bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Financial Inclusion, Financial Development and Misery Index on Economic Growth: An Analysis from Selected Asian Countries
Authors: Karim Sajid
Published: November 2024

Despite the increasing focus on global economic development, there remains a gap in understanding the specific impact of financial inclusion, financial development, and the misery index on economic growth within the Asian context. Identifying and analyzing these relationships is crucial for informing effective policy interventions. The lack of a comprehensive understanding of how these variables interact hinders the formulation of targeted strategies to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the region. In the current study, we have investigated the impact of financial development, financial inclusion, urban population and misery index on economic growth in selected Asian economies using panel data from 2004 to 2018. GDP per capita is used as the dependent variable, and financial development, financial inclusion, urban population and misery index are used as explanatory variables. By using a random effect technique, it was found that financial development, financial inclusion, and urban population have boosted financial inclusion. However, the misery index has decreased economic growth in selected Asian economies. It is suggested that these economies must increase financial development and financial services access and availability for more growth. The government must focus on education to increase production and investment in concerned economies. Moreover, the government must control inflation along with unemployment to foster economic growth.
Economics and Marketing of Sugarcane Production in District Mandi Bahaudin
Authors: Ali Hashim , Iqbal Muhammad Amjed
Published: November 2024

A cash crop, sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.), is regarded as a crucial raw ingredient for agricultural-based enterprises. Due to their significant contribution to GDP, the sugar industries are of utmost economic significance. In addition to offering financial incentives to the growers, it also produces byproducts that may be utilized as raw materials in other businesses to make a variety of goods. As a result, sugarcane growing has a lot of potential to boost the local economy because its operations have the potential to boost income and draw in local labor. The goal of the current study is to document knowledge about sugarcane crop marketing channels and the economic advantages of sugarcane farming in the area of Mandibahaudin, Punjab, Pakistan. Malakwal, Phalia, Qadirabad, and Gojra were the study's locations. A visit to the study area was made in order to collect the data. To gather primary data, 120 people randomly chosen from these communities were questioned using a pre–validated questionnaire. Techniques for random sampling produce accurate data. Secondary information is gathered from other sources. However, the findings support the understanding of the sugarcane crop's marketing channels as well as the financial advantages of sugarcane farming and its byproducts in the district of Mandibahaudin. Both a descriptive analysis and multiple regression analysis were performed.
Impact of Farmer's Socioeconomic Characteristics and Technology Adoption on Agriculture Income: Evidence from Central Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Javed Iqbal , Zahra Kiran
Published: November 2024

The research examines the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, essential for policymakers and technology providers to evaluate existing initiatives and enhance dissemination strategies. The primary emphasis on the impact of socioeconomic characteristics and technology adoption on agriculture income is crucial for assessing economic outcomes, guiding efforts to improve farmers' well-being. Objective of the current study was to estimate the impact of socioeconomic characteristics of farmers and adoption of technology on their income and suggest policy measures. For estimation purposes, central Punjab was chosen, and data was collected. A well-organized questionnaire was distributed to 401 farmers in central Punjab. OLS technique was used for analysis to estimate the impact of independent variables on farmers' income. According to the results, adoption of advanced technology, awareness of technology, land holding, family size, and farmer education have a statistically significant impact on the dependent variable in the model. It is recommended to launch extensive awareness programs in collaboration with agricultural extension services to educate farmers on the advantages of advanced technologies, advocate for policies ensuring fair land access, recognize the role of family size in agriculture, and improve customized educational programs to empower farmers with ongoing learning and skill development, fostering a culture of innovation.
Institutional Quality, Financial Inclusion and Income Inequality: A study of Selected Asian Countries
Authors: Mumtaz Humaira
Published: November 2024

Focusing on selected Asian countries offers a regional perspective on income inequality dynamics, contributing to a better understanding of the factors driving income disparities in diverse socio-economic contexts. Income inequality is a pervasive and pressing issue in many Asian countries, posing significant challenges to inclusive economic growth, social cohesion, and sustainable development. Despite efforts to address income disparities through various policy interventions, the factors contributing to lessening income inequality remain poorly understood, particularly in the context of institutional quality and financial inclusion. Therefore, there is a need for empirical research to examine the role of institutional quality and financial inclusion in mitigating income inequality across selected Asian countries. This study has investigated the impact of financial inclusion with institutional quality, economic growth, and foreign direct investment on income inequality in Asian emerging economies. The authors have used data from 2012 to 2020 to check the relationship between dependent and independent variables. We have used the Gini index as a dependent variable and financial inclusion, institutional quality, GDP per capita, and foreign direct investment are taken as independent variables. GMM results show that financial inclusion and institutional quality are contributing towards lessening poverty in these economies. Moreover, foreign direct investment and GDP per capita also decrease the income disparity of these nations. It is suggested for better financial services provision and a stable environment for high growth and foreign direct investment.
Depressive symptom profiles in Icelandic team sport athletes: nine quantitative case analyses over a 6-month period
Authors: Einarsdottir Frida Run , Arnardottir Nanna Yr , Kristjansdottir Hafrun , Belz Johanna , Kenttä Göran , Tahtinen Richard E.
Published: November 2024

Most studies to-date have used mean difference analyses to explore group differences in depressive symptoms among athletes. However, these traditional group mean analyses may mask important information concerning symptom profiles such as the severity, type, and number of symptoms. In this study, we examined idiographic depressive symptom profiles in nine Icelandic team sport athletes with recurrent clinically significant depressive symptoms (clinical symptoms at baseline and six-month follow-up) and those with depressive symptoms only at one time point. The aim was to explore depressive symptoms patterns in these two groups and their relationship with daily functioning and changes in sport-specific factors. Among those with recurrent clinical symptoms, depressive symptom profiles were stable, both in terms of type and severity of symptoms, while those with clinically significant symptoms observed only at one time point showed generally fewer symptoms, symptoms profiles were more variable, and total symptom scores were less severe. Interestingly, no clear associations were found between sport-specific variables, such as satisfaction with the head coach or subjective athletic performance, and depressive symptoms, as several cases reported satisfaction in these areas despite significant depressive symptoms. This idiographic approach highlights the need for targeted and continuous assessment to better understand depressive symptoms in athletes.
Competition Enforcement Models in the Western Balkans Countries – The Rule of Law Still Terra Incognita?
Authors:   Law Faculty, University of East Sarajevo, Marković-Bajalović Dijana
Published: November 2024

The administrative model of competition law enforcement is the prevailing model in the EU Member States. Although Member States are free to choose between the administrative and the judicial model or their combination, many of them opted for the administrative model taking the EU model as an example. The same is valid for the candidate and potential candidate states of Western Balkans. The new Directive 2019/1 deals with the issue of safeguarding the fundamental rights in competition proceedings in general terms only, while stabilisation and association agreements lay down the rule of law as a fundamental principle, but do not say much regarding the features of the competition enforcement model. Candidate countries did not consider the rule of law requirements when designing their competition enforcement models. Competition authorities combine investigative and decision-making powers, preventing them from impartial decision-making. Rules on the appointment, that is, election of members of decision-making bodies, and the limited term of office, made competition authorities susceptible to political influence. Administrative courts are in charge of disputes initiated against decisions of competition authorities in the second instance. Limitations on applying full jurisdiction proceedings, and the modest expertise of administrative law judges in competition law, prevent courts from dealing with the merits of competition cases. Hence, effective judicial control of decisions of competition authorities is missing. The European Commission should monitor the observance of fundamental legal principles in competition law enforcement when assessing the readiness of candidate states to join the EU.
Particularities of Proving a Single and Continuous Infringement of EU Competition Rules
Authors:   ourt of Justice of the European Union., Romić Mirna
Published: November 2024

A single and continuous infringement of EU competition rules is a qualified form of infringement of EU Competition Law characterized by the existence of a global plan having a single objective between undertakings. Given the specificity of this form of infringement, proving it is somewhat different from the standard evidentiary process for proving infringements of competition rules before EU courts. This article aims to give an overview of the evidentiary rules through the case law of the Court of Justice of the EU and analyze their application in practice.
Square Peg in a Round Hole? Sustainability as an Aim of Antitrust Law
Authors:   Baker & McKenzie Krzyżowski i Wspólnicy, Derdak Michał Konrad
Published: November 2024

The ongoing debate on sustainability in antitrust only briefly refers to the established legal methodologies of interpretation. In particular, there seems to be hardly any reflection on the teleological interpretation of competition law in the context of making sustainable development the aim thereof. This is problematic, because a methodologically sound construction of the aims of law is instrumental not only for the interpretation of its provisions, but also for ensuring the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of individuals. This article is an attempt to trigger a discussion in this area by analysing whether promoting sustainability is, or can be, an appropriate aim of antitrust law within the existing methodological framework. This allows for a consideration of whether promoting sustainability is currently a legitimate aim of competition law, and if not – whether and how it can, and whether it should, be introduced as such. The conducted analysis described in this article shows that the aims of antitrust are elusive, but essentially the aim of competition law should be an economic one, focusing on the protection of the freedom of competition, promoting economic efficiencies and ultimately protecting consumer welfare (surplus). Promoting sustainable development through antitrust, as it is currently proposed, inevitably leads to decreasing consumer surplus, and it is at least highly disputable if it increases consumer welfare. It is apparent that the proposed pro-sustainability solutions assume, or at least allow, that prices will increase, so the consumer surplus will decrease. Therefore, sustainability and the core economic aim of competition law are apparently in conflict with each other. Additionally, the broadness of the notion of sustainability and the significant diversity of its parts lead us to the conclusion that in legal terms it is internally contradictory. Thus, it may be reasonably concluded that there is no legitimate justification for the proposal that promoting sustainable development is an aim of currently binding Polish or European competition law, and furthermore, that it does not seem to be the proper aim of antitrust law for the future.
Product Substitutability in Defining the Relevant Market and Expert Evidence: Comments on the Judgment of the Polish Supreme Court of 29 July 2020 (I NSK 8/19)
Authors:   Faculty of Law and Administration, University of Szczecin, Wasilewski Rafał R.
Published: November 2024

In one of the court proceedings concerning a cassation appeal, brought against the decision of the President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK), the Polish Supreme Court expressed in its judgment of 29 July 2020 (I NSK 8/19) a view on the role of expert evidence in the definition of the relevant market, and more specifically, in the determination of product substitutability. By dismissing the corporate applicant’s cassation appeal, the Court stated that admission of expert evidence was not necessary, given that the substitutability of products is decided mainly by customer adoption and not their chemical composition. This article aims to present the arguments cited to this end by the Supreme Court and to analyze them through the prism of defining the relevant market and the specificity of expert evidence in determining the boundaries of the relevant market for the purposes of applying competition law.
Integration of overlapping sequences emerges with consolidation through medial prefrontal cortex neural ensembles and hippocampal–cortical connectivity
Authors: Tompary Alexa , Davachi Lila
Published: November 2024

Systems consolidation theories propose two mechanisms that enable the behavioral integration of related memories: coordinated reactivation between hippocampus and cortex, and the emergence of cortical traces that reflect overlap across memories. However, there is limited empirical evidence that links these mechanisms to the emergence of behavioral integration over time. In two experiments, participants implicitly encoded sequences of objects with overlapping structure. Assessment of behavioral integration showed that response times during a recognition task reflected behavioral priming between objects that never occurred together in time but belonged to overlapping sequences. This priming was consolidation-dependent and only emerged for sequences learned 24 hr prior to the test. Critically, behavioral integration was related to changes in neural pattern similarity in the medial prefrontal cortex and increases in post-learning rest connectivity between the posterior hippocampus and lateral occipital cortex. These findings suggest that memories with a shared predictive structure become behaviorally integrated through a consolidation-related restructuring of the learned sequences, providing insight into the relationship between different consolidation mechanisms that support behavioral integration.
Population size and structure of Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu in Geralle National Park, Southeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Aychew Melkamu , Girma Zerihun , Yilma Zenebe Ageru
Published: November 2024

Background

Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu remain widespread within and outside protected areas. Current pressures on their populations, human encroachment and disturbance associated habitat modifications, and excessive grazing pose further threats to the species. The estimation of density and abundance of species has significant value for sustainable wildlife management in Geralle National Park (GNP) and also contributes towards a more accurate global population estimate.

Result

Using distance sampling methods, the lowest Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) (close to zero) and Chi-square tests (P value > 0.05) showed that the hazard rate key function with an un-equal interval group model was selected for estimation of density and abundance. The density of species was 1.7 ± 0.5, 2.07 ± 0.7, gazelle/km2 and 1.39 ± 0.3, 1.92 ± 0.42, lesser kudu/km2 during the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Population density, abundance, and structure showed habitat and seasonal differences in observation. More individuals of both species were recorded during the wet season as compared to the dry season. Grassland was favored by Grant’s gazelle, while lesser kudu preferred woodlands. Both species exhibited a female-biased sex ratio, indicating potential for future population growth prospects.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that GNP is home to viable populations of Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu, and season has influenced population abundance and distribution due to resource availability variations among seasons. The female-biased sex ratio indicates the future population growth prospects for the two species.
Optimization of Soil Temperature Dynamics under Different Irrigation Schedules, Tillage Methods, and NPK Fertilizer Application Rates
Authors: C.P. Nwachukwu , A.C. Okoro , E.E. Ejikeme , E.C. Nwanna , C.D. Okpala
Published: November 2024

Soil temperature is a critical factor influencing crop growth and development. This study investigated the effects of tillage, irrigation, and Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium (NPK) fertilizer on soil temperature, exploring optimal management strategies for improved crop productivity. A field experiment was conducted at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, using a central composite design in response surface methodology (RSM) to evaluate the interactions between conventional, conservative, and zero tillage, irrigation deficit levels, and NPK fertilizer rates. Using response surface methodology (RSM) to study the effect of tillage, irrigation and NPK application on soil temperature for the study area is grossly lacking in literature.
The results showed that tillage, irrigation management, and NPK fertilizer application significantly impacted soil temperature profiles. A quadratic model accurately predicted soil temperature, explaining 82.71% of the variability. Optimum conditions were identified as 11.59% irrigation deficit, 596.41 kg/ha NPK application rate, and conservative tillage, resulting in a soil temperature of 23.74°C.
This research contributes to the understanding of complex interactions between tillage, irrigation, and NPK fertilizer on soil temperature, informing evidence-based strategies for sustainable agriculture. The findings underscore the importance of holistic management practices that harmonize tillage, irrigation, and NPK fertilizer to optimize soil thermal dynamics for enhanced crop growth and development.
Standardisation of Curcuminoids into More Bioavailable form (CurcuminAura™) and Its Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Puttachar Srikrishna Lingadahalli , Mascarenhas Vinisha , Sayed Aliya Mohammad , Fernandes Desiree Delicia , Godkar Teja Moreshwar , Correia Shawna Reyhan , Patil Saisha Ningappa , Thomas Sebastian , Pillai Savitha B , Naik Sahil , Naik Sakshi Murlidhar
Published: November 2024

Curcuminoids are naturally occurring phytocompound extracted from the turmeric rhizome Curcuma longa, a member of the ginger (Zingiberaceae) family. Through the development of a trademark product called Bio-Curcumin, this study seeks to increase the bioavailability and absorption of regular marketed curcumin by 95%. This finding has important implications for the academic and scientific community. The pharmacokinetic study of CurcuminAura™ and its innovation of biocurcuminoids is detailed in detail. Innovation of BioCurcuminoids and its Pharmacokinetic Study of CurcuminAura™ with regular curcuminoids is significantly described which is the need of the hour. This enhanced sunflower lecithin is an effective ingredient in the trademark product CurcuminAuraTM, which was created by Bio-Med Ingredients Pvt.Ltd. Its potency in the market can be increased by lecithin's capacity to efficiently encapsulate active substances, improve bioavailability, and increase absorption. Regular curcumin's weak solubility and poor absorption in its free form. Regular Curcumin due to its poor solubility and poor absorption in the free form in the gastrointestinal tract and its rapid biotransformation to inactive metabolites can greatly limit its utility as a health-promoting agent and dietary supplement. Hence to make it more readily available in the body. CurcuminovaTM is developed will enhance the properties of Curcumin making it more potent in the market. The Evaluation of the Comparative Pharmacokinetic Study of CurcuminAuraTM with Marketed Curcumin 95.0% was carried out through pre-clinical investigations in Sprague Dawley Rats via Oral Route which is the aim of this study with two groups in the study design, with four rats of each sex. Oral administration of CurcuminAuraTM and Curcumin 95.0% was administered to rats in the G1 and G3 groups, respectively. A dosage volume of 10 milliliters per kilogram of body weight was maintained for the oral route. After Dosage, under isofluorane,the blood samples were taken from the retroorbital sinuses after the dose was administered under varying periods of anaesthesia. Animals were split up into two sets for each group, and blood samples were taken at 30-, 2-, and 4-hour intervals. Samples were taken for analysis after being kept at -800C. Designed to increase the bioavailability of curcuminoids, CurcuminAuraTM is standardized to 60.9% total curcuminoids by HPLC, as opposed to marked conventional curcumin 95%. This has been confirmed by HPLC analysis. According to comparison studies, CurcuminAuraTM has a bioavailability that is 3.8 times greater than the reference standard. Additionally, in this study it is shown that the maximum absorption happens in the timeline 3 hrs after feeding the drug.
Carbon Sequestration Potential of Rhizophora mucronata in Tongke-Tongke Mangrove Forest, Sinjai Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Pare Mariani , Kantun Wayan , Rapi Dan Nuraeni L.
Published: November 2024

Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems, offering significant ecological benefits and acting as important carbon sinks. This study focuses on the carbon sequestration potential of Rhizophora mucronata in the Tongke-Tongke mangrove forest, Sinjai Regency, Indonesia. By measuring the carbon content in leaves, roots, and sediments, the study found carbon content ranges from 0.09 to 0.11 tons/ha in leaves with a carbon absorption capacity ranging from 0.33–0.42 tonnes/ha and 0.44 to 0.72 tons/ha in roots with absorption capacity reaching 1.60–2.64 tonnes/ha, with sediment carbon content varying significantly ranges from 8.66–156.83 tons/ha with an absorption capacity of 31.79–575.55 tons/ha. The carbon content in mangrove stands reaches 109.23–180.87 tonnes/ha, with carbon uptake reaching 400.89–663.80 tonnes/ha. Results indicate that R. mucronata has a substantial carbon absorption capacity, underscoring the importance of these ecosystems in climate change mitigation. The findings aim to inform conservation strategies and potential carbon trading initiatives, contributing to global climate resilience.
Solving a Relaxed Min-Cost Redundancy Allocation Model using Lagrange Multiplier and Newton’s Method
Authors: Nmah Benedict
Published: November 2024

Redundancy allocation is a valuable technique that system engineers can use to design high level of reliability into complex systems. Broadly however, redundancy allocation problems are NP-hard. The main goal of this paper is to solve a relaxed minimum-cost problem by proving that Newton’s method finds the optimal value of the Lagrange multiplier. The paper first establishes lower and upper bounds on the optimal Lagrange multiplier, and then starting from an initial value determined by he the model’s parameters, Newton’s method finds the optimal value of the Lagrange multiplier. The paper also illustrates the method with two examples and presents a general conclusion.
Evaluating Vancomycin Supratherapeutic Dosing and Associated Acute Kidney Injury: A Novel Correlation Factor Equation Applied in an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program
Authors: Batarseh Yazan S.
Published: November 2024

This study evaluates the relationship between vancomycin supratherapeutic dosing and acute kidney injury (AKI) through a novel correlation factor equation within an antimicrobial stewardship program. Vancomycin, commonly used to treat serious infections like MRSA, has been associated with increased nephrotoxicity risks, particularly when dosed above recommended therapeutic levels. The correlation factor equation was designed to quantify the association between supratherapeutic dosing and AKI incidence in hospitalized patients. Data from 386 patients over a 12-month period revealed an 8.8% incidence of AKI, though none were linked to supratherapeutic vancomycin dosing (AUC > 600 mg·h/L), resulting in a correlation factor of 0%. This finding underscores the importance of the correlation factor as a quantitative tool to assess dosing safety while emphasizing the need for its integration with ongoing pharmacy audits to optimize vancomycin use and enhance patient outcomes.
Effect of Feeding Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Powder on Nutrient Digestibility of Konkan Kanyal Kids
Authors: Sawant Dwij , Mayekar A. J. , Patil Vinay , Prasade N. N. , Ramod S. S. , Bansode P. B. , Shirsat S. G. , Patil Shrenik
Published: November 2024

The present study aimed to determine the Effect of feeding Ginger (Zingiber officinale) powder on nutrient digestibility of Konkan Kanyal kids. antibiotics were commonly used in animal diets to promote growth. However, due to the search for alternative additives and restrictions in many countries on using antibiotics to increase feed value, feed expenses now make up a significant part of the total cost of goat production. An experimental trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding Ginger (Zingiber officinale) powder on body weight of Konkan Kanyal kids. Twenty Konkan Kanyal kids were selected and classified in five treatments by using Randomized Block Design (RBD). Each treatment was subdivided into four replications. All the animals were fed with complete feed having mulato grass, jowar kadabi and concentrate mixture. In treatment T1 no ginger powder was supplemented while in treatment T2 3.0 g ginger powder, in treatment T3 6.0 g ginger powder, in treatment T4 9.0 g ginger powder and in treatment T5 12.0 g ginger powder was supplemented. The duration of experimental trial was 90 days. The study showed that ginger inclusion in the diet improved digestibility thus12g ginger can be included in diet of konkankanyal kids for better performance. The crude protein (CP) digestibility indicated that the animals effectively utilized dietary protein. This could be attributed to certain phytochemicals in ginger, such as tannins and saponins, which help prevent protein degradation in the rumen, allowing for better digestion in the abomasum and small intestine.
Comparing Moving Averages And Polynomial Regression In Financial Trend Analysis
Authors: Bhatter Ishaan
Published: November 2024

Trend analysis forms the backbone of studies related to financial markets as they give investors and market participants insights into expected market behavior, aiding in investment decisions. This paper compares two methods for determining financial trends: Moving Averages (MAs) and Polynomial Regression (PR). Widely used technical indicators like Simple Moving Averages (SMA) and Exponential Moving Averages (EMA) are popular due to their ease of understanding and effectiveness in smoothing price data by removing noise. Although simpler models like linear or logistic regression can be used if the data is suitable, polynomial regression is considered more flexible as it fits a non-linear curve to the data. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of these two approaches in detecting and predicting financial trends accurately. The research involves calculating SMA and EMA on historical stock price data and applying polynomial regressions of various degrees. A comprehensive comparison will focus on the fit, precision, and predictability of each method in financial trend analysis
Distance Education In The Legal Amazon
Authors: Cardoso Fernando Mendonça , Rosa Carlos Gustavo Sakuno , Ferreira Sara Brigida Farias , Basniak Silvéria Aparecida , Sobrinho Francisco Júlio Pereira
Published: November 2024

The expansion of Distance Education (DE) in the Legal Amazon represents an important advance for the democratization of higher education in a region marked by the vast territorial extension and the difficult accessibility to face-to-face educational services. This education model seeks to meet a pent-up demand from students who reside in isolated areas, offering a solution that circumvents geographical limitations and promotes inclusion. This article explores the expansion of Distance Education (DE) in Brazil's Legal Amazon, where educational provision faces socioeconomic and geographic barriers that make face-to-face access more challenging. This study reviews the literature on distance education in the region, analyzes the impact of public policies and discusses how Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) play a central role in the democratization of education.
The Complex Relationship Between Education And Female Labour: The Curious Case Of India
Authors: Munjal Tisya
Published: November 2024

It is widely believed that improvement in education access leads to better employment statistics. India has defied this basic assumption when it comes to its Female Labour Participation Ratio. Despite the increase in education access across India, why has there not been a proportional increase of women in the labour market participation ratio. Though the Indian government claims to have taken active steps towards a safer and more inclusive environment for women through empowerment schemes and improving education access to girls and women, the data regarding the number of females in the workforce speaks otherwise. In 2024, only 36 percent of the labour force are women, and it is showing even further decline in some pockets. This research analyses the reasons for the astounding inverse relationship between education advancements in terms of accessibility and women’s participation rate. It also touches upon the ground impact of key policy decisions taken by the government in this regard.
Simulation With Arena: Optimization Of Delivery Times In Quick Commerce Of A Company In The Building Materials Sector
Authors: Bizerra Rafael Cavalcanti , Formigoni Alexandre , Faria Silvana De , Borges Jacqueline Patricia
Published: November 2024

Background: E-commerce is a business model that has been gaining a lot of ground in recent years because it offers customers greater convenience, making it possible to make a purchase from anywhere using an electronic device connected to the internet. Despite offering benefits not only to the customer, but also to companies, along with these advantages come problems related to the time it takes from purchase to delivery. The purpose of this article is to indicate the main complications faced in the process of preparing and delivering orders to meet the lead time proposed for the market and to present a solution to the bottleneck. Materials and Methods: The research used experimental and quantitative methodology, using the Arena platform to manipulate numerical data and test variable hypotheses by measuring the resulting effects. Results: In the end, we concluded that it is possible to meet the customer's expected preparation time without facing bottlenecks during the process. Conclusion: In this way, the Arena software contributes to the process optimization method, showing the bottlenecks and achieving the process objective, given that the company's goal was to reduce the total time it took for the order to pass through the system
Accidental High Voltage Electrocution Leading To Abdominal Wall Blow Out With Omental Evisceration And Auto Amputation Of Right Upper Limb: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Jot Singh Jappan , Akhilesh Dalal , Kuldeep Raj , Shashank Rai
Published: November 2024

Electricity is the backbone for modern industrialization, development and day to day needs. Electrical Injuries are among the most devastating of burn injuries. High voltage electrical injuries result in extensive deep tissue damage and are associated with multiple complications and a high mortality rate. The passage of electric current through the body, produces wide range of effects, varying from insignificant localised spasm, little or no contact burns, or extreme severe burns. We describe the case of a 6-year-old child who suffered high voltage electric injury leading to anterior abdominal wall blow out with omental evisceration and auto amputation of right forearm. He was initially resuscitated in emergency room followed by emergency exploratory laparotomy was done with primary repair of ileal perforation along with right arm 4 quadrant amputation. This paper also emphasizes the safety measures to be taken at work place pertaining to high voltage cable
Mass Forming Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma- An Imaging Mimicker Of Hepato-Cellular Carcinoma And Abscess
Authors: Chinta Dr. Sridevi , Patnaik Dr. Sujata , Gunturi Dr. Sr Varma , Sukanya Dr B. , Uppin Dr. Megha S
Published: November 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common primary malignancy of liver. Intrahepatic mass-forming (IMCC) is one of the three patterns of cholangio carcinoma. On imaging IMCC usually presents as irregularly outlined homogenous mass with low attenuation and minimal peripheral enhancement, mild intrahepatic biliary dilatation (IHBD). Sometimes, biliary dilatation, capsular retraction and satellite nodules are other features helping in diagnosis of IMCC. Out of 56 cases we evaluated for liver neoplasms on MDCT, the most common lesions encountered are Hepatocellular carcinoma (n=47, 83.9%) followed by Cholangiocarcinoma. All the 5 cases of IMCC are larger tumors with homogenously hypodense on NECT. On contrast there was rim enhancement in most of these cases. One case had delayed wash out mimicking HCC. Capsular retraction indicated the diagnosis of IMCC. The 5TH case was confused with abscess but absence of double rim sign indicated alternate diagnosis. Hence absence of double rim and washout in delayed images differentiate IMCC from liver abscess and HCC.
The Influence Of Baking Process Parameters On The Sensory Quality Of Potato Flour Biscuit
Authors: Zhang Zhuoyuan , Qiu Denglin , Hao Fei , Liu Tao
Published: November 2024

In order to improve the sensory quality of potato flour biscuit, the effects of baking process (kneading time, upper heating temperature, lower heating temperature, baking time) on the texture characteristics (hardness, crispy degree, brittleness) and sensory score of 30% potato flour biscuit were studied through single-factor experiments and response surface experiments. The optimal baking process conditions were obtained as follows: kneading time of 24 minutes, upper heating temperature of 148 °C, lower heating temperature of 158 °C, and baking time of 15 minutes. Under these conditions, the hardness of the biscuit was 2678.69 g, the crispy degree was 4.67, the brittleness was 5.33, and the sensory score was 69.00 points. Under the optimized process conditions, the biscuit have a moderate hardness, a golden color, a crispy taste, and a relatively high comprehensive quality.
Challenges And Perspectives Of Electrical And Electronic Equipment Waste Management In The Republic Of Guinea
Authors: Sylla Fatoumata , Kourouma Ansoumane , Camara Saran , Manda Pierre , Adépo Aholia Jean-Baptiste , Kéita Mamadou
Published: November 2024

Most developing countries face enormous challenges in implementing sustainable waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management systems. Informal WEEE management practices in the Republic of Guinea have become a major challenge for the government and various stakeholders due to their impacts on the environment and health. The review article presents a close link between the WEEE and household solid waste (HSW) management system in Guinea, based on legislative and policy documents, research studies and reports published by national and international organizations, Directives and Conventions, and Ministry decrees. The article discusses topics such as the legal and regulatory framework, the current situation of HSW management and WEEE, the flow of the Guinean market for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), and a strategic year of sustainable WEEE management in Guinea. The study results indicate that the country lacks effective strategies covering all stages of the product life cycle, particularly at the end of life. Economic and financial limitations are the important obstacles to WEEE formalization. Establishing resourced environmental government agencies for effective monitoring and auditing and appropriate sustainable WEEE management practices is the most important way forward.
Cidades Sustentáveis E Suas Contribuições Para O Meio Ambiente
Authors: Ferreira Fyllipe Felix , Oliveira Luiz Fernando De , Moura Valdinei Mendes , Brito Rita De Cassia Monteiro , Caldeira Fernanda Marques
Published: November 2024

A pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar as contribuições das cidades sustentáveis para o meio ambiente, adotando uma abordagem exploratória e qualitativa. A amostra foi composta por dezenove ambientalistas de diversas áreas relacionadas à sustentabilidade, cujas percepções foram coletadas por meio de entrevistas aprofundadas, utilizando um roteiro semiestruturado. Os resultados revelaram uma diversidade de opiniões, destacando tanto as potencialidades das tecnologias, como a automação na gestão de resíduos e a mobilidade sustentável. Além disso, foi possível constatar os desafios, incluindo a resistência cultural e a falta de diretrizes claras para sua implementação. A análise indicou que, embora as tecnologias possam transformar as cidades, sua eficácia depende de um planejamento integrado que considere a inclusão social, a conscientização pública e a transparência das informações. Conclui-se que a promoção de cidades sustentáveis requer uma abordagem
Female Directorship And Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure In Nigeria: The Moderating Role Of Firm Size
Authors: Dashe Awoena Felix , Ogenyi Prof. Mary A. , Ande Prof. Jane O. M.
Published: November 2024

Companies have witnessed more stringent pressure for corporate social responsibility reporting and the pressure has become critical for their long-term viability and success. Many studies have been conducted to determine the effect of corporate governance mechanism on corporate social responsibility disclosure both locally and internationally, but the studies have yielded inconsistent results. The moderating role of company size on the effect of corporate governance mechanism on corporate social responsibility disclosure has not been significantly studied in the Nigerian context. This study is to examine the effect of corporate governance mechanism on corporate social responsibility disclosure, and the moderating role of firm size. Ex-post facto research design was employed with cross sectional and time series dimensions. Secondary data was obtained from annual reports and accounts of listed manufacturing companies in Nigeria from 2012 to 2023 using disclosure checklist adopted from previous studies. The data was analysed using ordinary least square regressions to determine the effect of female directors on corporate social responsibility disclosure and the moderating role of firm size in listed manufacturing companies in Nigeria. The findings of the study revealed that: female directors have a positive and significant effect on corporate social responsibility disclosure in Nigeria; Firm size has a significant and positive moderating effect on the effect of female directors on corporate social responsibility disclosure of listed manufacturing companies in Nigeria. The study recommends that government and policy makers should set minimum benchmark for female directorship on corporate governance in Nigeria in order to encourage more corporate information disclosures
Augmentation Of The Supercapacitive Performance Of Mn3O4 Nanoparticles By Doping Ni
Authors: Sharma R. Mallikarjuna , Deepak M. , Haritha B. , Prasad V. Guru , Hussain O.M.
Published: November 2024

Ni-doped Mn3O4 nanoparticles (NMO) with a morphology facilitating high surface area were synthesized by prudent hydrothermal synthesis, manifesting a supercapacitive tone with high specific capacitance and excelling cyclability. NMO nanoparticles were agglomerated from hydrated manganese chloride, hydrated nickel chloride, and sodium hydroxide precursors. The XRD results demonstrated predominant peaks oriented from (211), analogous to the I41/amd space group tetragonal structure. The Raman studies affirmed the bonding characteristics of vibration and bending modes of the Mn-O bond. The SEM inquiries proclaimed the morphology providing a large surface area. EDAX reports infer the elemental composition for phase purity confirmation of elements Mn, O, and Ni. Electrochemical accusation exhibited a pseudocapacitive character through cyclic voltammetry. The GCD deductions evince a specific capacitance of 565 F/g for Mn3O4 electrodes and 626 F/g for 0.6% NMO electrodes at a specific current of 0.5 A/g. These NMO electrodes achieved a cyclic capacitance rate of 82% after 3600 cycles.
The Role Of Mental Health Education In Mitigating Pandemic-Related Psychological Distress In Children
Authors: Aderinkomi Dr. Timothy W.
Published: November 2024

Children with pre-existing conditions, such as ADHD and anxiety, are particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of the pandemic. Disruptions to routine and social interactions have exacerbated their symptoms, leading to increased stress and depression. This article examines the role of mental health education in schools as a critical tool for mitigating these challenges. Mental health education equips children with essential stress-management skills through evidence-based interventions such as coping skills training, emotional regulation practices, and resilience-building. The article features case studies that detail the effectiveness of programs like the Los Angeles Unified School District's teletherapy initiative, which provided virtual mental health support to over a million students, significantly reducing stress and anxiety levels during the pandemic. Programs such as the Comprehensive School Mental Health Systems (CSMHS) employ a multitiered approach, addressing prevention, early intervention, and support for severe mental health concerns in collaboration with community health professionals. The Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework also highlights successful integration into U.S. school systems, ensuring a supportive environment through behavioral reinforcement and targeted mental health education
Small And Medium Size Enterprises (Smes), Made In Cameroon, Import-Substitution: Possible Or Mirage?
Authors: Bertrand Dr Bidja Aime
Published: November 2024

The objective of this research was to apply scientific methodology to assess the capacity in term of Technical, Innovation, and Financial of Small and Medium Sizes Enterprises (SMEs) in Cameroon to face the challenge of Import Substitution with “Made in Cameroon” products and services. This was done through analyzing data on a sample which was randomly selected from SMES operating in different sectors in Cameroon. A structured survey questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data on SME efforts on key variables such as SME size, years in operation, investment in technology, R&D expenditure, access to finance, and perceptions of government support. The Mean Computation analyses allow us to compare two or more important variables to achieve the main objective, while the Correlation Analyses bring us to analyses the relationships or the interdependencies that exist between a given set of variables. The study concludes that the main findings are in line with our hypotheses and show that using strategies to replace imports can help increase local production, particularly in manufacturing sector. To support SMEs a pack of recommendations was proposed to enhance government support toward SMEs
Sandwich Structures with Prismatic and Foam Cores: A Review
Authors: Xiong Jian , Du Yuntong , Mousanezhad Davood , Eydani Asl Mohamad , Norato Julián , Vaziri Ashkan
Published: October 2018

This article provides a comprehensive review of recent research efforts on the development and characterization of sandwich structures with corrugated, honeycomb, and foam cores. The topics discussed in this review article include aspects of core‐face bonding and reinforcement, enhancement of core mechanical properties and panel performance (including the role of structural hierarchy), and multifunctional advantages offered by different core constructions. In addition, the review discusses potential applications, including in morphing wing design, impact resistance, and ultralightweight applications. Future research directions are discussed.
Developing a Bright NIR‐II Fluorophore with Fast Renal Excretion and Its Application in Molecular Imaging of Immune Checkpoint PD‐L1
Authors: Wan Hao , Ma Huilong , Zhu Shoujun , Wang FeiFei , Tian Ye , Ma Rui , Yang Qinglai , Hu Zhubin , Zhu Tong , Wang Weizhi , Ma Zhuoran , Zhang Mingxi , Zhong Yeteng , Sun Haitao , Liang Yongye , Dai Hongjie
Published: October 2018

Fluorescence imaging in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) window holds impressive advantages of enhanced penetration depth and improved signal‐to‐noise ratio. Bright NIR‐II fluorophores with renal excretion ability and low tissue accumulation are favorable for in vivo molecular imaging applications as they can render the target‐mediated molecular imaging process easily distinguishable. Here, a probe (anti‐PD‐L1‐BGP6) comprising a fluorophore (IR‐BGP6) covalently bonded to the programmed cell death ligand‐1 monoclonal antibody (PD‐L1 mAb) for molecular imaging of immune checkpoint PD‐L1 (a targeting site upregulated in various tumors for cancer imaging) in the NIR‐II window is reported. Through molecular optimization, the bright NIR‐II fluorophore IR‐BGP6 with fast renal excretion (≈91% excretion in general through urine within the first 10 h postinjection) is developed. The conjugate anti‐PD‐L1‐BGP6 succeeds in profiling PD‐L1 expression and realizes efficient noninvasive molecular imaging in vivo, achieving a tumor to normal tissue (T/NT) signal ratio as high as ≈9.5. Compared with the NIR‐II fluorophore with high nonspecific tissue accumulation, IR‐BGP6 derived PD‐L1 imaging significantly enhances the molecular imaging performance, serving as a strong tool for potentially studying underlying mechanism of immunotherapy. The work provides rationales to design renal‐excreted NIR‐II fluorophores and illustrate their advantages for in vivo molecular imaging.