bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connection fee as a factor to ensure financial affordability of utility services for consumers
Authors: Sivaev S. B. , Smirnov O. O. , Abdullaev A. M.
Published: May 2024

Utilities as a type of mixed public good have the characteristic of non-rivalry, that is, they must be available to the entire population without exception and all households must be able to pay for them. As a rule, such financial inclusion is achieved by providing targeted assistance to low-income families. For example, in Russia this problem is solved by a program of subsidies for housing and communal services. In various countries, other mechanisms are also used: the provision of social housing, budget subsidies for producers, price discrimination. This paper analyzes another way to reduce the financial burden for consumers of utility services, which has been used in most developed countries. It consists of shifting part of the costs of developing engineering infrastructure to future consumers through connection fees (technological connection) for capital construction projects. From the perspective of pricing theory, it is shown that connection fees can reduce the average costs of a utility company passed on to consumers of services; it is graphically illustrated how connection fees increase the financial affordability of utility services for consumers and reduce budget costs for subsidizing the payment of housing and communal services for households with low incomes.
The evolution of the debt—equity doctrine in the light of financial instruments’ digitalization
Authors: Krinichansky K. V. , Ponamorenko V. E.
Published: May 2024

The article outlines the basics for using the debt—equity dichotomy in the financial instruments typology and analyzes the contradictions and short-comings of the existing approach to classification. It is shown that the “trap” of the debt—equity dichotomy comes from the path dependence process, mainly formed by the inertia of the tax system. It is noted that the applying of the debt—equity dichotomy entails a formalist approach to classification, which does not bring closer to the clarity of the delimitation of contracts according to the criteria of risk and reward distribution, and restrictions on post-contractual opportunism. Arguments are given to explain why the foundations of the debt— equity doctrine may be weakened in relation to crypto assets. This is supported by the fact that the genesis of digital assets occurs in a specific technological context, which determines its own criteria and framework for the typology of instruments. Another set of arguments comes from the fact that the world of crypto assets appears to be coherent with the specific environment of venture capital investment. This environment, in turn, arouses the demand for overcoming the debt—equity dichotomy to implement the tasks of risky investors and structuring the relations of the parties involved in projects. This demand has now led to the emergence of a number of instruments that cannot be classified as either debt or equity, including those using the construct of tokens or contractual agreements used by crowdfunding platforms. Overall, the intellectual effort that previously satisfactorily explained companies’ choices of financing styles and modes is now insufficient to reconcile capital structure theories with the practice of digital asset financing.
Hosting Friends and Relatives: Experiences and Implications for Whitehorse and the Yukon: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Authors: Griffin Tom
Published: May 2024

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: 

As hosts, residents of Whitehorse attract visitors, curate tailored experiences, and explore their own communities, stimulating diverse economic, social, and cultural impacts. 

Residents are influential ambassadors for their community, and businesses, associations, and government agencies interested in tourism development, destination reputation, cultural participation and integration, and migration and settlement, should acknowledge and leverage them as hosts. Hosts could be encouraged and incentivized to invite guests to meet specific goals including low season demand and dispersal of tourism activity, recruitment and settlement of migrants, resident involvement in local culture, and the provision of personal supports including childcare and emotional well-being. 

This report aims to establish a knowledge base recognizing hosting as a mechanism and catalyst for tourism and community development, and to encourage further research and informed action. The detailed report follows this summary.

Based on firsthand experiences of 54 Whitehorse residents interviewed in spring 2023, this report reveals how personal hospitality extends beyond simple acts of accommodation to serve as a foundation for cultural exchange, economic development, and enhanced communal bonds.  
A Feasibility Study of Different Methods of Gasification of Brown Coal for the Production of Synthetic Motor Fuel
Authors:   Research Centre for Industrial Problems of Development of NAS of Ukraine, Kotliarov Yevhen I. , Shulha Ihor V. ,   Ukrainian State Research Coal Chemical Institute (UKHIN), Kyzym Mykola O. ,   Research Centre for Industrial Problems of Development of NAS of Ukraine, Khaustova Viktoriia Ye. ,   Research Centre for Industrial Problems of Development of NAS of Ukraine
Published: May 2024

The aim of the article is to assess the feasibility of organizing the production of synthesis gas from brown coal, the reserves of which in Ukraine are sufficient. As a raw material base, the article considers the coal of the Novo-Dmytrivske deposit, which is located on the territory of the Kharkiv region. The balance reserves of brown coal in categories A + B amount to 284.4 million tons and in category C1 – to 95.6 million tons, that is, a total of 380 million tons. The average technical analysis data for the deposit are as follows: moisture per working weight is 51.2%; ash content per dry weight is 19.4%; the total sulfur content is 2.45%. The elemental composition of the coal of this deposit is characterized by the following data: carbon – 68.0%, hydrogen – 6.0%, oxygen – 23.0%, sulfur, nitrogen and other elements – 3.0%. To achieve the goal, the properties of coal of this deposit have been examined and the following technologies of coal gasification have been analyzed: Lurgi process (counter-current steam-oxygen gasification of coarse coal (or briquettes) in a stationary bed); Prenflo process (direct-flow steam-oxygen gasification in a pulverized coal stream); Texaco process (direct-flow oxygen gasification in a coal-water pulp stream). For each of these processes, material balances have been developed; the quality of gas synthesis, the possibility of organizing the production of the necessary energy resources, the level of emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere, and the main technical and economic indicators have been evaluated. The calculations were made for an enterprise with a coal capacity of 9 million tons of actual weight per year. Based on the calculations made, the Lurgi process is recommended for industrial implementation. The advantages of this process are: the lowest temperature and pressure of the gasification process; a wider range of products obtained during gasification; almost optimal syngas composition in terms of H2 : CO ratio; the lowest emissions of carbon dioxide generated during coal gasification and preparation of synthesis gas for further use; the lowest production cost of prepared synthesis gas; the lowest specific capital investments (per 1 thousand m3 of prepared synthesis gas). The inexpediency of using the Texaco process for the gasification of brown coal is substantiated, as well as the directions for improving the Prenflo process for its further use in the gasification of brown coal of the Novo-Dmytrivske deposit are determined.
Substantiating the Pricing Decision-Making, Taking into Account Cost Management Capabilities
Authors:   Kharkiv Trade and Economics Professional College of the State University of Trade and Economics, Rudenko Inna V. , Melnychuk Maryna O. ,   Kharkiv Trade and Economics Professional College of the State University of Trade and Economics, Kunicheva Tetiana P. ,   Kharkiv Trade and Economics Professional College of the State University of Trade and Economics
Published: May 2024

The aim of the article is to develop proposals for improving approaches to the formation of pricing policy, taking into account the possibilities of cost management under modern economic conditions. The aggravation of various kinds of problems during the wartime in Ukraine is emphasized. Attention is focused on significant inflation rates and constant fluctuations in prices for goods and services, for which the dynamics of the consumer price index in Ukraine over the past decade, i. e. for 2014–2023, was studied. It is concluded that there is a need for new marketing approaches to the formation of prices, adequate to new challenges. In particular, attention is focused on the instruments for supporting decision-making on pricing, which is based on understanding the nature of the behavior of costs of economic entities. The main problems in the formation of prices in the face of new challenges of today have been identified. The imperfection of cost methods of pricing for managerial purposes and the need to classify costs into relevant and irrelevant ones have been proved. It is found out what types of costs have an impact on the justification and support of pricing decisions. Particular importance was given to the concepts of differentiated costs, as well as incurred or «drowned» costs. It is concluded that the latter do not affect the adoption of future managerial decisions and are always irrelevant. An example of determining the real amount of costs when making a decision on independent production of an article or its purchase on the side, which can be a criterion for making important managerial decisions, is considered. It is emphasized that the main factors of price formation, in addition to costs, are the results of market research, which, when pricing, take into account the motivation of consumers to purchase certain goods. It is specified that not all consumers consider the price as a decisive factor when deciding on the purchase of goods or services. It is noted that there are also personified, ethical or apathetic consumers who pay less attention to product prices. It is concluded that, taking into account different categories of consumers, it is expedient for enterprises to determine the appropriate price range, which will allow to set its optimal level and maintain it.
Accounting for Charitable and Humanitarian Aid in Budgetary Institutions in Ukraine
Authors:   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Shavrina Yuliia V. , Sliunina Tetiana L. ,   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
Published: May 2024

The article examines and systematizes the order and features of accounting for charitable and humanitarian aid in budgetary institutions of Ukraine. First of all, the essence of charitable assistance and its difference from humanitarian aid were studied, the key characteristics of each type of such assistance were provided with reference to the legislation of Ukraine. The normative and legal regulation of accounting for charitable and humanitarian aid is considered. The procedure for documenting and reflecting in the accounting of a State-based institution the procedure for receiving and using charitable and humanitarian aid is provided. The forms in which charitable and humanitarian assistance can be provided, in particular in the form of cash, tangible assets, such as stocks or fixed assets (reflecting depreciation deductions for received fixed assets), as well as in the form of works and services, are considered. For each form of charitable and humanitarian aid, appropriate accounting entries are provided, used to reflection in the accounting of a budgetary institution. Such correspondences are presented in accordance with the chart of accounts of budgetary institutions, which is currently used in budgetary institutions of Ukraine. The features of the preparation of accompanying documentation for the procedure for transferring and receiving charitable and humanitarian aid are also described. Based on the results of the study, information on the process of accounting for charitable and humanitarian aid is systematized. The importance and relevance of accounting in the receipt or use of charitable and humanitarian aid and its proper documentary support are also described. Emphasis is placed on the importance of such accounting in today’s conditions in which Ukraine finds itself, as well as on the importance of improvement of such accounting.
Management of Financial Activities of Agricultural Enterprises in Ukraine
Authors:   Lutsk National Technical University, Oleksandrenko Iryna V.
Published: May 2024

The aim of the article is to substantiate the need to manage the financial activities of agricultural enterprises in Ukraine in the context of ensuring a sufficient amount of financial resources to fulfill all production and non-production goals. In the context of the study, the essence of financial activity has been defined and its functional characteristics have been allocated, which allows for a detailed assessment of its role in the financial provision of enterprise development. The main factors influencing the financial activity of agricultural enterprises are systematized, the consideration of which is the determining function of the management process. An analysis of the main indicators of economic development of agricultural enterprises in Ukraine has been carried out, which has allowed to define the level of profitability of their activities, which indicates the availability of own financial resources in the structure of sources of financial support. It is substantiated that the profitable activity of agricultural enterprises does not allow them to fully finance their own needs of expanded reproduction, and high prices for fixed assets and current assets force them to use other sources of financial security. The main methods of financial support for the activities of agricultural enterprises have been researched and described in detail, which has allowed to substantiate the use of the most alternative methods of financing, which are reduced to self-financing, lending, State financial support and leasing. In order to study the management aspects of ensuring the efficiency of financial activities, the stages of management are presented with a clear detailing of the functions at each of them, which makes it possible to correctly approach the management process and determine its main elements. In order to ensure the efficiency of management of financial activities, the main structural elements of this process have been identified and the features of the activities of agricultural enterprises, which should be taken into account in the development of managerial decisions, have been clearly allocated.
The Current Trends in the World Market of Organic Products
Authors:   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Galutskykh Nataliia А. , Didorchuk Iryna L. ,   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
Published: May 2024

Organic production meets the needs for healthy and ecological food, the demand for which is growing every year. The global market for organic products is growing by an average of 10% annually and, according to forecasts, will amount to about USD 220 billion in 2026. In terms of value, the market is estimated at almost 130 billion US dollars. It consists of the national markets of the countries of the European Union, North America and Japan. The number of organic producers is constantly growing. Thus, according to the International Union of the Organic Movement («IFOAM»), more than 3 million farms grow organic products in 187 countries of the world. The regional structure of the world market of organic products is characterized by heterogeneity: about 45% of the world market belongs to European countries. Among them, the largest producers are Italy, Spain, Germany and France. Among the leading companies in the organic market, Danone, Nestle, General Mills, SunOpta, Hain Celestial and Organic Valley are distinguished, which involve certified farmers in this area. The largest importers of organic products in the world are the United States (imports amount to more than 3.0 billion US dollars), the EU countries (2.8 billion US dollars) and Japan (1.4 billion US dollars). In Ukraine, organic production is certified in accordance with the standards of the Council Regulation (EU) and NOP (USA). The largest markets for Ukrainian organic products are the EU, North America and Asia. Prospects for the development of the world market of organic products depend on a combination of factors, among them are: consumer awareness of the benefits of organic products and the desire for a healthy lifestyle; further development of innovative technologies for growing and processing organic products; lower prices for organic products; improvement of legislation, which ensures quality control of organic products and increases consumer confidence in organic products; the State support through special funding programs. The main current trends in the global market of organic products are the following: the growth of prices for organic products at a faster pace than for non-organic products, which in some way restrains the growth of demand for these products; rapid introduction of innovations in organic farming (e.g. in agroecological systems); increase in the number of certified organic farms; increasing demand for certain segments of the product range (the most popular are fruits and vegetables, which account for almost 40% of the total volume of organic products); growing demand for organic baby food products and products labeled «fair trade» (lactose-free and gluten-free); using artificial intelligence (AI) to track all stages of organic production and transportation. All these trends indicate the potential for further growth in demand for organic products around the world.
Priorities of Tax Policy of the Socioeconomic Development of Territorial Communities
Authors:   Uman National University of Horticulture, Krachok Liudmyla I.
Published: May 2024

The article formulates the priorities of the tax policy of socioeconomic development of territorial communities under the influence of endo- and exogenous factors of its implementation. In the course of the study, general scientific and special research methods were used: analysis and synthesis, the method of causal analysis, methods of systematization and logical generalization, as well as the method of SWOT analysis. Their application made it possible to identify and systematize the problems of implementation of tax policy in the context of ensuring the socioeconomic development of territorial communities in Ukraine, taking into account the regulatory, organizational, economic, managerial and regulatory aspects. The method of SWOT analysis identifies obstacles and opportunities, weaknesses and strengths of the implementation of tax policy aimed at the development of individual territories of the country. According to its results, the priorities of the tax policy of socioeconomic development of territorial communities are determined. It is proposed that the implementation of these priorities of the tax policy of socioeconomic development of territorial communities of Ukraine, taking into account its administrative-territorial structure and differences in the natural-resource, production-sectoral and socioeconomic provision of individual territories, should take place primarily at the local level, which will help to form «development centers», the economic growth of which, according to the principle of diffusion, will spread to the regional and national levels. It is expected that the identified priorities will help to improve the existing tax policy, contributing to increasing the tax potential of budgets of cities, the formation of a business environment, and improving the tax culture both at the level of the population and at the level of competent local authorities, as well as the growth of social awareness and participation in the economic development of territorial communities.
Peculiarities of Counteracting the Money Laundering in Contemporary Financial Markets
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Rysin Vitalii V. , Fedorovych Bohdan I. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: May 2024

The development of new financial technologies has led to a significant acceleration of cash flows, an expansion of the range of opportunities for settlements and the use of digital financial instruments. One of the negative consequences of this process was the emergence of new money laundering schemes. The aim of the article is to qualitatively assess the changes in the sphere of money laundering with the use of financial institutions caused by the development of new financial technologies and virtual instruments, as well as to determine the list of signs of transactions with virtual assets that may indicate the implementation of money laundering schemes. Virtual assets have significant potential to stimulate financial innovation and efficiency in financial markets, but their individual characteristics create new opportunities for money laundering and terrorism financing. In view of this, it is of great importance in modern financial markets to improve methods of counteracting this phenomenon, in particular, the formation of a list of signs of transactions with virtual assets, which may indicate the illegal origin of funds or illegal purposes of their movement. The publication proposes an approximate list of signs of money laundering, which can be used by financial service providers in the process of monitoring transactions. Our approach involves dividing such attributes into six categories according to the volume and frequency of transactions, transaction patterns, anonymity, characteristics of transaction beneficiaries, source of funds, and geographic risk. A list of signs of suspicious activity when carrying out transactions, the use of assets with a high level of anonymity, client risks, links with criminal activity or high-risk jurisdictions has been determined. In order to understand the big picture and qualitatively assess the risks of money laundering and terrorism financing, the features identified in the article should be considered in the context of all available information on individual transactions. Taking into account the features and vulnerabilities of the latest financial instruments, we consider it an important prerequisite for updating the current practices of customer due diligence and detection of suspicious financial transactions.
Analysis of Scientific Approaches to Understanding the Risk Management of Logistics Systems
Authors:   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Baidatskiy Mykola V.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the study is to systematize the views of foreign and Ukrainian scholars on the risk management of logistics systems and to develop the author’s approach to understanding the concept of logistics system. The article defines that the use of risk management instruments is due to a number of advantages, in particular, the following: improvement of strategic planning at the enterprise; improving the efficiency of the production and economic system of the enterprise; optimization of the use of material resources of the enterprise; improvement of communication channels between employees and management of the enterprise; identification of risks that adversely affect the operation of the enterprise; development of a methodology for identifying risks that impact the operation of the enterprise. To determine the instruments for risk management of logistics system, foreign experience in studying this issue is analyzed. The features of the new paradigm in comparison with traditional approaches to risk management are highlighted as follows: continuous management process, coordination of management decisions by the head of the enterprise, a wide range of analyzed risks. Approaches to the definition of the concept of logistics system are analyzed and the author’s own vision of this concept is proposed in the following wording: it is a complex of enterprise structures, processes, infrastructure elements and information flows aimed at planning, coordinating and managing the movement of material and information flows in order to ensure the efficiency and competitiveness of business, which includes such aspects as inventory management, warehousing, transportation, management of supply and distribution, as well as information processing and supplier and customer relationship management in order to ensure optimal use of resources, minimization of costs, ensuring high quality of customer service and timely supplies. Risk management of a logistics system is a complex, multifaceted process that is aimed at ensuring efficient, productive, stable and reliable operation of the logistics system by identifying, assessing and managing risks that affect the performance of the enterprise.
Efficiency of Using E-Commerce Tools in the Development of Marketing Activities of Enterprises
Authors:   Ukrainian Engineering and Pedagogical Academy, Chobitok Viktoriia I. , Kibets Artur M. ,   Ukrainian Engineering and Pedagogical Academy
Published: May 2024

The aim of the article is the theoretical and methodological substantiation of the use of e-commerce tools in the development of marketing activities of enterprises in turbulent economic conditions. According to the results of the carried out study, the volume of e-commerce trade is identified. Global e-commerce turnover amounts to approximately $6 trillion. This is 20-odd percent of the world’s total retail trade. Due to the different level of development (penetration) of information technology in each of the European countries, taken into consideration the data of the European E-Commerce Report 2023, it is worth noting that the share of online sales has increased significantly. The main factors influencing the difference in the number of sales between countries in the e-commerce segment are: development and application of e-commerce tools; integration of banking technologies into e-commerce; development of a network of logistics delivery centers; legal safeguards to protect consumers. The speed of updates of technologies and methods of their application in the field of e-commerce is high, so there is a necessity for constant monitoring of the functionality and experience in the implementation of innovative products. In order to save money on marketing activities of enterprises in Ukraine, it is recommended to increase the CRR (Customer Retention Rate). The main tools (directions) for improving efficiency in e-commerce are e-mail marketing, messenger marketing, remarketing campaigning using Google Ads, Facebook Ads and other advertising platforms.
The Impact of Foreign Direct Investment on Less Developed Regions
Authors:   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Lazarenko Maksym I.
Published: May 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) and the activities of TNCs in less developed regions (LDRs), which can lead to a break in value chains and to an increasingly complex division of labor, more complex decisions on location and directions of regional development. The author presents different types and mechanisms of FDI in more developed regions (MDRs) and in LDRs. The main approaches to FDI in the LDRs, developed in economic theory, are evaluated. Attention is drawn to that that international production and FDI will have significant implications for the LDRs in the near future. The development of factory automation is likely to reduce the feasibility of low labor costs, low-cost locations, which, in turn, will lead to increased reuse, attraction of resources in high-tech industries and a decrease in the level of added value of services. Increasing digitalization of supply chains is likely to lead to the emergence of more complex global production networks, the expansion of international production in both low-tech industries and higher value-added services. Increased automation and digitalization, trends in regional integration towards more stable local and regional sources of supply, and a push to become less dependent on imports of strategic goods undertaken by more developed regions (MDRs) are likely to lead to stronger organization of production networks on a macro-regional scale. The article urges experts to continue researching FDI in the face of uneven development.
Innovative Development of Business Structures
Authors:   Institute of Economics and Management of the National University, But-Gusaim Oleksandr H.
Published: May 2024

The study is aimed at creating scientifically based approaches to understanding and analyzing innovations in business structures, which contributes to the further development of this important field and will help solve the problem of the lack of a comprehensive understanding of these processes. The aim of the article is to carry out a critical analysis of domestic and foreign literature to systematize and summarize the available data. The article systematizes, according to the results of the carried out study, approaches to the definition of innovative development through the improvement of business processes, the use of new technologies and system innovations. The practical bases for this is that the importance of new technologies for business efficiency and competitiveness has increased, and system innovation has become essential for adapting to a changing environment. The carried out study improves the conceptual and categorical apparatus and offers its own definition of innovative development of business structures. The study shows that the concept of innovative development of business structures can be considered from different points of view. This includes improving business processes, using the latest technology, and applying system solutions. The proposed own definition of innovative development of business structures emphasizes that this is a complex and complex process. This process involves continuous improvement of business processes in order to improve the quality of products, services and activities. To achieve this, it is necessary to actively use the latest technologies, develop and implement new products and services. In addition, innovative development implies a willingness to adapt to changing market conditions and needs. Thus, the innovative development of business structures is recognized as multiaspectual and inseparable from the process of continuous improvement and growth in the modern economic environment. The practical significance of this study is manifested in the improvement of the theoretical approach to the creation of innovative development strategies for enterprises.
The Innovative and Ecological Aspects of the Development of Domestic Entrepreneurship
Authors:   Ukrainian Engineering and Pedagogical Academy, Prokopchuk Liliya M. , Shabanov Ruslan M. ,   Ukrainian Engineering and Pedagogical Academy
Published: May 2024

The aim of the article is to provide a theoretical substantiation of the formation of innovative and ecological aspects of the development of domestic entrepreneurship in conditions of turbulence. The main motives for the introduction of ecological innovations at domestic enterprises are considered, the possibility of creating a new management system on the basis of innovation policy and synergetic space is considered. The ways and mechanisms of increasing innovation and ecological activities are described and methods of implementation are proposed. It is analyzed that the improvement of the innovation management system and the development of the internal business environment involves changes in the sphere of planning, employment of the population of the region, promotion of products, interaction of the authorities, domestic entrepreneurship, as well as knowledge management. Innovations in the field of business management will provide a long-term competitive advantage to specific areas and contribute to their development, taking into account and combining scientific and technological solutions with administration and innovation management. Particular attention is paid to domestic enterprises in the ecological aspect – for the implementation of innovative and ecological activities, business strategies and the search for a balance between profit, ecological protection and social justice. On the basis of the carried out analysis of the ecological aspects of innovation activity, important characteristics of innovative development of domestic enterprises have been allocated and an understanding of this economic category has been provided. Based on the results of the analysis of scientific papers, the main directions of innovative development of enterprise are determined, as well as the main motivational principles in this area are considered. Today, in order to overcome the innovation and ecological crisis, it is important to develop and implement ecologically friendly and cost-effective innovations. Ecological innovations, like other types of innovation, are aimed at making a profit and reducing costs, but their specificity is manifested in social, cultural and ethical contexts.
The Role of Green Technological Innovation, Fintech, and Financial Development in Environmental Sustainability: A Study on Selected Asian Countries
Authors: Li Yun , Shahid Muhammad Naeem , Islam Muhammad Umar , Deme Fatema
Published: May 2024

This study intends to explore the nexus of green technological innovations, financial development, and Fintech with environmental sustainability. It employs data from Asian economies spanning from 2012 to 2021. We intend to examine the impact of green innovations, Fintech, and financial development (measured through access to financial institutions and efficiency of financial markets) on Environmental Sustainability (measured through carbon emissions). After addressing the issues of slope heterogeneity, cointegration, and CSD, this study employs the CS-ARDL model to explore the connectedness between proposed variables. We find that Fintech and the efficiency of financial markets enhance carbon emissions, thus deteriorating environmental sustainability. On the other hand, access to financial institutions and green technological innovations improves ecological sustainability. The findings are essential for Asian economies and policymakers to attain better environmental quality.
ENHANCED APPROACH FOR CHANGE OF COURSE OF STUDY USING FUZZY LOGIC
Authors: Mathew Karma Solomon , Zachariah Babangida , Aminu Jibril , Isaac Samson , Yusuf Luqman , Ibrahim Yusuf Kakangi
Published: May 2024

In tertiary institutions of Nigeria, students are admitted through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to study courses of their choice. However, most students often perform poorly. Thus, the need to change their programme of study becomes a necessity or risk being withdrawn from the university. The student for a change of programme is required to present a cumulative grade point average (CGPA), which informs the student’s status and commonly used criteria to determine the student’s qualification for a change of programme of study. The students are allowed to choose or advised which programme to choose based on their perceived strength. This is not scientific and have proven ineffective since may be based on biased perception. Thus, most of these students still perform poorly in the new programme of study and may end up being withdrawn. In order to minimize subjectivity and handle uncertainty in such a decision process, this paper proposed a fuzzy logic approach for the change of programme of study by considering the student’s Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) result(s), UTME scores, and grades obtained in the various examined and related courses. The CGPA initiates the entire process. The simulation was done in MATLAB, inputs were supplied and the recommendation is generated. The strength values of each input is calibrated from, as   from which the system recommends other faculties, Computer Science, Statistics, Physics and mathematics respectively. The system enhances the chance that a student may perform in their newly proposed programme.
IS BISPHENOL A (BPA) A PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN? A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND RISK PERCEPTION IN SOUTHWESTERN PART OF NIGERIA
Authors: Omoyajowo Koleayo , Agbaogun Babatunde , Ogunyebi Amos , Kanaan Manal , Omoyajowo Busayo , Makengo Benjamin Mwadi , Alayemi Ayodele , Omoyajowo Kolawole , Alao Rebecca
Published: May 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical produced in large quantities for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Exposure to BPA is a public health concern because studies since the last decade have consistently linked BPA with several physiological disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological, obesity, and some forms of cancers. Hence, this study assessed the level of BPA knowledge and awareness among randomly selected individuals in the Southwestern part of Nigeria. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing a survey specifically designed to collect data for the research. Different statistical methods were utilized including descriptive and inferential to analyze the data and to assess exploratory variables such as public knowledge, attitude, and risk perception. Findings revealed that though 96.2 % knew chemicals in plastics could cause adverse health effects, the level of knowledge on BPA and its attendant health risks among the sample population was abysmally low (only 35% knew this subject). However, most of our respondents interestingly expressed great attitude in terms of willingness to share information learned about BPA to others in the community. Based on the findings of this study, a massive awareness campaign about BPA and associated health risks would be required through effective scientific communication to improve public health outcomes.
A comparison among a fuzzy algorithm for image rescaling with other methods of digital image processing
Authors: Costarellı Danilo , Sambucını Anna Rita
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to compare the fuzzy-type algorithm for image rescaling introduced by Jurio et al., 2011, quoted in the list of references, with some other existing algorithms such as the classical bicubic algorithm and the sampling Kantorovich (SK) one. Note that the SK algorithm is a recent tool for image rescaling and enhancement that has been revealed to be useful in several applications to real world problems, while the bicubic algorithm is widely known in the literature. A comparison among the abovementioned algorithms (all implemented in the MatLab programming language) was performed in terms of suitable similarity indices such as the Peak-Signal-to-Noise-Ratio (PSNR) and the likelihood index $S$.
MAN, AS THE MOST IMPORTANT SUBJECT OF EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Lamanauskas Vincentas
Published: May 2024

There is no doubt that education creates a man. On the other hand, man is an extremely complex structure. We usually arrive at two opposite but complementary conclusions. On the one hand, all the people we meet, and as far as we can guess, are generally in some way similar to each other. On the other hand, each person is somehow unique, different from others. Commonality and particularity/uniqueness are the two main cognitive categories of any phenomenon. It is understood that man, as a subject of activity, is “an open” system: his existence and development depend on relations with the world around him, in which he lives and works. So, firstly, man, like any living being, is part of the natural world and is rightly considered a biological organism. Secondly, any human being is a member of one or another society, with which he is connected by ties and relations, defined as a social individual. In addition, a person is, in one way or another, related to the socio-historical, cultural, and moral experience of mankind. How to adopt this experience? How to absorb? It is obvious that assimilation of this experience is necessary for a person’s self-determination, growth, and development as a personality.
THE ROLE OF RHETORIC IN TEACHER VIRTUAL EXCHANGES: NAVIGATING DIGITAL COMMUNICATION IN EDUCATIONAL CONTEXTS
Authors: Kerneža Maja , Kordigel Aberšek Metka
Published: May 2024

Educators’ rhetorical skills are pivotal in virtual collaboration between teachers and parents, enhancing communication clarity and overcoming cultural barriers, thereby enriching educational experience and fostering intercultural understanding. A review of scientific databases such as Academic Search Complete, ERIC, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, was conducted to identify peer-reviewed articles from 2018 onwards that explore the role of rhetoric in teacher virtual exchanges. Articles were analysed for themes, findings, biases, and research gaps. A notable finding is the lack of research on rhetoric in virtual teacher exchanges, despite its potential to overcome cultural barriers and enhance collaboration. The study reveals that effective rhetorical techniques can improve clarity, persuasiveness, and intercultural understanding in virtual exchanges, indicating a need for more research and educational programs in this area. Furthermore, the study extends to virtual communication between teachers and parents, especially with non-native speakers or those with limited proficiency in the official language. This highlights the need for teachers to use sophisticated rhetorical strategies in diverse linguistic situations to improve understanding and involvement. In summary, the research underscores the significant impact of rhetorical skills in virtual teacher exchanges, with broader implications for global collaboration and intercultural understanding in the educational sphere.
Keywords: educational technology, intercultural communication, parent-teacher collaboration, rhetorical strategies, virtual exchange.
EVOLUTION OF PRE-SERVICE MATHEMATICS TEACHERS’ SPATIAL VISUALISATION SKILLS DURING A COGNITIVE LOAD THEORY-BASED EDUCATION
Authors: Kurban Feyza
Published: May 2024

This study explores how pre-service mathematics teachers’ spatial visualisation skills evolved during a Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) based education. The study used the qualitative theory-testing case study method, which guided the identification of participants, the design of technology-supported education, and the data collection and analysis process. The four participants meeting specific criteria were selected as the study sample. A CLT-based education equipped with technology was provided to help participants overcome difficulties in spatial visualisation problems, improve their existing schemas, and build higher-order schemas. Various teaching approaches (e.g., worked examples) were applied to optimise participants’ learning in CLT-based education. The study data (e.g., transcripts of interviews) were analysed using the pattern-matching technique, in which the observed patterns were compared with the derived hypotheses from the theoretic models regarding the problem-solving process and novice-expert schemas. The study achieved remarkable results: In CLT-based education, where teaching approaches have an important role, the improvement in their spatial visualisation skills happened as the participants overcame their challenges in problem-solving steps throughout their cyclic problem-solving processes and gained more knowledge and skills. The participants’ acquisition of expertise in spatial visualisation skills went through various developmental stages. They strengthened their initial spatial problem-solving schemas by completing the deficiencies in their prior knowledge. They gained practicality in same-category tasks and constructed higher-order problem-solving schemas when dealing with high-category tasks by activating their assimilation and adaptation processes. Keywords: Cognitive Load Theory, the development of spatial visualisation skills, theory-testing method, acquiring an expert spatial problem-solving schema
BEHAVIORS RELATED TO PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS' CRISIS MANAGEMENT SKILLS: IN THE CONTEXT OF THE FEBRUARY 6TH 2023 EARTHQUAKE
Authors: Özdemir Gökçe , Şahin Sevilay , Özdemir Türkoğlu Selin
Published: May 2024

In the face of the unpredictable nature of crises, it is expected that school principals exhibit behaviors aimed at maintaining the psychological well-being of teachers, students, and parents along with the educational processes. The sudden occurrence of the February 6, 2023 earthquakes, has presented an important crisis situation in which school principals are expected to display the desired behaviors. This research aims to reveal to what extent school principals demonstrated their crisis management skills in the context of the February 6, 2023 earthquake and what behaviors they exhibited during crisis management processes, based on teachers' opinions. The research was carried out with a mixed method approach in which quantitative and qualitative research methods were used together. The sample of the research consisted of 295 teachers, and the study group consisted of 18 teachers selected from the same sample by purposeful sampling method. Quantitative data of the research were collected using the crisis management scale, and qualitative data were collected using a semi-structured interview form. According to the quantitative results of the research, it was determined that the crisis management skill levels of school principals were "mostly" in the pre-crisis and post-crisis periods, and "sometimes" during the crisis period. When teachers' opinions were examined, it was seen that school principals were unprepared for crises arising from natural disasters such as earthquakes and that they mostly followed the Ministry of National Education guidelines and therefore lacked initiative. School principals who were able to take initiative took action to support the psychological health of teachers, students and parents by meeting their needs and gained their trust.
Keywords: crisis management, school principals' crisis management behaviors, February 6th,2023 earthquakes.
PUMPKIN AND PASTEL WINE, A FRUIT AND A LEGUME OF THE CUCURBITACEES FAMILY IN GREEN CIRCULAR ECONOMY WITH ZERO WASTE
Authors: Baholy Robijaona Rahelivololoniaina Baholy , Letsara Rokiman  , Herimanantena Miarantsoa Tinah  , Razafindrakoto Fanoina Ny Riana  , Rabeharitsara Andry Tahina  , Razafimahefa Mirana Verohanitra  , Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua  , Rakotomamonjy Pierre
Published: May 2024

This study explores the viability of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo subsp. Pepo) as unconventional sources for sustainable winemaking, contributing to a zero-waste circular economy in viticulture. The research employs a multidimensional methodology encompassing chemical analyses, sensory evaluations, and environmental impact assessments to scrutinize the entire lifecycle of wine production. The findings reveal watermelon wine's superiority, boasting a 14° alcohol content, while pumpkin wine ranges at 11°. Both wines maintain physico-chemical and organoleptic attributes, with minimal alterations in micronutrient content. The compost generated from processing waste contains essential nutrients for plant growth. Comparative analysis underscores the advantageous nature of this compost, laying the foundation for sustainable winemaking practices in Madagascar and illuminating the untapped potential of tropical fruits in the global viticultural landscape. This study, pioneering the valorization of unconventional fruit and vegetable in Madagascar, strives to contribute to the discourse on environmentally conscious winemaking, fostering a paradigm shift toward ecologically harmonious practices in the agro-industrial sector.