bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Reporting in the Perception of Heptagon Fraud Theory
Authors: Adib Noval , Rahma Meilenia , Widya Areta
Published: December 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of fraud heptagon consisting of seven elements, namely pressure, rationalization, opportunity, arrogance, ability or competence, culture, and religiosity on financial statement fraud in SMEs employees in Indonesia. This research method is quantitative with a questionnaire. Respondents who were successfully collected were 250 who were SMEs employees in the finance department in Indonesia. Data were collected through questionnaire distribution and then processed using a statistical application, namely SPSS. The results obtained from the processing were pressure, rationalization, opportunity, arrogance, ability or competence, and culture had an effect on financial statement fraud. However, this study found that religiosity had no effect on financial statement fraud. The practical contribution of the study can be the implementation of the fraud heptagon theory in financial statement fraud and a practical contribution to all State-owned enterprises (SMEs) management in Indonesia, namely it can be an evaluation of how important pressure, rationalization, opportunity, arrogance, ability or competence, and culture are in preventing fraud.
The Effect of Social Media Marketing and e-WOM on Interest in Visiting Lon Beach
Authors: Rahmawati Lusy , Aguilika Deykha
Published: December 2024

This study aims to analyze the influence of Social Media Marketing (SMM) and electronic word of mouth (e-WOM) on interest in visiting Lon Beach, Malang. The research sample consisted of 100 respondents determined using purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through a questionnaire measured using a Likert scale and analyzed using multiple linear regression with SPSS version 25. The results showed that SMM and e-WOM significantly influenced interest in visiting, both partially and simultaneously. The Adjusted R Square value of 0.617 indicates that 61.7% of the variation in interest in visiting can be explained by SMM and e-WOM, while the remaining 38.3% is influenced by other factors. The results of the hypothesis test show that SMM has a positive and significant influence on interest in visiting with a regression coefficient value of 0.496. Similar things were found in e-WOM with a coefficient value of 0.558. Simultaneously, these two variables have a mutually supportive relationship in increasing interest in visiting, as evidenced by the calculated F value of 80.603. This study confirms that effective social media marketing strategies and positive reviews from e-WOM can significantly increase public awareness and interest in visiting Lon Beach, Malang. These results provide important implications for tourism managers in designing digital-based marketing strategies.
Market Forces and Marketing Performance of Leather Products Manufacturers in Abia State, Nigeria
Authors: Dike Onwubiko N. , Uwaoma Ugochukwu, G.A. , Nwodo Sylvanus I.
Published: December 2024

Marketing performance refers to the effectiveness of marketing efforts in achieving business success, particularly of the Leather Products Manufacturers in Nigeria. Of the thirty-six States of Nigeria, Abia State was selected for this study because of the huge commercial activities orchestrated by the beehive of small and medium scale enterprises in the State. The study adopted survey research design which involves the use of structured questionnaire with four-point Likert scale format to elicit responses from the selected members ofLeather Products Manufacturers Association of Abia State (LEPMAAS)sized 233,819. The Taro Yamane formula was used to compute the sample size of 399. Using Cronbach’s Alpha technique, the reliability coefficient of 0.961 was determined, reflecting high degree of internal consistency of the research instrument. Logit regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. The findings of the study revealed that market forces not only relate to but influence the marketing performance of the Leather Products Manufacturers in Abia State. The study posited significant contributions of the various marketing techniques deployed by the Leather firms to marketing performance and non-significant role of distribution techniquedue to the use of traditional supply chain.
Influence of Viral Contents on the Rapid Spread of Information on the Social Media Platforms in Nigeria
Authors: Igben Harvey G.O. , Acchugbue Okiemute Endurance
Published: December 2024

This paper highlighted the influence of viral content on the rapid spread of information on the social media platforms. This paper raised four (4) research questions as guide. The descriptive survey design was used in this investigation. The study population was three hundred and fifty (350) social media users. The sample size of one hundred and thirty (130) social media content creator and users was adopted relying on the simple random sampling technique. The questionnaire was used as the instrument for collecting data. Descriptive statistics specifically tables and mean were used for the analysis of data collected. Findings shows that emotional connection, visual appeal, relevance, social proof, convenience, controversy, novelty, humour, timeliness and interactive elements are the factors that contribute to the rapid spread of viral content on social media platforms. The paper concluded that the potential consequences of the rapid spread of viral content to individuals and society include dissemination of false information which causes harm to individuals and society, feelings of anxiety and stress, increased social media addiction, negative impact on mental health for some individuals, anxious feelings, and stress due to the constant stream of alarming information. This paper recommended that platforms should establish, enforce clear, stringent content moderation policies that address the unique challenges posed by viral content and development of advanced algorithms that should be regularly updated to adapt to evolving tactics used by those spreading false information, which should work in tandem with human review processes to ensure a balanced approach.
Can batik craft products in the red-light area improve sustainable social and economic impact? A case study of the largest former prostitution area in Southeast Asia
Authors: Indarti Indarti , Peng Li Hsun , Wahyuningsih Urip , Martadi Martadi , Yulistiana Yulistiana
Published: December 2024

The batik industry in the ex-Dolly area of Surabaya has undergone significant transformation from its history as a red-light district to a hub for creative batik production. This study aims to assess the environmental and social impacts of the development batik industry in the ex-Dolly area using the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) method. Through a qualitative case study approach, key stakeholders including batik artisans, local communities, and government agencies were engaged to evaluate the industry's sustainability and development. Baseline data collection and impact assessments revealed both positive and negative effects on the environment and social well-being of artisans. Mitigation measures were proposed to address issues such as water pollution, waste management, and working conditions. The results and discussions highlighted the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement in enhancing batik industry's overall impact. The study concludes that by implementing targeted strategies and monitoring mechanisms, the batik industry in the ex-Dolly area can achieve long-term sustainability and positive social outcomes. The implications of this research extend to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and local communities, emphasizing the need for responsible environmental and social practices in the development of creative industries.
Incentivos e financiamento à inovação : panorama das empresas farmacêuticas e farmoquímicas apoiadas no período 2002-2023
Authors: Koeller Priscila
Published: December 2024

O capítulo concentra-se na identificação do conjunto de empresas que têm acesso às renúncias fiscais, à subvenção econômica e aos financiamentos para pesquisa e desenvolvimento (P&D). Quantas são as empresas que têm acesso aos instrumentos? Uma mesma empresa acessa mais de um mecanismo? Qual o valor médio alocado para empresas dessas duas atividades no caso da subvenção econômica e do crédito a projetos de PDI? A análise é feita a partir do cruzamento da base do Cadastro Nacional de Pessoa Jurídica (CNPJ) da Receita Federal do Brasil (RFB) com as informações disponíveis sobre renúncia fiscal e financiamentos a projetos de PDI. O período para análise está limitado às informações disponíveis. No caso da renúncia fiscal, as informações estão disponíveis para o período de 2014 a 2022; para a subvenção econômica, o período de referência é de 2007 a 2023; e para o financiamento, o período analisado é de 2002 a 2023.
Lições para a regulação de preços de medicamentos : o caso brasileiro à luz de experiências comparadas
Authors: Salgado Lucia Helena
Published: December 2024

O objetivo deste capítulo é examinar experiências de regulação de preços de medicamentos em outras jurisdições, buscando identificar características que possam servir de subsídio para a revisão do regime regulatório de preços de medicamentos vigente no Brasil há mais de duas décadas.
Anuario Meteorológico Cafetero 2023
Authors:   Centro Nacional de Investigaciones de Café
Published: December 2024

En este anuario meteorológico se publica información registrada en la red climática de la Federación Nacional de Cafeteros de Colombia operada por la Disciplina de Agroclimatología de Cenicafé del año 2022
The Divinity of Christ in a Pluralistic World – A Study of Johannine Christology
Authors: Yankyera Patrick , Boachie John Kwabena , Obeng-Denteh William , Adams Peter
Published: December 2024

This paper explored the doctrine of the divinity of Christ within the context of a pluralistic world, where multiple religious traditions coexist, each claiming distinct revelations of divine truth. The Christian belief in the unique divinity of Jesus Christ has often been challenged by such pluralism, especially in the face of modern interreligious dialogues. This paper examined the historical, biblical, and theological foundations of Christ’s divinity, focusing on Johannine Christology as a primary source of high Christology. Additionally, it engaged contemporary debates on religious pluralism, exploring inclusivist, exclusivist, and pluralist approaches to Christ’s divine identity. The paper argued that while the divinity of Christ remains a central and non-negotiable tenet of Christian theology, an inclusive approach to interfaith dialogue can be adopted without compromising this belief. This perspective not only preserves the integrity of Christian doctrine but also offers a constructive framework for engaging with religious diversity, thereby highlighting the significance of maintaining Christ’s divinity in interfaith dialogues and its implications for Christian theology in a pluralistic society.

Keywords: Christology, Divinity of Christ, Pluralism, Johannine Theology, Interfaith
Starting driving style recognition of electric city bus based on deep learning and CAN data
Authors: Zhao Dengfeng , Fu Zhijun , Liu Chaohui , Hou Junjian , Dong Shesen , Zhong Yudong
Published: December 2024

Drivers with aggressive driving style driving electric city buses with rapid response and high acceleration performance characteristics are more prone to have traffic accidents in the starting stage. It is of great importance to accurately identify the drivers with aggressive driving style for preventing traffic accidents of city buses. In this article, a starting driving style recognition method of electric city bus is firstly proposed based on deep learning with in-vehicle Controller Area Network (CAN) bus data. The proposed model can automatically extract the deep spatiotemporal features of multi-channel time series data and achieve end-to-end data processing with higher accuracy and generalization ability. The sample data set of driving style is established by pre-processing the collected in-vehicle CAN bus data including the status of driving and vehicle motion, the data pre-processing method includes data cleaning, normalization and sample segmentation. Data set is labelled with subjective evaluation method. The starting driving style recognition method based on Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model is constructed. Multiple sets of convolutional layers and pooling layers are used to automatically extract the spatiotemporal characteristics of starting driving style hidden in the data such as velocity and pedal position etc. The fully connected neural network and incentive function Softmax are applied to establish the relationship mapping between driving data characteristics and the starting driving styles, which are categorized as cautious, normal and aggressive. The results show that the proposed model can accurately recognize the starting driving style of electric city bus drivers with an accuracy of 98.3%. In addition, the impact of different model structures on model performance such as accuracy and F1 scores was discussed, and the performance of the proposed model was also compared with Support Vector Machine (SVM) and random forest model. The method can be used to accurately identify drivers with aggressive starting driving style and provide references for driver’s safety education, so as to prevent accidents at the starting stage of electric city bus and reduce crash accidents.
Echocardiographic index for pulmonary hypertension discrimination in patients after pulmonary embolism - pilot study
Authors: Peneva M. , Vladimirov G. , Mateev H.
Published: December 2024

Aims: Patients with residual perfusion defects and echocardiographic signs of pulmonary hypertension (PH) are referred for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) evaluation. The first aim of this study was to test an echocardiographic index as a screening marker for pre-capillary PH. The secondary aim was to assess its potential for PH type discrimination. Methods and results: The single-center’s retrospective cohort included 79 patients divided by gender, age, presence of chronic perfusion defects diagnosed by computer tomography (CT) or angiography, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/systolic pulmonary artery pressure (TAPSE/sPAP), right ventricle (RV) basal diameter, the ratio (TAPSE/sPAP)/RV x 100, PH groups – CTEPH/pre-capillary, combined pre- and post-capillary (CpcPH) and isolated post-capillary (IpcPH) and no PH. From a total of 79 patients – 43(54%) men and 36(46%) women at a mean age of 65, residual clots were detected in 42(53%). Analysis of invasive haemodynamic and echocardiographic data diagnosed no PH in 22 (28%), IpcPH – 25 (32%), CpcPH – 16 (20%) and CTEPH - 16(20%). There was a statistically significant difference in the mean index values between all PH subtypes groups (p < 0.001). Further analysis proved (TAPSE/sPAP)/RV x 100 to be statistically significant discriminator of PH subtypes and defined patients with a value above 1.79 as likely having no PH, leading post-capillary PH in the range of 0.83-1.79, pre-capillary PH < 0.52 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The index might serve as a screening method for CTEPH and possible PH type discrimination. 
Enhancing Predicted Visual Acuity After SmartSight Lenticule Extraction: Identifying Key Factors With Machine Learning
Authors: Darzi Soodabeh , Pradhan Kishore Raj , Arba-Mosquera Samuel
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To develop a predictive model aimed at assessing the likelihood of improvement in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) for patients undergoing lenticule extraction using the SmartSight system from SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions. This model evaluates the effectiveness and weight of various clinical and procedural parameters in predicting enhancements in visual acuity.

Methods

Data from 1,262 eyes treated with the SmartSight system, encompassing 86 features, were analyzed. Regression and classification techniques were employed to estimate the probability of CDVA gain, ensuring robust results by comparing different methods. The dataset was divided into training (70%, 883 treatments) and testing (30%, 379 treatments) subsets to ensure comprehensive model evaluation using machine learning methods. Feature significance was determined via analysis of variance and principal components analysis to identify impactful parameters.

Results

Three principal components accounting for more than 70% of the data variance were identified. The first component was primarily linked to system settings, whereas the second and third components were associated with patient gender and laterality. Factors significantly influencing CDVA improvement included a higher spot-to-track distance ratio, tighter track distance, lower pulse energy, lower average laser power, larger spot distance, greater cap thickness, and lower dosage. These variables were ranked based on their impact on CDVA enhancement.

Conclusions

Using low-energy asymmetric spacing for lenticule extraction with the SmartSight system is safe and effective. This approach improves visual outcomes for patients undergoing treatment for myopic astigmatism, offering a reliable method for predicting CDVA improvements.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2024;40(12):e974–e984.]
Study of the InnovEyes Sightmap Platform in Comparing Ray-Tracing–Guided LASIK and Topography-Guided LASIK
Authors: Cao Xinfang , Zhang Jun , Shao Jie , Zhang Yonggang , Zheng Li
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of the InnovEyes Sightmap platform (Alcon Laboratories, Inc) in refractive surgery by comparing the visual acuity and higher order aberrations (HOAs) between ray-tracing–guided laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and topography-guided LASIK.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled participants who underwent either ray-tracing–guided LASIK or topography-guided LASIK. Comprehensive ophthalmic evaluations were performed preoperatively, as well as at 1 day, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively. Patients in the ray-tracing–guided LASIK group underwent wavefront, tomography, and biometry assessment using the InnovEyes Sightmap diagnostic device. Assessments included visual acuity, manifest refraction, and whole-eye HOAs.

Results

A total of 42 eyes treated with ray-tracing–guided LASIK and 42 eyes treated with topography-guided LASIK were analyzed. Both strategies demonstrated comparable good refraction accuracy and refractive stability (
P
> .05). The ray-tracing–guided LASIK group exhibited significantly better postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) compared to the topography-guided LASIK group (−0.12 ± 0.05 vs −0.07 ± 0.04 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution, respectively;
P
< .05), with 48% of eyes achieving a UDVA of 20/12.5 or better. Ray-tracing–guided LASIK induced a small but statistically significant increase in HOAs and vertical coma aberration, along with a significant reduction in spherical aberration (
P
< .05). In contrast, topography-guided LASIK resulted in a significant increase in vertical coma (
P
< .05) without significant changes in overall HOAs or spherical aberration (
P
> .05). At 3 months postoperatively, spherical aberration was significantly different between the two groups (−0.021 ± 0.031 vs 0.054 ± 0.122 µm, respectively;
P
< .05).

Conclusions

The InnovEyes Sightmap platform's ray-tracing–guided LASIK demonstrated potential advantages in visual acuity outcomes compared to topography-guided LASIK. The observed negative shift in spherical aberration, characterized by a lower absolute value, may have contributed to the enhanced visual acuity results.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2024;40(12):e994–e1002.]
Thermoelastic vibrations for solid cylinder with voids, using Moore-Gibson-Thompson heat conduction model
Authors: M.H Ahmed Yahya , Saidi Anouar , Abouelregal Ahmed E. , Zakria Adam , Ahmed Ibrahim-Elkhalil , Mohammed F. A.
Published: December 2024

This research aims to investigate the behaviour of thermoelastic vibrations in a solid cylinder with voids using the Moore-Gibson-Thompson heat conduction equation, which is a newly developed method for studying heat transfer in elastic materials. The Moore-Gibson-Thompson heat conduction model allows for a more accurate understanding of the thermoelastic vibrations in solid cylinders with voids. The results of this study can provide valuable insights for designing structures with better thermal stability and vibration resistance. The Laplace transform method is used. The numerical results show that the size of the voids has a clear physical effect on the studied variables. In fact, the presence of a large number of small pores reduces the variable values. Additionally, the variation of waves is slightly smaller in the case of an elastic cylinder for the investigated model.
L’enjeu du travail, une condition de la redynamisation syndicale ?
Authors: Alfandari François
Published: December 2024

Cet article interroge les logiques et les conditions du renouvellement d’un collectif syndical dans un hôpital psychiatrique public. Alors que les cadres syndicaux sont dans leur majorité vieillissants, ils doivent s’assurer de la continuité militante. Ce défi est d’autant plus difficile que les nouveaux syndiqués sont moins enclins à s’approprier les pratiques agonistiques et politisées valorisées localement, préférant fonder leur engagement sur les enjeux immédiats du travail dans un contexte de rationalisation des effectifs et des moyens. Finalement, l’article montre comment les effets des restructurations hospitalières se conjuguent à des socialisations politiques et militantes différenciées pour conduire à des décalages au sein du collectif quant aux finalités de l’engagement syndical. Face à ces difficultés, les dirigeants du syndicat envisagent la mise en débat des évolutions du travail et la défense d’une psychiatrie « humaine » comme moyens d’attirer les personnels et de dynamiser l’action syndicale.
Sobre o ato de nomear
Authors: Latini Pfeil Cello
Published: December 2024

A partir da segunda metade do século XX, medicina e psiquiatria, em Europa e Estados Unidos, se dedicaram a descobrir a ‘verdade’ da transexualidade. Conceituou-se a transexualidade como uma categoria diagnóstica, em detrimento de um pressuposto ideal de corpo e sexualidade. Assim, a nomeação do corpo ideal se deu alinhada à noção de Eu moderno, natural, pré-discursivo, ao passo que o corpo trans se transformou em Outro. É no sentido da desnaturalização que emerge o conceito de cisgeneridade, fora das academias e a despeito de suas normativas. No Brasil, essa emergência se dá por conta dos movimentos transfeministas. A cisgeneridade se esconde por trás do que Viviane Vergueiro designa como “silêncio descritivo”: enquanto nomeia o Outro, o Eu se camufla por trás desse silêncio como uma natureza não-nomeada, porém continuamente reiterada. Ao ser designada enquanto tal, a cisgeneridade acadêmica comumente se recusa a reconhecer sua própria nomeação. Pretendo, como objetivo geral, relacionar as noções de silêncio descritivo, nomeação e autoridade científica, para sustentar três linhas argumentativas – a saber: que não há pré-discursividade; que a recusa em reconhecer a nomeação da norma denota a fragilidade das dicotomias entre o normal e o patológico; que a linguagem, por uma perspectiva [trans-]anarquista, é uma ferramenta disruptiva no próprio ato de nomear a norma. Como metodologia, mobilizo discussão bibliográfica entre autores anarquistas e críticos da modernidade/colonialidade.
O dano da morte
Authors: Dossena Felipe
Published: December 2024

Neste artigo, analiso três casos que foram propostos na literatura filosófica como contraexemplos à abordagem dos interesses relativos ao tempo do dano da morte, buscando demonstrar como eles podem ser respondidos. Para tanto, o texto divide-se em quatro seções. Na primeira, introduzo as teses fundamentais da abordagem dos interesses relativos ao tempo sobre o que determina a magnitude do dano decorrente da morte para quem morre, tal como formulado por Jeff McMahan (2002). Na seção seguinte, explico dois pressupostos centrais dessa abordagem, a saber, que a identidade pessoal não é o que fundamenta nossas razões de preocupação egoísta com o futuro e que a unidade psicológica consta entre as relações que fundamentam essa preocupação. Na terceira seção, apresento os (possíveis) contraexemplos, sendo eles o Caso da morte futura (Broome, 2004), o Caso da operação no cavalo Tommy (Harman, 2011) e o Caso do mal maior (Cunha, 2023). Na seção final, defendo que esses casos podem ser respondidos a partir da consideração moral e prudencial de determinados interesses relativos ao tempo futuro.
O elogio aos “tumultos” na teoria política de Maquiavel
Authors: Alves Vital
Published: December 2024

Entre as questões medulares que estruturam a filosofia política de Maquiavel observadas nos Discursos sobre a primeira década de Tito Lívio, verifica-se, por um lado, o secretário florentino confrontando diretamente as reflexões políticas suscitadas pelos gregos, romanos e humanistas cívicos acerca do valor da concórdia no âmbito político. E, por outro, ao promover esse confronto em relação à disseminada ideia de concórdia, apresenta a defesa, logo nos primeiros capítulos, de uma tese fadada a gerar alvoroço, a saber, a de que “a desunião entre a plebe e o senado romano tornou livre e poderosa a república romana” (Discursos, I, 4). Trata-se de uma das teses mais ilustres e originais do pensamento de Maquiavel, mas, concomitantemente, uma das mais controversas dentro do panorama da história do pensamento político. Nesse sentido, Maquiavel difunde uma teoria política na qual a existência de “tumultos” se inscreve como resultado da forma política com maior capacidade de manter a virtù da república. Com efeito, nota-se no pensamento de Maquiavel um elogio acerca da forma política que provoca o conflito. Partindo dessa constatação, pretende-se neste artigo: analisar alguns aspectos da teoria política de Maquiavel, que se contrapõe à noção de concórdia cívica; valorizar a questão dos “tumultos” romanos e compreender como eles se inserem na órbita da referida teoria.
Culturally Responsive Leadership
Authors: Özkan Metin , Çakir Çiğdem
Published: December 2024

This chapter examines the critical role of culturally responsive leadership in addressing the complexities of diversity within educational settings. By examining core principles of culturally responsive leadership, the chapter demonstrates how leaders can foster inclusive environments that respect and value the diverse cultural backgrounds of students and families. The discussion emphasizes the significance of cultural competence, equity, and social justice in leadership practices, offering strategies for effectively managing diversity in schools. Additionally, the chapter outlines professional development and training approaches necessary for building the capacity of educational leaders to implement culturally responsive policies and practices. Using case studies and best practices, the chapter illustrates how culturally responsive leadership can improve academic outcomes, enhance student engagement, and contribute to a more equitable education system. The chapter concludes by presenting future perspectives and practical recommendations for sustaining culturally inclusive leadership in education.
Internationalization of Higher Education
Authors: Kayyali Mustafa
Published: December 2024

The phenomenon of internationalization in higher education has become a prominent topic in the worldwide academic environment, motivated by the necessity for institutions to adjust to a progressively interconnected world. An analysis of the several theoretical frameworks and models that support the concept of internationalization is undertaken in this study. Through an analysis of the main factors that drive and motivate internationalization, together with the obstacles and limitations encountered by higher education institutions, this chapter offers a thorough assessment of the present condition of internationalization in higher education. An analysis is provided on the influence of internationalization on institutional policies, curriculum design, and student experiences, emphasizing both the advantages and the disadvantages. This chapter concludes by examining future trends and directions, providing valuable insights into how higher education institutions can effectively manage the challenges of internationalization in a fast-evolving global environment.
Contemporary Approaches to Internationalization in Higher Education
Authors: Deredzai Memory , Goronga Pedzisai
Published: December 2024

In an increasingly interconnected world, higher education institutions face a pressing need to cultivate enduring international partnerships that foster academic excellence, drive innovation, and promote global understanding. This paper explores the strategies for developing and sustaining global alliances among students in higher education This paper identifies key drivers of successful international partnerships, including strategic planning, faculty engagement, student mobility programs, competency training, cultural competence training, language support, financial and physical resource development, and technological capabilities. It also examines the challenges to partnership development, such as cultural and linguistic differences, varying academic standards, and regulatory requirements. The paper highlights the importance of reciprocal partnerships, mutual benefit, and trust-building in fostering sustainable collaborations.
International Students as Exporters of the Neoliberal Political Project
Authors: Crabb Lauren Amber Holly
Published: December 2024

The International Business Curriculum taught by Higher Education Institutions around the globe prepare graduates for the business world. There has been strong and continued criticism of these curricula from many perspectives, including HEIs reflecting the neoliberal project, the curricula reflecting Western knowledge often dominated by white, male academics. This paper seeks to explore how the knowledge created within the Business Curricula is exported globally. To do this, we use the neo-Gramscian concept of hegemony to analyse the perspective of international business students studying at a Central London campus. How students view western education, their experiences of decolonising the curriculum and how they plan to use their knowledge post graduation are situated within the current debates on the values of the university, the business curriculum and the skills graduates gain from business degrees.
Climbing the Global Ladder
Authors: Subbarayalu Arun Vijay
Published: December 2024

This chapter examined the complex relationship between global university rankings and internationalization efforts within higher education institutions. The author addressed internationalization in higher education, covering a wide range of activities, including academic and student mobility, international research collaborations, and improving the quality of academic programs, particularly through integrating global perspectives into curricula. This study is based on the critical appraisal of the literature by examining the methodologies used by three widely recognized ranking bodies (THE, QS, and ARWU), focusing on the ranking indicators directly and indirectly related to internationalization and its impact on universities. Based on the results, the author took an inductive approach and categorized the observations into eight key challenges and strategies based on the homogeneity of the information retrieved. The identified strategies would help universities improve their global ranking performance in terms of internationalization.
Internationalisation of Higher Education in Middle East and Africa
Authors: Benstaali Baghdad
Published: December 2024

This paper describes internationalisation approaches of higher education in some regions of the world. Europe adopts a centralised approach creating an educational environment with mutual recognition of joint degrees for mobility scholarships holders between European countries HEIs. This approach to internationalisation was progressively extended to neighbouring European and Eastern regions and became global including all countries since 2014. The Intra-Africa academic mobility scheme engaged African HEIs in new cooperation dynamics, financing South-South mobility for African scholarship holders prepare Master and Doctoral degrees in partner African institutions, developing competences and skills lacking for their local market needs. The Middle East HE space is dominated by private national and transnational campuses offering internationally accredited programs and competing to attract local and international students. Although the approaches are different and appropriate to the needs of each region, their impact on the long term may lead to two classes of higher education systems.
Does the Bias Towards Under and Overconfidence Affect Investment Decisions?
Authors: Kumar Mayank , Pandey Nirakarnath , Tripathi Abhinav P.
Published: December 2024

This article intends to understand the outcome of heuristic biases “overconfidence” and “underconfidence” in the short-term and long-term investment decision-making behaviour of investors in Indian market. Overconfidence and underconfidence biases have been measured through a well-structured questionnaire of various statements related to heuristic biases. SPSS 22 and the intuitive graphical user interface of PLS-SEM (SmartPLS) have been used to analyse the survey data. This article has found a positive relationship between the long-term and short-term investment decisions with overconfidence bias and a negative relationship between the short-term investment decisions and underconfidence bias. However, no relationship has been identified between long-term investment decisions and underconfidence bias. This outcome is partially in sync with the findings of various studies related to overconfidence bias conducted in other countries. Whereas due to the unavailability of literature on underconfidence bias, results cannot be compared with the studies conducted in other countries
Investor Behavior and Market Efficiency in Emerging Markets
Authors: Srivastava Palak , Chopra Puja
Published: December 2024

In this chapter, we focus on the interaction between the behavior of investors and the efficiency of the market in the conditions of emerging markets. It bears merit that many investments can be made in these markets. However, they are distinctive by those challenges that change how they invest. How the markets operate is doubtful, emerging markets have quickly become an essential part of global finance and resolving conflicts (Chauhan, Ahmad, Aggarwal, & Chandra, 2019b). As these forms of investment are becoming more popular and extend into new territories the need to comprehend the contact patterns associated with the investor behavior retakes its significance.
Mental Accounting
Authors: Nagina Razia
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the concept of “mental accounting,” first introduced by Richard Thaler, and its influence on financial behaviors. It aims to understand how mental categorization of finances affects decisions related to spending, saving, and debt management. Through both theoretical insights and empirical data, the chapter reveals how biases arising from mental accounting often lead to irrational financial decisions, such as overspending on windfalls and inefficient debt management. Using primary and secondary data, the chapter highlights potential implications for long-term financial well-being and recommends strategies for individuals and institutions to mitigate these biases and promote better financial outcomes.
Overconfidence and Its Consequences in Financial Markets
Authors: Gupta Ishaan , Garg Vikas
Published: December 2024

This chapter is about overconfidence in financial markets. This occurs when individuals and institutions exaggerate their knowledge and capabilities, leading to over-trading, greater risks, and market volatility. Overconfidence can fuel asset bubbles, bad decisions, and costly mergers with ramifications for market liquidity and investor confidence. Remedies are proposed, including investor education, AI-driven analytics, regulatory adjustments, and ethical awareness. It emphasizes humility and accountability among financial institutions, working toward mitigating overconfidence so as to enhance stability and efficiency in the markets.
Strategic Flexibility in Investment Portfolios
Authors: Ze Yang , Loang Ooi Kok
Published: December 2024

This study examines the importance of strategic flexibility in managing investment portfolios, particularly in emerging markets characterized by rapid technological advancements and heightened market volatility. By focusing on key factors such as portfolio diversification, technological adaptability, and regulatory changes, the research highlights how investors can navigate uncertainties and capitalize on opportunities in volatile economies. Strategic flexibility is presented as a dynamic tool that enables investors to adjust their strategies in real-time, ensuring resilience and optimizing returns. The study underscores the need for a proactive approach to managing risk and seizing growth opportunities in rapidly evolving markets
The Role of Technological Innovation in Shaping Investment Strategies in Emerging Markets
Authors: Ze Yang , Loang Ooi Kok
Published: December 2024

This study examines the role of technological innovation in shaping investment strategies in emerging markets, focusing on the dynamics of risk and return. By exploring key factors such as technological disruption, innovation adoption rates, market competition intensity, and investor technological awareness, the study provides insights into how these variables influence investment returns. Emerging markets present unique challenges and opportunities due to rapid technological advancements, requiring investors to adapt strategies to maximize returns while managing risks associated with market volatility. The findings emphasize the importance of technological literacy among investors and the need for flexible regulatory frameworks to support innovation-driven investments in these dynamic markets.
Nanoparticles Ordering Classification Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Amarif Mabroukah , Aejaal Asmaah , Ateeyah Haleemah
Published: December 2024

Intelligent neural networks are used efficiently for image classification and recognition in various scientific areas. One of the most important of these areas is nanoscience. Researchers are currently seeking to apply various deep learning neural networks models for fast and intelligent prediction and recognition of nanostructures based on scanning electron microscopy images. Models of Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNN) have reached a high accuracy rate in nanoparticles classification and recognition. In fact, the improvement of the classification accuracy strongly relies on the perfect fine-tuning of image data and model parameters and that is what this research has worked for. The aim of this paper is to present a model, specifically the VGG16 convolutional neural network model, for high accurate nanoparticles ordering classification. The model has been used to classify the nanoparticles ordering using a typical dataset of electron microscopy images. In this research, an experiment has been carried out to achieve better accuracy rate in comparison to previously recorded accuracy rates. Data augmentation, modification techniques, and model tuning parameters are applied to excess the ability of the model for classifying the input image to ordered or non-ordered nanoparticles. Compared to the related works, the presented model has outperformed the pervious by achieving an accuracy rate of 97%. In this work, it has been observed that training iterations and balanced training data significantly improve the model performance and enhance the accuracy rate.
Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Input Control Variables and Thermal Treatments on the Impact Toughness of EN-31 Steel
Authors: Kamei Khangamlung , Davis Rahul , Pereira Robson Bruno Dutra
Published: December 2024

To meet the engineering applications, mechanical and physical properties of materials especially steels and their alloys are improved through thermal treatments. This research aimed to augment the impact toughness of EN-31 steel by picking the combinations of different levels of Charpy impact test control variables and thermal treatments built in three-level (L9) Orthogonal Arrays (OAs). For this reason, the experimental runs were conducted to examine the influence of varying V-notch angles (30°, 45° and 60°), heights of the hammer (1370 mm, 1570 mm, and 1755 mm), temperatures (-196°C, -50°C, and 28°C), and heat treatments (hardening followed by cryogenic treatment and low-temperature tempering - HCTLTT, hardening followed by cryogenic treatment and medium-temperature tempering - HCTMTT, and hardening followed by cryogenic treatment and high-temperature tempering - HCTHTT) on the impact toughness of EN-31 Steel specimens. Several patterns of thermal treatment sequences were executed with an aim to modify the material properties. Cryogenic treatment (CT) was conducted through a cryocan at 77K. The hardness of specimens were measured by employing a Brinell hardness tester. The results reported that height of the hammer and thermal treatments enhanced the toughness and hardness of the specimens most significantly.
Analysis of Mechanical Properties and Fatigue Resistance in Laser Welded WAAM Ultra-High-Strength Steel
Authors: Hietala Mikko , Keskitalo Markku , Arvola Jari , Järvenpää Antti
Published: December 2024

The examination of WAAM UHS steel laser welds revealed effective material penetration, with desirable geometry showcased by a nearly I-shaped structure. Minor deficiencies were observed at the weld face, while excessive penetration was evident at the weld's root. Cross-sectional analysis indicated no discernible porosity or defects within the weld. Microstructural analysis highlighted fine-grained structures with dispersed precipitates in the WAAM UHS steel base material. Laser welding induced changes in the grain structure, resulting in finer grains and a mixture of ferrite and martensite in the weld zone. Significant increases in hardness were observed in the weld metal and HAZ near the fusion line, attributed to martensite prevalence induced by rapid cooling rates. The hardness of the base material measured around 294 HV, significantly rising in the weld metal, exceeding 401 HV. Mechanical properties altered post-welding, with yield strength decreasing from 749 MPa to 732 MPa. Laser welded WAAM UHS steel had 4% higher tensile strength compared to base material. However, ductility reduced from 27% to 22.5%. Bending fatigue tests revealed a considerable reduction in fatigue limit for laser-welded samples (80 MPa) compared to the base material (419 MPa), with fractures originating from the fusion line between the HAZ and the base material. Notably, the notch sensitivity of ultra-high-strength steels significantly reduces fatigue resistance.
Application of Atomic Force Microscope: A Comprehensive Approach for Determining Nanomechanical Characteristics of Biomaterials Using as Scaffolds in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Bodowara Faieza S. , Alshaybani Anad M. , Akhremitchev Boris B.
Published: December 2024

Due to the fact that mechanical properties in macroscale cannot respond to that of cell wall features, it has become important to investigate nanomechanical characteristics of scaffold materials and make suitable modifications if needed. Conventional methods of mechanical testing cannot characterize the spatial distribution of material, with non-uniform stiffness, at nanoscale. One of the important methods of nanoscale testing is the force mapping using the atomic force microscope. In the present study, A comprehensive approach was developed to determine and characterize surface distribution of elastic modulus for soft biomaterials at nanoscale. Elastic modulus has been determined for collagen fibers, modified with different percentage of bio-glass nonoparticles, 0%, 30% and 60%, by applying tiny forces (1 nN). The experiments are carried out in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) pH ~ 7, to mimic the physiological environment. The scanning was performed at two different spots for each sample and three different scan sizes to investigate the large scale and short scale heterogeneity, respectively. Deep-lying structures have been sensed by varying applied load (2 nN). Our results are in agreement with previous reports. The results show increasing elasticity with increase of bioglass in collagen samples. Yet adding more bioglass decreases the stiffness of collagen fibers to the point where they become difficult to handle. Samples appear to be strongly heterogeneous with increasing the scan size. The depth sensing measurements manifest higher elasticity which reflects the lower degree of freedom in the deep-lying structures.
Coalescence Dynamics of Oil Droplets on an Air-Water Interface Driven by Surface Waves
Authors: Panday Prashant Narayan , Kumar Abhinesh , Bandopadhyay Aditya , Kumar Das Prasanta
Published: December 2024

This study reports the unique phenomenon of the coalescence of oil droplets floating over the water surface. For the first time, the coalescence has been initiated through the creation of externally generated low-amplitude surface waves. We used a simple and cost-effective method to manifest the surface waves over the free surface of water to study the merging dynamics. The time-lapse images depict the entire stage of parent droplets merging. The study reveals that the coalescence time required for the complete transformation of parent droplets into the resultant droplet increases as the number of parent droplets over the free surface of water increases. We studied the time-dependent variation in the velocity of two non-identical parent droplets. The experiment reveals that the smaller droplet propagates faster than the larger droplet over a free surface of water. The peak velocities of the two droplets are 2.0 cm/s and 1.07 cm/s, respectively. The point of deposition of droplets does not influence the coalescence phenomenon; whether the droplets are deposited at the center of the petri dish or the wall, they still show coalescence. However, the droplets that are deposited near the center of the petridish propagate faster compared to those deposited near the wall due to the higher intensity of vibration at the center.
Molecular basis of mind training: A review of cellular signaling, neurochemical and epigenetic modifications associated with meditation
Authors: Kadupitiya Nipuni , Dissanayake Dilshani
Published: December 2024

With its unparalleled complexity and profound capabilities, the human mind remains a pinnacle of natural design and a central subject of scientific inquiry throughout history. Motivated by an enduring curiosity, researchers have sought to unravel and harness the full potential of the human mind. Over time, numerous theories and frameworks have emerged to elucidate various facets of mental processes and their interplay with the body. Modern scientific exploration has delved into the mind-body relationship at cellular and molecular levels, employing evidence-based approaches to uncover its intricate mechanisms. Understanding how mental training influences neurophysiological and biochemical pathways could significantly advance this field. This review focuses on cellular signaling pathways—including the NMDA-mediated, ERK, and BDNF pathways—epigenetic modifications, such as alterations in transcription factors, chromatin structure, and biomarkers, as well as neurochemical and neurophysiological changes associated with mind training practices, particularly meditation. These insights aim to contribute to a deeper comprehension of the complex interrelations governing the mind and body.