bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DECREASING FOOD WASTE THROUGH INCREASED AWARENESS AT A UNIVERSITY’S DINING FACILITIES
Authors: Taylor, Jr. Scott , Pratt Thomas
Published: November 2023

Purpose: The current study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of a semester-long anti-food waste campaign regarding university student diners’ food waste behaviors. Originality/Value: Food waste and specifically post-consumer food waste has become one of the most critical concerns in recent years. Post-consumer food waste has also become a major concern and area of interest on U.S. college and university campuses, as numerous administrators have started considering the impact of waste within their dining operations. However, there have been limited examples of how to successfully cut down on food waste that is produced by students. Therefore, this study offers insight into how compiling baseline numbers for food that is wasted on campus and actively engaging and informing students of their impacts, can successfully help decrease the amount of waste that is produced on a university campus. Relevance to the Topic: Food waste on college and university campuses has become increasingly important to administrators and foodservice providers due to environmental and fiscal concerns. Finding ways to successfully decrease the amount of food that is wasted has the potential to both save money and improve regional waste management systems. However, to cut down on the amount of waste produced by students, they must first be made aware of their personal impact, and the overall goals of the university. Thus, by obtaining information regarding the amount of food that is wasted in a given week, and developing an anti-food waste campaign, administrators and foodservice providers may be able to recognize a decrease in postconsumer food waste on their campuses. Design/Methodology/Approach: Utilizing a quasi-experimental design, the current study assessed the effect that a semester-long anti-food waste campaign had on student diners’ food waste behaviors. The project was conducted over lunch hours (11:30-1:30) and dinner hours (5-7) during the first and last full weeks of classes during the Fall 2016 semester. Key Findings: Overall post-consumer food waste decreased by almost 10% regarding the two weeks that were tested, this despite an increase of nearly 2400 diners in the second week. Implications for Practice: Results indicate that by actively engaging university students, and increasing awareness of food waste on campus, foodservice operators can potentially decrease the amount of food that is wasted, thus increasing sustainability efforts and lowering the overall negative impact on the global environment.
Alternative Options to Resolve Disputes in Franchised Restaurants
Authors: Nurhayatun Khairatun Siti
Published: November 2023

The number of lawsuits filed by aggrieved parties in franchising contracts indicates that conflicts are not always preventable. This report presents findings from data analyzed from New York State court records arising from franchising contracts from the year 1956 to 2016. Acknowledging the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in mitigating the tension in franchisor-franchisee relationship, this Research Report recommends that franchising regulations should consider the mandatory inclusion of ADR clauses in franchising contracts. This move will provide a fair balance between the power of the franchisor and the interests of the franchisees.
ANALISIS PENGENDALIAN INTERN PERSEDIAAN PADA CV. PUTRA JAYA ABADI
Authors: Zalukhu Adilisman
Published: November 2023

AbstrakCV. Putra Jaya Abadi adalah perusahaan swasta yang bergerak di bidang distribusi umum produk perawatan rumah. Persediaan merupakan aset penting dari sebuah perusahaan. Karena persediaan adalah aset, pengendalian yang internal harus dilakukan untuk melindunginya dari kejadian buruk seperti kehilangan persediaan, eksposur, dan persediaan. pengendalian internal yang sangat penting dalam pengelolaan persediaan. Tujuan dari survei ini adalah untuk 1) memahami status aplikasi aset inventaris yang berlaku, 2) apakah manajemen produk inventaris internal yang diterapkan dengan benar, dan 3) apakah manajemen aset inventaris diterapkan dengan benar. efektif dan efisien secara berkelanjutan CV. Putra Jaya Abadi Medan. Manfaat dari penelitian ini diharapkan dapat mengetahui industri dan menambah pengetahuan bagi penulis dan pihak lain yang berkepentingan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan penulis adalah metode deskriptif kualitatif. Penulis menggunakan alat pengumpulan data berupa wawancara dan studi pustaka. Penelitian ini menggunakan data primer dan data sekunder sebagai tipe data. Penulis memperoleh data melalui wawancara dan observasi. Dari hasil penelitian, CV Putra Jaya Abadi sangat efektif ketika fungsi yang berhubungan dengan penerimaan dan yang berhubungan dengan penerimaan dan pendistribusian barang dipisahkan. Persediaan dipantau secara berkala oleh departemen logistik melalui kegiatan persediaan. AbstractCV. Putra Jaya Abadi is a private company engaged in the general distribution of home care products. Inventory is an important asset of a company. Since inventory is an asset, internal controls must be in place to protect it from adverse events such as inventory loss, exposure, and inventory. Internal control is very important in inventory management. The purpose of this survey is to 1) understand the current status of inventory asset applications, 2) whether internal product inventory management is implemented correctly, and 3) whether inventory asset management is implemented correctly. effective and efficient on a sustainable basis CV. Putra Jaya Abadi Medan. The benefits of this research are expected to be able to know the industry and increase knowledge for writers and other interested parties. The research method used by the author is a qualitative descriptive method. The author uses data collection tools in the form of interviews and literature studies. This study uses primary data and secondary data as data types. The author obtained data through interviews and observations. From the results of the study, CV Putra Jaya Abadi is very effective when functions related to receiving and those relating to receiving and distributing goods are separated. Inventory is monitored regularly by the logistics department through inventory activities.
SISTEM DEMOKRASI DALAM PEMILIHAN UMUM DI INDONESIA
Authors: Khalisa Aisyah Signora  , Mukhlis  , Azzahra Al Adawiyah  , Vina Noura  , Fifia El Zuhra  , Dyva Patricia Siahaan  , Siti Nurhaliza Fardani  , Supangge Tiara  , Puteriyani Khairunnisa  , Asni Zahara1  , Della Dwi Syahpira
Published: November 2023

Pemilihan umum (pemilu) merupakan suatu mekanisme yang termuat dalam sistem demokrasi untuk memilih wakil rakyat yang akan menempati kelembagaan perwakilan rakyat dan sebagai salah satu bentuk pemenuhan hak asasi warga negara dalam bidang politik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui demokrasi dan pemilu, sistem demokrasi secara langsung di Indonesia, dan pemilihan umum di Indonesia setelah kemerdekaan hingga sekarang. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain study literature/literature review atau disebut dengan kajian pustaka. Demokrasi telah menjadi arus utama dalam negara modern. Salah satu syarat negara yang berdemokrasi ialah menyelenggarakan pemilu. Pemilu dilakukan dengan tujuan agar terwujudnya kedaulatan rakyat serta untuk mewujudkan tujuan demokrasi yaitu pemerintahan dari, oleh, dan untuk rakyat. Rakyat tidak mungkin memerintah secara langsung. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan cara untuk memilih wakil rakyat dalam memerintah suatu negara selama jangka waktu tertentu. Dalam pemilihan umum, demokrasi juga memiliki peran yang dapat mempengaruhi kualitas dari suatu pemilihan. Hasil dari suatu pemilihan dapat berkualitas atau tidak bergantung dari para penyelenggara pemilihan itu sendiri bersamaan dengan kesadaran masyarakat yang memilih para calon wakil rakyat dan asas pemilu yang digunakan. Di Indonesia asas yang digunakan dalam pemilu yaitu asas langsung, umum, bebas, rahasia, jujur, dan adil.
KETAATAN KONSTITUSI SEBAGAI UPAYA MEMBANGUN PONDASI NEGARA
Authors: Aulia Auliakhairani , Syarqawi Ahmad , Kurniawan M. Billy , Safira Ayu , Wulandari Yesi , Nur Rizki Syafira , Sofyan Shifa , Sahusilawane Nazwa Azzahra , Rizki S Nasution Ika Husnul , Daulay Nur Hasanah
Published: November 2023

ABSTRAK

Negara adalah suatu organisasi dalam suatu rentang tertentu, dalam rentang tersebut terdapat manusia, kedaulatan, dan pengakuan oleh negara lain. Pada zaman modern ini, secara umum setiap negara memiliki konstitusi, karena berdirinya suatu negara tidak dapat dipisahkan dari keberadaan konstitusi. Konstitusi suatu negara adalah seperangkat aturan yang mengatur hubungan antara pemerintah dan rakyat dan antara lembaga negara dalam suatu negara. Konstitusi juga mengatur hak dan kewajiban warga negara dan proses pemilu. Konstitusi suatu negara biasanya terdiri dari beberapa dokumen, seperti Undang-Undang Dasar (UUD), peraturan perundang-undangan, keputusan Mahkamah Konstitusi, dan kebijakan pemerintah. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis kepatuhan konstitusional sebagai upaya membangun dasar negara. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah pendekatan penelitian kepustakaan, dimana metode pengumpulan data diarahkan pada pencarian data dan informasi melalui dokumen, baik dokumen tertulis, gambar, maupun dokumen elektronik yang mendukung proses penulisan. Hasil temuan menunjukkan bahwa ketaatan berkonstitusi tidak hanya menghasilkan keterampilan dan pengetahuan, tetapi juga menekankan pada pembentukan sikap ketaatan berkonstitusi dan tindakan praktis untuk membangun demokrasi konstitusional melalui implementasi sila-sila Pancasila.

Kata Kunci: konstitusi, negara, ketaatan, pondasi negara.
Strukturel diskrimination, benægtelse og intention
Authors: Skadegård Mira C.
Published: November 2023

Selvom diskrimination findes i mange former og stort set i alle sociale kontekster, vækker emnet et vist ubehag og benægtelse. Feltet vanskeliggøres af et lavt fagligt kendskab til emnet, hvilket forhindrer effektive løsninger. Desuden kan det synes vanskeligt for mange, der ikke selv mærker eller berøres negativt af diskrimination, at få øje på udfordringens relevans. Bevægelser som #MeToo og BLM har dog skabt en øget nysgerrighed og interesse om feltet. Denne artikel omhandler strukturel diskrimination, hvilket forstås som diskrimination indlejret i strukturer, traditioner, normer og fælles opfattelser. Strukturel diskrimination har omfattende konsekvenser og omkostninger for samfundet. Øget viden om (og opmærksomhed på) strukturel diskrimination og relaterede udfordringer kan derfor bidrage til mere forståelse såvel som effektive politiske og sociale tiltag og strategier, der berør diskriminationsudfordringer.
Adapting Nuclear Security Education Programs in Arab Countries
Authors: Alanazi Ahmed , Kofi Mostafa
Published: November 2023

Recent times have witnessed considerable international efforts in developing and supporting nuclear security education. However, Arab countries continue to face certain obstacles in the development and implementation of nuclear security education programs. By providing an overview of the nuclear security program at Naif Arab University for Security Science, this study highlights the hurdles faced by Arab countries in implementing new academic programs and improving the quality of current programs in nuclear security. It also discusses the state of the art in nuclear security education and highlights important issues related to such education in the Arab world. However, the influence of nuclear security educational programs in Arab countries was not considered because it requires a separate, detailed analysis.
Study on liquid dielectrophoresis based on double flexible electrodes simulating interdigitated pattern electrodes
Authors: Shang Xiu-Ting , Chen Tao , Chen Jing , Xu Rong-Qing ,   College of Electronic and Optical Engineering & College of Flexible Electronics (Future Technology), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
Published: November 2023

Dielectrophoresis affects the surface wettability by applying a non-uniform electric field to dipoles inside dielectric liquid, achieving adjustable droplet contact angle and overcoming the saturation limitation of contact angle caused by the electrowettability effect. However, it is difficult to realize useful three-dimensional tunable optical devices because most of the driving electrodes need to be patterned. In this work, a model of double flexible electrodes simulating planar interdigitated pattern electrodes is proposed based on the dielectrophoresis. Double flexible electrodes, which are wrapped with an insulating dielectric layer and are not conductive to each other are arranged at close intervals and wound along the plane substrate to form a two-dimensional planar line wall. A hydrophobic layer is used to fill the gap and increase the initial contact angle. Ultimately, the “droplet-interdigitated planar line wall” dielectrophoresis driven-droplet model is formed after the dielectric droplets have been deposited on the line wall surface. Firstly, considering the influence of penetration depth and electrode gap area, Young’s equation is theoretically modified to adapt to this model. Then, the finite element algorithm simulation is used to used to comparatively analyze the potential distribution of this model and the planar interdigitated pattern electrode model. The field strength distributions of the electrodes with different wire diameters and insulating layer thickness values are analyzed. It can be found that with the increase of the diameter of the electrode wire and the thickness of the insulating layer, the morphology of the model changes from the tip electrode into the planar electrode, the surface field strength attenuates exponentially and the peak value decreases. This shows that the structure of this electrode in this model is superior to that of the planar electrode. After that, the contact angle of the model is measured experimentally in a range of 58°－90° under 0–250 Vrms voltage, which is in line with the theoretical expectation. At the same time, neither obvious contact angle lag nor saturation is observed in the experiment. Finally, the new electrophoretic driving droplet model constructed in this paper transforms the dielectric electrophoretic driving mode from a two-dimensional planar electrode to a one-dimensional flexible linear electrode. Because of its flexibility and plasticity, it is convenient to form a three-dimensional cavity and can be applied to more complex device structures.
Ultrasonic scattering model and identification experiment of polycrystalline materials
Authors: Liu Yu , He Xi-Ping , He Sheng-Ping ,   Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ultrasonic, School of Physics and Information Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China,   Luzhou High-tech Research Institute, Luzhou 646000, China
Published: November 2023

Ultrasonic identification has an important application value for national defense, military affairs, aerospace, nuclear facilities and other high-tech fields. Ultrasonic waves can be used to identify any metal material. At present, the researches focus on algorithms for identifying the difference in ultrasonic signal among materials, but the study on the corresponding identification theory is lacking. In this work, 10 primary models of the microstructure of 2A12 aluminum alloy are established as analogies to the complex microstructures of polycrystalline metallic materials. The grains of these models are different from each other in size, separation distance, shape, arrangement directions and orders. The time-domain ultrasonic echo signals of different microstructures are calculated by making use of the finite element method. The grass-like signals between two echoes are ultrasonic backscattering signals, which are sensitive to any change of microstructure. The backscattering signals between the primary echo and the secondary echo in the ultrasonic echo time domain signals are extracted as ultrasonic fingerprints. The feature difference Q is defined to quantify the difference in ultrasonic fingerprint of each sample. The results show that the slight variation in microstructure will lead to difference in ultrasonic signal, and the difference caused by the variation in grain size is more distinct. And then, an ultrasonic identification algorithm is proposed, and the identification experiments are conducted on four 2A12 aluminum alloy samples with the same shape. The identification results show that the target sample can be accurately identified by using ultrasonic fingerprints and the ultrasonic fingerprints of the target sample are distinctly different from those of the other samples. The microstructure morphologies of the samples are examined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM results show that there are significant differences in grain size, separation distance and densification between samples although they are the same material. The features of the microstructure in the proposed ultrasonic scattering model in this work are confirmed by the actual y micromorphologies observed in the SEM images. The identification experiments and SEM results demonstrate that the established ultrasonic scattering model is effective. This work can provide a reference for theoretically studying ultrasonic identification and present an idea for developing some new identification algorithms in future.
p16INK4a and γ-H2AX as Biomarkers of Senescence in Skin Tissue: A Cadaveric Cross-sectional Study at a Tertiary Care Centre in Punjab, India
Authors: Gupta Richa , Aggarwal Anjali , Gupta Tulika , Kumari Chiman
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Baseline expression of p16INK4a characterises cellular senescence. Similarly, the measurement of γ-GammaH2AX (γ-H2AX) foci levels in cells provides a reliable method for quantification of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) damage. Aim: To explore the role of p16INK4a and γ-H2AX as biomarkers of senescence in skin tissue. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Anatomy, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Punjab, India from June 2022 to January 2023. Skin tissue was obtained from 30 cadavers, aged 20-90 years, from the anterior abdominal wall. The time duration of sample collection after death varied from six hours to 12 hours. Samples were divided into two groups: Group-I <30 years and Group-II >70 years, with n=15 in each group. The relative change in the expression pattern of p16INK4a and γH2AX markers, as well as the microstructure of the skin (thickness of epidermis and dermis, distribution of collagen I/II/III fibres, architecture of sebaceous glands), were statistically analysed using an unpaired t-test. Results: Intense staining was observed with p16INK4a in Group-II, showing positivity in 60.75% of the cells, while Group-I depicted a weak staining pattern (15%). On immunostaining with γ-H2AX, only Group-II cells showed intense positivity (45%). Significant differences were observed in the epidermal and dermal thickness: Group-I (165.5267±37.73 μm; 2394.6±874.13 μm); Group-II (54.6±22.79 μm; 566.67±242.23 μm), and collagen Type-II/III fibres were found predominantly in aging skin tissue. Conclusion: The present study provides comprehensive data regarding age-associated changes between p16INK4a, γ-H2AX, and skin microstructure, which result in decreased repair and regenerative capacity of skin tissue and various age-related skin diseases.
Foetomaternal Outcomes of Jaundice in Pregnancy at a Tertiary Care Centre: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shirazee Hasibul Hasan , Yasmin Firoza , Hassan Faruk , Saha Suvasmita , Mandal Aparna Khan
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Jaundice complicates 3 to 5% of pregnancies and is one of the important causes of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is responsible for approximately 10% of maternal deaths. Aim: To study the prevalence of jaundice in pregnancy, evaluate the important causes of jaundice encountered in pregnancy, and study the effects of jaundice during pregnancy on both maternal and foetal outcomes. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, from March 1, 2021, to August 31, 2022. A total of 90 cases of pregnancy with jaundice were included in the present study. Detailed history, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, diagnosis, management, and outcomes in terms of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality were recorded. Data were analysed using the Chi-square test, with a statistical significance level set at p<0.05. Results: The total number of deliveries was 20,087, out of which 90 (0.45%) patients had jaundice. The prevalence of jaundice in pregnancy was 4.5 per 1000. The aetiologies of jaundice were viral hepatitis in 23 cases (25.55%), followed by intrahepatic cholestasis in 22 cases (24.44%), preeclampsia in 13 cases (13.33%), and Haemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes and Low Platelets (HELLP) syndrome in 6 cases (6.66%). There were 12 (13.33%) maternal deaths and 17 (18.88%) neonatal deaths. Two (2.22%) babies were stillborn, and 1 (1.11%) case experienced Intrauterine Foetal Death (IUFD). The maternal death rate due to HELLP syndrome was 66.66% (4 deaths out of 6 cases). Conclusion: Viral hepatitis is the most common cause of jaundice in pregnancy. Although viral hepatitis due to the faecooral route is more common in India, the present study showed that Hepatitis B is more common during pregnancy
Exploring the Staining Potential of Zingiber Officinale Extracts (Ginger) as a Natural Alternative to Eosin in Haematoxylin & Eosin Staining: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Prajapati Mitulkumar Rameshbhai , Agarwal Prakhar , Jadav Bhoomika
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Most synthetic dyes are carcinogenic, and chronic exposure to these dyes has an impact on the health of laboratory technicians and pathologists. Eosin, a widely used synthetic dye in routine histopathological staining, poses potential risks. Zingiber officinale contains phenols and several colouring compounds that have the ability to stain tissues. Aim: To explore and compare the staining efficacy of ginger extract as a natural dye with synthetic eosin dye. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Oral Pathology Department of Ahmedabad Dental College and Hospital from April 2023 to June 2023. Fresh rhizomes of Zingiber officinale were collected and airdried. A staining solution of Zingiber officinale was obtained by dissolving 25g of powder in 90% alcohol. This solution was used to stain 30 sections of oral biopsy specimens. The stained slides were evaluated by two independent observers using various parameters such as nuclear and cytoplasmic detail, overall histologic appearance, intensity, and contrast. Statistical significance was determined using the Chi-square test. Results: Z.officinale (Ginger) stain the cytoplasm of the cell and connective tissue elements with pale eosin colour, yellowish golden to the RBCs and deep brownish to the bony tissue. Statistical analysis comparable staining intensity, contrast, nuclear staining, cytoplasmic staining and overall histologic appearance between the two groups with p-values of 0.531, 0.917, 1.000, 0.924 and 0.7003, respectively. Conclusion: Z.officinale (Ginger) can be utilised as a natural alternative to eosin in routinely used Hematoxylin & Eosin staining.
Post-traumatic Early Cerebral Infarct: MRI-based Analysis of Incidence and Radiological Distribution
Authors: Sah Shashank , Deshmukh Sudarshan , Prajapati Neeraj
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is an alteration in brain function brought on by external trauma. Computed Tomography (CT) scanning is the mainstay diagnostic modality for evaluating the primary injury, as well as secondary events such as oedema, mass effect, herniation, infarction, etc., which are often catastrophic and responsible for morbidity and mortality. Early cerebral infarction, unless large and in a defined vascular territory, is quite likely to be missed on CT scans and can even be confused with cerebral oedema. In the diagnosis of early infarctions, especially the lacunar types, the detection rate of lesions with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is significantly higher than that of CT. Aim: To observe the incidence, distribution, and pattern of Post-traumatic Cerebral Infarction (PTCI) and its association with neurological deterioration. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 55 patients with head injuries admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery were evaluated between 72 to 96 hours posttrauma using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain (1.5 Tesla Siemens). Observations were made regarding the presence and pattern of any infarction, as well as its impact on the patients. Results: Post-traumatic early cerebral infarction was detected in 19 out of 55 (34.5%) patients. Infarct distribution was observed in nearly all defined vascular territories, with the most common occurrence in the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) territory. Neurological deficit was observed in four out of 19 infarcted cases during the hospitalisation period. Conclusion: Post-traumatic early cerebral infarction is common in head injuries and can lead to neurological deterioration. MRI is sensitive in detecting infarcts, especially the lacunar ones.
Pattern of Earlobe Attachment among Igbo Ethnic Group of Nigeria
Authors: Asiwe Nicholas , Irozulike Faustina Chiamaka , Filima Patrick Leo , Wedeh Masterson Sampson , Yirate Bariereyiga Nadum
Published: November 2023

Background: The earlobe is the fleshy lower region of the outer ear that lacks cartilage and is firmly attached to the side of the face. Every individual either has an attached or unattached pattern of earlobe attachments. The study aims to evaluate the prevalence pattern of earlobe attachment among the Igbo ethnic group of Nigeria.

Methods: 384 respondents (192 males and 192 females) were involved in the study and adopted an observational research design where multi-stage random sampling was used. A questionnaire was administered and retrieved. The data obtained were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26 and chi-square was used as inferential statistics.

Results: 57.8% of the male population have an unattached earlobe pattern and 42.2% have attached earlobe patterns. In comparison, 51.6% of the female population had an attached pattern of the earlobe, whereas only 48.4% had an unattached pattern of the earlobe. The association between earlobe pattern and gender revealed no gender difference.

Conclusion: The unattached pattern of earlobe attachment is predominant among males and an attached pattern of the earlobe is predominant among females of the Igbo ethnic group of Nigeria.
Gross Capital Formation, Infrastructure and Economic Development in Nigeria
Authors: Opadeji Adegboyega Samson , Olaniyi Oladimeji Abeeb , Adekanmbi Adewale Mathew , Olubitan Joseph Oluremi
Published: November 2023

In Nigeria, the extent to which the decline in capital formation as well as the dismal and disrepair state of most infrastructural facilities impair the growth potentials of the nation are relatively unknown. Given this, this study utilized the Johansen co-integration technique and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to examine the impact of gross capital formation and infrastructure on economic development in Nigeria from 1991 to 2021. The findings of the co-integration analysis revealed the existence of a long-run relationship among the variables while the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) indicated that gross capital formation did not exert a statistically significant effect on economic development in Nigeria within the study period. However, it was observed that infrastructure had a significant positive effect on the development of the economy. Based on the findings, the study recommended a collaborative effort between the government and private sectors to establish a conducive environment that promotes capital investments within the country. Also, capital formation should be efficiently utilized with a sizable amount accorded to infrastructural development which in turn translates to economic development.
Exploring the Impact of Predictive Analytics on Accounting and Auditing Expertise: A Regression Analysis of LinkedIn Survey Data
Authors: Adebiyi Olubukola Omolara
Published: November 2023

Considering the recent development of big data and its application in various business and management endeavors, there is a growing need for businesses and management of organizations to engage large amounts of data to make real-time decisions, improve financial reporting techniques, and optimize risk management systems in order to ensure increased effectiveness and efficiency in managing the financial resources of the organization. Also, to enhance auditing proficiency and detect fraudulent activities, auditing professionals are constantly engaged in routine tasks while conducting their professional engagements. This paper investigates the impacts of predictive analytics on accounting and auditing proficiency, focusing on financial reporting, fraud detection, risk management, and real-time decision-making. Predictive analytics is a data-driven approach that utilizes historical data and advanced modeling techniques to forecast future events and trends. Thus, this study aims to determine if integrating predictive analytics in accounting and auditing enhances heightened accuracy and reliability within these critical functions. The paper collected primary data through survey questionnaires from 366 accounting and auditing professionals with over ten years of experience. The data collected proved reliable as subjected to a Cronbach alpha reliability test. Linear regression was employed to test the hypothesis. The study found a positive significant relationship between predictive analytics and financial reporting accuracy, fraud detection, real-time decision-making, and risk management. The study recommends that organizations should embrace and invest in predictive analytics technologies in order to enhance their financial performance, while accounting and auditing professionals should commit to continuous learning and skills development in machine learning in order to heighten their proficiency in building proficient predictive analytics models that effectively assess risks, detect fraudulent actions, increase financial reporting accuracy, and supports real-time decision making.
Threshold Effects on Outlier Detection: A Comparative Study of MCD and MRCD Estimators in Multivariate Data Analysis
Authors: Yusuf Nafisat , Zachary Bannister Jerry
Published: November 2023

Aims: The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of thresholds on the detection of outliers by comparing the performance of two estimators, namely the minimum covariance determinant (MCD) and minimum regularized covariance determinant (MRCD), at different sample sizes. The study uses simulated data generated from the standard normal distribution to assess how varying thresholds affect the ability of these estimators to detect outliers.

Study Design: This study employs a quantitative research design. It involves the generation of simulated data, the application of the MCD and MRCD estimators for outlier detection, and the systematic manipulation of thresholds and sample size as independent variables.

Place and Duration: The study is conducted using computational tools and did not require a physical location.

Methodology: Simulated data is generated from the standard normal distribution to create a controlled environment for outlier detection experiments. The MCD and MRCD estimators are applied to the simulated data to detect outliers. These estimators are sensitive to deviations from the norm in the data. Different thresholds are systematically applied to the data, and the performance of the estimators is assessed at each threshold level. Thresholds may vary in their extremeness. The study investigates the impact of different sample sizes on outlier detection. This involves using datasets with varying numbers of observations. The r programming language and associated packages are used as the statistical tool for data generation, analysis, and visualization.

Results: The study's findings indicate that the choice of thresholds in data analysis significantly affects the performance of the MCD and MRCD estimators in outlier detection. If the thresholds used for both estimators are the same, their performance is similar. However, differences emerge when thresholds differ from each other. Higher thresholds are shown to identify less extreme outliers, while lower thresholds are effective at identifying more extreme outliers. These results provide insights into the behavior of these estimators in outlier detection scenarios, shedding light on their sensitivity to threshold choices and sample size.Conclusion: Our study has shed light on the critical interdependencies among threshold choices, sample sizes, and the performance of the minimum covariance determinant (MCD) and minimum regularized covariance determinant (MRCD) estimators in the context of outlier detection. By conducting a systematic exploration in a controlled environment with simulated data, we have gleaned valuable insights that can inform both researchers and practitioners in the field of organizational science research.
Geospatial Land Evaluation of Medinapur Sub-watershed for Crop Suitability and Sustainable Crop Plan
Authors: Rajesh N. L. , Basvaraj K. , Desai Krishna , Chaitra  , Kumara Kirana , Sahana
Published: November 2023

A study was conducted to reveal the land capability and its suitability to crops in the semi-arid region of North-Eastern Karnataka state, India. Alternate crop plan was proposed with suitable interventions at soil phase level, based on the prevailing climatic regimes and soil-land limitations. Cadastral parcels of Medinapur sub-watershed overlaid on IRS-P6 LISS-IV merged Cartosat-1 satellite imagery was used for interpreting soil units. Soil profiles and morphological studies were made to classify entire sub-watershed (covering 4890.46 ha) into ten soil series and these soil series, further classified into 23 soil phase/management units. The results revealed that major area of 1163 ha (23.79%) covers the soil phase unit “KMLmC2” with deep (100-150 cm) clay textured, gently sloping (3-5 %) and moderately eroded (e2) lands. Two land capability classes (IIIes and IVes) were found in the study area with topography, soil erosion, texture, drainage and soil fertility as major limitation factors. Red gram (59.64%) and Sorghum (18.86%) covering maximum area in the sub watershed were assessed for crop suitability to land. To estimate the significance of crop suitability criteria to land, linear regression analysis was performed with assigned rank values of independent variables. Suitability of these crops was found that the 77.84 % of land was moderately suitable (S2) to redgram with limitations of rooting condition, erosion and topography, only depth showed significant contribution to redgram suitability with R2 = 0.744. Sorghum was highly suitable (S1) to 21.12 % of land and soil depth and pH were significantly contributing to suitability of sorghum with R2 = 0.746. The estimation of criteria for land suitability to Sorghum and Redgram was significant at 5 per cent level. In common soil depth resulted as major contributing factor in deciding land suitability to crops.
An Overview of Solid Waste Management Scenario and a Comparative Analysis of its Related Legislation in India
Authors: Bhushan Amrendra , Giri Nishita
Published: November 2023

Solid waste poses a major threat to the environment, aesthetics, and human health which also includes the spread of various communicable diseases. Due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and uncontrolled population growth, India is witnessing an unresolved problem in terms of solid waste management (SWM). The appropriate execution of SWM can play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development and is highlighted in many global agendas, visions, and charters. A sustainable SWM may help achieve some of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is also known as Agenda 2030. It is a set of 17 interlinked global goals that are to be achieved by the year 2030. However, the government is putting in various efforts in terms of bringing various sector-specific stringent laws that make authorities more powerful in the proper enforcement of the rule, and Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 (SWMR) is one among them. This paper presents a general overview of the solid waste generation and management scenario of our country and a comparative analysis of prevailing SWMR with the Municipal Solid Wastes (MSW) (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000.
A single‐domain intrabody targeting the follicle‐stimulating hormone receptor impacts FSH‐induced G protein‐dependent signalling
Authors: Raynaud Pauline , Jugnarain Vinesh , Vaugrente Océane , Vallet Amandine , Boulo Thomas , Gauthier Camille , Inoue Asuka , Sibille Nathalie , Gauthier Christophe , Jean‐Alphonse Frédéric , Reiter Eric , Crépieux Pascale , Bruneau Gilles
Published: November 2023

Intracellular variable fragments of heavy‐chain antibody from camelids (intra‐VHH) have been successfully used as chaperones to solve the 3D structure of active G protein‐coupled receptors bound to their transducers. However, their effect on signalling has been poorly explored, although they may provide a better understanding of the relationships between receptor conformation and activity. Here, we isolated and characterized iPRC1, the first intra‐VHH recognizing a member of the large glycoprotein hormone receptor family, the follicle‐stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). This intra‐VHH recognizes the FSHR third intracellular loop and decreases cAMP production in response to FSH, without altering Gαs recruitment. Hence, iPRC1 behaves as an allosteric modulator and provides a new tool to complete structure/activity studies performed thus far on this receptor.
Evaluation of Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging of Polydopamine with Different Nanostructures
Authors: Zheng Yuyi , Chen Xiaojie , Zhang Qi , Yang Lin , Chen Qi , Chen Zhong , Wang Yi , Wu Di
Published: November 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in cellular metabolism and many oxidative stress‐related diseases, while excessive accumulation of ROS will lead to genetic changes in cells and promote the occurrence of inflammatory diseases or cell death. Nature‐inspired polydopamine (PDA) with tailored nanostructures emerges as an ROS scavenger and is considered as an effective approach to inflammation‐related diseases. However, the effects of nanoparticle structure on PDA scavenging efficacy and efficiency remain uncovered. In this work, three typical PDA nanoparticles including solid PDA, mesoporous PDA, and hollow PDA are synthesized, and of which physiochemical properties are characterized. Furthermore, their ROS scavenging performance is investigated by in vitro evaluation of radical removal. Among the three nanoparticles, mesoporous PDA is demonstrated to have the highest scavenging capability, mainly due to its specific surface area. Finally, the study on three in vivo inflammation models is constructed. The results confirm that mesoporous PDA is the most potent scavenger of ROS and more effective in reducing reperfusion injury, improving renal function, and preventing periodontitis progression, respectively. Together with the good biosafety and biocompatibility profiles, PDA nanoparticles, mesoporous PDA in particular, can be a promising avenue of ROS scavenging in fight against the inflammatory diseases.
Improving Atmospheric Water Harvesting in Carbon‐Based Sorbents Through CO2 Activation
Authors: Brassard David , Alavitabari Seyedemad , Raphael Wendell , Boudreault Richard , Girard‐Lauriaut Pierre‐Luc , Tavares Jason R.
Published: November 2023

Atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) can serve as an alternative fresh water source in regions with scarce access to drinking water. While many techniques are geographically or seasonally limited, sorbent‐based AWH shows the potential for wider application. Low‐cost, carbon‐based sorbents named nanoporous sponges (NPS) are recently developed, exhibiting fast and repeatable water uptake of 0.14 g g−1 at 90% relative pressure. While useful from a cost and daily water yield point of view, there is room for improvement. This article presents an improved production process combining pyrolysis and activation under CO2 in a single step, yielding improved NPS capable of reproducibly reaching a water uptake of 0.47 g g−1 at 95% relative pressure while maintaining fast sorption rates. The NPS show significant endurance and are able to maintain stable performance over numerous humidity cycles. An unexpected time‐dependant sorption behavior is also identified for NPS produced with a modified synthesis formulation, due to an increase in sodium carbonate residual content.
Preparation and property of antibacterial filter membrane by coaxial electro‐spraying/electrospinning technology
Authors: Ren Jie , Liu Taiqi , An Xue , Wu Feixiang , Xie Chengxi
Published: November 2023

Herein, a novel technology named coaxial electro‐spraying/electrospinning was successfully introduced, which can simultaneously prepare nanofibers and nanoparticles. First, the device contains an outer nozzle and an inner nozzle, which combine electrospinning with electro‐spraying technology. Then, the polyamide 6 (PA6) was spun to prepare the nanofibers from the inner nozzle, and the silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) into the PA6 solution were sprayed to prepare the nanoparticles from the outer nozzle. PA6 nanofibers (NFs)/Ag nanoparticles (NPs) antibacterial composite membranes for the filtration of fine particulate pollutants were successfully prepared using coaxial electro‐spraying/electrospinning. The microstructure, physical properties, and antibacterial properties of the composite membrane were investigated. The results show that Ag NPs are successfully loaded in situ onto PA6 NFs of approximately 100 nm to form a three‐dimensional (3D) structure. The filtration efficiency of the 3D structured filtration membrane reaches 90.98%, compared to only 12.78% for the melt‐blown cloth mask filter material when tested with polystyrene microspheres (PS) of 200 nm. The contact angle of the composite membrane decreased from 145.47° to 44.11°, indicating a significant improvement in the hydrophilicity of the membrane. Furthermore, depositing Ag on the surface fibers resulted in an impressive antibacterial rate of 99.75% against Penicillium.
3D Printing of Na1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 Solid Electrolyte via Fused Filament Fabrication for All‐Solid‐State Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kutlu Aycan C. , Nötzel Dorit , Ziebert Carlos , Seifert Hans J. , Ul Mohsin Ijaz
Published: November 2023

All solid‐state batteries pave the way to safer batteries as they do not contain flammable components and allow potentially higher energy densities through the direct use of alkali metals as anode materials. However, the applicability of solid electrolytes is hindered by their slower diffusion kinetics and charge transfer processes compared to liquid electrolytes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the electrochemical performance of 3D printed ceramic electrolyte. Prepared filaments were printed with optimized parameters and the polymeric binders were subsequently removed by solvent/‐thermal debinding followed by a sintering process. The most reliable prints were performed with 58 vol % filled feedstock and the highest densities of sintered specimen were measured at a sintering temperature of 1100 °C with (94.27±0.37)% and (94.27±0.07)% for printed and pressed samples, respectively. The lowest impedances for 3D printed samples were measured for 1100 °C sintered specimen, yielding conductivities of (1.711±0.166)×10−4 S cm−1 at 200 °C. Stripping/plating tests performed at 60 °C confirmed the feasibility of 3D printed electrolytes realized by Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) for the application in solid‐state batteries.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided infectious liver cyst drainage associated with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease in which percutaneous approach is impossible
Authors: Takano Yuichi , Tamai Naoki , Yamawaki Masataka , Noda Jun , Matsubara Dai , Azami Tetsushi , Niiya Fumitaka , Nishimoto Fumiya , Maruoka Naotaka , Yamagami Tatsuya , Nagahama Masatsugu
Published: November 2023

A man in his 70s on maintenance dialysis for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease was admitted with epigastralgia and a fever lasting for 1 week. Computed tomography showed a thickened liver cyst measuring 121 mm in the caudate lobe, suggesting infection. Percutaneous drainage was impossible because multiple liver cysts and ascites entered the puncture route. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) revealed a huge liver cyst with debris‐like echoes. Transgastric EUS‐guided drainage was performed, and internal and external drainage was performed without adverse events. After the procedure, the symptoms quickly improved, and the external drain was removed after 12 days. The internal drainage stent remained in place, and the patient was discharged from the hospital 53 days after the EUS‐guided drainage. EUS‐guided drainage is an effective alternative treatment for infected liver cysts where a percutaneous approach is impossible.
Seismic responses and vibration control of offshore wind turbines considering hydrodynamic effects based on underwater shaking table tests
Authors: He Rui , Pan Lijun
Published: November 2023

The recent construction of numerous offshore wind turbines (OWTs) in seismically active areas worldwide has stimulated research on seismic evaluation and vibration control design for OWTs. Unlike the onshore counterparts, the hydrodynamic effects on the seismic responses of OWTs need to be studied. Besides, the equipment in the nacelle of an OWT is highly sensitive to acceleration. Significant dynamic amplification on the nacelle under horizontal earthquake excitation can cause the malfunction of power generation and even seriously threaten the safety of OWTs. As a promising solution, tuned mass dampers (TMDs) based on the first mode of OWTs need to be tested by various earthquake excitations. In this paper, the seismic amplification effect, the hydrodynamic effects, and the vibration control by a single TMD are investigated through a series of underwater shaking table tests based on a 1:20 scaled model of a 5 MW OWT. The “no water”, “with water”, and “with water and TMD” tests are evaluated and compared. The accelerations of OWTs can be amplified or reduced by the hydrodynamic effects, depending on the natural frequencies and vibration modes of the OWT and the frequency spectrum of the seismic excitation. The earthquake‐induced hydrodynamic damping ratio and hydrodynamic added mass are carefully measured. For the TMD's effect, the single TMD performs reasonably well in seismic vibration control in most cases. Finally, the interaction between hydrodynamic effects and TMD's effect is discussed, and the hydrodynamic damping effect is suggested to be ignored when designing TMDs for OWTs.