bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public-private partnership practices to transform textbook publishing and distribution: Nepal’s experience for quality education
Authors: Acharya Bisna , Raj Kharel Khom , Mani Upadhyaya Yadav , Gnawali Achyut , Biswakarma Gangaram
Published: July 2024

Studying public-private partnership practices in textbook publishing and distribution in Nepal offers insights into effective strategies for improving education quality through collaboration between government and private sectors. The objective of the study is to assess the effectiveness of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in enhancing education quality through improved textbook publishing and distribution mechanisms. The methodology employed in this study integrates descriptive and explanatory research approaches. It utilizes a structured questionnaire comprising 40 items rated on a 5-point Likert scale to evaluate different dimensions of PPPs concerning school textbook publication and distribution in Nepal. In this study, representatives from private organizations involved in textbook publishing and distribution in Nepal were interviewed. Sampling is conducted through random selection from a pool of 390 private organizations, aiming to ensure representation across various sectors. The model developed from this analysis had a strong explanatory power, with the identified independent variables explaining up to 48% of the variability in improving education quality through PPPs. The study concludes that emphasizing transparency, accountability, and effective communication within public-private partnerships significantly contributes to enhancing education quality through improved textbook publishing and distribution mechanisms, supported by strong correlations between these factors and overall education quality, as revealed by advanced statistical methods.
The Right to Historical Memory in the Human Rights System
Authors: Skorobogatov A. V. ,   Kazan Innovative University named after V. G. Timiryasov (EIML), Skorobogatova A. I. ,   Kazan Innovative University named after V. G. Timiryasov (EIML)
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the essence, content and meaning of the right to historical memory. Based on the philosophical and legal analysis of memorial legislation and commemorative practices in Russia, it is concluded that the right to historical memory is a right embedded in a set of interventions and social practices to a symbolic representation of the past, which makes available forms of public representation of its invariance. It can be considered as a human right as a member of a certain society to preserve, interpret and represent knowledge, opinions, assessments, beliefs and ideas about events, phenomena and processes of the past that are of value for the preservation, progressive development and effective functioning of modern society, with which an individual identifies himself. According to the subject composition, the right to historical memory can be classified into individual and collective. In the first case, we mean the reflection and evaluation of historical facts, events and names in the mind of an individual. In the latter case, we are talking about a retrospective explication of intresubjective reflection on the development and functioning of society within the space-time continuum. The state, acting as a legitimate representative of society, through memorial legislation not only constructs official memory frames and determines responsibility for their violation, but also establishes guarantees for the realization of the right to historical memory. The realization of the right to historical memory can be carried out in the forms of narrative, monumental propaganda, commemorative practices of a ceremonial and ritual nature and memorial legislation. At the same time, the right to historical memory is the most important means of social identification of an individual and by its nature can be considered as part of the human rights of the fourth generation. Taking into account the right to historical memory in the organization of Russia's memorial policy will strengthen its legitimacy.
On the Issue of Criminal Liability for Upskirting as a New Form of Negative Impact on the Psychosexual Wellbeing of Citizens in Russia and Abroad
Authors: Vozniak A. M. ,   Moscow City Prosecutor’s Office
Published: July 2024

The article examines the growing phenomenon of upskirting, which consists in the production of intimate photographs of female persons in public places without their consent, followed by the dissemination of these photos, including on the Internet. The foreign experience of countering this phenomenon, domestic law enforcement practice and doctrinal developments have been studied. In a number of countries, criminal liability is incurred for the commission of the described actions, whereas according to domestic legislation, upskirting does not fall under existing criminal law norms and is considered an administrative offense. In foreign scientific studies, it is noted that as a result of the actions in question, women, being in a public place, feel a sense of anxiety, which forces them to adjust traditional approaches to choosing clothes for Russian society, exclude skirts and other open outfits. Taking into account existing research and analysis of social networks, the conclusion is made about the prevalence of this phenomenon and its negative impact on the psychosexual wellbeing of citizens, which allows us to talk about the encroachment of upskirters on public relations in the field of public morality. Based on the identified shortcomings of legal regulation, recommendations are made to improve criminal legislation by establishing liability for upskirting.
Theoretical and Legal Aspects of the Use of Testimony and Conclusion of a Specialist in Criminal Procedural Evidence
Authors: Kalandarishvili H. A. ,   Irkutsk Institute (Branch), All-Russian State University of Justice
Published: July 2024

The testimony and conclusion of a specialist as a type of evidence appeared in the criminal procedure legislation more than 20 years ago, but their use in practice is still very limited. The purpose of the study is to study the modern judicial practice of using testimony and expert opinion as a type of evidence in Russian criminal proceedings. The author analyzes sentences and other court decisions in criminal cases, in which the court evaluated such types of evidence as testimony and expert opinions; the features of collecting, verifying the testimony and conclusion of a specialist are revealed; the specifics of evaluating the testimony and conclusion of a specialist are determined. It is concluded that when checking and evaluating evidence in a case, the court gives preference to the expert's opinion in the following circumstances: 1) the testimony of a specialist is untenable and contradicts both the conclusion of the specialist himself and the regulatory documents regulating the procedure for giving an opinion; 2) the specialist in his conclusion gives his own assessment of the expert's conclusion or other evidence in a criminal case, thereby going beyond his powers; 3) the specialist, contrary to his powers, actually conducted an expert study, on the basis of which new facts of legal significance for the case were obtained, indicating that he went beyond his powers 4) the level of competence of the specialist is lower in comparison with the level of knowledge, skills and experience of the expert.
The Development of Doctrinal Approaches to the Institution of Lease in the Works of Pre-revolutionary Civil Scientists
Authors: Sbitnev V. S. ,   Kutafin Moscow State Law University
Published: July 2024

The institution of lease, regardless of its name (property hiring, return to maintenance, etc.), adopted in different periods of Russian history, plays a special role in the system of civil law relations. It is a comprehensive, complex and developed legal institution not only in judicial and law enforcement practice, but also in the works of Russian scientists. The works of Russian researchers of the second half of the XIX – early XX centuries laid the doctrinal foundations of the lease contract that currently exists. In civil science, there are disputes about the legal nature of the lease contract, including the substantive and binding nature of the contract, the absolute or relative nature of the legal relationship that arises, and the terms of the lease contract. The discussions have their origins in the writings of pre-revolutionary scientists. The analysis of such an important legal structure for law and economics as a lease contract is always at the center of discussion among researchers and disposes many scientists to further study its legal nature. In the framework of this study, the works of pre-revolutionary scientists A. M. Gulyaev, K. P. Zmirlov, D. I. Meyer, K. P. Pobedonostsev, G. F. Shershenevich and others were analyzed. The study of the doctrinal positions formed in the pre-revolutionary works of Russian scientists will allow further improvement of the institute of rental relations in Russia, taking into account the development of the market economy and the emergence of new technologies.
New Challenges in the Application of Artificial Intelligence Technologies: Trademark Infringement on E-commerce Platforms
Authors: Pokrovskaya A. V. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba
Published: July 2024

The article explores new challenges associated with the use of artificial intelligence technologies in the context of trademark infringement on e-commerce platforms. In the modern digital world, where ecommerce is growing rapidly, issues of intellectual property protection, including trademark rights, are becoming especially relevant. Various scenarios in which trademark violations on e-commerce platforms are possible are analyzed, and how artificial intelligence technologies can be used to identify and prevent such violations are considered. The possibilities of trademark recognition and classification using machine learning algorithms and neural networks are being investigated. The problems associated with false positive and false negative results when using artificial intelligence in this context are discussed. Recommendations and principles are proposed for the development of effective trademark protection systems on ecommerce platforms that will take these issues into account and ensure fairness and compliance with legislation. The importance of the development and application of artificial intelligence technologies to combat trademark violations on e-commerce platforms is emphasized, the importance of developing these technologies taking into account special challenges and requirements in this area, in order to ensure the protection of intellectual property rights and support fair competition in the online environment is emphasized.
Reducing sample size by clustering: A way to make risk assessment feasible for large groups of organic compounds?
Authors: Hoondert Renske P. J. , Wols B. A. , Bäuerlein Patrick Steven
Published: July 2024

This research addresses the presence of substances of very high concern (SVHCs) confronting the drinking water sector. Responding adequately to the potential hazards by SVHCs, knowledge of emission pathways, toxicity, presence in drinking water sources, and removability during water production is crucial. As this information cannot be received for each compound individually, we employed a detailed clustering approach based on chemical properties and structures of SVHCs from lists with over 1,000 compounds. Through this process, 915 substances were divided into 51 clusters. We tested this clustering in risk assessment. To assess the risks, we developed toxicity prediction models utilizing random forests and multiple linear regression. These models were applied to make toxicity predictions for the list of compounds. This study shows that clustering is a viable approach to reducing sample size. In addition, the toxicity models provide insights into the potential human health risks. This research contributes to more informed decision-making and improved risk assessment in the drinking water sector, aiding in the protection of human health and the environment. This principle is generally applicable. If in a group a suitable representative is found, data from experiments with this compound can be used to gauge the behaviour of chemicals in this group.
Performance of anaerobic baffled reactor (ABR) and multi-staged UASB in anaerobic digestion process for treating leachate from refuse transfer stations under loading shocks
Authors: Jin Cong , Wu Xiongwei , Ping Li , Wu Jinhua
Published: July 2024

This study compared an anaerobic baffled reactor (ABR) with a multi-staged UASB (MS-UASB) to investigate the effects of loading shocks on the anaerobic digestion in both reactors. Both reactors were subjected to five hydraulic/organic loading shocks, each lasting 3 days. During the hydraulic shock with the highest organic loading rate (OLR) (OLR of 24 g COD L−1 d−1), MS-UASB and ABR exhibited minimum effluent COD removal efficiency of 90.9 and 73.0%, with average methane concentrations decreasing to 62.4 ± 0.9% and 59.8 ± 3.0%. Under the highest organic shock (OLR of 12 g COD L−1 d−1), the minimum effluent COD removal efficiency of MS-UASB and ABR was 81.5 and 73.4%, with average methane concentrations decreasing to 60.4 ± 1.1% and 58.6 ± 0.8%. After the hydraulic and organic shock phase, the biomass concentration in the MS-UASB reached 159 and 130% of the ABR, respectively. The reason for the improved operational stability of the MS-UASB is due to the presence of the solid/liquid/gas separator, which promotes the formation of granular sludge and reduces biomass washout. In addition, MS-UASB exhibited a higher abundance of the syntrophic bacterium Candidatus cloacamonas, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of anaerobic digestion systems.
Assessment of the efficiency of a municipal wastewater treatment plant from Romania. A case study
Authors: Fulgheci Ana-Maria ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Rudaru Daniel Gheorghe , Andrei Marta , Pirvu Florinela , Vasilache Nicoleta , Paun Iuliana ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology
Published: July 2024

The present study was carried out to evaluate the efficiency of a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) that uses biological treatment processes with activated sludge. The WWTP monitoring was carried out at the end of 2023, after the expansion and modernization stage, achieved during the period 2018-2023. The wastewater samples were collected from three important points of the wastewater treatment plant for four weeks, between October and November 2023. The physical-chemical parameters analyzed were: pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), total suspended solids (TSS), volatile suspended solids (VSS), total nitrogen (TN), ammonia nitrogen (N-NH4+), nitrates (N-NO3-), total phosphorus (TP). The obtained results were beneficial for checking the performance parameters of the sewage treatment plant.
Removal of HCH and DDX from historical polluted soils by zerovalent iron technology
Authors: Stefanescu Mihai ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Cristea Nicolae-Ionut , Bumbac Costel ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the remediation of polluted soils with chlorinated pesticides (HCH, DDX) by zerovalent iron technology (ZVI). We performed soil remediation tests with iron (two grinding sizes), three doses, with iron and acetic acid (two doses for each dose of iron and for each type of grinding iron size). In the study was applied 99 tests (samples). The diminishing of HCH and DDX concentrations in treated samples is more significant with the increasing of iron and acetic acid doses, for the same contact time: 99% HCH and 91% DDX for large iron particles and 95% HCH and 82% DDX for small iron particles.
BREVE ANÁLISE ENTRE DIREITO BRASILEIRO E UNIÃO EUROPEIA ACERCA DA APLICAÇÃO DA INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL
Authors: Silva Nathalia Pereira da Sena , Alencar Bolwerk Aloísio
Published: July 2024

This scientific article aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the advances and challenges of artificial intelligence in the legal system, considering its ethical, social, and legal implications. Furthermore, the objective is to analyze the proposals of Brazilian legislations and establish a parallel with European law, with the purpose of identifying divergences and similarities. The development of these systems is based on the use of data from human experience, which highlights the inherent risks and has driven several countries to undertake legislative efforts for regulation. In this context, the European Union stands out, whose main objective is to create a trust-based ecosystem for development of AI. In order to understand the current approach to this topic and conduct a comparative study between the legal systems in question, practical examples of artificial intelligence implementation were analyzed. Additionally, a bibliographic survey of documents, legislative proposals, and studies published by the European Union, as well as relevant Brazilian legislation, was carried out. The results obtained revealed that the current Brazilian legislation constitutes a starting point in solving problems associated with the topic. However, as these technologies develop, there is a need for secure protection to prevent and repair damage. The presence of critical scientists, specialized in the area, is also important, as they directly influenced the legislative creations and the correct framing of AIs according to their risk.
Total Flavonoids Isolated from the Leaves of Eucommia ulmoides Augment Peak Bone Mass in Female Rats and Show no Side Effects in Other Organs
Authors: Zhang Yun , Yang Mingzhen , Li Ningli , Li Qin , Li Yingying , Zhai Yuankun
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Eucommia ulmoides is a unique monophyletic and tertiary relict in China and is
listed as a national second-class precious protected tree species. Eucommia ulmoides, recognized as a traditional
Chinese medicine, can tonify the liver and kidneys and strengthen bones and muscles. Modern pharmacological
research has proved that Eucommia ulmoides has multiple osteoprotective effects, including prohibiting
the occurrence of osteoporosis and arthritis and enhancing the healing of bone fractures and bone defects.

Aim:

To check its osteotropic effects, which may provide ideas for its potential use for the development of
novel drugs to treat osteoporosis, this study evaluated the effect of total flavonoids from Eucommia ulmoides
leaves (TFEL) on the acquisition of Peak Bone Mass (PBM) in young female rats.

Materials and Methods:

TFEL was isolated, and its purity was confirmed by using a UV spectrophotometer.
TFEL with a purity of 85.09% was administered to 6-week-old female rats by oral gavage at a low (50), mid
(100), or high (200 mg/kg/d) dose, and the control group was administrated only with the same volume of water.
After 13 weeks of treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and serum, different organs, and limb bones (femurs
and tibias) were harvested, and the bone turnover markers, organ index, Bone Mineral Density (BMD), biomechanical
property, and microstructure parameters were assayed. Furthermore, molecular targets were
screened, and network pharmacology analyses were conducted to reveal the potential mechanisms of action of
TFEL.

Results:

Oral administration of TFEL for 13 weeks decreased the serum level of bone resorption marker
TRACP-5b. As revealed by micro-computer tomography analysis, it elevated BMD even at a low dose (50
mg/kg/d) and improved the microstructural parameters, which were also confirmed by H&E histological staining.
However, TFEL showed no effects on body weights, organ index, and micromorphology in the uterus. In
our network pharmacology study, an intersection analysis screened out 64 shared targets, with quercetin,
kaempferol, naringenin, and apigenin regulating the greatest number of targets associated with osteoporosis.
Flavonoids in Eucommia ulmoides inhibited the occurrence of osteoporosis potentially through targeting signaling
pathways for calcium, VEGF, IL-17, and NF-κB. Furthermore, AKT1, EGFR, PTGS2, VEGFA, and
CALM were found to be potentially important target genes for the osteoprotective effects of flavonoids in
Eucommia ulmoides.

Conclusion:

The above results suggested that TFEL can be used to elevate the peak bone mass in adolescence
in female individuals, which may prevent the occurrence of postmenopausal osteoporosis, and the good safety
of TFEL also suggests that it can be used as a food additive for daily life to improve the bone health.
The Relationship between SNAP25 and Some Common Human Neurological
Syndromes
Authors: Shu Jie , Peng Fan , Li Jing , Liu Yuhang , Li Xiaolan , Yuan Chengfu
Published: July 2024

:

Over the years, research on the pathogenesis of neurological diseases has progressed slowly worldwide.
However, as the incidence rate continues to increase and the disease gradually develops, early diagnosis
and treatment have become a top priority. SANP25, a protein present on the presynaptic membrane and involved
in neurotransmitter release, is closely related to the loss or abnormal expression of synapses and neurons.
SNAP25 deficiency can lead to synaptic disorders and inhibit neurotransmitter release. Therefore, a large
amount of literature believes that SNAP25 gene mutation is a risk factor for many neurological diseases. This
review used advanced search on PubMed to conduct extensive article searches for relevant literature. The
search keywords included SNAP25 and Alzheimer's disease, SNAP25 and Parkinson's disease, and so on. After
reading and summarizing the previous papers, the corresponding conclusions were obtained to achieve the
purpose of the review. The deficiency or variation of SNAP25 might be related to the onset of schizophrenia,
epilepsy, attention deficit/hypoactivity disorder, bipolar disorder effective disorder, and autism. SNAP25 has
been found to be used as a neuropathological marker for neurological diseases, which could be the target of diagnosis
or treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) or blood has
been found to enable more effective drug development.
Synthesis of Polyoxygenated 4,5-Diarylpyridazines with Antiproliferative and Antitubulin Activity via Inverse Electron-Demand Diels-Alder Reaction of 1,2,4,5- Tetrazine
Authors: Adaeva Olga I. , Demchuk Dmitry V. , Dolotov Roman A. , Kuptsova Tatiana S. , Semenova Marina N. , Semenov Victor V.
Published: July 2024

:

The synthesis of a series of multifunctionalized 4,5-diarylpyridazines via inverse electron-demand
Diels-Alder reaction between highly oxygenated diarylacetylenes and unsubstituted 1,2,4,5-tetrazine was developed using polyalkoxybenzenes isolated from industrial essential oils as starting material. The reaction proceeded smoothly to afford combretastatin A-4 analogs with pyridazine linker in consistently high yield. In a
phenotypic sea urchin embryo assay, diarylpyridazine with 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl and 3-amino-4-
methoxyphenyl aryl rings was identified as a potent antimitotic microtubule-destabilizing compound.
Pan-genomics: Insight into the Functional Genome, Applications, Advancements, and Challenges
Authors: Sarawad Akansha , Hosagoudar Spoorti , Parvatikar Prachi
Published: July 2024

A pan-genome is a compilation of the common and unique genomes found in a given
species. It incorporates the genetic information from all of the genomes sampled, producing a big
and diverse set of genetic material. Pan-genomic analysis has various advantages over typical genomics
research. It creates a vast and varied spectrum of genetic material by combining the genetic
data from all the sampled genomes. Comparing pan-genomics analysis to conventional genomic
research, there are a number of benefits. Although the most recent era of pan-genomic studies has
used cutting-edge sequencing technology to shed fresh light on biological variety and improvement,
the potential uses of pan-genomics in improvement have not yet been fully realized. Pangenome
research in various organisms has demonstrated that missing genetic components and the
detection of significant Structural Variants (SVs) can be investigated using pan-genomic methods.
Many individual-specific sequences have been linked to biological adaptability, phenotypic, and
key economic attributes. This study aims to focus on how pangenome analysis uncovers genetic
differences in various organisms, including human, and their effects on phenotypes, as well as
how this might help us comprehend the diversity of species. The review also concentrated on potential
problems and the prospects for future pangenome research.
Chitosan-Based Nano/Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine: Recent Progress and Advances
Authors: Jafari Taha , Naghib Seyed Morteza , Mozafari M. R.
Published: July 2024

The biopolymer chitosan, which is derived from chitin, has shown great promise for
tissue regeneration and regulated drug delivery. Its broad-spectrum antibacterial action, low toxicity, biocompatibility, and many other attributes make it appealing for use in biomedical applications. Crucially, chitosan may be synthesized into a range of forms that can be customized to
provide desired results, such as hydrogels, membranes, scaffolds, and nanoparticles. Hydrogels
that are biocompatible and self-healing are innovative soft materials with considerable potential
for use in biomedical applications. Hydrogels that self-heal using chitosan, which are mostly
made by dynamic imine linkages, have gained a lot of interest because of their great biocompatibility, moderate preparation requirements, and capacity to mend themselves in a physiological
setting. In this study, a summary of the applications of chitosan-based self-healing hydrogels in
bone, cartilage, and tooth tissue regeneration and drug delivery is provided. Lastly, we have
mentioned the difficulties and potential outcomes for the biomedical field's creation of hydrogels
based on chitosan that can mend themselves.
Pistacia vera and its Combination with Cisplatin: A Potential Anticancer Candidate by Modulating Apoptotic Genes
Authors: Khanamani Falahati-Pour Soudeh , Torabizadeh Seyedeh Atekeh , Baghery Fatemeh , Noroozi-Karimabad Mojgan
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Many bioactive phytochemicals have essential significance for handling various diseases
and developing new drugs. The aim was to investigate the anti-tumor activity and the underlying mechanisms of
pistachio pericarp extract (PPE) and pistachio kernel extract (PKE) alone and combined with cisplatin (CP) in the
treatment of prostate cancer.

Methods:

fThe effects of the PPE, PKE, and CP alone and PPE and PKE in combination with CP (PPE+CP and
PKE+CP) on the proliferation of PC-3 cells were determined using the MTT assay. The fold changes of BAX,
BCL-2, P53, KLK2, TNF, TGF, and NANOG expression against β-actin were determined by real-time technique.
Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and repeated measure tests.

Results:

These research results indicated that a greater anti-proliferative effect of the PPE and PKE was shown in
combination with CP compared with treatments using the PPE and PKE or CP alone. The extracts and Cisplatin
in vitro had good synergistic effects on the inhibition of the proliferation of PC-3 cells. The IC50 values of
PKE+CP were 4.141, 2.140, and 0.884 ug/mL, and PPE+CP were 2.754, 2.061, and 0.753 ug/mL after 24 h, 48 h,
and 72h treatment, respectively. Also, this result presented that the mRNA expression of BAX and P53 increased,
and BCL-2, KLK2, TNF, TGF, and NANOG decreased in PC-3 cells.

Conclusions:

The finding of this research showed for the first time the anti-carcinogenesis effects of separately
and in the combination of PPE, PKE, and CP on the PC-3 prostate cancer cells via modulating some genes and
that it may be nominated for the herbal anti-cancer medications.
Production of Biodiesel from Soybean Oil
Authors: Brahma Sujata , Basumatary Siri Fung , Basumatary Bidangshri , Newar Uma Devi , Basumatary Sanjay
Published: July 2024

The necessity for clean, green, and renewable energy resources has gained
tremendous attention from industries and academia. This is due to the alarming
depletion of fossil fuels and the growing environmental concerns associated with their
extensive use. Petroleum reserves are on the verge of extinction, and biodiesel is a
promising alternative with better fuel properties compared to petroleum diesel. Various
oils and fats have been employed as feedstock to produce biodiesel. Soybean oil is
highly regarded as the most appealing feedstock due to its extensive cultivation for oil
production as well as its widespread use as an animal meal. In previous years, various
studies have been carried out to produce biodiesel with the use of various technologies
and methods. Among the number of methods, transesterification is the most common
method of biodiesel synthesis. This paper typically reviews the catalytic
transesterification of soybean oil for biodiesel production and its fuel quality. This
review also explores the effectiveness of various catalysts in converting soybean oil to
biodiesel. Several reactors have been utilized by numerous researchers to optimize
reaction parameters, which is also thoroughly highlighted in this review.
Production of Biodiesel from Jatropha curcas Oil
Authors: Piloto-Rodríguez Ramón , Díaz-Domínguez Yosvany , Tobío-Pérez Indira , Ortiz-Alvarez Marianela , Hernández Jesús Suárez
Published: July 2024

In biodiesel production, first-generation fuel faces the problems of using
food as a feedstock which has its limitations like the destruction of vital soil resources,
deforestation and negative impact on biodiversity, and the use of much of the available
arable land. At the same time, the high cost of feedstock also restricts its widespread
use. Keeping all those points in mind, researchers are focusing their attention on the
production of biodiesel from non-edible vegetable oils such as Jatropha curcas L. The
present chapter deals with the harvesting methods of Jatropha curcas L, extractions,
and properties of the blends used in detail.
Recent Advancements in Catalytic Thermochemical Conversions of Biomass into Biofuels: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Halder Shubhajit , Bhattacharya Doyel , Jha Ashish Kumar
Published: July 2024

The expeditious increase in population has led to prioritizing the use of
biological sources as biofuels. The biofuels have been converted into different fuels by
the virtue of green and sustainable approach. Other than the conventional sources of
raw materials, specialized energy crops, some varieties of algae, seaweed and
microalgae have been reported to be potential sources of biofuels. In recent years,
various methods of conversion of organic matter into biofuels have been reported. High
energy investment along with the added cost of solvent or catalyst is included in the
thermochemical methods. Meanwhile, the biochemical route suffers from the
drawbacks of lengthy cycle period and comparatively reduced efficiency in the bulk
breakdown of the recalcitrant biomass. Hydrothermal routes have been employed to
improve the overall efficiency of the biochemical process. The integration of
thermochemical and biochemical routes also may lead to inhibition of microorganisms
by the catalysts or mediated solvents. This review paper focuses on the recent catalytic
methods for the conversion of biomass into biofuels namely biodiesel along with the
pros and cons of the methods. 
Synthesis of Solketal: A Potent Fuel Additive from A Glycerol, A By-Product of Biodiesel Industries
Authors: Agrawal Pratibha S. , Tiwari Richa
Published: July 2024

To overcome the problem associated with conventional fuels and the need
for alternative fuels, the production of biodiesel increased and was promoted by
government policies and air pollution-controlled laws. The by-product glycerol
produced from the biodiesel industry is in massive quantity and all of its quantity is not
utilized by the pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies, therefore a huge amount of it
is discarded as waste which is a disadvantage of biodiesel production. Hence this led
the researcher to find a new path to utilize it in an environmentally friendly manner and
therefore glycerol is being used to produce solketal which are fuel additives and
enhance the properties of the fuel. Therefore, glycerol is employed as feedstock for the
production of solketal. Generally, batch and continuous processes are used to
synthesize solketal in which the continuous method is the most promising one. Various
catalysts are also employed to increase the yield of solketal from glycerol. Thus, the
reaction of glycerol with dimethyl ketone using various catalysts (homogeneous and
heterogeneous) in different reactors takes place. This chapter gives insight into the
development of biodiesel production and increased usage of propane-1,2,3-triol
(glycerol) into more valuable product solketal using various advanced catalysts. The
synthesis of solketal using continuous process is a vast area and one can find many
more environmentally friendly methods to synthesize it with low cost at industrial and
commercial scale.
Value at Risk and Conditional Value at Risk in the Risk Management of Indian Stock Portfolios
Authors: KP. Syamraj , Cleetus Regina Sibi
Published: July 2024

Successful investment involves maximizing rewards while minimizing risk.
Investors and traders consider risk while making investment decisions, which is often
the deciding element in accepting or rejecting an asset or security. The study focuses on
risk management in Indian stock portfolios and VaR and CVaR models for risk
valuation. The study compares VaR and CvaR valuations on different stock portfolios.
This work provides more details on stock portfolio risk blended with different
industries. The VaR model framework helps determine the entity's loss potential and
the likelihood of the defined loss. The financial sector is the leading sector in stock
portfolio returns, and Value at Risk and Conditional Value at Risk values for the
financial sector stock portfolio indicate a high level of risk. 
Stress Management Among Women Police Officers With Special Reference to Kannur District
Authors: Nair Vigi V. , N.V. Madhusoodanan Kartha
Published: July 2024

Law enforcement is a profession with a few unusual traits that can cause
stress, and policing is one of the maximum demanding and stressful jobs amongst
them. The police employees are the few experts wherein people are expected to stand
risks and, if necessary, to treat their lives in addition facing high stress in lots of
different aspects. Police personnel go through tremendous occupational physical and
mental stress. Women law enforcement officials are steadily growing in numbers
within the country and they're believed to revel in greater stress than their male
counterparts and additionally operating in regulation enforcement. Studies have shown
that working hours, education, age and the relationship among co-workers and
supervisors have been the aspects that led them to experience stress. Stress affects the
overall performance of men or women in this sector. The study deals with the analysis
of stress management among women police officers with special reference to Kannur
District.
Marketing Analytics in Business: Emerging Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: P.R. Aswani Thampi , S. Ambeesh Mon.
Published: July 2024

In today’s modern marketing scenario, a greater understanding of the
consumer’s mind and user behavior is vital in positioning a product or service.
Personalized ads that speak to the buyer’s specific needs and interests are inevitable for
brands to catch individual attention. With the advent of more advanced analytical tools
and approaches in recent years, companies and marketers no longer need to guess
buyer behavior patterns or their product preferences. Marketers can also better
understand current marketing trends, determine which programs worked and why,
evaluate and monitor trends over time, assess the market, predict future results, etc.
Marketing analytics helps the business to make decisions on everything, and gives the
business leaders significant new decision-making power. Insights gleaned from
marketing analytics can enable organizations to improve customer experiences,
increase the return on investment of marketing efforts, and craft future marketing
strategies. Even though, marketing analytics is a crucial element in business and
provides several opportunities, most of the marketers face multiple marketing analytics
challenges that restrict them from using the available data to the best potential. The key
here is to identify and understand these challenges. This research paper aims to identify
the various opportunities and challenges associated with marketing analytics in
business. Thereby assessing its importance in today’s competitive business landscape.
Determinants of Financing Decisions for Micro Enterprises in Malang City in 2022-2023 Moderated by Islamic Financial Literacy
Authors: Rosyada Fina ,   UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, Indonesia, Handoko Azriel Rakaha , Riyanto Feri Dwi , Andriani Sri
Published: July 2024

Purpose This study aims to analyze the Determinants of Financing Decisions in Micro Enterprises in Malang City Moderated by Sharia Financial Literacy Design/methodology/approach This research uses a mix method with purposive sampling techniques and the number of samples isas many as 60 respondents of micro business actors. The data of this study uses primary data obtained directly from the source using interview techniques, questionnaires, literature studies. Logistic regression is used to analyze the data. Findings This study revealed that variations in income and business age have a negative and significant effect on the variability of financing decisions. Meanwhile, guarantees have a positive and significant effect on the provision of financing decisions. Then, the variables of education, guarantees, and cultural characteristics do not affect the decision to provide financing. Vaiebel moderation itself is predicted to influence and strengthen the relationship between income variability and financing decisions. However, moderation variability has an influence and weakens the relationship between collateral variables and financing decisions. Research limitations/implications This research has limitations related to the amount of financing data conducted by Islamic banks Originality/value This study seeks to examine cultural characteristics with financing decisions which has rarely conducted before.
Modelling the Okun’s Law in the midst of Structural Breaks: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Iyoboyi Martins ,   Department of Economics and Development Studies, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Nigeria, Sabitu Abubakar , Okereke Samuel Felix
Published: July 2024

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between economic growth and unemployment in Nigeria, specifically investigating the validity of Okun's law. Design/methodology/approach The study employs both linear and non-linear specifications using quarterly data from 1991Q1 to 2019Q1. Cointegration techniques that account for structural breaks are applied. Findings Unemployment and economic growth are found to be cointegrated. Both linear and non-linear specifications show a positive relationship between growth and unemployment, but the impact of unemployment on growth is not statistically significant. The study concludes that the growth experienced in Nigeria during the study period did not lead to reduced unemployment, thus invalidating Okun's law. Research limitations/implications The study's findings are based on data up to 2019Q1 and may not reflect more recent trends. The analysis relies on the accuracy and reliability of the data sources used. Originality/value This study contributes to the understanding of the relationship between economic growth and unemployment in Nigeria, highlighting the need for policies targeting sectors with high employment potential.
Comparative study on the efficacy of ketamine-xylazine-buprenorfine and ketamine-xylazine-nalbufine in rabbits undergoing castration
Authors: Ur Rehman F. , Shaher Y. , Bin Rashid H. , Qadir A. , Usman S. , Rafi S. , Ullah Z. , Ahmad K. , Hussain A. , Ali Khalique M. , Aziz A. , Awais M. , Asif M.
Published: July 2024

The current clinical study was designed to evaluate the anesthetic effects of a combination of xylazine-ketamine-buprenorphine (KXB) and of xylazine-ketamine-nalbuphine (KXN) in rabbits undergoing castration. The study was conducted in twelve adult male rabbits aged between six months and one year and weighing between 4 and 5 kg. The rabbits were divided into two groups, each comprising six rabbits. Each rabbit in group A was administered a ketamine-xylazine- buprenorphine combination. Each rabbit in group B was given a ketamine-xylazine-nalbuphine combination. Various intraoperative and postoperative anesthetic effects were evaluated. The data were analyzed using a t-test with a repeated measure design and Mann-Whitney test. In this study, the anesthetic combination used in group A (KXB) resulted in a slightly longer anesthetic duration with better postoperative analgesia than in group B (KXN). However, all other parameters showed no significant differences between both groups. It was found that the use of a aketamine-xylazine-buprenorphine combination provides a slightly longer anesthetic duration and better postoperative analgesia than a ketamine-xylazine-nalbuphine combination.
Mineralogical transformations in the Fe-laterite profiles of Saudi Arabia: A study of weathering dynamics and secondary lateritization
Authors: Bakhsh Rami A. ,   Department of Mineral Resources and Rocks, Faculty of Earth Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80206, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia, Mesaed Ali A. ,   Geo-Exploration Techniques Department, Faculty of Earth Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80206, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia,   Geology Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
Published: July 2024

This study examines an iron-rich laterite profile, 4 to 9 meters thick, located between the ancient Precambrian Arabian Shield rocks and the younger Phanerozoic layers in Saudi Arabia. The profile begins with hard parent rocks composed of quartz diorite and gabbro containing iron-silicate. As these rocks weather, they become progressively softer and more clay-like, forming slightly and highly weathered argillaceous rocks. The Fe-laterite profile includes three main layers: the original parent rocks, the slightly altered rocks (saprolite), and the highly altered argillaceous rocks at the top. Samples from different layers of the weathering profile were collected and analyzed for their mineral content. The original quartz diorite and gabbro primarily consist of feldspars, hornblende, chlorite, and quartz. In the slightly altered layer, the hornblende and chlorite expand and peel apart, while the feldspar crystals transform into kaolinite and sericite. In the highly altered top layer, the remaining iron-silicate minerals show significant curling and breaking apart, and the surrounding clay becomes more uniform, composed mainly of mixed dark iron-oxyhydroxides and a light aluminum- and silicon-rich gel with small amounts of quartz. The study explores the progressive stages of weathering, including: a) Initial breakdown of iron-silicate minerals through hydrolysis and oxidation, b) Further destruction of these minerals and the formation of goethite, hematite, and kaolinite, c) Final stages where kaolinite and small microcrystalline quartz aggregates form from silica leached from higher layers, a process known as secondary lateritization.
Assessment of Physical and Chemical Quality Standards for Water and Sanitation Disclosure Towards SDG 6: A Study in Wijimulyo, Nanggulan, Kulon Progo Regency
Authors: Kurniawan Muhammad Prasetya , Wibowo Setyawan Bekti , Hidayah Nurulia , Santoso Probo , Octaviani Danis Syalwa , Larasati Errika Anggraini , Rachman Atika Yulia , Nurramdhana Almaira Daffa , Mahardini Gunawan Citra Aulia
Published: July 2024

Collaboration between academics, educators, students, village civil servants, and the community is needed to implement Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6. It is related to clean water and sanitation in the context of training vocational teachers and students to provide it to the community. First, measurements were made of the water quality around the research area. Sixty-three water samples were drawn from each resident's home's water supply. A multi-parameter water quality checker was used to evaluate the samples, and then spatial data processing was used. A temperature of 24.1 C, turbidity of 0.4 NTU, conductivity of 0.4 mS/cm, pH 7.1, salinity of 0.2 ppt, DO of 5.9 mg/l, and TDS value of 267 mg/l were measured. These average results indicate that the water quality satisfies both Indonesian National Standard 3553:2015 and the water quality criteria set by the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia Regulation No. 2 Year 2023. However, the results of tracking every sampling location show that several samples fall short of water quality requirements because of the high mineral content, weather, and other factors. Every school and community organization needs to run scenarios to raise awareness about water quality standards involving the government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to implement SDGs 6, such as stakeholder engagement, community enhancement, and policy and regulation.
Valuasi Ekonomi dan Pengembangan Manajemen Kolaboratif dalam Pengelolaan Gurun Telaga Biru Pulau Bintan
Authors: Karuniawati Ayu Dewi
Published: July 2024

The research held in Gurun Telaga Biru, Kabupaten Bintan, Bintan, Kepulauan Riau. The aim is to understand the economic value of Gurun Telaga Biru and also collaborative management which can be applied in order to develop the area as a sustainable tourism. Gurun Telaga Biru is part of industrial park area belongs to PT Suryabangunpertiwi (SBP) with 4.000 hectare land bank. Gurun Telaga Biru has 50 hectares wide which plan as a green belt of industrial park, knowing that its location is closed to Bintan airport. It means that the area is not for industrial factory or other tall building, which will affect the airplane transport circulation.The research applied is mixed method which is mixed analysing from observation, interview and support by quantitative data using Maple 2017 to understand the economic value and tourists’ willingness to pay for Gurun Telaga Biru. PT SBP can use the result of Total Economic Value as data review, in order to decide whether keeping the area as an idle land or developing it as a nature-based tourist destination. The Total Economic Value of Gurun Telaga Biru is Rp. 493.950.214.550,-.per year by understanding the economic value per meter square is Rp. 862.290,- This number is relatively high if compared to the small effort in preparing the place with proper facilities. Communities can explore the nature without adding others infrastructure. Collect the entrance and parking fee. However, it can be more valuable if they conduct in good collaborative management by providing proper infrastructure such as toilet, parking area, food court and souvenir shop by maintaining the collaboration in business, education and social community.