Quarterly Journal of Information and Communication Technology ​

                        


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First Publication 2020
Number of Volumes 7
Number of Issues 23
Article View 82149
PDF Download 35,815
View Per Article 595.28
PDF Download Per Article 259.53
Acceptance Rate 33%
Time to Accept (Days) 80-100 Day
Number of Indexing Databases 21
Number of Reviewers 37



Arman Process Journal (APJ), is an open access double-blind, peer-reviewed publication which is published by Islamic Azad University (IAU), Khodabandeh Branch, Zanjan, Iran. APJ concerned with all the important and novel research topics in the field of information and communication technology (ICT). This journal is published according to the publishing license number 87090 by the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance. APJ is a quarterly journal, which publishes original research papers, reviews, case studies and short communications related to journal scientific scope. This journal is following of Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and complies with the highest ethical standards in accordance with ethical laws. Specialist professors are invited for scientific cooperation with the journal. In this regard, please send the research resumes to the journal's email address (armanprocessjournal@iauz.ac.ir) and register on the journal's website.

Based on the official letter No. 1403/1241, dated 5/6/2024, from the Islamic World Science Citation Database Institute, APJ succeeded in obtaining the necessary score for indexing in the ISC scientific database.

All submitted manuscripts are checked for similarity through Hamyab software to ensure their authenticity and originality and then rigorously peer-reviewed by expert reviewers. Accepted manuscripts are published online and are permanently open access. All authors are requested to submit their articles only through the journal online system and their personal page. In order to submit the article correctly, follow the mentioned rules in the "Guide for Authors" section. (Read More...)

 

Application of Artificial Intelligence in Developing and Enhancing Leadership Skills Iranian Government Organizations

Application of Artificial Intelligence in Developing and Enhancing Leadership Skills Iranian Government Organizations

Pages 1-15

Hadi Zahabi, MOHAMAD MOHTADI

Abstract Background and Objectives: Rapid technological developments in recent decades, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, have fundamentally transformed traditional leadership models in government organizations. Leaders in the digital age can no longer rely solely on conventional management skills; they must harness the potential of new technologies for intelligent decision-making, creativity, foresight, and effective accountability. While AI has been increasingly adopted in public administration globally, there remains a significant gap in the academic literature regarding how AI specifically contributes to developing leadership skills among government managers, especially in national contexts with unique institutional and cultural characteristics such as Iran. This study aims to explain the role and functions of artificial intelligence in developing leadership skills among managers in Iranian government organizations.
Methods: The present study used a mixed method (qualitative-quantitative) to explain the role and functions of artificial intelligence in developing the leadership skills of managers in Iranian government agencies. In the qualitative stage, by conducting semi-structured interviews with 12 experts in the fields of public administration and information technology, the effective components and indicators were identified.
Findings: Through content analysis, four main dimensions were extracted including digital leadership self-awareness, smart decision-making, smart communication, and AI-based learning and development. In the quantitative phase, to empirically validate the AI-based leadership model developed in the qualitative section, a researcher-made questionnaire was distributed among 80 government managers and the data was analyzed using structural equation modeling.
Conclusion: Analyses show that targeted use of intelligent technologies, especially in the areas of data analysis, organizational behavior prediction, and personalized training, can significantly increase the level of decision-making, managerial agility, and communication capabilities of managers. Also, the lack of data infrastructure and traditional organizational culture are among the most important challenges to the effective use of artificial intelligence in the public sector.

Designing a Governance Model for Big Data Contracts in the Transition to a National Digital Economy: Structural-Interpretive Modeling and MICMAC Analysis

Designing a Governance Model for Big Data Contracts in the Transition to a National Digital Economy: Structural-Interpretive Modeling and MICMAC Analysis

Pages 16-28

Aboulfazl Aminranjebar, Mohammad Bagher Ghorbanvand, Farhad Edrisi, Shariar Bagheri

Abstract The present study was conducted with the aim of designing a governance model for big data contracts in the transition to a national digital economy.
This study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-exploratory in terms of method, using structural-interpretive modeling (ISM) and MICMAC analysis. The statistical population of the study was composed of experts in the fields of digital economy, information technology law, public policy, and data management, of which 18 out of 35 people were selected through purposive sampling based on theoretical saturation. Data were collected by studying upstream documents, reviewing research literature, and completing paired comparison questionnaires. The content validity of the tool was confirmed by experts, and its reliability was also examined using the intragroup agreement index and the inconsistency rate. Data analysis was conducted using the structural-interpretive modeling approach and MICMAC analysis.
The findings showed that integrated data infrastructure, legal and regulatory frameworks for big data contracts, information security and privacy, transparency and accountability, and institutional coordination are among the driving and fundamental components in the governance of big data contracts. The results of the MICMAC analysis also indicated that compliance with national macro policies and institutional regulation are among the main influential and driving variables of this system.
Accordingly, the establishment of an integrated governance model for big data contracts can pave the way for the realization of a national digital economy by strengthening data-driven decision-making, improving the quality of regulation, increasing transparency, reducing corruption, and improving the efficiency of economic policymaking. Therefore, the proposed research model can be used by policymakers and managers as a strategic framework for designing institutional, legal, and technological mechanisms in the management of data-driven contracts and developing the country’s digital economy.

Social Networks and Youth Social Security: A Case Study of Semnan Province

Social Networks and Youth Social Security: A Case Study of Semnan Province

Pages 29-42

Elham Moradhaseli, Mona Soleymani, Rozita Jamili Oskouei, Mojtaba Ghafari

Abstract This study investigates the impact of social networks on the social security of young people in Semnan Province and proposes a comprehensive framework for explaining the multiple dimensions of this relationship. The research is applied in nature and employs a descriptive–analytical approach. The statistical population consisted of 500 young people aged 15–40 years living in Semnan Province, who were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire with confirmed content validity and satisfactory reliability (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.70) and were analyzed using SPSS software.
The results revealed a significant negative relationship between the extent of social network use and different dimensions of social security. Quantitative findings indicated a significant negative correlation between the duration of social network use and academic security (r = −0.42, p < 0.01). Moreover, educational use of social networks had a positive effect on psychological–emotional security (β = 0.27, p < 0.05), whereas entertainment-oriented use showed a significant negative effect (β = −0.31, p < 0.01). Purposeful use of social networks was also associated with higher levels of social participation and psychological well-being, while excessive use was linked to reduced family security, poorer academic performance, and lower social trust.
The main contribution of this study is the development of an integrated framework that simultaneously examines the family, academic, psychological–emotional, and communicative–social dimensions of youth social security while considering the type, intensity, and purpose of social network use. The proposed framework provides a balanced understanding of both the opportunities and the risks associated with social networks and offers practical implications for designing media literacy programs, supporting evidence-based policymaking, and developing preventive strategies aimed at enhancing the social security of young people.

Investigating the Advantages, Disadvantages, and Applications of Common AI Tools in the Field of Information and Communication Technology

Investigating the Advantages, Disadvantages, and Applications of Common AI Tools in the Field of Information and Communication Technology

Pages 43-50

Alireza Soleimani

Abstract The rapid proliferation of generative AI models, large language models, coding assistants, AIOps systems, and intelligent cybersecurity tools has transformed ICT architectures and processes. This research aims to provide a technical and analytical examination of the benefits, drawbacks, risks, and applications of prevalent AI tools across the ICT system lifecycle. Adopting a review-analytical approach grounded in authoritative literature, the study first categorizes these tools into domains such as natural language processing, software engineering, data analysis, networking, cloud computing, IT operations, and cybersecurity. It then compares them based on criteria including accuracy, productivity, security, privacy, cost, scalability, integration capabilities, and the need for human oversight. The results indicate that the value of AI in ICT lies less in mere response generation and more in its capacity to analyze vast datasets, automate repetitive tasks, support decision-making, and establish intelligent feedback loops connecting data, software, and infrastructure. Conversely, challenges such as model hallucinations, the generation of vulnerable code, data leakage, prompt injection attacks, vendor lock-in, and decision-making errors constitute significant barriers to widespread adoption. Finally, the study proposes a multi-criteria framework for AI tool selection and a five-level maturity model for organizational deployment. The key finding is that for critical applications, a "human-in-the-loop" architecture, data governance, access control, continuous model evaluation, and an enterprise AI gateway must be integral architectural requirements.

An Intelligent Link Recommendation Approach in Virtual Social Networks

An Intelligent Link Recommendation Approach in Virtual Social Networks

Pages 51-61

Mohammad Ali Baghaei

Abstract The expansion of online social networks has attracted a vast number of users. Link prediction is a crucial aspect of social network analysis; its objective is to identify potential connections within a network that are not currently present or observed. In social networks, there is a potential for links to exist between entities—links that may emerge in the future or were simply missing due to data loss. While link prediction is not a form of social network analysis in itself, it is a vital component of the analytical process. Furthermore, recommending interesting friends—in a way that pleasantly surprises new users—has become a major challenge for social networks. This challenge is particularly significant due to both the massive volume of data and the lack of historical activity data for new users upon joining. This paper aims to design a hybrid recommendation system—leveraging novel knowledge and ensemble learning—to facilitate friend recommendations and enhance the accuracy and precision of these suggestions within social networks.

A Hybrid Framework for Persian Sentiment Analysis, Integrating Transformer-based Language Models, Aspect-based Analysis, and Confidence Calibration

A Hybrid Framework for Persian Sentiment Analysis, Integrating Transformer-based Language Models, Aspect-based Analysis, and Confidence Calibration

Pages 62-74

Hasan Ziafat, Behnam Dorostkat, Parisa Rahmani, Nafiseh Fareghzadeh

Abstract Sentiment analysis is a key application of natural language processing and artificial intelligence, aimed at identifying and extracting attitudes, emotions, and polarity from human-generated text. Although deep learning models—particularly Transformer-based architectures—have significantly enhanced the capabilities of sentiment analysis systems, analyzing Persian text remains fraught with challenges such as writing variations, the use of zero-width non-joiners (ZWNJ), character form variations, semantic ambiguity, sarcasm, negation, multi-aspect perspectives, a scarcity of labeled data, and a mismatch between model confidence and actual prediction accuracy. Furthermore, many existing systems merely output a general positive, negative, or neutral label without accounting for their confidence in the decision. To address these challenges, this research proposes a multi-stage, context-aware, and uncertainty-driven framework for Persian sentiment analysis. This framework comprises four main layers: Persian preprocessing and normalization, deep representation extraction using Transformer models, aspect-based sentiment analysis, and finally, calibration and uncertainty estimation. This structure enables the distinction between "overall sentiment" and "sentiment regarding a specific aspect." Evaluation results demonstrate that the proposed framework outperforms baseline models across all metrics, including Accuracy, Precision, Recall, and Macro-F1. Additionally, an SCCI value of 91% indicates a high level of consistency and coherence in the model's ability to identify aspect-level sentiment within Persian texts. These results demonstrate that employing the proposed architecture has led to significant improvements not only in classification performance but also in the balanced and simultaneous detection of emotion labels.

Prediction of Cardiovascular Diseases Using Convolutional Neural Network Based on Internet of Things

Prediction of Cardiovascular Diseases Using Convolutional Neural Network Based on Internet of Things

Volume 6, Issue 1, Spring 2025, Pages 67-84

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2025.725731

Seyedeh Fatemeh Abdollahi, Seyed Ebrahim Dashti

Abstract One of the most important applications of the Internet of Things in the field of health is remote monitoring of patients. This technology allows doctors to check the health status of patients in real time, which is especially vital for people suffering from or prone to heart diseases. Prediction of cardiovascular diseases is known to be a complex challenge that faces low accuracy in existing models. In this research, a new recommender system for predicting cardiovascular diseases is proposed that uses a convolutional neural network to analyze physiological data of patients. Physiological data from patients are collected remotely through four biological sensors including ECG sensor, blood pressure sensor, heart rate sensor and blood sugar sensor. These data are then processed by an Arduino controller and the convolutional neural network model is used to predict cardiovascular disease. With outstanding capabilities in extracting local features and without the need for complex time sequence analysis, this model can effectively use fixed numerical data such as blood pressure, heart rate, and blood sugar to diagnose heart diseases. The experimental results showed that the convolutional neural network was able to effectively extract local and non-temporal features of the data and help the model achieve a prediction accuracy of 98.90%.

Business Intelligence and Industry 4.0: Opportunities & Challenges

Business Intelligence and Industry 4.0: Opportunities & Challenges

Volume 4, Issue 1, Spring 2023 Article ID:1-7

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2023.706756

Reza Mohammadi

Abstract Background and objectives: Due to the digitalization of life and the fiercely competitive global market, the fourth industrial revolution was inevitable. Industry 4.0 utilizes several interconnected technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), big data (BD) and so on to provide new solutions. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the vital role that Business Intelligence (BI) play in the realization and adoption of Industry 4.0.

Methods: The present paper addresses this shortcoming by systematically reviewing scholarly articles published in this research domain. It integrates previous insights on the topic to provide a far-reaching theoretical framework that highlights antecedents, practices, and outcomes of BI & Industry 4.0 research.

Findings: Our framework shapes a holistic approach of the BI & I4.0 domain and illuminates different relevant elements up on which future studies in this area be developed.

Conclusion: it addresses the future expected for Industry 4.0 primarily in BI and how companies should face this revolution. This article provides knowledge contribution about the current state and positive consequences of Industry 4.0, and high development in business intelligence when implemented in the organization and the harmonization between production and intelligent digital technology.

Artificial Intelligence in Smart Contracts (Case Study: N.G Supply Chain)

Artificial Intelligence in Smart Contracts (Case Study: N.G Supply Chain)

Volume 4, Issue 4, Autumn 2023, Pages 46-51

Reza Mohammadi

Abstract Today's systems, approaches, and technologies leveraged for managing oil and gas supply chain operations fall short of providing operational transparency, traceability, audit, security, and trusted data provenance features. Also, a large portion of the existing systems are centralized, manual, and highly disintegrated, which make them vulnerable to manipulation and the single point of failure problem. Emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), fog computing, cloud computing, and block chain can play a vital role in boosting the operational efficiency of the oil and gas industry. In this paper, we explore the potential opportunities and applications of Artificial Intelligence technology in managing the exploration, production, and supply chain and logistics operations in the Natural Gas industry as it can offer traceability, immutability, transparency, and audit features in a decentralized, trusted, and secure manner. This research highlights the use cases of AI in decentralized Block chain with smart contracts, the company’s trading policies, and its advantages for effectively handling market risk assessments during socio-economic crisis. Results spotlight the use of AI in decision accuracy for the developed smart contract-based Natural Gas Industry, thereby qualitatively limiting the threshold level of costs, energy and other control functions in procurement, production and distribution.

Examining the Legitimacy of Cryptocurrencies from a Jurisprudential Perspective as a New Method of Contract Payment in Digital Relations

Examining the Legitimacy of Cryptocurrencies from a Jurisprudential Perspective as a New Method of Contract Payment in Digital Relations

Volume 3, Issue 1, Spring 2022, Pages 8-23

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2022.253919

Mehdi Babaeii, Mohammad Hadi Zahedi, Elham Farahani

Abstract Background and Objectives: The cryptocurrencies, including bitcoins, are the fruits of the development of information technology in the international and even domestic financial system in the last decade. Have brought with them. In the present study, From the point of view of individual jurisprudence, the cryptocurrencies are a kind of property, their transactions are not usury and arrogance, and therefore, if the transaction basis of the cryptocurrencies is correct from the religious point of view, its exchange is permissible, but if the transaction basis of the cryptocurrencies is not legitimate, Their transaction is void and forbidden.
Methods: In this study which is descriptive-analytical; we reviewed most of the governmental jurisprudence documents about cryptocurrency trading.
Findings: The result of the present study is that based on arguments such as the no-harm rule, the rule of respect and the rule of maintaining order, and the rule of action and the rule of justice, which all prevent the implementation of incorrect monetary policies and increase the problematic amount of money in the Islamic economic system.
Conclusion: It is advisable to prevent transactions in the field of currency cryptocurrency until the legal order is established by the government to control the cryptocurrency in the country's economy.

Threats and Approaches for Security in e-commerce services

Threats and Approaches for Security in e-commerce services

Volume 2, Issue 3, Summer 2021, Pages 7-13

Ali Mohammadpoor

Abstract Today, e-commerce has become a way of doing business in the modern world. Basically, e-commerce can not grow enough without security. To achieve a dynamic e-commerce, we must implement security in it within the framework of principles, so that we can use it as a sustainable sample of business. Security issues, unauthorized users, viruses and the like are terrifying for companies at any level of internet connection. Most companies focus on their hardware and software to deal with these problems. Understanding security threats and risks, especially the dangers of e-commerce, can be a great help in designing and building a secure infrastructure. This article discusses various ways to reduce security threats, especially in cases where the greatest threat is posed by unauthorized users, viruses and other forms of network intrusion; Finally, security approaches, recommendations and solutions to deal with these threats are provided.

The Convergence of Blockchain with Technology-Oriented Services and Functions

The Convergence of Blockchain with Technology-Oriented Services and Functions

Volume 3, Issue 3, Winter 2023, Pages 19-27

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2022.704024

Reza Tarempoor

Abstract Blockchain is a holistic system consisting of peer-to-peer connected and distributed blocks of data that eliminates the need for a centralized management entity to manage technological transactions. Blockchain's open-source, impermeable configuration paves the way for an unparalleled level of transparency. Each piece of data is distributed among millions of computers around the world and its authenticity is verified. This relatively new technology is revolutionizing various industries and providing an automated process for managing processes and interactions. The use of blockchain is a cheap and fast solution and it is very attractive that it has experienced a lot of development in recent years. In today's era, the use of blockchain technology plays a very important role in the development of businesses. This powerful technology improves the quality of business and also increases their income and profit. Maintaining business security, authenticity, speed and increasing quality are among the benefits that arise with the help of blockchain in businesses. According to the importance of the issue, in this article we intend to examine the convergence of blockchain with technology-oriented services and related functions.

The Evolution of Digital Banking with Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC):  Opportunities and Challenges

The Evolution of Digital Banking with Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC): Opportunities and Challenges

Volume 6, Issue 1, Spring 2025, Pages 15-37

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2025.725726

Niloufar Navaei

Abstract Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) represent a new generation of digital money, created and supported under the authority of central banks. This cutting-edge technology, with its potential to bring transformative changes to traditional payment infrastructures and to revolutionize global payment systems, has captured the attention of researchers and financial industry professionals alike.

This study examines the challenges and opportunities associated with CBDCs during the 2018–2024 period. To this end, a systematic search was conducted across eight reputable academic databases, resulting in the identification of 62 relevant articles. After applying screening criteria, 53 articles were selected for final analysis and for the development of this review paper.

An analysis of these articles reveals a significant increase in interest in CBDCs in recent years. Central banks around the globe are actively exploring or piloting their own digital currency projects. The potential benefits of CBDCs include enhanced efficiency and inclusivity in payments, strengthened financial stability, and innovation in financial services. However, challenges such as privacy concerns, cybersecurity risks, and the potential for misuse also persist. Consequently, further research and comprehensive regulatory frameworks are essential to fully understand and manage the benefits and risks of CBDCs.

IoT Security Challenges and Solutions

IoT Security Challenges and Solutions

Volume 2, Issue 2, Spring 2021, Pages 35-40

Somayeh Ganjkhanloo, Zahra Bigdeli

Abstract The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the fastest technologies to be used in a variety of applications in the last decade and is in fact a large distributed network in which billions of intelligent devices are connected. Smart devices connect wirelessly or wirelessly to communicate, process, compute and monitor various real-time scenarios. The Internet of Things promises a world in which intelligent communication from most devices is possible via the Internet anywhere, anytime with the least possible human assistance. However, security and privacy are the main concerns of the Internet of Things that can affect its sustainable development. Inadequate device updates, lack of efficient and robust security protocols, user ignorance, and active device monitoring are some of the major security challenges that the Internet of Things faces. In this article, we have dealt with the issue of IoT security from different dimensions and examined the related challenges and solutions.

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