bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Stock Returns with Industry Concentration
Authors: Luo Haolin
Published: May 2024

In order to predict stock returns more effectively, it has been proposed to use industry concentration as a benchmark. We want to verify whether this variable is significant today. In this paper, we first screen out some firms that may affect the results of the experiment, such as financial firms as well as some other small and micro firms. Then, we use the total assets and total sales of the firms separately to calculate their industry concentration. They are then divided into 10 portfolios from low to high based on their industry concentration. Their returns are then compared to their industry concentration to determine whether it is significant or not. The results show that industry concentration is not significant in predicting stock returns today. Possible reasons for this could be that the factor of industry concentration has been overused, or that the methodology of our calculations was not rigorous enough. In addition, the impact of the new crown epidemic cannot be ignored.
Green or Greed? Examining the Realities of the ESG Investment Bubble
Authors: Zou Haonan
Published: May 2024

This article conducts a rigorous examination of the fundamental nature and practical realities of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investments, systematically reviewing existing literature and research to underscore the ongoing discourse surrounding these investments. It acknowledges the considerable attention they have attracted in recent years, noting that ESG investments are regarded on one end of the spectrum as a sustainable and accountable form of financial engagement, promising long-term gains for investors. On the contrary, there is an emerging body of research suggesting that ESG investments might be nurturing a 'green bubble,' implying that the real benefits might not be as significant as they initially appear and could potentially introduce unexpected risks to investors. Additionally, the study methodically evaluates various determinants influencing ESG investments, which include technological innovations and policy changes, among others. In its conclusion, the paper presents a thorough and profound viewpoint, facilitating a deeper comprehension for individual investors, corporate bodies, and academic investigators of the complex practicalities and intertwined obstacles associated with ESG investments.
The Poverty Reduction Effect of Economic Growth: How Does Chinas Economic Growth Impact the Population Size of the Urban Livings of Minimum Living Allowance?
Authors: Huang Yuwen
Published: May 2024

Poverty reduction is often seen as an easy solution to achieve economic growth. It is related to economic growth, as it reflects the improvement of the minimum standard of living and the rapid reduction of the impoverished population. In order to evaluate the effect of poverty reduction on China's economic growth in urban areas, this paper uses the proportion of urban subsistence allowances in the urban population and economic growth in each urban area as research variables. It presents the effect of poverty reduction in urban areas and regional differences. The study concludes that economic growth, income distribution, and education level have significantly reduced the proportion of the impoverished population. Looking at different time periods, the effect of poverty reduction after 2012 is more effective than before 2012, possibly because the government pays more attention to poverty reduction. From a regional perspective, the economic growth in the eastern region has a more significant impact on poverty reduction than any other region, which may be consistent with the different policy applications in each region.
Predictive Modeling of Default Scenarios in the CMBS Market: A Macroeconomic Approach
Authors: Cheng Yiyang
Published: May 2024

This study analyzes potential default risks in Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) using time series data from 2010 to 2023. Employing Vector Autoregression (VAR) models to forecast economic indicators and calculate DTI and LTV ratios, which are crucial for predicting defaults in the MBS market. Our analysis, based on two economic models, examines the influence of macroeconomic factors and credit default risks on residential and commercial properties, such as Fixed-Rate and Adjustable-Rate Mortgages. The findings suggest that despite the significant impact of the pandemic, the likelihood of default in the American MBS market over the next 15 years remains relatively low. The study emphasizes the significance of comprehending the relationship between macroeconomic conditions and MBS default risks, providing a comprehensive methodology for future research.
Analyzing the Reasons for Pinduoduo s Stock Market Rise
Authors: Liu Zhuoyan
Published: May 2024

Due to global consumption trends, people prefer to buy items with lower prices and greater cost-effectiveness. Pinduoduo focuses on sinking the market and takes low prices as its company philosophy. The purpose of this research was to explore how Pinduoduo surpassed Alibaba in U.S. stock market capitalization. Temu, a foreign cross-border e-commerce platform that Pinduoduo launched, will serve as the case study for a thorough analysis. Pinduoduo' s stock market information, Temu downloads, product sales, and other data will be used for analysis and observation. The analysis shows that Temu' s advertising investment in promotion, product discounts, and after-sales services for products has caused Pinduoduo' s stock market to rise. For Pinduoduo to maintain and continue its stock market rise in the future, the suggestions given are to continue advertising, reduce product discounts and promotions to increase Temu' s net profit, and set up 24-hour customer service and professional translation to provide more complete after-sales services.
The Improvement on Inditex's Logistics and Supply Chain
Authors: Zhu Dieyun
Published: May 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, interruptions in the supply chain have become a common occurrence in every industry. In the fast fashion industry, there are a range of problems with supply chain management that are clearly evident. During this time, more and more firms in the industry start to reconsider the supply chain system that they were using previously and try to figure out solutions to disruptions. This paper takes Inditex as a case study, which is the market leader in the fast fashion industry and received relatively less impact from the pandemic. In the meantime, the paper listed several issues Inditex could solve and provided some potential solutions to the company from three dimensions by using previous research journals from other scholars in a range of fields and official company annual reports. Overall, Inditex needs to pay more attention to those problems related to sustainability and the environmental impact of their production because consumers are more aware of the environment than firms expected.
Parent-Subsidiary Responsibility in the Development of Multinational Enterprises
Authors: Zhang Yihan
Published: May 2024

As a core subject in the current international market economic activities, the parent-subsidiary company not only plays an important role in the development of multinational enterprises themselves, but also plays an important role in the bonding of cooperation between countries. However, the limitations of the traditional corporate law governance model, especially the limited nature of liability, make multinational corporations in the actual operation of many problems. Among them, the issue of responsibility sharing between parent and subsidiary companies is still one of the core issues that need to be continuously focused on at this stage, because the assumption of responsibility by parent and subsidiary companies not only has an important impact on the development of the international market economy, but also pays direct attention to the acquisition of creditor's interests. Through comparative research, historical research, and other research methods, the issue of responsibility-sharing among parent-subsidiary companies of multinational enterprises will be studied. The role of the corporate veil piercing system in responsibility-sharing will be analyzed based on domestic and foreign legislation and judicial experience. The aim is to identify a responsibility-sharing approach that promotes the development of multinational enterprises while safeguarding the interests of creditors.
Corporate Mergers and Acquisitions & Goodwill Impairment: A Literature Review
Authors: Tang Jiayi
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the landscape of corporate strategies has witnessed a notable shift, propelled by the burgeoning trend of marketization and bolstered by the supportive framework of China's national economic policies. Listed companies are increasingly leveraging mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and restructuring initiatives to propel the expansion of their business operations and fortify their core competitiveness. However, amid this strategic fervor, the looming risk of substantial goodwill impairment stemming from M&A and restructuring endeavors emerges as a pivotal factor, casting a shadow on market stability. This article delves into an extensive examination by amalgamating existing literature on M&A and goodwill impairment studies. It aims to elucidate the root causes behind M&A goodwill impairment and shed light on the economic repercussions associated with such impairments, drawing insights from M&A and goodwill-related concepts and theories. Building upon the foundation of contemporary academic research, the article conducts a thorough exploration into the intricacies of M&A goodwill impairment, culminating in actionable suggestions pertaining to corporate M&A practices and the imperative prevention of goodwill impairment.
Industrial Competitiveness of Photovoltaic Manufacturing Industry: China and the United States
Authors: Tang Qi
Published: May 2024

The photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing industry in China and the United States plays and will continue to play crucial roles in the worlds solar energy development. For example, China has become the world's largest PV supplier, and the U.S. is the second largest one. However, this industry in both countries is facing challenges: China faces the threat of overcapacity, while the U.S. grapples with dependence on imports. These challenges are vital for policy-makers to consider making new or modifying current policies to address. Recognizing the connections between threats and policies, this paper highlights these two factors based on SWOT analysis and evaluates the competitiveness of PV manufacturing in China and the U.S. based on International market share (IMS), Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA), and Trade Competitiveness Index (TCI). The key finding of this paper is that despite its overcapacity threat, China still maintains its first position in this industry; while the U.S. has strong potential, its development just started. The outlook of this industry based on competitiveness and technology innovation of both countries will also be included in this paper.
The Impact of Industrial Characteristics on the Capital Structure
Authors: Wang Zichen
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between industrial characteristics and capital structure. The author selected three industries with totally different features as examples and discussed how their particular industrial functions can make a significant difference in leverage ratio. These industrial characteristics are only related to the industry, such as business model and financial statements structure, regardless of the firms size, business performance, and profitability, which can be calculated and measured. Using high-tech-driven, asset-intensive, and labor-intensive industries as samples to analyze their influences on firms leverage ratios. Their industry characteristics can explain the difference in leverage, as asset-intensive companies have the highest average level of debt while labor-intensive has the lowest one. However, the industries cannot account for all diversities in capital structure, and there are difficulties in discovering the perfect capital structure that can meet all requirements and has the lowest cost under current literature. It is necessary to ascertain all factors that will affect the capital structure and evaluate the extent of their influences in future research.
The Role of Monetary Policy During the Financial Crises
Authors: Zheng Xiaoxuan
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the pivotal role of monetary policy in navigating through a spectrum of financial crises, spanning from the tumultuous Great Depression era to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By meticulously assessing the efficacy of monetary interventions, this paper endeavors to furnish a thorough historical investigation, elucidating the dynamic evolution of monetary policies as quintessential instruments for crisis mitigation. Employing a comparative approach through case studies, it discerns recurring patterns and discerns nuanced implications crucial for informing future monetary policy frameworks. Emphasis is placed on distilling invaluable lessons from past crises, thereby underlining the imperative for policymakers to glean insights from historical precedent in crafting robust strategies to navigate the complexities of contemporary financial landscapes. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of monetary policy in crisis management and provide guidance for policymakers in effectively deploying monetary tools in response to future economic challenges.
Efficacy and Safety of Catheter Interventions for Postoperative Urinary Retention After Primary Hip and Knee Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Evans William S. , Ziemba-Davis Mary , Buller Leonard T. , Meneghini R. Michael
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is a common barrier to rapid-discharge hip and knee total joint arthroplasty (TJA). We evaluated the efficacy and safety of catheterization intervention methods for POUR before and after discharge.

Methods:

A total of 1,659 primary TJAs were retrospectively reviewed. POUR resolutions before and after discharge were evaluated relative to catheterization type and other covariates. Complications before and within 90 days of discharge were quantified. A total of 113 POUR cases comprised the analysis sample of 76 hips and 37 knees in 51 women and 62 men with an average age and body mass index of 68.6 (range 22 to 92) years and 31.7 (range 16 to 49) kg/m2.

Results:

POUR resolved before discharge for 82.3% (93/113) of patients, with equivalent resolution rates for intermittent catheterization alone (84.2%, 32/38) compared with indwelling catheterization with or without intermittent catheterization (82.6%, 57/69, P < 0.999), equivalent time to resolution (P = 0.319), and no difference in complication rates (P = 0.999). Complication rates within 90 days of discharge were higher for patients treated with indwelling catheters before discharge (P = 0.049). Resolution before discharge was more likely with increasing body mass index (P = 0.026) and less likely for patients with a history of urinary retention (P = 0.033). 60 percent (12/20) of patients with unresolved POUR were discharged with self-intermittent catheterization and 40% (8/20) with indwelling catheters, with no differences in efficacy and safety based on the catheterization type (P = 0.109).

Discussion:

Before discharge, we observed equivalent resolution rates and equivalent time to resolution for indwelling and intermittent catheterization alone without compromising patient safety. Intermittent catheterization is favored, however, because in situ catheter exposure is dramatically reduced and postdischarge complication rates are lower. Additional research is needed to develop evidence-based POUR guidelines for outpatient TJA.
Evaluasi Kesesuaian Lahan Untuk Budidaya Tanaman Kakao di Kecamatan Kepenuhan Hulu, Riau
Authors: Aini Lis Noer
Published: May 2024

Kakao merupakan tanaman perkebunan yang cukup menjanjikan, namun produksinya di Indonesia sangat fluktuatif. Pengembangan kakao banyak dilakukan di Sulawesi, namun tidak menutup kemungkinan dikembangkan di daerah lain, salah satunya di Kecamatan Kepenuhan Hulu Provinsi Riau. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menetapkan karakteristik lahan dan mengevaluasi kelas kesesuaian lahan aktual dan potensial untuk budidaya tanaman kakao di Kecamatan Kepenuhan Hulu. Penelitian dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode survei yang dianalisis secara deskriptif berdasarkan kriteria kesesuaian lahan untuk tanaman kakao. Analisis data dilakukan menggunakan metode pencocokan secara weight faktor. Analisis sampel dilakukan berdasarkan metode yang dikeluarkan oleh Balai Besar Sumberdaya Lahan Pertanian Hasil analisis data menunjukkan bahwa lahan di Kecamatan Kepenuhan Hulu, Kabupaten Rokan Hulu termasuk ke dalam kelas S3 (sesuai marginal) dengan faktor-faktor pembatas lahan berupa kelembaban, tekstur, kedalaman tanah, N-total dan K tersedia, kejenuhan basa dan C-organik). Perbaikan yang dapat dilakukan adalah dengan menambahkan bahan organik, pemupukan, dan pengapuran untuk meningkatkan kesuburan tanah, sehingga mampu meningkatkan kelas kesesuaian lahan di Kecamatan Kepenuhan Hulu dari S3 (sesuai marginal) dapat naik kelas satu tingkat menjadi S2 (cukup sesuai) yang artinya lahan sesuai untuk budidaya tanaman kakao.
Language Errors among Iranian EFL Students with High and Low Levels of Writing Anxiety
Authors: Shahhoseini Hajar , Khansir Ali Akbar
Published: May 2024

Writing is known as one of the major important language skills and it is the most difficult language skills for most EFL and ESL learners. In addition, anxiety is one of the factors that many language learners face with it in the writing process. This paper examines language errors among Iranian students of English with high and low levels of writing anxiety. For this purpose, 250 English language learners from universities of the south of Iran were participated in this research. This research used two tools to collect data: the Second Language Writing Anxiety Questionnaire (SLWAI), which was a pre-test containing 22 items and three subscales of physical anxiety, avoidance behavior, and cognition based on a Likert point scale. In addition, a language test in the form of essay writing was used to recognize their different categories and main errors in the writing performance. The results of this research showed that there is a negative relationship between students' anxiety and the number of errors in their writing performance. This study discusses the implications of this finding for English language learners and teachers.
Experimental Study of Shear Strength of Loess under Freeze-thaw Cycles
Authors: Li Sen , Deng Peng
Published: May 2024

In order to study the shear strength characteristics of loess under the action of freeze-thaw cycle, through the freeze-thaw test, straight shear test, to analyze the change rule of water content and freeze-thaw cycle on loess cohesion, internal friction angle and shear strength. The test results show that: loess cohesion gradually decreases with the increase of water content and the number of freeze-thaw cycles, when the freeze-thaw 7 times, the change of cohesion gradually tends to stabilize; the angle of internal friction decreases gradually with the increase of water content and the number of freeze-thaw cycles, but the rate of decrease is smaller than the rate of cohesion; the change of shear strength is affected by the cohesion more than the angle of internal friction, and the shear strength at different times of freezing and thawing increased linearly with the vertical stress, and the relationship equations between the shear strength and the water content and the number of freezing and thawing cycles were established.
Стратегічні напрями розвитку туристичного бізнесу України
Authors: Карий О. І. , Стрільчук Р. М. , Кисельов О. А.
Published: May 2024

Метою статті визначено формування стратегічних напрямів розвитку туристичного бізнесу України. Обґрунтовано, що важливим фактором успішного розвитку туристичного бізнесу є ефективне використання стратегічного потенціалу, зокрема соціокультурного потенціалу та людського капіталу. Акцентовано, що стратегічний потенціал задає вектори розвитку та встановлює шляхи мобілізації необхідних ресурсів людського та соціокультурного потенціалу. Водночас, Каталізатор перетворень в туристичному бізнесі є впроваджена стратегія для подальшого розвитку соціокультурного потенціалу, де центральне місце займає людський капітал. Формування та розвиток  виняткових, своєрідних продуктів туристичного бізнесу в Україні має прямий взаємозв’язок із виробленими конкурентними перевагами цього виду бізнесу та поступом соціокультурного потенціалу. Запропоновано схему взаємозв’язку стратегічного, соціокультурного потенціалу та людського капіталу в туристичному бізнесі України. Взаємозалежність поміж усіма цими компонентами є активним, постійно еволюціонуючим процесом.        Акцентовано на тому, що взаємодія між компонентами постійно змінюється та адаптується до нових умов і обставин. Кожен компонент впливає на інші, і ці впливи є безперервними та можуть змінюватися з часом. Таким чином, взаємозв’язку стратегічного, соціокультурного потенціалу та людського капіталу в туристичному бізнесі відображає складність та багатогранність взаємодій у реальному світі. Виділено підходи до формування та розвиту стратегічного потенціалу в туристичному бізнесі України в умовах війни, що є важливим завданням для забезпечення стійкості та розвитку сфери туризму: диверсифікація продукту, маркетингова стратегія, підтримка малого та середнього бізнесу, створення безпечного туристичного середовища, розвиток інфраструктури, розвиток громадського сектору. Запропоновано заходи для реалізації стратегічного потенціалу, включаючи людський капітал та соціокультурний потенціал, які є виключно вагомими завдяки необхідності ефективного реагування на складні ситуації та забезпечення стійкості туристичного бізнесу України в умовах війни: розвиток кризового менеджменту, навчання та розвиток персоналу, створення мережевих зв’язків, розширення ринків збуту, підтримка місцевого населення. Розвиток персоналу в сучасних умовах має включати: навчання з кризового управління, комунікаційним навичкам, культурної чутливості, особливості надання послуг в туристичній сфері.
Research on the English Translation Strategies for the Subtitle of the News Documentaries in the Context of "Chinese Culture Going Outside"
Authors: 赵 元韬
Published: May 2024

Documentary communication plays a significant role in strengthening international communication capacities. Documentaries are easily understood and recognized by people from diverse cultural backgrounds due to their credibility, appeal, and artistry. Under the background of Chinese culture "going outside", domestic documentaries bear the heavy responsibility of exporting excellent traditional culture and promoting the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. As a cultural and artistic provider, it displays a truly three-dimensional and comprehensive image of China, and is devoted to telling Chinese stories well and spreading Chinese voices. The documentary text has information that directly reflects the corresponding culture, which makes its subtitles an effective carrier of cultural transmission. This paper takes the news documentary "the CPC Way" as a case study, which analyzes the current situation of translating news documentary subtitles, discusses the challenges involved in documentary translation and proposes appropriate translation strategies. With the aim of encouraging more scholars to pay attention to the translation of documentary subtitles, in order to help Chinese culture "going outside".
Is virtual learning still virtually satisfactory in the post-COVID-19 era for pre-service teachers?
Authors: Adewale Sulaimon
Published: May 2024

The planned global migration to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the unplanned incidence of the COVID-19 pandemic have necessitated the indispensability of virtual learning adoption in tertiary institutions. The success of virtual learning is premised on many factors, including the quality of virtual learning platforms (VLPs) and users' satisfaction. This study, therefore, examined the association between VLPs and pre-service teachers (PST) satisfaction in the post-COVID-19 era. The study adopted a quantitative design using multi-stage sampling to select 200 final-year students in education faculty. The analytical methods used were Pearson product-moment correlation and independent t-test using SPSS version 29 statistical software. The findings indicated a moderately positive link between the quality of virtual learning platforms and pre-service teachers’ satisfaction. However, satisfaction levels differed based on the gender of the participants. This study recommends a regular collection of feedback from the students to identify where there are hitches; higher institutions should consider creating a quality assurance department for monitoring and evaluation of the institutions' virtual learning; and training and retraining of students and instructors are essential for the update of knowledge as the new technologies continue to emerge. The uniqueness of this study is in the appraisal of pre-service teachers’ knowledge and satisfaction after the COVID-19 experience. There is no iota of doubt that pre-service teachers who are preparing to be engaged in different schools need to imbibe the culture of virtual learning. Therefore, further studies must be conducted on the best way to make virtual learning attractive.
The Jurisdictional Conflict Between Regional Trade Agreements and the World Trade Organisation
Authors: Alajmi Abdulmohsen
Published: May 2024

The number of regional trade agreements (RTAs) between countries has significantly increased over the past few decades. RTAs may include rights and obligations that are parallel to those of the Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization 1994 (Marrakesh Agreement). They may also provide for their own dispute settlement mechanism that is different from the WTO Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU). This forum clause allows parties to both RTAs and the WTO to litigate their dispute outside the DSU. This article addresses the issue of jurisdictional conflict between the RTAs and the WTO dispute mechanism over a claim that is violative of both the WTO’s and RTA’s obligations.

The main question this article answers is whether it is possible for the forum clause incorporated in RTAs to divest the jurisdiction of the WTO if invoked during the proceeding. This article analyses several cases and RTAs involving a choice of forum clause before the WTO panel. This paper examines different legal principles to find a legal justification to reconcile the jurisdictional scope of both RTAs and the WTO agreements. As current international legal principles do not offer an effective solution, this paper suggests that the DSU should be amended to provide a set of rules governing the conflict between the RTAs and WTO jurisdictions.
Manifest Monitoring Model as Support for Customs Risk Management: Evidence From Taiwan
Authors: Kuo Yen-Hui , Chou Shu-Ching
Published: May 2024

This study constructs a feature prediction model in border smuggling inspection using the Artificial Neural Networks technique. We extracted six input variables relevant to smuggling through an iterated learning process on 176,869 import manifests. By adopting logistic regression, we also revealed that the six identified factors are significantly related to the occurrence of smuggling. We further used the six seizure factors to predict smuggling in 2019 and obtained an average accuracy rate of nearly 83 per cent. The accuracy rate was much higher around Fridays and holidays. The results will help provide cost-effective screening during customs clearance inspection and effectively manage border risks.
Research Results Enhancing the Employer Branding Efforts of the Hungarian Tax and Customs Administration
Authors: Magasvari Adrienn , Olexa Peter , Szabo Andrea
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the findings of a study carried out among a specific group of tax inspectors serving at the Hungarian Tax and Customs Administration (graduates of the Customs and Excise Administration Program, cohort 2012–2017 from the Faculty of Law Enforcement of the University of Public Service). The study reveals the opinions and viewpoints of young, freshly graduated tax inspectors about the employer’s potential to retain employees, particularly concerning the reasons for choosing or switching workplaces. The research findings will also enable the organisation to commence the development of its employer brand, relying on the strengths and weaknesses identified.
Enabling Supply Chain Visibility and Compliance Through Voluntary Information Sharing With Customs: A Case Study of the Global Quality Traceability System in China Customs
Authors: Zhou Xin , Tan Yao-Hua , Rukanova Boriana
Published: May 2024

The promotion of digital customs and data analytics have led customs administrations to seek to improve their analytics capabilities and exploit data from the trade community. Despite the increased data analysis capabilities of Customs, the data available to them are still limited to the current mandated declaration. If businesses are willing to share additional commercial information with Customs, it will enable them to make a more accurate risk assessment and ensure compliance. As a new form of Customs and business partnership, voluntary information sharing can be a supplementary data source to the mandated declaration and enable Customs to exploit additional commercial information. This study analysed an exploratory case study on the Global Quality Traceability System (GQTS) initiated by China Customs to investigate how voluntary information sharing can be achieved, and to explore the benefits for the participants. This study demonstrated that voluntary information sharing with Customs implemented through a data pipeline enhanced supply chain visibility and ensured compliance. The private companies who shared information contributed to the supply chain visibility and in return benefited from it.
Humanitarian Customs: Lessons Learned Regarding Cusoms Response and Role in Supply Chain Continuity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Samaya Murali Shri T. , Raj S. Vandana , Subramanian Kanaga
Published: May 2024

This paper, presented at the World Customs Organization (WCO) PICARD Web Conference 2020, analyses the challenges faced by Customs and the key stakeholders in the cross-border supply chain due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It documents the role of Customs in supply chain continuity by recording policy responses, innovative practices and technological solutions to highlight the initiatives taken for faster release of cargo including emergency relief cargo, hasslefree movement of international passengers and reduction in time and cost for the stakeholders in cross-border supply chains. For disseminating the lessons learned as a way of sharing best practices, the paper discusses how Indian Customs has facilitated the movement of goods while applying appropriate risk management; how Customs has enhanced communication, collaboration and cooperation with their Participating Government Agencies and the private sector; and what measures are being taken by Customs to protect their frontline officers. An analysis by the authors of dwell time data across major customs formations in India proved that the policy responses by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) yielded positive results through reduction in dwell time from May 2020 onwards. The authors have also analysed in detail the importance and effective role of the WCO in supply chain continuity across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Effect of Simulated Learning on Students’ Academic Achievement in Science at Elementary Level
Authors: Warsi Lubna Quddus , Asghar Muhammad , Naseer Rabia
Published: May 2024

This study was conducted to find out the Effect of Simulated Learning on Students’ Academic Achievement in Science at the Elementary Level. Simulated learning as an innovative method has gained considerable attention nowadays. It involves using technology and virtual environments to replicate real-life scenarios or experiences for educational purposes. The major objectives of the study were to analyze teachers' perceptions of simulated learning and to study the challenges teachers face when using simulated learning in their instruction. The researcher used a descriptive survey design. All the male and female elementary science teachers from the Muzaffargrh and Layyah districts were considered part of the study population. The study sample was comprised of 303 elementary school science teachers who were selected randomly. A 45-item questionnaire was used. The researcher used descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to analyze the collected data using SPSS. The results revealed that teachers generally expressed positive views on the use of simulated learning for the teaching of science. It was recommended that simulated learning activities be aligned with the science curriculum. Guidelines and frameworks should be formulated to facilitate the seamless integration of simulated learning into existing educational frameworks. Teachers should be supported in adapting their teaching methods to fit simulated learning environments.
Who Gets Water? Governance Failures & Persistent Drinking Water and Sanitation Issues
Authors: Hayat Shakeel , Jamali Hameed , Jan Muhammad Zakria , Ihtisham Yamna
Published: May 2024

he sustainable provision of potable water and sanitation services presents a multitude of fundamental challenges concerning access and allocation. These challenges extend beyond water resources themselves, encompassing the allocation of rights, responsibilities, and associated risks. Disparities in water supply and sanitation services are stark, both geographically and socioeconomically. A thorough analysis requires examining the international governance instruments that guide access, the property rights frameworks that dictate allocation, and the scales at which these rights and frameworks operate. Additionally, the responsibilities vested in various authorities and stakeholders must be scrutinized. Water insecurity, particularly with respect to drinking water and sanitation, is not solely attributable to natural phenomena. This paper presents a literature review (2008-2023) encompassing research from the Earth Systems Governance community and beyond, focusing on water supply services and sanitation. Access and allocation were interpreted broadly, encompassing issues of inclusive development, justice, sustainability, and additional themes identified through the review process. The findings suggest a significant role for governments in facilitating access and allocation, with failures in these areas leading to long-term consequences. This will necessitate a holistic approach that considers water access and allocation alongside interconnected issues like sanitation, development, climate change, energy, and food security, all within a multi-level governance framework.
Occupational and Environmental Health Hazards among Agriculture Laborers: An Evidence-Based Study from Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Jamshed Farhat , Arshad Muhammad , Afzal Afzaal , Khalid Maryam
Published: May 2024

Laborers from the agriculture sector have often been victims rather than beneficiaries of the green revolution, technological development, and globalization trends that characterized the 20th century. In recent decades, the laborers working in the agriculture sector have been half of the world’s labor force, with an estimated number of 1.3 billion worldwide, and a majority of them found in developing countries. Adequate balance between agricultural growth and protection from occupational & environmental health hazards is very crucial for the future of the world’s food production and for the sustainability of the sector. The study was conducted in three divisions of Punjab, and primary data was collected through multistage simple random sampling techniques. The interview schedule was used as a tool for data collection. The results revealed that the occupational and environmental circumstances of the laborers were not conducive towards their health and well-being. The agricultural laborers have to face many health hazards, whereas the majority of the laborers were exploited only due to their illiteracy and ignorance about Government policies and laws related to them. A huge proportion of the participants reported chronic health, malnutrition, and socio-economic problems significantly associated with their working environment, amenities and available facilities.
Os efeitos da amplitude térmica do ambiente em estruturas de aço para edificações: um estudo de caso
Authors: Ribeiro Danielle Malvaris , Rodrigues Glauco José de Oliveira
Published: May 2024

A variação de temperatura pode ser considerada um carregamento capaz de provocar esforços em estruturas hiperestáticas, tais quais a de uma edificação, quando concebida como um pórtico tridimensional. Acompanhando estas solicitações, surgem os deslocamentos nodais que, em se tratando de aço, material de alta condutibilidade térmica, acenam como fator de alta relevância e que não deve em hipótese nenhuma ser desprezado nos projetos de estruturas em aço.O presente trabalho tem por objetivo, apresentar um estudo de caso real de uma edificação de alto padrão com estrutura em aço construída na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, que apresentou patologias visíveis, imediatas e recorrentes em seus componentes não estruturais (alvenarias e revestimentos), cuja retro análise estrutural, considerando o efeito da variação de temperatura devida a amplitude térmica sazonal estimada, as justificou e viabilizou a propositura de soluções mitigatórias. A estrutura da edificação foi remodelada e o efeito variação de temperatura do ambiente considerado nas combinações de carregamento. Para tanto foi utilizada a ferramenta computacional Cype 3D (conforme os critérios da NBR 8800:2008), e constatou-se que os deslocamentos nodais (em especial os causadores das patologias) eram perfeitamente compatíveis com os medidos in loco, através das aberturas de trincas nos componentes não estruturais da edificação. Foram propostas duas soluções objetivando-se a redução dos deslocamentos nodais devidos ao efeito de alongamento/encurtamento de algumas vigas da edificação em função dos efeitos da variação de temperatura, decorrentes da amplitude térmica sazonal na Cidade do Rio de Janeiro.
Os limites do poder diretivo na relação juslaboral clube-atleta
Authors: Peres Fernando Melo Gama , Almeida Victor Hugo de , Tristão Ana Clara
Published: May 2024

Desde manifestações intrinsecamente culturais em civilizações de diferentes épocas e regiões até a indústria multibilionária que é atualmente, o esporte passou, necessariamente, pela regulação jurídica, de forma a garantir sua melhor organização e prática. Vinculado a um clube (empregador), o atleta (empregado) dedica-se ao trabalho como qualquer outro obreiro, de sorte que esta relação também é juridicamente tutelada. Sendo o atleta parte de um negócio jurídico, aplicam-se à relação clube-atleta as disposições laborais, como o poder diretivo do empregador. Nesse sentido, objetiva-se compreender o papel do poder diretivo do empregador na relação de emprego junto ao atleta profissional, de sorte a delinear suas possibilidades e limites jurídicos. Para tanto, utiliza-se, como método de procedimento, o levantamento por meio da técnica de pesquisa bibliográfica, e como método de abordagem, o dedutivo. Conclui-se ser crucial reconhecer que o poder diretivo não é absoluto, encontrando balizas nos direitos fundamentais do trabalhador e nas normas legais, sendo a possibilidade de resistência e de busca por reparação um contrapeso necessário para coibir eventuais abusos e garantir a proteção dos direitos dos atletas profissionais.
Tecendo os fios da saúde pública: o impacto do saneamento básico na qualidade de vida urbana e no meio ambiente
Authors: Santos Antonio Nacilio Sousa dos , Pessoa Ailton Caetano Nascimento , Bezerra Marcus Antonio Cunha , Souza Vera Lúcia Teodoro dos Santos , Jesus Analua Pereira Nunes de , Souto Igor Fernando de Queiroz , Faria Paulo Deiser Pereira , Morgan Lucas Alves de Araújo , Diogo Rosemary Tavares , Nogueira Neto José Maria
Published: May 2024

A lacuna no sistema de saneamento básico está imbricada na insuficiência do fornecimento hídrico, na ausência de procedimentos de purificação, na inadequação do sistema de drenagem sanitária, na inapropriada conservação dos detritos sólidos e nas precárias condições habitacionais. Notáveis progressos foram alcançados no contexto do saneamento básico no Brasil durante os primeiros decênios do século XX, sendo tais avanços propugnados pelo renomado médico higienista Oswaldo Cruz. Consequentemente, foram adotadas medidas sanitárias com o fito de restringir a disseminação de diversos agentes patogênicos que assolavam a saúde pública naquelas décadas. O escopo da pesquisa foi investigar e elucidar a relevância do saneamento básico para a saúde coletiva, assim como identificar os desdobramentos que possam impactar o bem-estar populacional. O delineamento deste empreendimento científico se constitui em uma abordagem qualitativa descritiva (Minayo, 2018), embasando-se em um relato de experiência. Para a elaboração da referida pesquisa, procedeu-se uma meticulosa revisão bibliográfica de artigos científicos pertinentes à temática proposta. Nesse contexto, realizou-se uma pesquisa in loco em locais turísticos da cidade de Juazeiro do Norte, no Estado do Ceará, visando avaliar os efeitos decorrentes da carência de um adequado sistema de saneamento básico. Destarte, é patente a percepção de que o rápido desenvolvimento urbano fomenta um incremento no consumo de bens industrializados e descartáveis, contribuindo, por conseguinte, para o agravamento da geração desses resíduos. Tal conjuntura resulta na exígua disponibilidade de espaço para sua disposição, emergindo, assim, um dos principais desafios ambientais contemporâneos. Em síntese, constatou-se a imperatividade de promover a educação dos visitantes acerca da correta disposição dos detritos sólidos nos locais turísticos de Juazeiro do Norte/Ceará, bem como é imprescindível viabilizar a cooperação por parte dos residentes das proximidades desses atrativos, visando à contenção do volume de resíduos, ao passo que a administração municipal deve envidar esforços para mitigar a incidência de esgotos a céu aberto, contribuindo, dessa maneira, para a preservação da saúde pública.
Bad split em cirurgia ortognática na região de mandíbula: relato de caso
Authors: Linhares Marcela Lopes , Lopes Laudson Souza , Souza Rafael Reis de , Linhares Márcio Lopes , Branco Márcio Langbeck Castelo , Borges Alberto Tadeu do Nascimento , Lopes Zobélia Maria de Souza , Borges Luã Lopes
Published: May 2024

A cirurgia ortognática busca corrigir deformidades e má posição dos maxilares e do complexo craniofacial. Por meio da osteotomia sagital, essas correções são realizadas. Contudo, fraturas indesejadas podem surgir como complicação, tendo potencial para causar complicações no pós-operatório, como lesões nervosas, reabsorção óssea, assimetria facial, parestesia, infecções e recidiva. Objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar um caso clínico sobre a ocorrência e o meio resolutivo de um Bad Split em cirurgia ortognática durante a osteotomia sagital de mandíbula para correção de prognatismo. O paciente, um jovem de 21 anos com deformidade facial classe III, passou por avaliação e planejamento pré-operatório. A cirurgia foi realizada, mas durante a osteotomia sagital da mandíbula, ocorreu uma fratura indesejada dividindo o osso em quatro fragmentos. O fragmento basilar foi removido, enquanto os demais foram mantidos por estarem fixos ao periósteo. A fratura foi resolvida seguindo o plano de movimentação mandibular, e a remoção do osso fraturado permitiu um pós-operatório sem bloqueio maxilomandibular. A anatomia variável da mandíbula em pacientes com desproporção esquelética pode contribuir para "Bad Split". O relato enfatiza a importância da prontidão para lidar com tais situações. A intervenção imediata com placas, parafusos e remoção de fragmentos ósseos não afetou negativamente o resultado do tratamento, beneficiando a qualidade de vida do paciente. Conclui-se que complicações cirúrgicas, como "Bad Split", podem surgir durante osteotomias sagitais em cirurgias ortognáticas. A intervenção ágil e adequada não prejudicou o resultado, demonstrando a importância do manejo eficaz para otimizar a recuperação e a qualidade de vida dos pacientes.
Desordens patomecânicas relacionadas ao desenvolvimento da condromalácia patelar: uma revisão descritiva
Authors: Leal Leon Claudio Pinheiro , Sena Jean Sávio Costa , Siqueira Eduarda Monnicke Soares Hesketh , Silva Carlos Eduardo Silva da , Rocha Renan Wallace Guimarães da , Sousa Smayk Barbosa , Farias Alexandre Maia de
Published: May 2024

A condromalácia patelar (CMP) tem como característica lesões crônico-degenerativas na articulação patelofemoral, que podem ser causadas por traumas ou alterações na translação patelofemoral induzidas por incompatibilidade anatômica ou desordens patomecânicas nas cadeias cinemáticas de membros inferiores. Estas desordens promovem cargas mecânicas anormais sobre a articulação patelofemoral corroborando com o desenvolvimento de lesões nas superfícies osteocondrais, por isso devem ser observadas para correção com protocolo de exercícios. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma revisão descritiva das desordens musculoarticulares que influenciam para o mal rastreamento patelar e podem induzir o desenvolvimento da CMP.  Para tanto, foram coletados estudos publicados nos últimos 15 anos utilizando-se os descritores “condromalácia patelar”, “dor femoropatelar”, “desordens femoropatelares”, “condropatia femoropatelar” na base de dados do PubMed. Ao final foram coletados 31 estudos, discutidos de acordo com a desordem indutora de problema patelofemoral. Os resultados mostraram que problemas relacionados déficits de força nos músculos extensores, abdutores e rotadores internos da articulação coxofemoral; aumento do ângulo Q acima da normalidade em atividades dinâmicas; desequilíbrio de forças entre o vasto medial e o vasto lateral; e a tensão excessiva no retináculo lateral do joelho parecem ter relação com o desenvolvimento de problemas patelofemorais, incluindo a CMP.
Possibilidade de tratamento de dejetos suínos com vistas a sustentabilidade ambiental - uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Sousa Ligia Pereira de , Silva Karla Cristina Duarte , Mendes Cristiane Dutra , Mendonça Valdenia Cristina Mendes , Bernardes Regina Helena
Published: May 2024

O presente trabalho baseou-se em uma revisão bibliográfica, desenvolvida por meio da utilização de artigos científicos referentes as características dos dejetos suínos e suas técnicas de tratabilidade que possam ser viáveis para o tratamento de dejetos da granja suinícola do campus IFMA Maracanã, assessorando também na sua implementação. De acordo com os dados obtidos, notou-se que é comum que em pequenas propriedades, a forma de tratamento utilizada para dejetos sólidos seja as esterqueiras e a compostagem; já para os dejetos líquidos, normalmente utiliza-se a bioesterqueira, biodigestor ou lagoas revestidas com polietileno. Levando em consideração a aplicabilidade e o retorno financeiro, a construção de biodigestores é favorável para granjas de pequeno porte, o que a torna uma boa opção para aplicação no Campus IFMA Maracanã. Considerando estudos anteriormente realizados, além desta pesquisa, essas tecnologias de tratamento e armazenamento dos dejetos suínos, podem ser utilizadas como uma maneira de mitigar os impactos ambientais que os resíduos suinícolas podem causar.