bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BORDER SECURITY AND OIL WAR IN THE LATIN AMERICAN /CARIBBEAN REGION: A CASE STUDY OF THE GUYANA/VENEZUELA DISPUTE.
Authors: Raghunath Mahabir , Keron Ganpat
Published: February 2025

This article explores the recent developments in the ongoing dispute between Guyana and Venezuela   which   has intensified as a result of the Venezuelan contention that the Arbitral Award of 1899 about the frontier between   then British Guiana and Venezuela is null and void.  The Essequibo region is a disputed territory of   61,650 square miles (159,500 km² )west of the Essequibo River. It is claimed by both Guyana and Venezuela, but it has been administered and controlled by Guyana since the 1899 Paris Arbitral Award. The boundary dispute was inherited from the colonial powers (Spain in the case of Venezuela, and the Netherlands and the United Kingdom in the case of Guyana) and has been complicated by the independence of Guyana from the United Kingdom in 1966.The author analyses the impact of this dispute and draws attention to the disregard of international law and to the infringement of territorial sovereignty and integrity by one state on another. The purpose of the paper is to chronicle the facts and circumstances relating to this dispute with the specific intent of examining why Venezuela engaged in actions contrary to the ICJ ruling of December 1,2023 and what are some of the possible responses to these actions taken by the current Venezuelan government. Data for this paper was collected from interviews and discussions with several persons including members of the Guyanese Defense Force, academia, government officials from Guyana, Venezuelans living in Trinidad and Tobago and from the proceedings from a Conference entitled A Public Awareness Program: The Venezuela –Guyana Dispute held in Georgetown Guyana, on November 28, 2023, in which senior members of the Guyanese government participated. As of the time of writing (December 12  ,2023) Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro on December 6,2023 called for a bill to create a “Guyana Esequiba” province and ordered Venezuelan companies to prepare to enter the territory to explore for fossil fuels and minerals “immediately”. The move has escalated tensions over the disputed oil-rich territory and Maduro said he will proceed “to grant operating licenses for the exploration and exploitation of oil, gas and mines in the entire area of our Essequibo”. With his demand  
that  Guyanese companies working in the territory leave within three months, the United States   has already responded by strengthening its military presence in Guyana. In response as well,  Guyanese President Irfaan Ali rejected the measures as a “direct threat” against his country and  has threatened to take the case to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).It seems more than likely that other players such as the Unites States, Brazil, China and Russia may sooner or later get involved in this dispute.
Key words: Venezuela, Guyana, territorial sovereignty, International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Investigating the Status of a Competency-Based Agricultural Higher Education System in Iran
Authors: Saadvandi Mahsa , Abbasi Enayat , Biemans Harm , Farhadian Homayoun , Zarafshani Kiumars
Published: February 2025

Competency-based education (CBE) represents a crucial approach for aligning educational systems with community requirements. The approach is founded on principles that delineate the essential attributes of key educational components: educators, learners, curriculum, and learning environment. In light of the ongoing challenges within Iran’s agricultural higher education system to synchronize academic instruction with community needs, this study investigates the status of the competency-based agricultural higher education system in Iran. The population in this quantitative research included all educators and students in Iran’s public agricultural schools and government employers in the agricultural sector. Sample educators and students were selected using a multistage sampling method, while purposeful sampling was used to select employers. Data were collected using two questionnaires: one related to educators and students, and one related to employers. The validity and reliability of the tools were assessed and confirmed by a panel of experts using Cronbach’s alpha test, and data analysis was performed in SPSS version 22. We found that the characteristics related to the relationships between the various pillars of the agricultural higher education system and the external environment, like professional and management skills, were unfavorable. This indicates that graduates lack the necessary skills to effectively engage with industry professionals and manage agricultural enterprises. On the other hand, characteristics associated with the internal functions of the educational system, such as scientific ability and personal skills, were favorable. This suggests that the educational system is more successful in developing students’ academic knowledge and personal competencies than empowering them to enter the labor market.
Caritive expression in Suansu
Authors: Ivani Jessica Katiuscia
Published: February 2025

This contribution describes caritive expressions in Suansu, an endangered Tibeto-Burman language spoken in Manipur, North-East India. Two distinct morphosyntactic caritive constructions can be identified in Suansu: the first, semantically restricted to human absentees, involves the comitative particle ʈʂidə and the negated main verb. The other strategy, more prominent and found in all semantic contexts, consists of a biclausal construction with a negated ancillary clause embedded in the main one. The types of verbs -and their specificity- used in the ancillary clause vary depending on the functions and meanings of the absentee. However, the use of the verb thõn ‘to be inside’ in the ancillary caritive clause appears to be predominant and extends to unexpected semantic contexts, signaling a possible grammaticalization process of this verb in caritive expressions.
Causative Derivations in Tenyidie
Authors: Kraho Kikrokhol
Published: February 2025

The paper attempts to describe the different causative constructions in Tenyidie. Based on the processes of derivation involved, they are divided into three different types. While the first type is derived from intransitive as well as transitive verbs which are from different semantic domain, the second and third types are derived from different subclass of intransitive verbs; the second type is associated with the ‘move’ class of verb and the third type is associated with the ‘change’ class of verb. The paper provides a glimpse of how phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics interact in the derivation of causative construction in Tenyidie.
Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury via ASK-1/TXNIP Pathway Modulation
Authors: Abdelaziz Amal , Mekky Radwa Yyehia , Ibrahim Sherine
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a diverse set of illnesses characterized by a rapid decline in kidney function

Material and methods

Characteristics and homing of MSCs to kidney tissues were identified by flow cytometry and differentiation capability. After AKI induction by cisplatin injection in sixteen albino rats, the AKI rats were further subdivided into three subgroups. The first subgroup served as a positive control and the second one received 2 mg/kg furosemide (FUR) which served as a standard drug. The third subgroup received a single dose of 5 x 106 MSCs via tail vein injection once a week for consecutive two weeks. AKI-related biochemical parameters were assayed at 2 weeks after MSC treatment. Kidney histological changes were also evaluated. Moreover, the apoptosis of kidney cells and expression of apoptosis-related proteins were assessed by western blot.

Results

Compared with AKI rats, rats treated with MSCs showed suppressed serum levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. MSC treatment alleviated the pathological abnormalities in the kidneys of AKI rats as shown by H&E staining.Furthermore, MSC treatment suppressed apoptosis of kidney cells in AKI rats via downregulation of apoptotic proteins; thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1). Most importantly, MSC treatment promoted the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the kidneys of AKI rats.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MSCs could ameliorate renal injury of AKI rats via their antiapoptotic properties. Also, the protective effects of MSCs may be mediated by their angiogenic potential effects.
Geology, Structures and 2D Resistivity Imaging of the Main Observatory Station of the Center for Geodesy and Geodynamics, Toro, Bauchi State Nigeria
Authors: Abba M. J. , Alhassan Idris
Published: February 2025

Electrical resistivity method was used in carrying out geophysical investigations at the Centre for Geodesy and geodynamic Toro observatory station, Bauchi state with a view of determining the geology, structures and depth of the lithology of the basement. The Toro observatory station is undererlained by an Older Granite Rock of Migmatite-Gneise composition, the Lineaments observed at the field and satellite imagery are trending in the NE-SW direction. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) using Schlumberger array was carried out at forty (40) VES, ABEM terrameter (SAS 1000) was used for the data acquisition. The field data obtained have been analyzed using computer software (IPI2win) which gives an automatic interpretation of the apparent resistivity. Results from the interpretation suggest three layers in most parts of the study area. However, there is a case of two layers at the station. The resistivity value for the topsoil layer varies from 2 to 738Ωm with thickness ranging from 1 to 3.9meters, the weathered basement has resistivity values ranging from 32 to 1735Ωm and thickness of between 0.52 and 23 meters. The fresh basement(bedrock) has resistivity values ranging from 100 to 6,036Ωm which prove that the area is very stable for the establishment of the observatory station for carrying out earth observation research as well as monitor and predict geo-hazards using Space Geodetic and Geo-physical techniques for sustainable National Development.
Yenilenmiş Bloom Taksonomisi Bağlamında Lgs Matematik Dersi Sorularının ve 8. Sınıf Matematik Dersi Program Kazanımlarının İncelenmesi
Authors: Aydoğdu Ayşenur , Gültekin Selcen
Published: February 2025

Bu çalışmanın amacı LGS Matematik dersinde yer alan soruların ve sorularla ilgili 2018 Matematik dersi 8. sınıf öğretim programı kazanımlarının Yenilenmiş Bloom taksonomisi bağlamında incelemesi ve karşılaştırılmasıdır. Araştırmada nitel araştırma desenlerinden durum çalışması deseni kullanılmış, veriler doküman inceleme yöntemiyle incelenmiştir. Araştırmada 2018 8. sınıf Matematik dersi öğretim programında yer alan 52 kazanım ve 2018’den 2024’e kadar LGS’de yer alan 140 adet sınav sorusu karşılaştırmalı olarak incelenmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda LGS Matematik dersi sorularının bilgi boyutuna göre en çok işlemsel bilgi (%92,85) basamağında olduğu; bilişsel süreç boyutuna göre uygulama (%32,85) ve (%62,14) çözümleme basamaklarında yığıldığı görülmüştür. Sorularda yer alan kazanımların ise bilgi boyutuna göre en çok (%90,7) işlemsel bilgi düzeyinde dağılım gösterdiği, üstbilişsel bilgi basamağında herhangi bir kazanımın olmadığı; bilişsel süreç boyutuna göre ise (%72,14) uygulama ve (%20,71) çözümleme basamaklarında ağırlık kazandığı belirlenmiştir. Sorular ve sorularda yer alan kazanımların düzeyleri karşılaştırıldığında ise 68 adet sorunun düzeyinin, soruda yer alan kazanım düzeyinden yüksek olduğu görülmüştür. LGS’de programa ilişkin 200 adet kazanımın bulunduğu, 140 sorudan 46’sında birden fazla kazanımın ölçüldüğü, aynı kazanımın birden fazla soruda bulunduğu belirlenmiştir. LGS’de programla ilgili ortalama 25 kazanımdan soru geldiği dolayısıyla LGS’nin programda yer alan kazanımların yaklaşık %50’sini yokladığı tespit edilmiştir.
Okul Öncesi Çocuğa Sahip Annelerin Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğuna İlişkin Farkındalıklarının Çeşitli Değişkenler Açısından İncelenmesi
Authors: Kaya Feyat , Taşlıbeyaz Hasan Ferşat
Published: February 2025

Otizm spektrum bozukluğuna (OSB) sosyal etkileşim, iletişim yetersizlikleri ile sınırlı ve tekrarlayıcı davranış örüntüleriyle karakterize edilen nörogelişimsel bir yetersizliktir. Son dönemlerde OSB yaygınlık oranı dünya çapında hızla artmaktadır. Yaygınlıktaki bu artışın olası nedenleri arasında tanı ölçütlerindeki önemli değişiklikler, tanılamada doğru teşhisin konması, gelişmiş tanılama araçlarının kullanılması ve farkındalığın artması olarak gösterilmektedir. Bu çalışmada tipik gelişim gösteren okul öncesi çocuğa sahip olan annelerin OSB’ye ilişkin farkındalıklarının ve çeşitli değişkenlerle olan ilişkisinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma betimsel tarama modeli kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın katılımcılarını okul öncesi çocuğa sahip 196 anne oluşturmaktadır. Katılımcıların belirlenmesinde amaçsal örneklemede yer alan ölçüt örnekleme kullanılmıştır. Veriler, demografik bilgi formu ile Okul Öncesi Çocukların Annelerinin Otizm Farkındalığı Ölçeği kullanılarak toplanmış ve analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma bulguları, annelerin OSB farkındalığının yaş, eğitim düzeyi, meslek, yakın çevrede OSB olan bireylerin varlığı ve bilgi edinme kaynaklarına göre değiştiğini göstermektedir. Bulgular alanyazında var olan çalışmaların bulgularıyla karşılaştırılarak benzerlik ve farklılıkları tartışılmıştır.
EDUKASI KETERAMPILAN HARDSKILL MELALUI HANDICRAFT BERBASIS LOGIC EXPLOXER DI DESA KOLBANO KABUPATEN TTS
Authors: Kurniawan Budi , Fernandes Elisabeth Ernawaty , Palla Karima Tunisa , Tjandring Sahrul
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this community service is to be able to improve the Hardskill ability of students by providing Hardskill Skills Education training through Logic Exploxer-Based handicrafts in Kolbano Village, TTS Regency regarding: (1) processing of plastic waste into handicrafts (2) processing of various shapes and colors of beach stones  become handicrafts.. Implementation of hardskill skills education training service activities through Logic Exploxer-Based Handicraft in Kolbano Village, TTS Regency is conducted according to the planned program.  The implementation method used in this community service activity is divided into 4 (four) stages including (1) initial observation of the activity area (2) problem mapping (3) activity socialization (4) training implementation by involving the community, students, and lecturers of the Primary School Teacher Training Study Program University of  Muhammadiyah Kupang.  The outcome of this activity is the understanding of the community and students about the processing of plastic and colored stone waste and the ability to develop students' hard skills.
Pembuatan Majalah Dinding untuk Meningkatkan Literasi dan Mengembangkan Kemampuan Menulis Peserta Didik di SDI Dhereisa
Authors: Fono Yasinta Maria , Sayangan Yohanes Vianey , Bupu Antonia , Mengu Maria Oktaviana
Published: February 2025

Kemampuan literasi pada  awalnya  diartikan  sebagai  keterampilan  membaca  dan  menulis,  tetapi  pada  saat  ini  pengertiannya  mengalami  perkembangan.  Khusus  untuk  mata  pelajaran  bahasa  Indonesia pengertian literasi lebih dipumpunkan pada keterampilan informasi. Kemampuan informasi  mengacu   pada   beberapa   aktivitas,   yaitu  mengumpulkan   informasi, mengolah   informasi,   dan  mengomunikasikan  informasi. Sebagai upaya pengembangan kemampuan literasi  peserta didik maka perlu adanya kegiatan yang medukung atau dapat membantu peserta didik seperti pembuatan majalah dinding. Program ini adalah satu upaya umum sebagai media informasi, karena informasi yang didapat lewat mading mudah dilakukan dan tidak memakan banyak biaya terutama dalam hal pengelolaannya.Tujuan dari pembuatan mading adalah membantu meningkatkan literasi dan kreatifitas peserta didik dalam mencari informasi dan ide-ide baru yang kemudian dituangkan dalam sebuah karya sepperti puisi, cerpen, dan pantun. Pengabdian ini dilakukan dengan metode pendampingan di SDI Dhereisa melalui  program pembuatan majalah dinding. Hasil pendampingan menujukan bahwa adanya peningkatan kemampuan litrerasi dan kreativitas peserta didik di SDI Dhereisa.
AKTİF MÜZİK TERAPİDE TERAPİST VE DANIŞAN ARASINDA KURULAN TERAPÖTİK İLİŞKİNİN TERAPİST GÖRÜŞLERİ DOĞRULTUSUNDA İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Can Kubilay , Sezen Saide
Published: February 2025

Bu çalışma, aktif müzik terapide terapist ve danışan arasında kurulan terapötik ilişkiyi terapist görüşleri doğrultusunda incelemek amacıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Müzik terapi, bireylerin fiziksel, zihinsel, duygusal, bilişsel ve sosyal ihtiyaçlarını karşılamak amacıyla müziğin sistematik ve kanıta dayalı bir şekilde kullanıldığı bir disiplindir. Çalışmada aktif müzik terapi metotlarının terapist tercihleri ve uygulama süreçlerindeki belirleyici unsurlar detaylı olarak ele alınmıştır. Araştırmanın problemini, terapistlerin danışanın ihtiyaçlarına göre uygulanacak metot seçimi, terapötik ilişkinin kurulması ve süreçte karşılaşılan zorluklara yönelik çözüm önerileri oluşturmuştur. Nitel araştırma yaklaşımı ile ele alınan bu çalışmada, ölçüt örnekleme yöntemiyle seçilen dört terapistten görüşler alınmıştır. Veriler, yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu ile toplanmış ve katılımcıların detaylı deneyimlerini yansıtacak şekilde sunulmuştur. Görüşmelerde terapistlerin aktif müzik terapi sürecinde metodoloji, müzikal araç seçimi, oturum süreleri ve terapötik ilişkinin dinamiklerine ilişkin deneyimleri değerlendirilmiştir. Araştırma sonuçları, terapistlerin uygulayacağı metotu danışanın durumu ve terapötik hedefler doğrultusunda seçtiğini göstermiştir. Ayrıca, güven ve empatiye dayalı terapötik ilişkinin sürecin başarısını artırdığı belirlenmiştir. Müzikal araçlar arasında gitar, piyano ve perküsyon gibi çalgıların sıklıkla tercih edildiği görülmüştür. Terapötik sürecin bireyselleştirilmesi gerektiği ve danışanın ihtiyaçlarına uygun yöntemlerin önem taşıdığı vurgulanmıştır. Bu çalışma, müzik terapi alanında terapistlerin deneyimlerinden yola çıkarak, uygulama süreçlerinin daha etkin hale getirilmesine yönelik bilgiler sunmaktadır. Elde edilen bulgular, müzik terapinin sağlık ve eğitim alanlarında multidisipliner bir anlayışla ele alınması gerektiğine işaret etmektedir. Çalışma, terapötik süreçte karşılaşılan güçlüklerin üstesinden gelinmesi için terapistlere yol gösterici öneriler sunmaktadır.
Leadership and Followership Dynamism among Ebira Tao People in Nigeria: Asocio Ethical Perspective
Authors: Idah Florence Abiola  , Taiwo Bamike
Published: February 2025

Abstract: The Ebira-tao people of Nigeria, comprising predominantly peasant masses, unemployed youths, and struggling graduates, face significant socio-political challenges rooted in leadership and followership dynamics. While previous studies have largely emphasized leadership failures, this research examines the shared responsibilities of leaders and followers, identifying the underlying causes and impacts of maladministration. Using Burn's Transformational Leadership Theory, which advocates for mutual moral and motivational elevation between leaders and followers, the study employed a mixed-method approach. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires administered to key informants, including local government officials, traditional rulers, and religious leaders. Out of 430 distributed questionnaires, 400 were properly filled and analyzed, revealing that self-interest, lack of vision, corruption, inefficient social policies, and socio-political unrest were primary contributors to governance failure among the Ebira-tao people. The study found that bad governance has led to socio-ethical consequences such as poverty, moral decay, and socio-political instability. Respondents highlighted that the empowerment of morally deficient individuals and poor advisory structures have further exacerbated these issues, drawing parallels with the reign of King Rehoboam in biblical times. To address these challenges, the study recommends moral re-orientation and socio-political reconstruction for leaders and followers alike, emphasizing the need for accountability, vision, and ethical governance to achieve sustainable development and improve the quality of life for the Ebira-tao people.
Examining Socio-Economic and Parental Influences on Menstrual Hygiene Practices and Knowledge Accuracy: Implications for Counselling, Policy and Education
Authors: Agyei-Sarpong Kingsley
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The study addresses the factors influencing menstrual hygiene practices and knowledge accuracy among respondents, focusing on the roles of socio-economic status and parental influence by testing null hypotheses that were formulated.

Method: This study used a descriptive study design and had a sample size of 384. The sample size was found through simple random sampling, purposeful sampling, and stratified sampling. Data was gathered through a structured questionnaire that was made to fit the answers of the respondents.

Data Analysis: The research used SPSS 20.0 to analyse data, including percentages, means, standard deviation, independent-samples t-tests, and logistic regression analysis.

Results: A t-test comparison of knowledge scores between respondents informed by parents and those informed by schools showed significant differences. And the Logistic regression analysis revealed significant socio-economic factors influencing menstrual hygiene practices.

Conclusion: This study offers detailed insights into the intricate relationship between socio-economic determinants, parental influence, and menstrual hygiene behaviours among adolescent females. The results indicate the significance of socioeconomic position in influencing individuals’ menstrual hygiene management. This illustrates the significance of implementing interventions tailored to each socioeconomic category.

Recommendations: Organize workshops and seminars for parents to improve their understanding of menstruation and equip them to provide accurate information to their children. And engage advocacy for menstrual health education to be recognized as an essential component of national health and education policies.
Revolutionizing Cultural Heritage Preservation in Bangladesh: Virtual Reality Integration at Chhoto Sona Mosque
Authors: Hasan Dr. Mahbubul
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a study on the implementation of virtual reality (VR) techniques in the restoration and conservation of the Chhoto Sona Mosque in Chapainawabganj, Bangladesh. The mosque, which was built during the reign of Alauddin Husayn Shah in the 15th century, is considered a remarkable accomplishment of the Sultanate period. Despite the loss of some of its original features, the mosque still stands as an important cultural and historical site in Bangladesh. The study utilizes 3D digitalization techniques to recreate the mosque’s past and present features, including its beautiful tiled floors, gilded domes and adjacent water body which were demolished over time. By combining fieldwork, laboratory work, and digital technologies, the study demonstrates the potential of VR restoration and conservation in promoting tourism and cultural preservation in Bangladesh. The article also discusses the challenges faced during the digitalization process and the potential for future research in this area. The study provides valuable insights into the use of digital technologies in heritage conservation and restoration, and the potential of VR to preserve cultural heritage sites for future generations.
Insurance Penetration and Financial Development in Nigeria, 2003-2023
Authors: LINUS Justin Ogbonna , Oladipo Bunmi , Yalouli Tarek , O Okafor Sunday , LAWAL Faith Chidinma
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the interaction between insurance penetration on the development of the financial system in Nigeria covering the period 2003 to 2023. The main purpose of the paper is to find out the responsiveness of the insurance penetration to the development of the financial system in Nigeria. Financial development broken down into bank development (Credit to the Private Sector divided by Gross Domestic Product) and institutional development (money supply divided by Gross Domestic Product) served as the independent variables while insurance penetration served as the dependent variable. An array of preestimation tests were used to determine the goodness of the used dataset and the adopted methodology is the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model form of regression analyses. Findings arising from this study indicate that financial development enhances insurance penetration while the regulatory environment controlled for by monetary policy rate also favourably affects insurance penetration. This implies that the interconnectedness of the sectors of the financial system should be explored for the imperatives of overall developemnt of the financial system.
Dynamic pricing and product lifecycle management: adapting to market trends and consumer needs
Authors: Omoezime Janet Oteri  , Ekene Cynthia Onukwulu  , Abbey Ngochindo Igwe  , Chikezie Paul-Mikki Ewim  , Augustine Ifeanyi Ibeh  , Adedamola Sobowale
Published: February 2025

Dynamic pricing and product lifecycle management (PLM) are two critical strategies that enable businesses to remain competitive in rapidly evolving markets. This paper explores the intersection of these two concepts, highlighting how integrating dynamic pricing models with PLM can enhance market adaptability, maximize profitability, and meet shifting consumer demands. Dynamic pricing, which involves adjusting prices based on real-time market trends, competition, and consumer behavior, is particularly effective when aligned with the stages of a product's lifecycle, introduction, growth, maturity, and decline. The study delves into advanced pricing algorithms powered by machine learning and artificial intelligence, enabling businesses to forecast demand, optimize inventory, and personalize pricing strategies. Simultaneously, PLM tools provide insights into product development, marketing, and phasing out, ensuring that pricing strategies are contextually relevant to each lifecycle stage. Case studies from diverse industries, such as technology, fashion, and consumer goods, illustrate the practical application of these integrated strategies, demonstrating measurable outcomes in revenue growth, customer satisfaction, and market share. Moreover, the paper examines potential challenges, including ethical concerns around price discrimination, regulatory compliance, and the impact of dynamic pricing on brand perception. It also offers actionable recommendations for businesses to implement adaptive pricing frameworks while maintaining transparency and consumer trust. The synthesis of dynamic pricing and PLM represents a forward-looking approach to navigating market uncertainties, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable competitive advantages in an era of digital transformation. This comprehensive framework not only aligns pricing and product strategies but also empowers organizations to thrive in increasingly customer-centric marketplaces.
Keywords: Dynamic Pricing, Product Lifecycle Management, Market Trends, Consumer Behavior, Adaptability Strategies.
A predictive analytics model for banking fraud detection: Solving real-time challenges in customer safety and financial security
Authors: Bamidele Michael Omowole  , Hope Ehieghe Omokhoa  , Ibidapo Abiodun Ogundeji  , Godwin Ozoemenam Achumie
Published: February 2025

The rise in banking fraud has highlighted the critical need for robust and efficient fraud detection systems that ensure customer safety and financial security. Existing methods often struggle to address real-time detection challenges due to limitations in scalability, accuracy, and response time. This study proposes a predictive analytics model leveraging advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms and real-time data processing to enhance fraud detection capabilities in the banking sector. The model is designed to solve key challenges, including the identification of fraudulent activities, minimizing false positives, and ensuring scalability for large transaction volumes. The model integrates supervised and unsupervised ML techniques, such as decision trees, neural networks, and clustering algorithms, to analyze patterns and detect anomalies indicative of fraudulent transactions. A feature engineering pipeline optimizes data preprocessing, while real-time detection is achieved through distributed computing frameworks like Apache Spark. Additionally, the model incorporates explainable AI (XAI) components to ensure transparency and build trust among stakeholders. Key performance metrics, including detection accuracy, false positive rate, and system latency, were evaluated using a hybrid dataset comprising real-world and synthetic banking transactions. The results demonstrate significant improvements in fraud detection accuracy, with reduced false positives and enhanced scalability to handle high transaction volumes. Moreover, the model includes adaptive learning mechanisms that enable continuous improvement by updating fraud detection algorithms based on evolving fraud patterns. This research contributes to the field of banking security by providing a scalable, transparent, and efficient fraud detection solution. It emphasizes the importance of real-time processing, adaptive learning, and stakeholder trust in mitigating banking fraud. The study concludes by discussing practical implications for implementing the model in financial institutions and outlines future directions for integrating emerging technologies such as blockchain and quantum computing to further enhance banking fraud prevention systems.
Keywords: Predictive Analytics, Fraud Detection, Banking Security, Machine Learning, Real-Time Processing, Customer Safety, Financial Security, Explainable AI, Anomaly Detection, Adaptive Learning, Distributed Computing, Transaction Monitoring, Quantum Computing.
Trauma impact of Covid-19 in the United States
Authors: Idowu M Ariyibi, RN  , Geneva T Igwama  , Oghogho L Akarogbe
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new era of trauma, impacting health, well-being, and cognitive functions, especially among vulnerable populations. Emerging research highlights the role of cumulative trauma exposure in exacerbating COVID-19 stressors. Continuous Traumatic Stress (CTS) offers a framework for understanding trauma proliferation amidst the pandemic, emphasizing the enduring nature of type III traumas. Mounting evidence suggests COVID-19 as a global traumatic stressor, characterized by fear, economic instability, and social disruption. Understanding trauma's complex interplay within the COVID-19 crisis is crucial for addressing its profound effects. Trauma research is pivotal for informing interventions and policies, identifying risk factors, resilience factors, and pathways to recovery. Additionally, trauma research unveils systemic inequities exacerbating trauma's impact, advocating for social justice initiatives.
A mixed-methods approach was employed to comprehensively explore trauma's impact amidst the pandemic, ensuring robustness and reliability in data collection and analysis. The study validates the Continuous Traumatic Stress Type III (CTS) trauma model across diverse samples, delineating distinct trauma profiles and emphasizing accumulation dynamics. Exploration of COVID-19 traumatic stress highlights its additive effect on PTSD symptoms, emphasizing the complex relationship between race/ethnicity, COVID-19 stress, trauma, and mental distress. Investigation into the pandemic's impact on eating behaviors underscores the need for comprehensive approaches to address eating-related concerns during stressful times.
While valuable, the research's generalizability may be limited beyond specific contexts and populations. Future research should strive for more robust study designs, diverse samples, and objective measures to deepen understanding of stress, trauma, and mental health outcomes during the ongoing pandemic.
Keywords: Covid-19, Trauma, Continuous Traumatic Stress (CTS) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Pandemic, Mental Health, Cumulative Trauma, Eating Behaviors
Adherence To A Gender Responsive Pedagogy For Teaching And Learning In Secondary Schools In Temeke District, Tanzania
Authors: Erasto Losioki Bertha
Published: February 2025

Gender equality in pedagogy is important in ensuring good quality education. However, pedagogical issues and social cultural norms continue to impede the implementation of gender equality in teaching and learning in schools. This study focused on adherence to a gender responsive pedagogy for teaching and learning in secondary schools in Temeke District.   Data were collected from 288 participants selected through random and purposive sampling.  The study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches.  In depth interview, questionnaire survey and non-participant observation methods were used to collect primary data, and documentary review was used to collect secondary data.  Likert scale was used to measure gender equality adherence. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data according to key themes and research objectives.  Data were presented in frequency tables and bar charts.  Major findings show that gender equality is adhered to in school practices and a gender responsive pedagogy is adequately adhered to in the teaching and learning process. Three quarter of the respondents show that the curriculum addresses gender equality in school practice including teaching and learning in the classroom.  This study recommends that the Ministry of Education Science and Technology in collaboration with education stakeholders should continue to emphasize the implementation of a gender responsive pedagogy in teaching and learning practice in schools and to raise awareness on gender equality issues at the community level.
Factors Influencing Brand Loyalty among Tiktok Users
Authors: Zulkifli Nurhaini Binti
Published: February 2025

In today’s life, social media is no longer just a platform to use for social purposes, it is more than that. People choose to spend their time on social media as they enable people to connect with one another across the globe, find career opportunities, and many more. TikTok has been super famous in this generation. The analysis shows a high probability that almost everyone knows of an app called TikTok. Statistically it can be seen from the "millennials" to "boomers" have known this application. The growth of TikTok has been rapidly increasing as it makes individuals addicted to the app itself. As TikTok took a lead in the ranking with the most active user in 2022, researches are made to define factors that influence brand loyalty among TikTok users. In this article, we can find out what factors increase users brand loyalty towards the TikTok application.
THE DETERMINANT OF TAX EVASION DURING PANDEMIC COVID 19 IN JAKARTA
Authors: IBRAHIM IDA , Syahrial Irzan , Arifin Zainal
Published: February 2025

The present research seeks to empirically examine whether tax justice, technology, tax information, and taxpayer knowledge have an impact on tax evasion during the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing primary data, this research sample consists of Jakarta taxpayers who have tax identification numbers. This research method combines stratified random sampling with the formulas of Isaac and Michael. 150 participants constituted the sample size for this investigation. The multiple regression procedure was used to analyze the data. The method of analysis utilized by the SPSS 25 statistical program. The findings indicate that tax justice has an important impact on tax evasion. The lower the tax justice, it is seen as reasonable behavior. To reduce the rate of tax evasion, it should be implemented properly and correctly. Technology and tax information have a substantial influence on tax evasion. The lower the tax technology and information, it is encouraging to reduce the rate of tax evasion if it has been conveyed properly and taxpayers understand the technology that has been applied. Taxpayers’ knowledge affects tax evasion. The lower the taxpayer’s knowledge, the more it will contribute to reducing tax evasion if taxpayers have information about taxes.
Legal Protection Instruments and Fulfilment of Children's Rights as Victims of Domestic Violence Within National Regulations in Indonesia
Authors: Hanafi Hanafi
Published: February 2025

Violence against children is a significant social issue in Indonesia, with its incidence continually rising, signaling a concerning trend. The impacts of such violence are not limited to physical harm but also affect children’s psychological and social well-being, influencing their future development. To address this, it is crucial to strengthen efforts in protecting and fulfilling the rights of children who are victims of violence, particularly through legal frameworks. This research employs a normative legal method, focusing on library studies that analyze legal theories and applicable laws and regulations. The approach is based on a statutory method, complemented by a conceptual approach. The study’s findings indicate that the protection of children who are victims of domestic violence is governed by various national legal provisions. These provisions are primarily found in the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia, with specific regulations in Law Number 23 of 2002 on Child Protection, later amended by Law Number 35 of 2014, and Law Number 17 of 2016, which enacts the Government Regulation in Lieu of Law Number 1 of 2016, amending Law Number 23 of 2002. This is further supported by Government Regulation Number 78 of 2021, which addresses Special Protection for Children. These legal instruments highlight the state's commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring the protection of children’s rights. However, to optimize their implementation, it is essential to strengthen related institutions and involve multiple stakeholders, including community support.
SEGURANÇA ESCOLAR E A LEI ESTADUAL Nº 10.129/92: UM PROGRAMA DE SEGURANÇA PARA A REDE ESTADUAL PÚBLICA DE EDUCAÇÃO
Authors: Santos Tiago França Cirino dos
Published: February 2025

Dentre as políticas públicas que tratam do tema segurança escolar há destaque para Lei Estadual nº 10.129/92, que, em consonância à necessidade de cuidados com a estrutura física de colégios da Rede Pública de Ensino do Estado, trouxe a segurança jurídica fundamental para as ações já desenvolvidas no âmbito da Secretaria de Estado da Educação e da Secretaria de Segurança Pública do Paraná. Dessa maneira, a respectiva norma condicionou o uso das residências existentes na rede aos policiais militares, bombeiros e civis da SEED, nominando-os comodatários. Essa medida contribuiu para o correto destino das moradias, tornando transparentes os atos administrativos relacionados, e para auxiliar famílias que precisam de alívio financeiro momentâneo e dignidade. Destarte, este artigo tem o objetivo de registrar a atuação de agentes públicos, militares ou não, que contribuem com a segurança de tais unidades, envidando esforços como garantia de prevenção a crimes nos seus limites físicos, através do Programa de Segurança Escolar criado com a respectiva Lei.
LINGUAGEM, IDENTIDADE E PRECONCEITO: O PAPEL DA LINGUAGEM REGIONAL NA CONSTRUÇÃO DA IDENTIDADE RURAL E SEUS EFEITOS NO ENSINO
Authors: Silva Andréa Queila de Barros e , Coutinho Diógenes José Gusmão
Published: February 2025

O preconceito linguístico na zona rural é um fenômeno complexo que atinge tanto a identidade dos indivíduos quanto suas oportunidades educacionais.  Este artigo tem como objetivo averiguar o papel da linguagem regional na construção na construção da identidade rural, bem como os efeitos do preconceito linguístico no processo de ensino-aprendizagem nos alunos da zona rural.  A metodologia adotada para este estudo foi de formas qualitativa e bibliográfica.  A amostra foi composta por alguns alunos que integram a Escola de Referência em Ensino Médio Dr. Jaime Monteiro, Gameleira-PE.  A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de sondagens antes e depois das intervenções, entrevistas com alguns alunos, questionários de percepção sobre os danos causados pelo preconceito linguístico, além de observações diretas em sala de aula.  Os resultados foram obtidos através de momentos de reflexão e de conscientização nas aulas de Estudo Orientado e dos Itinerários Formativos, resgatando a autoestima e ampliando os horizontes em relação à identidade de suas raízes familiares. A pesquisa analisa como as variantes locais, muitas vezes estigmatizadas, influenciam a autoestima e o pertencimento dos estudantes rurais, além de explorar como o preconceito linguístico presente nas escolas podem impactar o desempenho acadêmico e a formação da identidade desses indivíduos.  A investigação também aborda a importância de estratégias educacionais inclusivas que promovam a valorização das línguas e dialetos regionais; demonstrando que é um processo contínuo e requer estímulo para essa transformação.  Percebe-se que há sempre uma explicação nos mecanismos da língua, as variações linguísticas retratam a história de cada indivíduo, e na maioria das vezes, são vistas com preconceito e desprestígio; no entanto há enriquecimento ao conhecer a história de uma língua para desvendar o porquê de cada falante manuseá-la de formas divergentes.
O PROCESSO DE VIVÊNCIA EMOCIONAL DO LUTO ANTECIPATÓRIO EM PACIENTES ONCOLÓGICOS E FAMILIARES: UMA REVISÃO NARRATIVA
Authors: Guidine Betina de Oliveira , Matias Mariana Venturim , Arrivabeni Marcela
Published: February 2025

O processo de elaboração do luto antecipatório envolve um conjunto de sentimentos e reações emocionais quando alguém enfrenta a iminência da morte. Considerando a relevância da compreensão do luto, a presente pesquisa, tem como objetivo entender como pacientes com câncer vivenciam emocionalmente o luto antecipatório. Para isso, trata-se de uma pesquisa narrativa de caráter qualitativo. Foram selecionados 21 artigos que preenchiam os critérios que podem ser observados na metodologia abordada. Os dados foram tratados através de análise de conteúdo, segundo Bardin (1977). A construção do luto antecipatório é singular e emocionalmente adaptada no contexto oncológico, envolve perdas simbólicas que se desenvolvem a partir das experiências individuais do indivíduo. Os resultados apontam que pacientes com câncer e seus familiares lidam com intensas respostas psicológicas devido ao impacto emocional da doença. O processo de luto envolve reações psíquicas, especialmente diante da possibilidade de perda iminente. A doença desencadeia uma variedade de respostas emocionais e mentais, incluindo a necessidade de se reinventar após a perda de habilidades físicas e mentais, sonhos e metas pessoais.
EDUCAÇÃO ESPECIAL NA SALA DE AULA: A NECESSIDADE DE UMA FORMAÇÃO DOCENTE EFICAZ
Authors: Graf Lucimar , Lôbo Ítalo Martins , Fujiyoshi Mirian Roberta dos Santos , Oliveira Nivaldo Pedro de
Published: February 2025

A educação especial é um campo que demanda práticas pedagógicas inclusivas para garantir o desenvolvimento integral de alunos com deficiências, transtornos globais do desenvolvimento ou altas habilidades. No entanto, a efetivação dessas práticas depende diretamente da formação dos professores, que muitas vezes enfrentam desafios significativos ao lidar com a diversidade em sala de aula. Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a importância de uma formação docente eficaz para a educação especial, destacando os principais desafios enfrentados pelos professores e propondo estratégias para superá-los. A partir de uma revisão bibliográfica, identificou-se que a formação inicial e continuada dos professores apresenta lacunas, como a desatualização dos currículos, a falta de enfoque em práticas inclusivas e a escassez de experiências práticas. Para superar esses desafios, propõe-se a revisão dos currículos dos cursos de formação, o fortalecimento da formação continuada e a promoção de experiências práticas. Conclui-se que investir na formação docente é essencial para garantir uma educação inclusiva e de qualidade, preparando os professores para lidar com as demandas da diversidade em sala de aula. Este trabalho contribui para a discussão acadêmica e prática, oferecendo subsídios para a elaboração de políticas e práticas mais eficazes na área da educação especial.
Assessment of seasonal soil moisture forecasts over the Central Mediterranean
Authors: Silvestri Lorenzo , Saraceni Miriam , Brunone Bruno , Meniconi Silvia , Passadore Giulia , Bongioannini Cerlini Paolina
Published: February 2025

Abstract. It is highly likely that in the near future the Mediterranean region will experience increased aridity and hydrological droughts. Therefore, seasonal forecasts of soil moisture can be a valuable resource for agriculture and for evaluating the flux in the vadose zone towards shallow unconfined aquifers. However, their accuracy in this region has not been evaluated against observations. This study presents an evaluation of soil moisture in the Central Mediterranean region (35–50° N, 5–25° E) during the period 2001–2021 using the seasonal forecast system (SEAS5) of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). In this perspective, standardized anomalies of soil moisture are compared with observed values in ERA5-Land reanalysis of ECMWF. In terms of the average magnitude of the forecast error and the anomaly correlation coefficient, the forecasts demonstrate good performance only in certain regions of the domain for the deepest soil layer: Hungary, peninsular Italy, internal areas of the Balkan Peninsula, Provence, Sardinia, and Sicily. These regions correspond to those with the largest memory timescale of soil moisture and do not exhibit a complex orography. The obtained results show that seasonal forecasts are useful to detect wet and dry events for the deepest soil layer in the mentioned regions, with lead times of up to 6 months. In these regions, the area under the relative operating characteristic (ROC) curve can reach values larger than 0.8. For all soil layers, dry events are generally better captured than wet events; the best forecast skill, on average, is obtained for the events where the antecedent condition is correspondent to the present condition (dry after dry, wet after wet). To illustrate these features, the case study of the 2012 drought period demonstrates the capacity of the SEAS5 model to forecast such an event for central and northern Italy with a 6-month lead time. Furthermore, the close correlation between soil moisture and the observed water table in shallow unconfined aquifers in Italy underscores the significant potential of seasonal soil moisture forecasts for underground water management applications.