bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Challenges of Democratic Governance in South Africa
Authors: Matadi Tholaine Mafuku
Published: October 2024

Democratic governance in South Africa is facing multiple challenges, jeopardising the rule of law, constitutionalism, and executive accountability. The erosion of the rule of law and judicial independence emerges as a fundamental challenge. Recent failures to use parliament to hold the executive accountable in both the fifth and sixth parliaments, coupled with the suspensions and impeachments of the former public protector and the Judge President of the Western Cape Division of the high court, are testimony to the erosion of democratic governance in South Africa. So too are the inconsistent judgments of the Constitutional Court and other courts. Corruption and state capture also present formidable obstacles to democratic governance and the rule of law, as the pervasive influence of corrupt networks undermines public trust and transparency in government institutions. The landmark case of Economic Freedom Fighters v Speaker of the National Assembly (2016) and other Constitutional Court judgments underscore the significance of judicial oversight in holding the government accountable and preserving constitutional supremacy. The Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture and the Democratic Alliance v President of South Africa (2018) case underscore the role of the judiciary in fostering transparency and accountability. Upholding judicial independence, transparency, and accountability remains paramount in fostering democracy and maintaining the rule of law amidst South Africa's evolving political landscape. Concerted efforts are necessary to confront the challenges to democratic governance in South Africa to bolster the rule of law, safeguard human rights, and combat corruption. Using doctrinal legal research which involves examining laws, legal principles, case law, and legal literature to understand and interpret legal concepts and issues. This chapter examines some of the legal challenges facing democratic governance in South Africa and their repercussions on the nation's legal structure and constitutional integrity, post-1994. The chapter scrutinizes the weakening of parliament and the office of the Public Protector, as oversight institutions and the undermining of the independence of the judiciary. Using subtopics, the chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal challenges confronting democratic governance in South Africa, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these issues and the imperative for legal reforms to fortify democracy and uphold the rule of law.
Financial and Human Capital Awareness in Industrialized Countries
Authors: Kopuk Ezgi , Umutlu Hasan
Published: October 2024

The study examines the financial and human resources in the industrial sectors of the industrialized countries (Germany, China, Ireland, South Korea, America, Switzerland, Japan, Singapore and the Netherlands) that provide the highest efficiency, income and sustainability from financial and human capital. It is aimed to examine capital developments. For this purpose, firstly, the definition of financial and human capital, its economic effects, its importance in the industrial sector, and the financial and human capital policies and competitiveness of the industrialized countries implemented by the industrial sector were evaluated. In order to make a unique inference for this purpose and evaluation, another aim of the study was to investigate the effect of financial and human capital in the industrial sector of industrializing countries. In this regard, the aim was tested by panel data analysis covering the period 2005-2021. It was determined that the variables had different effects on a country basis, and human capital indicators were found to have a higher positive effect.
Quantitative Measures and Moderating Power of Monetary Policies
Authors: Özaydın Orhan , Udemba Edmund Ntom
Published: October 2024

Re-evaluation of the critical macroeconomic indices behind the movement of money and other financial assets with respect to the flow and supply of money for the case of Türkiye is essential at this present economic situation of Türkiye. Türkiye's economic activities have been, and still passing through unstable development due to excessive inflation and poor performance of the foreign exchange rate. To this end, authors applied the monthly end price data from 2005 December to 2022 March to researched 10 different Istanbul Equity Indices (IEI) as dependent variable, to see whether they are related with Money supply for the case of Türkiye. From the quantitative analysis of the indices, all control variables including USD/TRY and BOND2Y coefficients are negatively correlated with equity indices and statistically significant. Furthermore, the impact of Central Bank reserves and deposits to the Central Bank (M1) and term deposits at banks (M2 minus M1) on sector indices is found to vary significantly across different sectors.
Spatial Analysis of Environmental Degradation
Authors: Tümer Elif Korkmaz , Tümer Erol Türker
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the drivers of environmental degradation by using spatial panel data models to account for spatial interdependence among countries. Despite a large body of literature investigating the relationship between international trade, democracy, and the environment, previous studies have produced mixed results, partly due to the conceptualizations of variables and methodological limitations. This paper addresses these limitations by proposing alternative measures of trade openness and democracy while accounting for spatial dependence between countries. The results reveal that income, economic complexity, democracy, energy intensity, and agricultural land contribute to CO2 emissions, while forest area is negatively associated with environmental degradation. The results also reveal that while trade openness has statistically significant and positive direct effects, there are strong spillover effects as well. Indeed, the negative spillover effects of trade openness outweigh the direct effects, leading to a mitigating impact on environmental degradation.
Featuring Healthcare, Environment, and Human Rights
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Kaunert Christian
Published: October 2024

The right to the best possible level of physical and mental health is protected by a number of international legal instruments, such as the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. Both liberties and entitlements are included in this right and this includes the protection against torture and against non-consensual medical treatment or experimentation, which is especially important for people with disabilities. The entitlement is the freedom to obtain first-rate medical treatment without encountering prejudice. A human rights-based perspective on health requires nations to set up health systems that respect human rights and are efficient, gender-transforming, integrated, and accountable. It also urges the adoption of public health initiatives targeted at enhancing the fundamental factors that influence health, such access to hygienic conditions and clean water. This chapter deeply dives in the healthcare and human rights perspectives with artificial intelligence applications.
Decoding Women's Reproductive Autonomy
Authors: Dodai Barkha , Sapre Abhilash Arun
Published: October 2024

Abortions have been an age-old practice and prevalent since the ancient times. Different religions have had different connotations, always finding a way to control women's bodies and their choices. India had been the hub of unsafe abortions with an extremely high maternal mortality ratio (MMR). The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act 1971 was India's first attempt marking a positive step, decriminalizing abortions and giving a higher degree of bodily autonomy to the women. Consequently, the government during various phases came up with policies to provide safe and accessible abortions to the women of the country.This paper makes a thorough analysis of the historical view and statistics on abortion, the functioning of the MTP Act, government schemes, and abortions from a global perspective. An attempt has been made to look into the other statutes which have a direct impact on the MTP Act – the statute which governs abortion in India. A critical analysis has also been provided concerning the outcomes of the Act – affirmative and non-affirmative.
Human Rights of Incarcerated Women in India
Authors: Bhatia Himanshi , Sanjaya Karun
Published: October 2024

The plight of female prisoners is not unknown globally; the UN Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners and Non-custodial Measures for Women Offenders, popularly known as “Bangkok Rules”, is the primary international instrument dedicated to incarcerated women. The Indian National Prison Manual, 2016 is based upon the principles of these rules along with another UN-led “Nelson Mandela Rules”. However, the Ministry of Women & Children Development led an exclusive study in 2018 titled “Women in Prisons” that recorded the major issues & human rights violations of such women behind bars due to various reasons like inadequate female staff, accommodation, medical access along with basic right of healthy food. This paper hypothesized that according to the historical & current scenario, prisons in the country specifically still do not cater to the necessities for the subsistence of the incarcerated women. The study intends to analyze major concerns like obligations of the Indian Prison Administration vis-à-vis the progress made till now, specifically concerning Female Prisoners.
Women, Gender Equality, and Environmental Justice
Authors: Guha Supratik
Published: October 2024

Environmental justice and gender equality are interconnected issues that highlight the need for an inclusive approach to addressing environmental challenges and promoting social equity. Environmental justice seeks to address the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities, including women, who often bear the brunt of ecological degradation due to pre-existing social inequalities. Gender equality, on the other hand, aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities and rights. The relationship between environmental justice and gender equality is deeply interconnected. This chapter highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research and action in tackling the dual challenges of environmental injustice and gender inequality. By integrating gender perspectives into environmental policies and practices, we can create more resilient and equitable societies that are better equipped to face the environmental challenges of the future.
Childhood at Risk
Authors: Chandra Saurabh , Gupta Megha
Published: October 2024

Child sexual abuse is a social evil that is frequently around the globe. They are becoming more numerous every day, which makes it difficult to evaluate the situation. The chance of negative psychosocial and mental health effects associated with child sexual abuse is unquestionably increased, but even stability processes identified a number of protective factors, including as family support. The perpetrators of this crime take advantage of their position of vulnerability, trust, and power in order to commit child sexual abuse or attempt to do so for financial gain or other purposes. Given how similar the terms “child sexual exploitation” and “child sexual abuse” are, it can be challenging to distinguish between them. Children who experience child sexual abuse suffer grave consequences. It serves as a huge roadblock to growth and advancement. Many health behaviours brought on by child sexual abuse result in negative mental, physical, and social outcomes throughout life. There are numerous circumstances that can contribute to child sexual abuse.
The Feminist Movement and Arab Society
Authors: Bibhu Nishi Kant , Kulshrestha Nupur
Published: October 2024

The chapter is highlighting the role of feminist movement in Arab society in the context of honour killing. Various aspects concerning honour killing are dealt under it such as, it stresses on the historical background of Arab Feminism, furthermore it is going to discuss the early forerunners of Arab feminism. It is going to observe mercy while dealing with the cases of honour killing. Further, the manner in which sheikhs in Arab region played significant role as a saviour of the woman from whims and caprices of her family. Another important aspect which is highlighted is to ensure proper values prior to killing of an individual, resulting out of honour. Furthermore, it stresses on the influence of modernization in context of honour killing. It laid emphasis on the Matthew Goldstein's theory of social normalization. Lastly, it laid emphasis over the contemporary challenges in context of honour killing.
Family Honor and Forces of Change in Arab Society
Authors: Kumari Nupur , Baranwal Siddhi
Published: October 2024

Honor Based violence can be defined as any form of violence that is used to safeguard family or community honor. Most of the crime victims are women. Boys and Men can also be the victim but however, this is rare. Illiteracy, unemployment, economic decline, poor support and lack of knowledge of the law are factors that increase the risk of victimization. Additionally Patriarchal groups recognize that men are the head of the family and are responsible for combating all negative attitudes that cause serious psychological harm to women in these communities, and in many other regions patriarchal system go far as considering a women as Men's property. The perpetrators of honor killings also have similar characteristics such as valuing singleness and committing violence again and again. This chapter also drew attention towards the victims of Honor Killing, in addition to highlighting various reports which shows the deteriorating conditions of women, how silence culture dominated the communities and the offences not recorded in this area .
A Study of Honor-Based Violence in the Republic of Iran
Authors: Mishra Madhulika , Anand Tanishtha
Published: October 2024

Honor-based violence encompasses acts of violence and homicide perpetrated under the pretext of safeguarding the perceived honor or integrity of a family or community. Rooted in deep-seated cultural and traditional ideologies, this form of violence is particularly prevalent in select regions. The Republic of Iran stands out as one such nation where honor-based violence presents a significant challenge. In Iran, honor killings are predominantly driven by the notion that a woman's conduct or choices have tarnished the reputation or dignity (Matabangsa, 2011)of her family or community. These actions may include rejecting an arranged marriage, seeking divorce, or engaging in relationships outside of societal norms. Honor killings are viewed as a means to restore familial honor and preserve social cohesion (Chesler, 2010). It is important to note that honor killings are not exclusive to Iran or the Islamic world. They occur in various cultures and religions across the globe. However, the focus of this chapter is to examine the context of honor-based violence specifically in Iran.
A Critical Analysis of Honor-Based Violence in Lebanon
Authors: Mishra Abhijit , Goswami Radhika
Published: October 2024

A violent crime known as “honor killing” is carried out by one or more people with the goal of restoring honor to their family. The chapter looks into the Eastern Mediterranean region's honor killing epidemic. In addition, the legal, cultural, and societal facets of honor killing in Lebanon are covered. The practice of killing for honor is influenced by a variety of sociocultural elements in this area. These include of having little education, wanting to preserve one's social standing, and strongly ingrained patriarchal dominance. Criminals that commit honor killings often share traits, such as appraising female chastity more highly and endorsing violence against women. Honor killing has a far bigger effect on family members than families may think since the community disapproves of the woman's dishonorable behaviour. These civilizations are dominated by a silence culture, and there are a lot of crimes in this area that go unreported.
Honor Killing
Authors: Lee Jae-Seung , Singh Punya
Published: October 2024

The research was carried out using a detailed study of the case, content evaluation techniques, and an observational-analytical framework. According to the report, honor-based crime arises when parents are intolerant of their daughters' premarital relationships and marital choices, particularly when these decisions involve marriages between different castes or religions. The study also notes that a significant proportion of killings based on honor are carried out as crimes of passion sparked by unexpected incitement when the girls' families discover the couples in precarious conditions. It has been observed that the traditional beliefs of a culture dominated by males prevent girls from forming connections before marriage or from selecting the men they wish to wed. Honor killings are a common practice with social and cultural context legality due to the society's support and poor enforcement of the law. Thus, despite enacting strict rules and harsh penalties to address the issue, The chapter will deal with the above problems with special reference to Haryana, India.
Honor Killing AD REM With Special Reference to Religious Dogmatism in India
Authors: Yadav Tarun Pratap , Singh Shanu
Published: October 2024

Chapter covers Honor Killing from the prism of religious dogmatism, intersection of culture and religion and case studies. Further legal provisions, penalties, protective measures, solutions and a way forward have also been highlighted in the chapter. According to Hindu religion, marrying or having intimacy with a member of a different caste and religion is strictly forbidden. Although Islam does not categorically countersign killing female family members, some honor killing entail contention of adultery, which are indictable by death under Islamic law. The preservation of women's virginity and “sexual compelling” are considered to be the burden of male relatives like her father, brother and then her husband. However, a women can intend for murder for a variety of discernment, that includes refusing to enter into an arranged marriage or divorce or separation. They think that women have acted in manner that could damage her family's notoriety. Amusingly, female relatives usually contend the killing and help set them up. All the above have been substantially elaborated in the chapter.
The Hidden Face of Modernity
Authors: Malik Shubham , Tomar Shelly
Published: October 2024

The chapter dives into the darkened dimensions of modernity in Russia, shedding light on the holding on the issue of honor Killing. Despite the country's rapid advancement towards cutting-edge values, profoundly imbued social standards and patriarchal structures contribute to the surreptitious propagation of savagery. Through an intrigue focal point, this chapter analyses the authentic, social, lawful, and mental variables that focalize the covered-up confront of modernity surrounding Honor Killing in Russia. By examining particular cases, analyzing societal demeanors, and assessing the adequacy of lawful systems, the ponder points to uncover the complexities of this wonder. Moreover, it investigates the effect of Honor Killing on women's rights, worker communities, and the broader societal texture. The discoveries of this chapter are significant for illuminating arrangements, intercessions, and instructive activities that profoundly established standards that propagate Honor Killings within the modern Russian context.
Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices
Authors: Didenko Nataliia Oleksandrivna
Published: October 2024

Agriculture is an industry of great importance that plays a vital role in addressing global food security. However, it faces significant risks due to climate change, such as extreme weather events, water scarcity, soil degradation, which can lead to reduced crop yields. By 2050, it is projected that the need for food security will double, which will require increased reliance on mechanization, chemicals, freshwater, and energy. These changes may have an impact on ecosystem health. To address these challenges, it is important to consider shifting from traditional farming systems to ecological farming systems that employ holistic approaches for sustainable food production. This transition suggests the need for climate-smart agriculture, which involves integrating economic, environmental, and social principles. It includes employing practices such as no-till farming, crop diversity, and precision irrigation to enhance soil health and ecosystem services. Embracing this proactive approach is crucial for adapting agriculture to climate change and meeting future food demands sustainably.
Modeling of Subsurface Runoff and Surface Runoff During Storm Precipitation in Low-Slope Undeformed and Surface-Deformed Soils on Agricultural Lands
Authors: Poliakov Vadym , Voropai Halyna
Published: October 2024

The mathematical problem addressed in this study concerns the formation of subsurface and surface runoff during storm precipitation in a low-slope area featuring both undeformed and surface-deformed soils. Approximate relationships governing the water accumulation on the surface of these soils and the movement of the saturation front were derived. Additionally, the timeframe for infiltration and groundwater closure, as well as the dissipation of the surface layer following the cessation of precipitation, was determined. Utilizing generalized initial data for fine soils along with a two-layer soil configuration at the experimental site, the accuracy of the derived relationships was evaluated. This study delves into the process of soil wetting during the formation of a low-permeability interlayer on the surface, resulting from compaction and swelling. A detailed analysis was provided for the comparison of subsurface runoff under conditions of varying degrees of deformation, both with and without surface deformation.
Plant Tolerance to Soil Acidity in the Era of Climate Change
Authors: Mathew Sneha Susan , Metali Faizah
Published: October 2024

The crucial topic of soil acidity and its effects on global food security are the main focus of this chapter. Owing to its immediate effects on plant growth, development, and productivity as well as its capacity to fend off biotic stresses, such as diseases and insect pests, soil acidity, an abiotic stress, has gained significant attention in the agricultural community. Although the effects of aluminum (Al) toxicity on plants have received considerable attention, few studies have examined the harmful effects of low pH on plants. Low pH in agricultural soil can cause oxidative stress and electrolyte leakage through increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), hinder CO2 assimilation, and impact plant water intake. This study delves into the mechanisms underlying plant growth under acidic conditions and highlights the strategies employed by plants to withstand and adapt to acidic stress. This chapter offers valuable insights into strategies for enhancing plant resistance to acidic soils and ensuring food security in the face of increasing water scarcity.
Environmentally Safe Technologies for Leaching Saline Soils in Rice Systems to Enhance Their Productivity
Authors: Kozishkurt Svitlana , Turcheniuk Vasyl
Published: October 2024

Rice systems in Ukraine are built on territories with saline soils, and with a complex hydrogeological situation. A method of calculating ecologically safe periods for growing dryland crops on saline soils is proposed, which will help to optimize the structure of rice rotations and prevent soil degradation. The considered technologies for leaching of saline soils, which make it possible to ensure qualitative soil desalination, to shorten the duration of leaching, to lower the level of groundwater, to improve the oxygen regime of the soil. The methods for calculating the technological parameters of capital and preventive soil leaching of saline soils have been developed. These methods allow improving the water permeability of the soil, attracting a natural thermal effect, reducing the volume of freshwater, and preventing the restoration of salts. It can be an important step in restoring fertility and increasing the productivity of rice systems in the face of water scarcity and climate change.
Restoration of Drainage Systems as the Foundation for Agricultural Production Stability and Ecological Balance of Ukrainian Polissia
Authors: Voropai Halyna , Kharlamov Oleksii , Kotykovych Ihor , Kuzmych Stepan
Published: October 2024

The changing conditions of crop cultivation and the shift in the use of drained lands necessitate the restoration of drainage systems, expanding their functional tasks, and ensuring water regulation on drained lands. The research focuses on agricultural lands in the farms of LLC “Vasiuty and LLC Bilinsket” in the Kovel district of the Volyn region of Ukraine. Studies conducted on reclaimed lands of the drainage systems “Melnitska” and “Bobrovka” have shown that the implementation of a complex of works to restore open and collector-drainage canals to design specifications, the operation of hydraulic structures, allowed for timely drainage of excess water in the spring period and regulation of soil water regime in the early vegetation period. Maintaining moisture in the active soil layer within close to optimal limits at the end of the vegetation period is possible through the accumulation of additional water reserves in the open channel network. Yield indicators of the studied crops (winter wheat, maize, sunflower) on drained lands have been determined
Ensuring Food Security Through Biocontrol in Medicinal Plant Cultivation
Authors: Myronova Yulia , Bashta Olena , Voloshchuk Nataliya
Published: October 2024

The chapter demonstrated the ecologically friendly way to obtain safe and high quality of medicinal herbal supplements under environmental changes. Global warming has a significant impact on medicinal plant productivity, including changes in the strategies of disease agents that compromise health and food security. Plant pathogens increase their ability to survive and reproduce intensively, resulting in strengthened plant disease severity, contamination of raw materials with toxic fungal metabolites, and yield losses. The repeated application of biologicals has proven to be effective in addressing this issue. The positive impact of microbial preparations on Calendula officinalis L. was observed in various aspects such as field seed germination, plant vegetative mass, and root system development. Treated calendula plants showed reduced stress during drought periods compared to the control group. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in leaf disease incidence and severity. This led to an improvement in the quality of calendula inflorescence weight and seed mass.
Impacts of National Board Accreditation (NBA) on Engineering Disciplines in India
Authors: Singh Vikash , Shende Ashay Devidas , Dhopte Prakash , Ahmad Anwar , Jeyalakshmi R. , Sudhakar M.
Published: October 2024

An essential component of engineering education is national board accreditation, which guarantees the caliber and applicability of curricula. It results in better curriculum that meet industry demands and get students ready for careers in engineering. Initiatives aimed at developing faculty members can help accredited programs by resulting in improved instructional strategies and scholarly direction. Infrastructure and educational resource investments are necessary for accreditation in order to create a supportive learning environment for student achievement. Because of their perceived quality and rigor, graduates from certified schools are more employable and competitive in the labor market. Programs that satisfy national board requirements are better accepted by professionals and organizations, which leads to greater industry-academic connections and improved internship chances. Accredited schools also promote easier transfers to postgraduate study.
Student Involvement in Leadership Programmes at the UWI, Mona and the Impact They Have on Their Personal and Professional Development
Authors: Bent Roger M. , Walters Shinique J.
Published: October 2024

It has been highlighted that a lot of our political leaders and various CEO were all a part of some form of student leadership through their sojourn at the U.W.I. This factors has always been an area for higher education institutions, it is also important to determine how students perceive the leadership development programs from which they are meant to benefit. The study is grounded in the Kolbs, 2015 Experimental learning theory. This posits that we all have the ability to become a leader with different experiences and these experiences impact how we deal with challenges and opportunities to become who we are as professionals and leaders. The researchers embarked on an exploratory qualitative assessment where they utilized past students who were once enrolled in the guild to facilitate interviews. The study used a phenomenological methodological approach in assessing the experiences of these students and assessing these various factors with regard to their personal development.
Cyber Security Concerns in Social Media and Online Interactions
Authors: Singh Rohit Kumar , Pant Vinay
Published: October 2024

Along with human evolution, communication has continued to change. Social media has surfaced as yet another revolution in the vast spheres of mass media and communication in general in the modern day. Social media has completely changed how people connect and communicate with each other. It has brought the diversity of the world onto one platform, transcending time, national boundaries, racial and cultural divides, and more. Nevertheless, the other aspect of this information society's development—its insatiable thirst for knowledge—cannot be ignored. The risk of social engineering is one of the main weaknesses of social media. The practice of influencing someone's thoughts through deft communication techniques are known as social engineering or social manipulation, and it has existed for as long as communication itself. It combines creativity and science. The primary issue with social media is that people tend to overshare. This, however, simply makes it easier for a social engineer to prepare an assault.
Combining Reversibility With Program Visualization (PV) to Improve Introductory Programming Instructional Design
Authors: Mselle Leonard J. , Kowero Ona N.
Published: October 2024

This article proposes a novel instructional design for introductory programming (CS1). The proposed design combines reversibility with Memory Transfer Language visualization (MTL-PV) for teaching and learning CS1. This approach aims to reduce cognitive load and facilitate the formation of robust mental models for fundamental CS1 concepts among learners. A classroom experiment was conducted, and descriptive statistics from the results revealed a significantly higher risk of errors among novices in the control group compared to the experimental group (Risk Ratio: 2.84 vs. 1.98, p-value = 0.0001). These findings suggest that the combined application of reversibility and MTL significantly improves CS1 instruction, leading to enhanced student performance and satisfaction.
The Influence of the Sports Events Industry on Sichuan's Economic Growth
Authors: Sun Ren , Zhong Yong , Otto Annika
Published: October 2024

The sports industry occupies an important position in China's national economy, and the sports event industry is its core industry, and its role in regional economic development has received more and more attention from all parties. This paper takes Sichuan Province as an example to discuss the role of sports events in regional development. Firstly, it is a theoretical overview. This paper explores the mechanism of its economic effect from four perspectives: economic growth, industrial structure, regional agglomeration and city brand. Second is the case study. Through the grey correlation analysis of the relationship between sports and tourism industry, using the exponential smoothing method and ARMA method, and establishing a multi-indicator model, it is concluded that sports and tourism industry have the highest correlation and play a positive role in promoting regional development.
Semantic Web-Based Prediction Method for Goodwill Impairment in Listed Companies Using Mamba
Authors: Li Yao
Published: October 2024

In the context of globalization and intense market competition, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become a common strategy for enterprises to expand and transform. However, goodwill issues in M&A are increasingly concerning. Traditional goodwill impairment prediction models face drawbacks like reliance on precise predictions, large datasets, complexity, poor interpretability, high computational costs, and data acquisition difficulties. This paper proposes a prediction model based on an improved Mamba algorithm. By processing financial data from listed companies in the CSMAR database, the model constructs lagged and rolling statistical features to reflect performance trends. The Mamba algorithm dynamically adjusts input parameters through a Selective State-Space Model (SSM), capturing dependencies in long-sequence data and improving prediction accuracy and timeliness. Experimental results show the Mamba algorithm excels in handling long-sequence data, offering valuable guidance for financial management and risk control.
Internationalizing Teacher Education in the U.S.
Authors: Kerkhoff Shea N. , Cheng Jingxin , Martinez-Alba Gilda , Coghill-Behrends William , Bolton Natalie , Byker Erik J.
Published: October 2024

Colleges of education are often considered the least internationalized units on university campuses. To assess the accuracy of this statement, a research team from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education distributed a survey to U.S. teacher education programs inviting them to reflect on their campus's efforts to internationalize. In this article, the authors report on the state of internationalization of these teacher education programs, compared with results from a 2017 survey. The authors consider ideas for how to further internationalize in ways that are culturally and institutionally sustainable. This paper concludes by providing guidance for leading reflective discussions, advocating for internationalization from a cosmopolitan and cooperative stance, and increasing opportunities for internationalization in teacher education.
Beyond the Surface and Exploring the Microscopic Landscape: Histomorphological Findings in Appendicectomy Specimens
Authors: Sasturkar Radhika C. , Karumanchi Pushpalatha , Mahankali Pranathi
Published: October 2024

Background:

A diagnosis of appendicitis is confirmed by histomorphological examination of the specimen. This study aims to assess the incidence of common and incidental findings in the appendix on gross and microscopic examination.

Materials and Methods:

For each specimen assessed, we recorded a brief clinical history, placed the specimens in 10% buffered formalin for fixation, and performed a thorough gross examination. Later, the tissue bits were processed using the conventional histopathological technique, followed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The histomorphological findings were correlated with the clinical diagnosis.

Results:

A total of 156 appendix specimens were studied. The sample was predominantly male (n = 112, 71.8%) with those aged between 11 and 20 years, constituting the largest age group (n = 75, 48.1%). More than half of the cases (n = 102, 65.4%) presented with right iliac fossa pain. Acute appendicitis was the most common diagnosis (n = 58, 37.2%), followed by acute gangrenous appendicitis with perforation (n = 23, 14.7%) and periappendicitis (n = 20, 12.8%). Diagnosis of chronic appendicitis, acute on chronic appendicitis, and eosinophilic appendicitis was made in 20 (12.8%), 19 (12.2%), and 7 (4.5%) cases, respectively. Two cases (1.3%) each of diverticulum, mucocele, and lymphoid hyperplasia were present. Finally, 1 case (0.6%) each of fibrous obliteration, Enterobius vermicularis, mucinous cystadenoma, and carcinoid were reported. Granulomatous appendicitis and normal appendix were seen in 3 (1.9%) cases each.

Conclusions:

Acute appendicitis, chronic appendicitis, and granulomatous appendicitis are the most common diagnoses following pathological examination of the resected appendix. However, rare findings such as diverticulum, parasitic infestations, and tumors of the appendix were also found. Our findings highlight the importance of histomorphological analysis of the appendix to diagnose incidental findings that may be missed clinically.
Interconnections between diabetic corneal neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy: diagnostic and therapeutic implications
Authors: Yu Mingyi , Ning Faith Teo En , Liu Chang , Liu Yu-Chi
Published: October 2024

Diabetic corneal neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy are ocular complications occurring in the context of diabetes mellitus. Diabetic corneal neuropathy refers to the progressive damage of corneal nerves. Diabetic retinopathy has traditionally been considered as damage to the retinal microvasculature. However, growing evidence suggests that diabetic retinopathy is a complex neurovascular disorder resulting from dysfunction of the neurovascular unit, which includes both the retinal vascular structures and neural tissues. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness and is frequently screened for as part of diabetic ocular screening. However, diabetic corneal neuropathy is commonly overlooked and underdiagnosed, leading to severe ocular surface impairment. Several studies have found that these two conditions tend to occur together, and they share similarities in their pathogenesis pathways, being triggered by a status of chronic hyperglycemia. This review aims to discuss the interconnection between diabetic corneal neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy, whether diabetic corneal neuropathy precedes diabetic retinopathy, as well as the relation between the stage of diabetic retinopathy and the severity of corneal neuropathy. We also endeavor to explore the relevance of a corneal screening in diabetic eyes and the possibility of using corneal nerve measurements to monitor the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Set-decomposition of normal rectifiable $G$-chains via an abstract decomposition principle
Authors: Goldman Michael , Merlet Benoit
Published: October 2024

We introduce the notion of
set-decomposition
of a normal

G

-flat chain

A

in

\mathbb{R}^{n}

as a sequence

A_{j}=A\,\text{\Large{$\llcorner$}}S_{j}

associated to a Borel partition

S_{j}

of

\mathbb{R}^{n}

such that

\mathbb{N}(A)=\sum \mathbb{N}(A_{j})

. We show that any
normal rectifiable

G

-flat chain admits a decomposition in set-indecomposable sub-chains. This generalizes the decomposition of sets of finite perimeter in their “measure theoretic” connected components due to Ambrosio, Caselles, Masnou and Morel. It can also be seen as a variant of the decomposition of integral currents in indecomposable components by Federer.As opposed to previous results, we do not assume that

G

is boundedly compact. Therefore, we cannot rely on the compactness of sequences of chains with uniformly bounded

\N

-norms. We deduce instead the result from a new abstract decomposition principle.As in earlier proofs, a central ingredient is the validity of an isoperimetric inequality. We obtain it here using the finiteness of some

h

-mass to replace integrality.
Deploying a Campus Telephony to Enhance Tele-Penetration and Service Provision to aid Mobile Computing for Nigerian Undergraduates
Authors: Malasowe Bridget O. , Ojie Deborah V. , Okpor Margaret D. , Ako Rita E. , Edim Edim B. , David Elias E.
Published: October 2024

The inherent difficulties of IP networks represent a significant turning point in the convergence of information and communication  technologies. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) emerged with the introduction of 3G and IPtelephony, providing an efficient exchanging  data resources amongst linked users. Supporting hardware, software, and open-source protocols for data, voice, and video  sessions enable the integration of data solutions onto a converged network using IP-telephony's array of multi-service technologies. The  methodology adopted for the study was to concentrate on the technical concerns related to the implementation of an IP network to  improve rural phone service. These included geopolitical, economic and technical issues on implementation. The study result showed that  the network has excellent scalability and speed. Nodes also received request with 80% response rate. This demonstrated equivocall  that it was possible to reach each notes. For the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun, the researchers suggested a VoIP- based telephony system that will aid campus telepenetration, offer users a number of advantages, and fix latency, packet loss, and jitter  problems. Rich media streaming supports blended learning, unified messaging, and other features. It also offers economy, flexibility, mobility, and productivity for users, all of which are advantages. The outcome demonstrates that the framework fixes the packet loss,  jitters, and latency problems. The researchers recommend the following measures to mitigate packet loss and jitters: ICT suite and  Ethernet cabled network should be employed; installation of wireless LANs and cloud storage for data. These will enable staff and  students to access information online.
Carbon Capture and Storage Via Electrochemical and Bioelectrochemical Techniques: A Review
Authors: Mathew John T. , Inobeme Abel , Azeh Yakubu , Musah Monday , Abdullahi Abdulkadir , Shaba Elijah Y. , Etsuyankpa Muhammad B. , Musa Tanko S. , Muhammad Aishetu I. , Ismail Haruna , Kanwa Abubakar M. , Mamman Amos , Hussaini Jonathan
Published: October 2024

The urgent need to mitigate climate change has spurred innovative research in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.  Electrochemical approaches utilize electrocatalysis and electrochemical reduction to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) from industrial  emissions, demonstrating high selectivity and enabling the production of valuable chemicals and fuels from captured CO2.  Bioelectrochemical techniques leverage microorganisms to convert CO2 into biomass or biofuels, enhancing carbon capture efficiency through biological and electrochemical synergy. Integrating bioelectrochemical systems with renewable energy sources provides a carbon-negative pathway, aiding industry decarbonization. This review underscores the transformative potential of these techniques in revolutionizing CCS strategies, emphasizing their role in addressing climate change while fostering a sustainable, circular economy.
misalignment of the Algerian dinar's real effective exchange rate
Authors: Abderrahim Hasni , Khaled Azzaoui
Published: October 2024

This paper analyzes exchange rate misalignments in Algeria from 1980 to 2020 using the behavioral BEER method. We investigate the real effective exchange rate (REER) and its cointegration with key economic indicators in Algeria. By considering Algeria's level of commercial openness, we identify periods of misalignment and examine their causes and effects. Our findings reveal significant fluctuations in the exchange rate, deviating from its long-term equilibrium.
duality of HRIS strategic alignment: individual performance determinant study on a range of economic firms in the state of Biskra
Authors: Sana Djebiret
Published: October 2024

The study aims to focus on the duality of strategic alignment impact of the HR information system on the individual performance of economic enterprises in Biskra, using both exploratory and experimental approaches, as well as the use of a complete inventory of the study population, with 203 questionnaires distributed, of which 140 were recovered and all valid for statistical analysis. The results show a statistic significant impact of the strategic alignment duality of the HR information system on individual performance, and the achievement of all sub-hypotheses. Finally, let us make some recommendations, such the need to move towards strategic alignment of the HR information’s system by focusing more on its social dimension and, building a fast and flexible communication network to provide fertile ground for the maturity of such alignment.
interaction between economic digitalization and economic growth in MENA region
Authors: Souria Hammache
Published: October 2024

This study analyses the influence of economic digitalization on economic growth in MENA region. We applied a system GMM estimator on a sample composed of 15 MENA countries from the period of 2012 to 2016. We used the Networked Readiness Index (NRI) to capture the economic digitalization. The results show that the digitalization is positively associated with economic growth. All the NRI sub-indexes variables seem to be positively significant; however, skills and education variables are not significant. This study recommends the MENA governments to invest more in ICT, especially in ICT human capital to enhance economic growth in the region, and use efficiently labor force when adopting the frontier technology.
Empirical stock–flow consistent models: evolution, current state and prospects
Authors: Pierros Christos
Published: October 2024

The paper explores the evolution of empirical stock–flow consistent (SFC) models, emphasising their structure, scope and number of financial and physical assets. Three types of models can be identified. The New Cambridge type is characterised by the aggregation of households, firms and banks into one aggregate private sector. The Godley–Lavoie type, termed after the impact of their collective work, treats the main institutional sectors separately. The third type, despite being largely heterogeneous, is marked by higher complexity. The paper argues that the structure of the models should vary according to the research question at hand, as higher complexity is ensued by augmented discrepancies between in-­sample projections and actual data, especially in the financial domain. Despite this trade-off, several aspects of the models need to be improved, even at the expense of having more complicated structures. The paper provides some indications towards the direction that these improvements ought to take.
Derechos humanos, migración y unidad de América Latina
Authors: Peña Alemán Tulia G. , Vílchez de Quintero Irasema , Rincón Romero Adelso
Published: October 2024

El objetivo del presente ensayo hermenéutico fue reflexionar desde la mirada de los derechos humanos sobre la situación de los migrantes latinoamericanos en el siglo XXI. Todas las personas poseen derechos y libertades fundamentales inalienables que son universalmente reconocidos en instrumentos internacionales. Los migrantes, es decir, las personas que se desplazan desde el territorio de un Estado hacia el territorio de otro, por situaciones que ponen en peligro su subsistencia, o en busca de mejores condiciones de vida por oportunidades laborales o de estudio, entre otras, deben gozar de un régimen jurídico unitario que les garantice la protección y aseguramiento de estos Derechos Fundamentales y no mecanismos casuísticos que le generen lesiones a estos sujetos. Se concluye que, esta protección debe estar enfocada en promover una defensa activa y sostenida de un marco democrático que reconozca, valore y respete sin vacilación que persona es todo ser humano. Asimismo, las reglas del comercio internacional deben ser unitarias, uniformes y eficaces para alcanzar condiciones socioeconómicas decorosas en los Estados que disminuyan significativamente la migración en Latinoamérica.