Authors: Hadeel Sulaiman Alamri, Mohamed Maher Ben Ismail, Ouiem Bchir

Abstract:

The continued advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have boosted the interest of tax authorities in developing smart solutions as efficient alternatives to their actual fraud detection mechanisms. In particular, the real estate data collected by the administrations promoted the efforts to develop advanced analytics models aimed at detecting fraudulent real estate transactions. Specifically, supervised and unsupervised ML techniques have been associated with the available large datasets to improve overall taxpayer compliance. This research presents an ML approach intended to classify land and building prices in Saudi Arabia. Specifically, it intends to group real estate transactions reported into homogeneous groups based on relevant features. Moreover, the proposed solution classifies the land and building prices in Saudi cities, neighborhoods, and schema. In fact, the outcomes of the clustering task are fed into a supervised ML process to categorize future real estate transactions into “Fair”, “Under-valued” or “Over-valued” classes. In particular, the experimental findings indicate that associating clustering algorithms with the Random Forest (RF) model yields an accuracy of 99%.

Keywords: Classification, clustering, machine learning, real estate price.

Authors: Pravallika Anchuri, Thanvith Raghavendran Prithveendran

Abstract:

The project is dedicated to elevating machine learning performance by exploring custom hardware designs to significantly enhance computational efficiency. The primary aim is to implement a bespoke system leveraging systolic arrays within the Reduced Instruction Set Computer - V (RISC-V) Instruction Set Architecture, tailored specifically to accelerate matrix computations. A crucial aspect is the addition of a 32-bit floating-point feature to the Intel NIOS V, enhancing its capabilities. This project involves the design and integration of specialized hardware architecture using Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) technologies. The focus lies in optimizing machine learning tasks, showcased through performance evaluations across various matrix sizes like 4x4, 8x8, and 16x16, both with and without custom IP. Experimental analysis demonstrates substantial speed improvements, highlighting the advantages of this custom-designed system over traditional CPUs and GPUs, particularly with the inclusion of the 32-bit floating-point feature along with 16-bit and 8-bit floating point in the Intel NIOS V. These findings suggest promising advancements in accelerating machine learning capabilities across diverse matrix dimensions. Future work will emphasize refining scalability and broader application, striving for optimized performance across various datasets and complex machine learning models. Strategies involve enhancing parallelism by employing multiple systolic arrays concurrently. For a more practical setup, the integration of a sophisticated caching system becomes crucial to simultaneously load weights, biases, and input data while maintaining consistency. As the custom CPU's complexity grows, manual assembly programming becomes less feasible. Despite the promising outcomes, the current design offers ample opportunities for expansion to augment functionality and performance in matrix computations across different dimensions and sizes, notably with the enriched 32-bit floating-point feature integrated into the Intel NIOS V architecture. 

Keywords: RISC-V processor, 32-bit floating point compute, AI accelerator, custom AI hardware, computer architecture.

Authors: T. A Olatoye, J. O Elega

Abstract:

Raising agricultural productivity is an important policy goal for governments and development agencies, and this is central to growth, income distribution, improved food security, and poverty alleviation among practitioners. This study analyzed the productivity and poverty status among users of improved sorghum varieties in Kano State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was adopted in the selection of 131 sorghum farmers who were users of improved sorghum varieties. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive (frequency distribution and percentage) and inferential (productivity index and Foster-Greer Thorbecke (FGT) model) statistics. The result of the socioeconomic characteristics of the sorghum farmers showed a mean age of 40 years, with about 93.13% of the sorghum farmers being male. Also, as indicated by the result, the majority (82.44%) of the farmers were married, with most of them having Qur’anic education with a mean farm size of 3.6 ha, as reported in the study area. Furthermore, the result showed that the mean farming experience of the sorghum farmers in the study area was 19 years, with an average monthly income of about ₦48,794, as reported in the study area. The result of the productivity index showed a ratio of 192,977 kg/ha, while the result of poverty status shows that 62.88% were in the non-poor category, 21.21% were poor, and 15.91% were very poor, respectively. The result also showed that the incidence of poverty for sorghum farmers was 16%, indicating that the incidence of poverty was prevalent in the study area. Based on the findings of this study, it was therefore recommended that seed companies should facilitate the spread of improved sorghum varieties as it has an impact on the productivity and poverty status of sorghum farmers in the study area.

Keywords: Foster Greer Thorbecke model, improved sorghum varieties, productivity, poverty status.

Authors: Iassen Vanev

Abstract:

The two objectives of the research are to enlighten the significant role of Venice as an agent of “transporting” the features of the Italian Renaissance in Cyprus, as well as to assess the countercheck that the Cypriots might have exercised in opposition to the Venetian influence and to what extent they left they own mark on the Serenissima and influenced the Venetian Renaissance. This will be achieved in the backdrop of Venice’s interaction and dichotomy with the Ottoman Empire during the Venetian rule over the island (1474-1571). The research is carried out within the interdisciplinary domains of architecture, visual arts, and literature. Such studies have already been carried out extensively for other ex-Byzantine centers and consecutively Venetian possessions, like, for example Crete. Cyprus, however, has largely been left on the periphery of scholarly interest, and we will strive to fill this gap as much as possible. The nature of much of the Venetian Renaissance Architecture on Cyprus was dictated by the Ottoman threat to the island. On the other hand, the vast majority of the Cypriot Renaissance literary production was done in Italy, a little before and after the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus in 1571. This conquest was an enormous crisis for both Venetians and Cypriots, and it led to migrations, mutual Venetian-Cypriot interaction in arts and literature, the formation of cultural landscapes, the shaping of Cypriot identity/ies, dialect and diasporas in Italy, etc., which makes the current research very important.

Keywords: Architecture, arts, Cyprus, gender, identity, linguistics, Ottoman Empire, Venice.

Authors: Abdollah Aliesmaeili

Abstract:

The purpose of this research is to present a different perspective on the basic math teaching method called meta-instruction, which reverses the learning path. Meta-instruction is a method of teaching in which the teaching trajectory starts from brain education into learning. This research focuses on the behavior of the mind during learning. In this method, students are not instructed in mathematics, but they are educated. Another goal of the research is to "criticize Bloom's classification in the cognitive domain and reverse it", because it cannot meet the educational and instructional needs of the new generation and "substituting math education instead of math teaching". This is an indirect method of teaching. The method of research is longitudinal through four years. Statistical samples included students ages 6 to 11. The research focuses on improving the mental abilities of children to explore mathematical rules and operations by playing only with eight measurements (any years 2 examinations). The results showed that there is a significant difference between groups in remembering, understanding, and applying. Moreover, educating math is more effective than instructing in overall learning abilities.

Keywords: Bloom's Taxonomy, brain education, mathematics teaching method, meta-instruction, Starmath Method, indirect teaching.

Authors: Meirong Zhang, Gary K. Maki

Abstract:

A family of logic circuits named Complementary Pass Transistor Logic (C-PTL) based on existing PTL logic is introduced. It is shown that C-PTL yields high density circuits that are static hazard free. While the traditional solution to static hazards is to add more logic gates, no extra transistors are needed with C-PTL. This paper provides a universal solution for ASIC design that can realize an n-variable combinational logic circuit with just one cell. Furthermore, an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) design process is revealed, which produces high density C-PTL structures. Hence, logic C-PTL improves circuit density and the chip design process for semicustom VLSI.

Keywords: ASIC design, integrated circuits, VLSI design, pass transistor logic.

Authors: Horng-Wen Wu, Ching-Hua Ho, Tao-Hsuan Liu

Abstract:

A high-temperature proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell (FC) functions at temperatures above 100 °C, requiring less moisture to transfer protons and developing CO tolerance contrasted with a low-temperature PEMFC. The study then meticulously evaluated the specific effects of varying the angles (45 degrees, 60 degrees, and 75 degrees) and spacing of the V-shaped baffles on a high-temperature PEMFC’s net power. The best baffle configuration of nine baffles (spacing = 5 mm) significantly improves performance at all angles. In particular, the 60-degree angle baffle is most effective within gas flow and oxygen distribution, promoting the FC’s overall performance. This study also produces a flow channel plate with the best V-shaped baffle to conduct battery performance experiments and verify the results of experiments and simulations. Furthermore, the total impedance of the duct with nine V-shaped baffles is less than that of no baffles, according to the electrochemistry impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experiment.

Keywords: High-temperature proton-exchange-membrane fuel cell, performance promotion, V-shaped baffles, angles and spacing of baffles.

Authors: S. S. Sandilya, B. S. Das, K. K. Khatua, K. Devi, J. R. Khuntia

Abstract:

River confluences, where two or more rivers merge, create complex hydrodynamic zones (CHZ) characterized by intricate flow patterns, turbulence, sediment transport, and energy loss. These zones are significantly influenced by factors such as channel geometry, flow ratios, and junction angles. While previous studies have often relied on simplified laboratory models, this research focuses on the more realistic scenario of a 90⁰ confluence of compound channels with a rigid bed. Utilizing a numerical approach, specifically the finite volume method (FVM) with the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations and the k-ω turbulence model, the study simulates and analyzes the flow patterns at this confluence. The accuracy of the numerical simulation is validated by comparing the computed water surface profile with experimental data. Results demonstrate good agreement between numerical and experimental findings, providing valuable insights into the flow dynamics of compound channel confluences. This study enhances our understanding of flow behavior in compound channels compared to simpler junctions, offering crucial knowledge for hydraulic engineering and water resource management, especially in situations where physical modeling is economically not feasible.

Keywords: River confluence, compound channels, numerical modeling, k-ω turbulence model.

Authors: Ali El Ksimi, Boubker Sbihi

Abstract:

In the modern digital landscape, the integrity and security of voting processes are paramount. Traditional voting methods have faced numerous challenges, including fraud, lack of transparency, and administrative inefficiencies. As these issues become increasingly critical, there is a growing need for advanced solutions that can enhance the security and reliability of elections. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized architecture, immutable nature, and advanced cryptographic techniques, offers a robust framework for transforming the voting process. By integrating Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, voter authentication can be further streamlined, ensuring the authenticity of each vote cast. This article presents a decentralized IoT-based online voting system that utilizes blockchain, RFID, and cryptography to create a secure, transparent, and user-friendly voting experience. The proposed decentralized application (DApp) leverages Ethereum's blockchain and cryptographic protocols to manage the entire voting lifecycle, ensuring that each vote is recorded securely and transparently. By employing RFID tags for voter identification, this solution mitigates the risks associated with traditional identification methods while enhancing the accessibility of the voting process. We discuss the technical architecture, cryptographic mechanisms, scalability, and security advantages of this approach alongside its potential limitations, such as the dependence on RFID infrastructure, blockchain transaction costs, and possible latency in large-scale elections. Additionally, we explore the challenges in implementing the system across different jurisdictions and the regulatory hurdles that might arise with such decentralized solutions. Ultimately, this solution aims to redefine electoral processes, promoting trust and participation in democratic governance.

Keywords: Blockchain, RFID, Radio Frequency Identification, authentication, security, IoT, Internet of Things.

Authors: Deekshith Bolla, Wisam Bukaita

Abstract:

The increasing sophistication of image manipulation tools poses a significant threat to the credibility of digital visual content. This study presents a deep learning-based classification model for detecting fake images by leveraging transfer learning using the ResNet50 architecture. The model architecture was fine-tuned to perform binary classification between real and synthetically generated images using a balanced dataset comprising 140,002 labeled images. A comprehensive pipeline was designed, including preprocessing steps such as image resizing to 224×224, normalization, augmentation (rotation, flipping, shearing), and validation splitting. The architecture incorporates layers that stabilize training and reduce overfitting while retaining robust feature extraction from the pre-trained base. Initial training yielded 80.85% accuracy and 0.78 F1-score, while post-fine-tuning the model improved to 81.35% accuracy and 88.39% Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve, AUC. Empirical evaluations highlight the model's capacity to discern imperceptible manipulation patterns, enabling practical deployment in media forensics and secure image validation systems. Future enhancements may include attention-based classification, adversarial robustness, and region-specific forgery localization.

Keywords: Image classification, deepfake detection, ResNet50, transfer learning, image forensics.

Authors: Mardare Alina-Nicoleta

Abstract:

This study explores the legal architecture of insurance regulation within the European Union through a comparative and multidisciplinary lens. Situated at the intersection of private contract law, public regulation, and fundamental rights, the research aims to analyze how EU member states conceptualize, supervise, and reform their insurance legal frameworks amid growing pressures for harmonization, digital transformation, and consumer protection. The paper employs a doctrinal comparative methodology, focusing on both civil law and common law systems across the EU. It draws on statutory sources, EU directives, judicial decisions, and regulatory guidelines to examine how different jurisdictions regulate insurance contracts, protect insured parties, and adapt to technological innovations such as artificial intelligence. The findings reveal a pattern of functional convergence despite persistent formal divergence in legal doctrine and institutional practices. Common principles—such as the duty of transparency, fairness in contract performance, and proportionality in regulatory enforcement—are increasingly embedded in national systems through EU legislative influence and judicial interpretation. However, inconsistencies remain in key areas, including claims handling, quantification of non-material damages, algorithmic decision-making, and access to justice. The study concludes that while full harmonization of insurance law across the EU may not be feasible in the near future, coordinated reforms grounded in shared values are both necessary and achievable. It recommends the codification of a European Insurance Code, enhanced supervisory transparency, stronger safeguards for vulnerable consumers, and the development of sector-specific rules for AI in insurance. Ultimately, the research advocates for a resilient, rights-based approach to insurance law—one capable of ensuring both legal certainty and social equity in an evolving European landscape.

Keywords: Consumer protection, fundamental rights, insurance law, legal harmonization.

Authors: Ali Radhouan, Marwa Ghali, Nizar Aifaoui

Abstract:

Sphericity shape control for whole or partial spherical surface features (ball, spherical cap) in ISO and ASME standards is typically defined using a roundness call out or profile tolerance. Thus, no symbol for the sphericity shape is defined. According to ISO 17450-1, two main estimation methods, such as least squares and min-max, are used in extraction and association operations. This paper presents an approach to best fit spherical features to noisy measured data. The proposed approach is based on spherical basis functions, where Wendland functions are applied as support for shape error interpolation. The Tikhonov regularization method is applied to reduce the effect of noise and improve the smoothness of the solution. An example is presented to illustrate the main idea of the proposed approach. The results are compared to the commonly used Gaussian kernel estimation and show the effectiveness of the method.

Keywords: Least square method, radial basis functions, sphericity form errors, spherical kernel.

Authors: C. Peeper McDonald, Caroline O’Hara, Victoria Glover, Kahlor Lutz

Abstract:

Despite the multiracial population growing exponentially in the world and especially the U.S. there continues to be a lack of culturally responsive research addressing the unique experiences and needs of this population especially within counseling and counselor education settings. It is evident that their unique racial microaggressive experiences need to be better understood within the field of professional counseling, to not only underscore competent training and practice, but culturally responsive training and practice. The participants of this study were 13 (n = 13) individuals form the United States who are identified as multiracial and said they had a microaggressive experience with either their counselor or counseling professor. Data were gathered through one-on-one, semi-structured interviews. The analysis employed phenomenological methods based on the transcendental approach, resulting in themes that encapsulated the core of the participants' experiences, including: Multiracial microaggressions are derogatory and perpetuate privilege/oppression; Counselors and their training programs should embody safety, support, attentiveness, inter-personal sensitivity, and awareness of impact on others; Microaggressions negatively affect the counseling relationship and outcomes; Awareness surrounding emotional impact of microaggressions; Strength-based responses and future responses to microaggressions; and Advocacy and Suggestions for Counselors and Counselor Educators. These themes are discussed in detail, and recommendations for researchers, counselor educators, and professional counselor to improve training and practice are provided. This U.S. study's insights into the multiracial experience of microaggressions within the mental health profession can inform global mental health practices by highlighting the need for culturally responsive counseling that recognizes and addresses racial nuances. Such knowledge is transferable to international settings where Multiracial populations may also encounter similar challenges, aiding in the development of global standards for culturally competent counseling practices.

Keywords: Cultural responsiveness, mental health, microaggressions, multiracial.

Authors: Joseph Uche Azubike, Evelyn Ngozi Agbasi, M. I. Ogbonna

Abstract:

The audit committee of the board of directors could no longer handle the enterprise's risks. Therefore, a risk management committee was created to control them. Thus, this study examined how enterprise risk management committee characteristics affected Nigerian exchange-listed banks' financial performance from 2013 to 2022. The study's hypotheses and three objectives were to determine how enterprise risk management committee size, composition, and gender diversity affect Nigerian banks' performance. An ex-post facto study design collected secondary data from bank annual reports. We used descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Ordinary least square regression to analyze panel data. Enterprise risk management committee size and composition had both negative and no significant effect on bank financial performance in Nigeria, whereas enterprise risk committee gender diversity has a 10% favorable effect. The report advises that adding more women with relevant knowledge to the risk committee to boost performance and allowing women to be at the lead of such risk management could improve bank performance in Nigeria since they are noted to be thorough in their tasks. 

Keywords: Bank, committee, enterprise, gender diversity, listed banks.

Authors: Wisdom Robert Duruji, Moses Kanayochukwu Ifoh, Efeoghene Edward Esiemunobo

Abstract:

This study examines the impact of natural and artificial disasters, as well as corruption; lackadaisical and semantic approach in risk management, and mitigation implication for sustainable development goals in Nigeria; from 2009 to 2022. The study utilizes a range of research methods to achieve its objectives. These include literature review, website knowledge, Google search, news media information, academic journals, field-work and on-site observations. These diverse methods allow for a comprehensive analysis on the impact and the implications being study. The study finds that paradigm shift from remediating seismic, flooding, environmental pollution and degradation natural disasters by Nigeria Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to political and charity organization; has plunged risk reduction strategies to embezzling opportunities. However, this lackadaisical and semantic approach in natural disaster mitigation, invariably replicates artificial disasters in Nigeria through: Boko Haram terrorist organization, Fulani herdsmen and farmers conflicts, political violence, kidnapping for ransom, ethnic conflicts, religious dichotomy, insurgency, secession protagonists, unknown-gun-men, and banditry. This study also finds that some Africans still engage in self-imposed slavery through human trafficking, by nefariously stow-away to Europe; through Libya, Sahara desert and Mediterranean sea; in search for job opportunities, due to ineptitude in governance by their leaders. This invariably enhanced artificial disasters in Nigeria. Although disaster risk mitigation and politics can synergistically support sustainable development goals; however, they are different entities, and need for distinct separations in Nigeria, as in reality and perception. This study concluded that referendum should be conducted in Nigeria, to ascertain its current status as a nation. Therefore, it is recommended that Nigerian governments should refine its naturally endowed crude oil locally; to end fuel subsidy scam, corruption, abysmal hunger and abject poverty in Nigeria.

Keywords: Corruption, crude oil, disaster management, Nigeria, referendum, terrorism.

Authors: Xuan Tran

Abstract:

The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive dynamic model for pricing strategies in the hotel competition to find a win-win situation for the competitive set. By utilizing the Cobb-Douglas utility model, the study establishes room rates by analyzing the price elasticity of demand across a competitive set of four hotels, with a focus on occupancy rates. To further enhance the analysis, game theory is applied to identify the best response for each competitive party, which illustrates the optimal pricing strategy for each hotel in the competitive landscape. This approach offers valuable insights into how hotels can strategically adjust their room rates in response to market conditions and competitor actions. The primary contributions of this research include as follows: (1) advantages for both individual hotels and the broader competitive hotel market, (2) benefits for hotel management overseeing multiple brands, and (3) positive impacts on the local community.

Keywords: Dynamic model, Game theory, Best Response, Cobb-Douglas.

Authors: Almira Daulbayeva, Zhaukhar Yessenkulova, Rassima Salimbayeva

Abstract:

In this article, the regularities of modern spatial and temporal distribution of main pollutants in the air space of single-industry towns are considered, the level of pollutant emissions into the atmospheric air by urban areas of Karaganda region is determined. We selected such cities as Temirtau, Abay, Saran, Balkhash. Ecological and hygienic assessment of atmospheric air pollution in these cities for 2020-2023, and the beginning of 2024 was carried out on the materials of annual Information Bulletins on the state of the environment of the Republic of Kazakhstan, bulletins ‘On the state of atmospheric air in Karaganda region’. The general assessment of atmospheric air pollution in the territory was high, especially in 2020 and 2021, and corresponded to the level of ‘tense’. According to the results of the analysis of atmospheric air pollution it was revealed that enterprises of thermal power engineering and mining industry (mines, enrichment plants, metallurgical production of ‘ArcelorMittal’ JSC) carry out emission of significant amounts of pollutants, particulate matter and heavy metals into the atmosphere. The total number of ingredients present in the atmosphere of the city exceeds dozens, many of which belong to the first and second category of hazard. The main pollutants were sulphur dioxide, carbon oxides and nitrogen dioxide, as well as suspended solids. We have also considered and studied some types of major diseases of the population living in the region, in different conditions in recent years. According to the results of the study, the cities with the highest rates and level of morbidity were identified: Temirtau, Shakhtinsk, Abay, located in Karaganda region, where the main industrial facilities are concentrated, emitting harmful pollutants from ‘Corporation Kazakhmys’ LLP, ‘Arcelor Mittal’ JSC, Balkhash Mining and Metallurgical Combine.

Keywords: Atmospheric air, pollutants, single-industry towns, Karaganda region, morbidity, sustainable development.

Authors: Rassima Salimbayeva, Kaliash Stamkulova, Gulparshyn Satbayeva

Abstract:

In order to adapt projects to promote Sustainable Development Goal 11 -Ensuring openness, security, resilience and environmental sustainability of cities and human settlements-, presented in the UN Concept, it is necessary to assess the environmental sustainability of cities. From the analysis of the problems of sustainable development of cities in Kazakhstan, it can be seen that the industrial past created a typical range of problems -transport, housing, environment, and, importantly, image. Currently, the issue of air pollution in cities whose economies are dominated by one industry or company should be studied in more detail at the level of projects. In this research, using ecological, economic, and social indicators of five single-industry towns of the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan, an assessment of the risks of the negative impact of environmental factors on the health of the population was carried out, including by paying special attention to air quality. In order to investigate the relationship between the structure of industry, environmental pressure, and environmental sustainability of resource-oriented cities, an analysis of the main components was carried out to measure the structure of industry, environmental stress, and environmental sustainability of single-industry towns. It has been established that in resource-based cities, economic growth mainly depends on the development of one main industry, which primarily depends on local natural resources. Empirical results show that the regional structure of industry has a significant negative impact on the environmental sustainability of cities, in particular on the health of the population living in them. The paper complements the study of the theory of urban sustainability and clarifies the relationship between industrial structure and environmental pressure on health safety and environmental sustainability of cities and towns, which is crucial for further promoting the "green" development of single-industry towns based on natural resources.

Keywords: Public health risks, urban sustainability, suspended solids, single-industry towns, atmospheric air, environmental pollution.

Authors: Moustafa Osman Mohamed

Abstract:

Construction ecology's resilience and sustainability are fundamental to global socio-economic advancement, with environmental resilience serving as a crucial link to spatial-economic models that prioritize green business practices and compatibility with Earth's systems. Systems ecology operates through periodic and consistent cycles, ensuring the preservation of energy and material flows within Earth's framework. The structural design of the model influences interactions between internal environment and external system components, shaping first-level spatial outcomes (e.g., project compatibility success), which, in turn, depend on second-level factors (e.g., participant security satisfaction), evaluated through database efficiency from 2015 to 2025. The environmental model integrates advanced value-oriented impacts while addressing sustainability complexities. This structure involves establishing a robust database, developing the spatial-economic model, formulating sustainability indicators, quantifying social, economic, and environmental effects, and applying value orientation as a policy tool. The model demonstrates resilience through pollutant management via input-output criteria, which assess external insertion effects using Monte Carlo simulations and matrix analysis within a unique spatial structure. The balance, or “equilibrium patterns”, such as collective biosphere features, is represented by a composite index of distributed feedback flows. These feedback mechanisms exhibit dynamic structures governed by physical and chemical properties, enabling the gradual extension of incremental patterns. While these dynamics align with systems ecology principles, static loads hold limited significance from artistic and architectural perspectives. Despite its increasing prominence, the concept of system resilience in ecology remains susceptible to ambiguity and misinterpretation. Nevertheless, it is essential for forecasting future scenarios, particularly in industrial regions that must address environmental deviations. This model seeks to unify analytical and analogical structures of urban environments using database software to integrate sustainability outcomes based on construction ecology’s systems topology.

Keywords: Systems ecology, construction ecology, industrial ecology, spatial-economic model, systems topology.

Authors: A. Bütün Ayhan, U. Beyazıt

Abstract:

Adolescents can be heavily influenced by social media content as they develop their identities and body images. Therefore, the intensive use of social media platforms may have important effects on their body image beliefs. In this context, the objective of the present study was to assess the relationship between adolescents' social media use and their body image concerns. The study included 265 adolescents (133 girls and 132 boys) between the ages of 15 and 17 years who were attending a high school in Ankara, Türkiye. In the study, the adolescents were administered the Social Media Addiction Scale to assess their level of social media use and the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale to assess their social appearance anxiety. Prior to analysis, a normality test was applied, and it was determined that the data displayed a non-parametric distribution. As a result, a significant positive relationship (r = .322, p < .01) was found between adolescents' level of social use and social appearance anxiety. It was also determined that social media addiction and social appearance anxiety significantly differed (p < .05) according to adolescents' opinions about their own bodies, being influenced by body images they see on social media and weight perceptions. The findings suggest that social media use should be managed carefully for adolescents to develop a healthy body image.

Keywords: Social media, social appearance anxiety, adolescent, social anxiety.

Authors: Jodie Bradshaw, Rebecca Dooley, Holly Bird, Habib Kadiri, Udit Mahalingam, Ella Thomson, Aaliyah Felix-West

Abstract:

The sharp rise of civil orders has led to an expansion of police powers, particularly in the realm of stop and search activities. The broad scope and objectives of these civil orders –addressing issues as varied as public safety, crime prevention, and counter-terrorism – has led to ‘mission-creep’, whereby orders were being imposed in a wider range of contexts than initially intended. The ever-widening purview of civil orders in practice necessitates proactive measures by law enforcement which often rely heavily on the utilisation of stop and search, leading to an expansion of stop and search practices and the regulation of public space. Civil liberties organisations, criminal justice and legal practitioners, activist groups, and researchers have argued that civil orders dilute and undermine foundational legal principles, pose a threat to our basic rights and freedoms, facilitate dangerous criminal justice net-widening, and disproportionately target young, working-class people of colour. Many of the provisions in these orders are potentially incompatible with the right to liberty and security. The conditions of an order (whether negative restrictions or positive obligations) tend to be extremely easy to breach –and in some cases, almost impossible for the person subject to the order not to breach. When the conditions of an order are breached, the result is criminal punishment – often in the form of imprisonment. This paper argues that civil orders set people up to fail, sending them down a path towards incarceration and the ultimate deprivation of liberty. The proclaimed intentions underpinning these civil orders – to tackle purportedly ‘undesirable’ behaviour (which in and of itself is not a crime) committed by ‘undesirable’ people – paves the way for justifying violent and racially disproportionate policing practices.

Keywords: Civil orders, policing, stop and search, crime, civil liberties, criminal punishment, anti-social behaviour.

Authors: Qiao Qiao

Abstract:

The demand for elderly service facilities is growing rapidly as the population ages. Taking 26 street towns in Jiangjin District of Chongqing, China as examples, ArcGIS spatial analysis method was used to analyze the distribution status of the elderly population, the core density of the elderly population, and the spatial layout characteristics of institutional elderly care facilities in Jiangjin District. The results showed that there were differences in the structure and aging degree of the elderly population in each street town. There is a certain imbalance between the spatial distribution of the elderly population and the planning and construction of elderly care facilities. The accessibility of elderly care facilities is uneven. Therefore, a genetic algorithm is used to optimize the spatial layout of institutional elderly care facilities, improve the accessibility of facilities, strengthen the participation of multiple subjects, and provide a reference for the future construction planning of elderly care facilities.

Keywords: Institutional pension facilities, Spatial layout, accessibility, ArcGIS.

Authors: Huanhuan Qiang, Sijia Jin

Abstract:

Population ageing has become a global trend, and China has entered an aging society, implementing an active aging system focused on home and community-based care. However, most urban communities where elderly people live face issues such as monotonous planning, unappealing landscapes, and inadequate aging infrastructure, which do not meet the requirements for active aging. Intergenerational friendliness and mutual assistance are key components in China's active aging policy framework. Therefore, residential development should prioritize enhancing intergenerational friendliness. Residential public spaces are central to community life and well-being, offering new and challenging venues to improve relationships among residents of different ages. They are crucial for developing intergenerational communities with diverse generations and non-blood relationships. This paper takes the Maigaoqiao community in Nanjing, China as a case study, examining intergenerational interactions in public spaces. Based on Maslow's hierarchy of needs and using time geography analysis, it identifies the spatiotemporal behavior characteristics of intergenerational groups in outdoor activities. Then it constructs an intergenerational friendly evaluation system and an IPA (Important-Performance Analysis) quadrant model for public spaces in residential areas. Lastly, it explores optimization strategies for public spaces to promote intergenerational friendly interactions, focusing on five aspects: accessibility, safety, functionality, a sense of belonging, and interactivity.

Keywords: Intergenerational friendliness, demand theory, spatiotemporal behavior, IPA analysis, existing residential public space.

Authors: C. Mans, M. de Vries

Abstract:

With the continual advancement in software development, the decision-making process for selecting an appropriate software solution becomes increasingly difficult. The selection of incorrect software solutions can have adverse and negative consequences on the industry of interest. The aim of this paper is to identify a method for software selection that will conform to the requirements for event guest management of large events. A literature review is used to identify existing methods or methodologies on software selection for event guest management. The literature search is expanded to identify general software selection methodologies, not only related to event guest management, to compensate for the lack of literature available within the area of interest. Literature on multiple industries and component software selection is analyzed to identify decision-making techniques for selecting software that can be implemented for the management of large events.

Keywords: Software selection, event guest management, multi-criteria decision-making, multi-criteria decision-making.

Authors: Mustafa M. Donma

Abstract:

Thyroid dysfunction is a great health problem frequently observed in obesity. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) governs the complicated network confined to glucose and fat metabolism. The close relations between obesity and the performance of TSH point out future potential health problems related to cardiometabolic risk (CMR) associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). These matter particularly in childhood obesity. The aim of this study was to confirm the associations in pediatric age group between TSH and CMR, which may lead to CVDs and MetS in adulthood using the recently introduced cardiac and MetS indices. Three groups, being obese (OB), morbid obese (MO) and MetS, comprise 47, 92 and 36 children, respectively. Informed consent forms were taken from parents or participants. The study protocol was approved by Ethics Committee of the institution. Groups were constituted according to WHO body mass index percentiles tables prepared based upon age and gender. These percentiles for OB and MO groups were defined as between ‘95 and 99’ and ‘above 99’, respectively. Third group had MetS components. Anthropometric measurements and routine laboratory tests were performed. Advanced Donma Cardiac Index (ADCI) and Diagnostic Obesity Notation Model Assessment Metabolic Syndrome Index (DMetSI) were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed. Same concentrations in three groups were obtained for each thyroid hormone; triiodothyronin and thyroxin. TSH level was higher in MO than OB and in MetS than MO group. In MetS group, increased values were obtained for ADCI and DMetSI compared to values calculated for MO group (p < 0.001). In the same group, there were positive correlations between TSH and ADCI as well as DMetSI. Any such correlation was not observed in OB or MO group. The associations found between TSH and two indices, ADCI and DMetSI, in MetS group, but not in OB or MO group, suggested that the consideration of TSH as well as these two indices during the evaluation of children from MetS point of view, may point out the potential CMR and contribute much to the correct diagnosis of the syndrome.

Keywords: Cardiometabolic, metabolic syndrome, obese children, thyroid stimulating hormone.

Authors: Luke T. Ma

Abstract:

Blockchain technology offers innovative solutions to enhance leadership and management in the real estate sector by addressing inefficiencies, fraud, and information asymmetry. This study explores how blockchain systems can streamline operations, reduce intermediaries, and foster trust among stakeholders through decentralized ledger systems, enabling greater transparency, data security, and regulatory compliance. Key methodologies include the analysis of blockchain’s core applications, such as smart contracts for automating transactions, tokenization to increase investment liquidity, and decentralized frameworks that minimize fraud, human error, and the need for manual intervention. This study underscores blockchain’s transformative potential in addressing persistent industry challenges while driving innovation and operational excellence across all levels of real estate organizations. It offers actionable recommendations to enhance stakeholder acceptance, improve implementation strategies, and outlines a comprehensive framework for leveraging blockchain to advance leadership effectiveness in the real estate sector. By highlighting both theoretical insights and practical applications, this research provides a roadmap for companies seeking to embrace blockchain’s capabilities and achieve competitive advantages in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Keywords: Leadership, decentralized, real estate, blockchain.

Authors: Nnadi Ezekiel Ejiofor

Abstract:

The foundation of this study is the identification of risk variables and its implication on abandoned construction project in Nigeria. The study's particular goals are to pinpoint the risk factors that lead to the abandonment of public building projects in Nigeria. This study used a hybrid research design that included case study and descriptive survey research methods. Professionals who work directly in the built environment and are employed by Ministries and Departmental Agencies (MDAs), the public sector, or the private sector are the study's target demographic. This study used a descriptive survey and case study research design to gather data. Nigeria is experiencing a high rate of project abandonment due to housing deficit issues. The study revealed factors that are contributing to project abandonment in Abuja FCT that include poor cash-flow 4.96, inconsistent government policies 4.89, lack of accountability, high corruption, incompetent contractors, non-availability of building materials, lack of utilities, wrong materials, infrastructural facilities, poor planning, and undefined contracts. The study reveals that the abandoned project has huge impact on construction industry such as wastage of resources with mean value of 3.35, distrust economic growth, 3.28 and so on. The study found a significant relationship between risk factors and public building construction in Abuja, through a T-test value of 0.037 rejecting the null hypothesis and indicating a positive correlation.

Keywords: Project abandonment, risk, risk factors, cessation, public project.

Authors: Khaled Mohammed

Abstract:

This paper presents face recognition and identification approaches for the real-time attendance management problem in large companies/factories and government institutions. The Attendance Management System proposed uses the Minimum Ratio (MR) approach for employee identification. Capturing the authentic face variability from a sequence of video frames has been considered for the recognition of faces and resulted in system robustness against the variability of facial features. Experimental results indicated an improvement in the performance of the proposed system compared to the previous approaches at a rate between 2% to 5%. In addition, it decreased the time two times if compared with the previous techniques, such as Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) & Multi-Scale Structural Similarity index (MS-SSIM). Finally, it achieved an accuracy of 99%.

Keywords: Attendance management system, face detection and recognition, live face recognition, minimum ratio.

Authors: Aosi Wang, Zhonghao Li, Qian Zhang, Rong Liu

Abstract:

This study presented an artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced anthropometric identification (AIeAI) system for identifying individuals’ lower-limb shapes and sizes that empowers users in the selection of their fitted legwear and aids manufacturers in devising prototypes in development, thereby cost-effectively and rapidly catering to clothing wearing references. Key anthropometric features were extracted using a combination of support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) and empirical analysis, with model parameters optimized through grid search, genetic algorithm, and particle swarm optimization. The AIeAI system provides a digital solution for consumers to receive personalized size recommendations and enables manufacturers to develop anthropometric databases for rapid, cost-effective product development tailored to target markets.

Keywords: Body shape and size, feature selection, anthropometric identification, artificial intelligence.

Authors: Xavier Mc Creanor, Rowena Naidoo, Verusia Chetty

Abstract:

The exclusion of children with disabilities from physical education presents notable health risks and hinders their overall development. Despite the acknowledged significance of inclusive education, there remains a limited understanding of effective teaching methodologies and curricula tailored to this demographic. In this scoping review, existing literature on physical education curricula and teaching methodologies for children with disabilities was systematically mapped. A comprehensive search across various electronic databases, including Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Science Direct, yielded 5,361 potential articles. Following the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 relevant studies were examined. The review highlighted persistent barriers to inclusion, such as inaccessible facilities and negative attitudes among educators. Noteworthy findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive training for physical education instructors and the adaptation of curricula to better accommodate diverse learning needs. The analysis identified significant themes, including the impact of legislative frameworks, educator preparedness, and cultural factors influencing participation. Structural changes and effective teaching strategies are imperative to cultivate inclusivity in physical education for children with disabilities. This review underscores the ongoing need for educators to develop professionally and adapt physical education curricula to enrich the educational experiences of children with disabilities.

Keywords: Children with disabilities, special needs education, physical education, curriculum, teaching methodologies.

Authors: Yun Ma, Jiajun Lu

Abstract:

During the development and construction of mountainous cities, numerous uncertain disruptive factors have emerged, one after another, posing severe challenges to the city's overall development. Therefore, building resilient cities and creating high-quality urban ecosystems and safety systems have become the core and crux of achieving sustainable urban development. This paper takes the central urban area of Chongqing as the research object and establishes an urban resilience assessment indicator system from four dimensions: society, economy, ecology, and infrastructure. It employs the entropy weight method and TOPSIS model to assess the urban resilience level of the central urban area of Chongqing from 2019 to 2022. The results indicate that i.. the resilience level of the central urban area of Chongqing is unevenly distributed, showing a spatial pattern of "high in the middle and low around"; it also demonstrates differentiation across different dimensions; ii. due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the overall resilience level of the central urban area of Chongqing has declined significantly, with low recovery capacity and slow improvement in urban resilience. Finally, based on the four selected dimensions, this paper proposes optimization strategies for urban resilience in mountainous cities, providing a basis for Chongqing to build a safe and livable new city.

Keywords: Mountainous urban areas, central urban area, entropy weight method, TOPSIS Model, ArcGIS, Chongqing.

Authors: Jiajun Lu, Yun Ma

Abstract:

As a member of the tertiary industry, tourism is an important driving factor for urban economic development. As a well-known tourist city in China. However, the overall tourism development level of Chongqing is seriously unbalanced, and the tourism strength of the main urban area is much higher than that of the southeast Chongqing, northeast Chongqing and the surrounding city tourism area, and the overall tourism strength of the other three regions is relatively balanced. Based on the estimation of tourism development level and the geographic detector method, this paper finds that the important factors affecting the tourism development level of non-main urban areas in Chongqing are A-level tourist attractions. Through GIS geospatial analysis technology and SPSS data correlation research method, the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of A-level tourist attractions in Chongqing were quantitatively analyzed by using data such as geospatial data cloud, relevant documents of Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, planning cloud, and relevant statistical yearbooks. The results show that: (1) The spatial distribution of tourist attractions in non-main urban areas of Chongqing is agglomeration and uneven. (2) The spatial distribution of A-level tourist attractions in non-main urban areas of Chongqing is affected by ecological factors, and the degree of influence is in the order of water factors > topographic factors > green space factors.

Keywords: Tourist attractions, geographic detectors, quantitative research, ecological factors, GIS technology, SPSS analysis.