Misinformation Identification
Authors: Pillai Sanjaikanth E. Vadakkethil Somanathan , Hu Wen-Chen
Published: April 2024

According to Pew Research Center, eight-in-ten Americans acquire news from digital devices, favoring mobile devices over desktops and laptops. News is therefore spread faster, wider, and easier. However, many of these mobile messages are at risk of being incorrect or even distorted on purpose. This research aims to mitigate this problem by identifying mobile text misinformation to allow mobile users to accurately judge the messages they receive. The proposed method uses various mobile data mining technologies including ChatGPT and several ensemble learning methods (including recurrent neural networks (RNN) and bagging, boosting, stacking, & voting means) to identify mobile misinformation. In addition, sentiment and emotional analyses are discussed in comparison. Experiment results show the ensemble learning methods provide higher accuracy than standalone ChatGPT or RNN model. Nevertheless, the problem, misinformation identification, is intrinsically difficult. Further refinements are needed before it is put into practical use.
Artificial Intelligence Technologies
Authors: Torres Ana Isabel , Beirão Gabriela
Published: April 2024

This chapter aims to contribute to the understanding of how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can promote increased business revenues, cost reductions, and enhanced customer experience, as well as society´s well-being in a sustainable way. However, these AI benefits also come with risks and challenges concerning organizations, the environment, customers, and society, which need further investigation. This chapter also examines and discusses how AI can either enable or inhibit the delivery of the goals recognized in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Business Models Development. In this chapter, the authors conduct a bibliometric review of the emerging literature on artificial intelligence (AI) technologies implications on sustainable business models (SBM), in the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and investigate research spanning the areas of AI, and SDGs within the economic group. The authors examine an effective sample of 69 publications from 49 different journals, 225 different institutions, and 47 different countries. On the basis of the bibliometric analysis, this study selected the most significant published sources and examined the changes that have occurred in the conceptual framework of AI and SBM in light of SDGs research. This chapter makes some significant contributions to the literature by presenting a detailed bibliometric analysis of the research on the impacts of AI on SBM, enhancing the understanding of the knowledge structure of this research topic and helping to identify key knowledge gaps and future challenges.
Effects of Taxation on Innovation and Implications for the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Godinho Vera , Monteiro Carla , Azevedo Graça Maria do Carmo
Published: April 2024

Innovation plays a crucial role in the realisation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) because it makes it possible to find creative and sustainable solutions that meet global challenges. However, the relationship between taxation and innovation is not linear and much less simple, as it can depend on various factors, such as the structure of the tax system, government policies, and how tax resources are used. This study aims to review the literature on the effects of taxation on innovation and its implications for achieving the SDGs. In this sense, a literature review was carried out that showed that taxation can have both positive and negative effects on innovation and that high tax rates and complex tax systems can discourage innovation because they reduce companies' financial capacity. The implications for Sustainable Development Goals are significant. Innovation and taxation are determinant factors in achieving the SDGs, as they drive technological advances and enable the development of sustainable solutions to tackle global challenges.
Approaches for Prevention of Antibacterial Drug Resistance
Authors: Kaur Amardeep , Sharma Ram Babu , Dua Kamal
Published: April 2024

Antibiotic resistance, the phenomenon where bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics, has become a pressing global health crisis. Over the past century, antibiotics have revolutionized medicine, saved countless lives, and enabled medical advancements. However, the overuse and misuse of these life-saving drugs, in human medicine, agriculture, and animal husbandry, have contributed to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This resistance not only threatens our ability to treat common infections but also compromises modern medical procedures such as surgeries, chemotherapy, and organ transplants. The consequences of antibiotic resistance are dire. Infections once easily treatable can become deadly, and the economic burden on healthcare systems is substantial. The pipeline for new antibiotics is alarmingly dry, with pharmaceutical companies finding it financially unattractive to invest in these short-course drugs. This scarcity of novel antibiotics further exacerbates the problem. Addressing antibiotic resistance requires a multifaceted approach, including responsible antibiotic use, the development of new antibiotics, and improved infection prevention and control measures. Global cooperation and comprehensive policies are crucial in combating this issue, recognizing its cross-border nature. The public's understanding of antibiotic resistance is key to its mitigation. Public awareness campaigns and education are pivotal in promoting responsible antibiotic use and infection prevention. By collectively tackling antibiotic resistance, we can ensure the continued effectiveness of antibiotics and safeguard the health of current and future generations.
Recent Strategies Inhibiting Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Formation in Bacteria to Combat Antibacterial Drug Resistance
Authors: Tiwari Sakshi , Deshpande Swagata , Gidwani Bina , Gupta Reena , Agrawal Kapil , Joshi Veenu , Joshi Neelu , Jain Vishal , Suresh Preeti K. , Vyas Amber
Published: April 2024

Antibacterial drug resistance is a global issue that arises as bacteria adapt over time to certain medications, making illnesses more difficult to cure and raising the possibility of contracting a disease, getting sick, or possibly dying. Quorum-sensing communication routes are used by bacteria to control a variety of physiological processes and it relies on bacterial receptors, which are manufactured by bacteria, to recognize small signaling molecules called autoinducers. The activation of the genes necessary for biofilm formation occurs when autoinducers bind to receptors. The purpose and concentration of the chapter is to comprehend the process underlying the development of biofilms brought on by the quorum sensing system, which gives both gram-positive and negative microorganisms resistance to antibacterial medications. It also examines recent developments and strategies for bacterial biofilm breakdown with an emphasis on quorum-sensing inhibitors.
Targeted Drug Delivery to Combat Antibacterial Drug Resistance
Authors: Pandey Nitin , Singh Kuldeep , Kushwaha Shom Prakash , Kumar Arun , Khalid Mohammad , Khan Ahsan Ahmed , Khan Maaz
Published: April 2024

In targeted drug delivery, antibiotics are precisely delivered to infection areas using nanoparticles and carrier systems, increasing effectiveness, lowering side effects, and causing the least amount of damage to the microbiota. By increasing local antibiotic concentrations, releasing antibiotics selectively depending on bacterial indicators, and using synergistic combination treatments, this approach combats antibacterial resistance. Diagnostics, real-time monitoring, and responsive medication delivery are all combined on multifunctional platforms made possible by nanotechnology. Though problems like biocompatibility and regulatory barriers still exist, recent research has shown promise both in vitro and in vivo. Targeted drug delivery, subject to additional study and invention, offers a method to increase antibiotic effectiveness while tackling resistance. It promises to improve the management of infectious diseases. Targeted distribution can address a variety of problems related to antibacterial resistance.
Antibiotics and Ecological Disruption
Authors: Saini Aakriti , Gulati Diksha
Published: April 2024

Antibiotic overuse and abuse have resulted in an alarming increase in germs that are resistant to them, posing a serious threat to human health. However, because these substances have the potential to disturb natural systems, the effects of antibiotics go beyond human medicine. Antibiotics, which are used to treat bacterial illnesses, have unintentionally gotten into several environmental components, including soil, water, and wildlife habitats. Outside of clinical settings, this environmental spread helps bacteria become resistant to antibiotics. By changing the variety and makeup of microbial communities, these bacteria may affect ecosystem stability and nutrient cycling. It is critical to consider alternate tactics to solve the ecological issues related to antibiotics. One such strategy is the creation and application of phage treatment, in which viruses called bacteriophages—which specifically target bacteria—are used to fight bacterial illnesses. A highly targeted and flexible treatment option, phage therapy may lessen the strain on germs to acquire resistance. Using antibiotics more wisely in both human and veterinary medicine is another recommendation. In conclusion, the ecological disruption caused by antibiotics is a complex subject that requires consideration outside of its medicinal applications. This essay argues for a comprehensive approach that incorporates different strategies, such as phage therapy, ethical antibiotic use, and a One Health paradigm, to lessen the ecological effects of antibiotic use. To overcome these obstacles, international collaboration and a dedication to maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems while assuring effective healthcare practices are required.
Opportunities and Challenges of Digital Audits and Compliance
Authors: Herath Siriyama Kanthi , Herath Laksitha Maheshi , Yoo Jae Koo
Published: April 2024

The auditing and compliance sectors have changed significantly with the digital revolution. Technology improvements are driving this change, which is altering how financial reporting and regulatory compliance are done. For digital corporate reporting, the international financial reporting standards (IFRS) taxonomy has been adopted, and auditors and compliance specialists have adapted to their enlarged roles in managing digital financial data. The introduction of new technology is examined in this chapter, along with the effects of digitization on auditing and compliance and the global relevance of IFRS. As the potential and problems of the digital era change, the benefits of automation in data analysis, risk assessment, and compliance monitoring are also highlighted.
Digital Reporting of Accounting Information and AIS in Oman
Authors: Younas Afshan
Published: April 2024

Oman holds a prominent location in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. There were several structural reforms took place to enhance the adoption and implementation of smooth governance in Oman from the inception of the corporate governance structure. This study aims to review and document the digital reporting of accounting information of these Omani companies listed at the Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) and registered with the Capital Market Authority (CMA). The purpose of the study is to highlight the adaptation of digital accounting reporting of listed companies at MSX and registered companies at CMA, its benefits, and the current challenges. From 2020, all the listed, licensed, and accredited companies by MSX and CMA were required to report their financial information digitally by using XBRL taxonomy. The research provides useful insight to regulators, decision-makers, businesses, and the academic world by filling the gap in the literature.
The Impact of Blockchain Technology on the Financial Audit
Authors: Bejjar Mohamed Ali , Siala Yosr
Published: April 2024

This chapter focuses on exploring the implications of blockchain technology on the practice of financial auditing. It begins by explaining the fundamentals of financial auditing, and then provides a historical context for digitization within auditing. This is followed by a thorough examination of blockchain technology, including its architecture, characteristics, and categorizations. The chapter then highlights the integration of blockchain into financial auditing, highlighting benefits such as improved risk management, automated audit processes, fraud reduction, cost savings, and the emergence of a continuous audit model. The changing role of auditors in this technologically evolving landscape is also discussed. This synthesis provides an in-depth perspective on the transformative potential of blockchain to improve the efficiency and transparency of financial audit.
Emergence of Federated and Deep Learning for Smart City
Authors: Shashi  , Rana Vasu Kumar
Published: April 2024

Federated and deep learning are changing every field in today's era; these technologies are making devices, citizens, homes, buildings, cars, etc. Before these technologies, we used normal machine learning that has some cons. To counter those cons, federated and deep learning emerged. Federated and deep learning work on the same concept of machine learning, but with advanced methods. Using these technologies, we make work easier; and companies are using them to enhance their productivity, to grow the business, etc. Current smart city applications offer various facilities to ensure more effective, time-saving services like traffic management, environmental and public safety and security, energy management, healthcare services, etc. The smart city's components first collect data by using different IoT and other sensors. It requires processing the data to perform several actions to achieve the system's benefits. Deep learning and federated learning methods that use artificial intelligence to make cities smarter. In this chapter, the authors explore the cons of normal machine learning, and what the roles are of federated learning and deep learning in the making of cities smarter, as well as what is needed and how these technologies work.
Smart City and 5G
Authors: Qamar Roheen , Zardari Baqar Ali
Published: April 2024

The idea of smart cities is significant because it seeks to improve a city's infrastructure, traffic, governance, water and waste management, power management, health, safety and security, education, and other systems in order to raise the standard of living for its citizens. This chapter explains the idea of “smart cities” and lists all of the advantages. It explains the many services and applications needed to create a smart city, as well as the part ICT technologies play in putting them into practice. In addition, the difficulties with the current ICT systems are examined in relation to the deployment of smart cities. The chapter explores the anticipated characteristics of 5G technologies and explains why they might be the most effective solution for implementing smart cities successfully. Researchers and practitioners in the field can both benefit from this research, which offers a reflection on the state of the art, the use of 5G in smart cities.
Generative AI-Enabled IoT Applications for Smart Cities
Authors: Ghai Anupriya Sharma , Ghai Kapil , Cakir Gulsun Kurubacak
Published: April 2024

In the dynamic evolution of smart cities, the collaboration between generative artificial intelligence (AI) and internet of things (IoT) technologies is reshaping urban experiences and fostering sustainable urban development. This collaborative explores the intricate balance of dynamic resource allocation and optimization facilitated by generative AI algorithms within intelligent city IoT networks. It unfolds the transformative potential of generative design for smart city infrastructure, offering insights into energy efficiency and advanced AI processes. The chapter underscores the pivotal role of predictive analytics, behavior prediction, and cybersecurity measures in steering decision-making for optimal urban functioning. Real-world case studies illuminate successful generative AI-IoT integrations, providing tangible lessons for stakeholders, and conclude by urging ongoing collaborative research to address evolving challenges and chart future directions for a more interconnected and resilient urban future. This chapter serves as a valuable contribution, providing a comprehensive exploration of the transformative potential of this collaborative paradigm.
Securing the Foundations
Authors: Premavathi T. , Shekhar Ayush , Raj Aayush , Agrawal Shreya , Palaniappan Damodharan , Shukla Madhu
Published: April 2024

Rapid IoT device integration in smart cities is transforming urban environments, delivering unparalleled efficiency, sustainability, and connection. This book chapter tackles smart city IoT infrastructure security, a top priority. It begins with an exploration of how IoT technologies are changing urban living and the pros and cons of their widespread adoption. IoT equipment including sensors, actuators, connected vehicles, and public infrastructure pose security vulnerabilities. IoT implementations, the chapter examines smart city cyber and privacy concerns. The next section presents a technical and policy-based framework for smart city IoT infrastructure security. Collaboration between government, industry, and the public is key to this framework's success. Blockchain for secure transactions, machine learning for anomaly detection, and encryption protocols are also explored in smart city IoT installations. The chapter finishes with a look ahead at smart city IoT infrastructure security, emphasizing the necessity for constant adaptation and improvement to combat new threats.
A Discourse Analysis of Twitter Communication to Foster Digital Diplomacy Between India and China
Authors: Roy Reema , Kumar Piyush , Chatterjee Moumita , Sarkar Dhrubasish
Published: April 2024

Online social media platforms enable an individual or agency to communicate interactively and exchange of opinion. Twitter is a very popular platform worldwide for the exchange of opinions. The chapter tries to identify the effectiveness of social media diplomacy and effectiveness of the communication made on Twitter. The study wants to identify the role of Twitter in maintaining the international relations between India and China. There are three key factors that can be identified as the basis of the relationship. Those are business, boarder tension, and the cultural exchange. The study has taken two Twitter handles of Sun Weindong, Chinese Ambassador to India, @China_Amb_India, and India in China, Embassy of India Beijing, @EOIBeijing, for the analysis. The discourse analysis method and content analysis have been adopted by accessing Twitter data and news contents of the study. The study also investigates the impact on the users presenting the word cloud. This study shows a new path in the area of open diplomacy.
China's Soft Power Diplomatic Cooperation in Africa and the Middle East
Authors: Mathebula Ndzalama , Zreik Mohamad
Published: April 2024

In the new global order foreign policy, bilateral and multilateral cooperation has come to be better understood and practiced through soft power as compared to coercive means (hard power). Many states globally have achieved their foreign policy through soft power diplomacy such as China. In this chapter, the authors aim to examine China's soft power through their infrastructure investment in the Middle East and the African continent. The crux of the study is not to review China's soft power and if their cooperation's yield a win-win outcome for all involved actors. Rather, the study is set to assess the value of China's soft power cooperation. The idea lies in quantifying the true value of China's soft power in a bilateral and multilateral settings and determining how much of a win each actor procures through the cooperation. This research adopts a qualitative method explored in a thematic and comparative research design. The comparative approach applied between the Middle East and Africa enable for China's soft power to be a dependent variable that can be applied in different regions simultaneously. Herein, the comparison enables the authors to compare China's foreign policy behavior in two distinct regions and settings and to further assess how these outcomes either reflect China's soft power or the state behavior in many of the Africa and the Middle East states.
Reflections on the Development of Strategic Relations Between Iran and China
Authors: Mokhtari Jamal
Published: April 2024

This research seeks a strategic framework for Iran-China relations through the analytical method and using the theoretical model of interdependence. The main question of this research is to examine the variables of these strategic relations. The research hypothesis is that the three variables of transportation, energy, and security exist as platforms for cooperation between the two countries based on the “interdependence” model. Due to rapid industrial growth, China has an increasing demand for fossil energy. Iran's three relative advantages include the provision of a stable energy supply, secure transit access to Central Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean, and the establishment of security in the Middle East. This study first analyzes the nature of bilateral relations between Iran and China. The nature of Iran's objectives in bilateral relations with China comprises two levels: “economic” and “political”. The nature of China's objectives in bilateral relations with Iran includes two levels: “geographical areas of China's soft power objectives” and “energy security”. It then examines Iran's position in three situations based on China's soft power harmony under the Belt and Road project. Finally, the interdependence variables of Iran and China under the Belt and Road Initiative are analyzed.
Silk Roads of Influence
Authors: Kalim Inayat , Hyatt Asad
Published: April 2024

This chapter delves into China's soft power strategy through South-South Cooperation (SSC) in Asia, focusing on how its economic growth and cultural outreach enhance its regional influence. It examines China's self-identification as a developing country and its principle of non-intervention, which bolster its appeal among its SSC partners. The analysis identifies the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Global Development Initiative (GDI) as key to China's soft power in Asia, with both initiatives serving infrastructural development and cultural promotion without imposing political conditions. These efforts resonate in the Middle East and developing Asian countries, aligning with China's preference for engaging state actors to ensure regional stability. However, the chapter also highlights the limitations of China's quest for regional influence, particularly in the realm of public diplomacy.
Soft Power
Authors: Yigit Sureyya
Published: April 2024

Soft power is a term coined by Joseph Nye whereby, in addition to command and obedience, power is primarily shown in the ability to influence the behaviour and goals of the other side through non-military means. These means of getting other states to share one's own goals and values range from negotiating skills to the seductive power of economic success models to cultural offerings between the production of dreams and ideology. Nye defines it as when a state can get others to admire its ideals and want what they want, but it does not have to spend as much on rewards or threats to move them in their direction. Therefore, seduction is seen as more effective than coercion, and many values, such as democracy, human rights, and individual opportunities, become deeply seductive. This chapter explores the development of the notion of soft power in international politics.