Quarterly Journal of Information and Communication Technology ​

                        


Journal Metrics

First Publication 2020
Number of Volumes 7
Number of Issues 22
Article View 58,984
PDF Download 27,066
View Per Article 446.85
PDF Download Per Article 205.05
Acceptance Rate 33%
Time to Accept (Days) 80-100 Day
Number of Indexing Databases 20
Number of Reviewers 36



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...)

 

<span>An Integrated Approach Based on Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things to Adopt Applications in the Era of Digital Transformation</span>

An Integrated Approach Based on Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things to Adopt Applications in the Era of Digital Transformation

Pages 1-11

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2026.738079

Alireza Gholami

Abstract The convergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), as one of the most central trends in digital transformation in the last decade, has created a new landscape in various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, energy, and smart cities. Despite the revolutionary potential of these technologies, their effective adoption and implementation face numerous challenges. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive framework for analyzing the factors affecting the adoption of artificial intelligence in IoT systems and to provide a proposed perspective to overcome existing barriers. This study, with an analytical-descriptive approach and using a systematic literature review, examines 46 authoritative articles published between 2018 and 2025. The theoretical framework of the study is based on the combined technology-organization-environment (TOE) model and the technology acceptance model (TAM). The literature analysis shows that the key applications of artificial intelligence in IoT include predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, real-time monitoring, and automated control. Facilitating factors include 5G infrastructure, organizational readiness, and skilled workforce, and major barriers include cybersecurity challenges, data quality, integration with legacy systems, and model scalability limitations. The proposed approach emphasizes the implementation of a hybrid architecture based on edge computing, federated learning, and software-defined networking (SDN) to overcome the existing challenges. This framework can serve as a roadmap for researchers and industry players on the path to AI-IoT-based digital transformation.

Improving Data Center Resource Utilization Using Clustering Techniques, Fuzzy Logic, and Evolutionary Algorithms

Improving Data Center Resource Utilization Using Clustering Techniques, Fuzzy Logic, and Evolutionary Algorithms

Pages 12-32

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2026.2085844.1063

mojdeh jahanbani, SeyedEbrahim Dashti, sam hamzelo

Abstract Cloud computing has emerged as a paradigm that transcends traditional distributed computing systems, such as Grid and Cluster systems, offering the capability to handle dynamic requests and diverse user requirements. As the number of users grows, there is a pressing need to deploy effective mechanisms for load balancing and task scheduling. Load balancing is essential for evenly distributing workloads across physical servers, preventing resource congestion, and enhancing overall system performance. Furthermore, considering users' service requests and the necessity for service providers to deliver accurate and timely responses, coupled with the limited resources available in the cloud environment, efficient task scheduling becomes imperative. This paper proposes an approach for optimizing virtual machine (VM) migration by combining Genetic Algorithms and Ant Colony Optimization for resource scheduling operations. Additionally, it employs K-Means clustering and fuzzy logic to quantify the dependencies between VMs and physical machines during migration, thereby maintaining load balance. The proposed model is evaluated and compared against three existing load balancing algorithms within the CloudSim simulation environment. The evaluation results demonstrate that our proposed model achieves a 4.5% reduction in task completion time, a 4.9% increase in the deadline success rate, and a 3.9% improvement in task diversity. Furthermore, computational complexity is reduced by 8.3%, VM migration efficiency is improved by 2.5%, and decision-making delay is significantly decreased by 9.5%. Additionally, the model achieves substantial energy savings of 30-35%.

The Internet of Bio-Nano Things and the Emergence of Nano-Digital Twins in Telemedicine

The Internet of Bio-Nano Things and the Emergence of Nano-Digital Twins in Telemedicine

Pages 33-56

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2026.2091021.1068

Mohammad Hossein Roozbahani

Abstract The convergence of emerging technologies, including the Internet of Bio-Nano Things (IoBNT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Twins, and Nanomedicine, has opened new opportunities for the development of next-generation intelligent systems for cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Despite significant advances in each of these fields, a comprehensive framework integrating these technologies into a unified, self-regulating, and closed-loop therapeutic ecosystem has not yet been established. This review proposes a forward-looking conceptual framework in which molecular data acquired by in vivo nanosensors are transmitted through IoBNT to a Nano-Digital Twin, analyzed using artificial intelligence models, and subsequently utilized to guide intelligent nanodrug delivery systems and therapeutic decision-making.
The principal contribution of this study is the integration of four key technologies IoBNT, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Twins, and Nanomedicine within a multilayer closed-loop therapeutic architecture that enables continuous monitoring, real-time analysis, disease progression prediction, and dynamic personalized treatment optimization. From a qualitative perspective, the proposed framework has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance the specificity of targeted drug delivery, reduce reactive clinical decision-making, and facilitate the transition toward predictive, adaptive, and personalized medicine. From a functional perspective, the proposed architecture integrates five essential capabilities real-time monitoring, intelligent data analytics, disease progression prediction, adaptive nanodrug delivery, and continuous therapeutic feedback within a unified platform, whereas these capabilities have largely been investigated independently in previous studies.
Finally, this review discusses the major scientific, technical, and translational challenges associated with the clinical implementation of the proposed framework and presents a roadmap for the development of next-generation intelligent nanomedicine and precision medicine. The proposed conceptual framework demonstrates that the convergence of these emerging technologies has the potential to transform conventional healthcare into autonomous, intelligent, and data-driven therapeutic systems for future cancer management.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Corporate Governance: Focusing on Three Critical Accountability Gaps and Strategies to Strengthen Board Oversight

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Corporate Governance: Focusing on Three Critical Accountability Gaps and Strategies to Strengthen Board Oversight

Pages 57-75

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2026.2090422.1066

Maziar Ghasemi, Mohammad Jafarpour Jalali

Abstract The integration of artificial intelligence into strategic decision-making processes enhances accuracy, speed, and efficiency; however, it simultaneously introduces unprecedented challenges to the traditional accountability framework within corporate governance. Employing a critical analytical approach and drawing upon findings from authoritative research in the fields of artificial intelligence and corporate governance, this article argues that existing legal and ethical systems are ill-prepared to address three structural gaps arising from algorithmic decision-making at the board level.
Accountability is defined as a tripartite relationship among an agent, the board of directors, and the general assembly of shareholders, wherein the agent is obligated to justify and explain their conduct, while the assembly holds the authority to question, judge, evaluate performance, decide on the continuation of cooperation, and take legal action if necessary. The first gap concerns the absence of a clear rule for determining responsibility when AI systems make errors, as responsibility is a "bundle" concept comprising multiple components, and merely attributing it cannot resolve ethical dilemmas. This gap manifests acutely in augmented intelligence and reinforcement learning contexts. The second gap involves the lack of a mechanism to monitor the board itself in its capacity as the overseer of AI systems—referred to herein as the "monitor of the monitor" dilemma. The third gap stems from the temporal misalignment between board decision-making cycles and AI system processing speeds, which undermines effective oversight and timely accountability.
This study proposes three policy-oriented solutions: the non-delegable rule of ultimate human responsibility; the establishment of a specialized AI committee within the board, endowed with continuous auditing authority; and the redefinition of fiduciary duty such that algorithmic literacy and oversight over the lifecycle of AI models become integral components of directors' legal responsibilities. These three solutions are analyzed within the framework of accountability's four objectives: compliance, reporting, monitoring, and enforcement.

Design implementation and evolution of wiper malware in offensive cyber Operations: From Logical Data Destruction to Irrecoverable Erasure of Adversary Information

Design implementation and evolution of wiper malware in offensive cyber Operations: From Logical Data Destruction to Irrecoverable Erasure of Adversary Information

Pages 76-91

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2026.2090974.1069

Negar Ataeian, Mohammadmehdi Shirmohammadi

Abstract Over the last decade, offensive cyber operations have evolved from intelligence-oriented campaigns toward destructive attacks targeting the availability and integrity of critical data and digital infrastructures. Among these threats, wiper malware has emerged as one of the most destructive cyber weapons due to its capability to permanently erase or corrupt information and disrupt organizational operations. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive technical analysis of the design, implementation, and evolution of wiper malware by examining more than twenty documented real-world incidents, including Shamoon, NotPetya, WhisperGate, and AcidRain. Based on this analysis, a unified framework is proposed to classify data destruction techniques into three categories: physical-level destruction through storage controller commands such as ATA Secure Erase, block-level overwriting using fixed or random patterns, and logical-level corruption of metadata, partition tables, and file system structures. The study further analyzes the common architecture of modern wiper malware, including persistence mechanisms, command-and-control strategies, self-propagation techniques, parallel destruction modules, and anti-forensic capabilities. Comparative analysis demonstrates the gradual evolution of wiper malware from simple disk destruction toward sophisticated attacks targeting cloud infrastructures, virtualization platforms, and distributed storage environments. The review also identifies major technical challenges associated with forensic recovery, snapshot-based backup systems, and replicated cloud storage. As a practical contribution, the paper proposes a multilayer defensive framework based on Data Immutability, Write Once Read Many (WORM) hardware technologies, offline backup architectures, and kernel-level I/O anomaly detection to improve cyber resilience against destructive attacks. Overall, the findings highlight current technological trends, identify existing research gaps, and provide practical recommendations for developing more resilient storage architectures and effective protection mechanisms against future generations of destructive cyber threats.

Identification of Key Factors Influencing Golrang Brand Performance with Emphasis on the Mediating Role of Brand Innovation: A Case Study of Pakshoo Company in the Detergent Industry

Identification of Key Factors Influencing Golrang Brand Performance with Emphasis on the Mediating Role of Brand Innovation: A Case Study of Pakshoo Company in the Detergent Industry

Pages 92-101

https://doi.org/10.22034/apj.2026.2091706.1071

Hamid Mafi, Ali Erfani Kia, Kamran Yeganegi

Abstract The present study aims to identify and explain the key factors affecting the performance of the Golrang brand, with an emphasis on the mediating role of brand innovation, focusing on Pakshoo Company in the detergent industry. Based on the resource‑based view and the dynamic capabilities approach, market orientation, organizational learning, and internationalization were considered as organizational and strategic drivers, brand innovation as the mediating mechanism, and brand performance as the final outcome of the model.

In terms of purpose, this research is applied, and in terms of method, it is descriptive–survey and correlational. The statistical population consisted of managers and employees of Pakshoo Company located in the Alborz Industrial City of Qazvin. Out of 260 individuals, 152 respondents were selected using simple random sampling based on the Morgan table. Data were collected through a standardized questionnaire adapted from validated studies and localized for the detergent industry. The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by experts, and its reliability was verified using Cronbach’s alpha; the alpha coefficients for the constructs ranged from 0.712 to 0.946.

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, linear regression, and the Preacher and Hayes mediation model in SPSS software. The findings indicated that market orientation, organizational learning, and internationalization have a positive and significant effect on brand innovation, and brand innovation in turn positively and significantly improves brand performance. Furthermore, the mediating role of brand innovation in the relationships between the three drivers and brand performance was confirmed.

The results suggest that brand innovation acts as a connecting mechanism between organizational capabilities and developmental strategies with superior brand performance. It can serve as a lever for differentiation, market responsiveness, and strengthening competitive advantage in the detergent industry.

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.

Keywords Cloud