bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Institutional Framework and Financial Corporate Compliance in Public Universities in Kenya
Authors: Chokaa Vincent , Baimwera (PhD) Dr. Bernard , Mugambi (PhD) Dr. Ken , Senaji (PhD) Prof. Thomas A. 
Published: October 2024

One of the important components of corporate governance that improves accountability and transparency in an institution's financial management is financial corporate compliance. The emergence of alarming cases of financial impropriety in Kenya's public universities has intensified the demand for financial accountability in the public sector and exposed the boards and management to increasing scrutiny. Public organizations have reported cases of inadequate or absence of financial compliance, and public universities have also cited comparable circumstances in audit reports. It is unclear, however, what the causes of this compliance are or what function corporate governance plays in it. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the institutional framework on financial corporate compliance at Kenya's public universities. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study's target population was 40 accredited public universities in Kenya. The data were gathered through the use of extensive, quasi-structured questionnaires. The study used descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution tables, percentages, and measures of central tendency such as the mean. Chi-square and correlation analysis were used to establish the relationship between the study variables. The results of the study showed that institutional framework has a positive impact on financial corporation compliance. This illustrated that institutional framework had a compelling impact on financial corporate compliance. This study recommends that the government should employ thorough accountability measures and policies that will make every officer in public universities be held responsible for every activity he/she has undertaken on behalf of the university that may lead the university to incur some expenditures.
Policy Framework and Financial Corporate Compliance in Public Universities in Kenya
Authors: Chokaa Vincent , Baimwera (PhD) Dr. Bernard , Mugambi (PhD) Dr. Ken , Senaji (PhD) Prof. Thomas A. 
Published: October 2024

One of the important components of corporate governance that improves accountability and transparency in an institution's financial management is financial corporate compliance. The emergence of alarming cases of financial impropriety in Kenya's public universities has intensified the demand for financial accountability in the public sector and exposed the boards and management to increasing scrutiny. Public organizations have reported cases of inadequate or absence of financial compliance, and public universities have also cited comparable circumstances in audit reports. It is unclear, however, what the causes of this compliance are or what function corporate governance plays in it. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of policy framework on financial corporate compliance at Kenya's public universities. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study's target population was 40 accredited public universities in Kenya. The data were gathered through the use of extensive, quasi-structured questionnaires. The study used descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution tables, percentages, and measures of central tendency such as the mean. Chi-square and correlation analysis were used to establish the relationship between the study variables. The study reached a finding that policy framework has a positive impact on prudential corporate compliance during the period of study. The study found that most universities have adopted ethics and a code of conduct that the universities operate under a specific code of conduct and ethics which enables the university to actualize financial corporate compliance. The study recommends all public universities to be keeping track of all activities required to be adhered to by the public institution finance department more regularly to ensure the smooth running of the institutions. It is also recommended the university management facilitate regular training for the officers in the finance department to equip them with the relevant information of the newly amended policies by the government to govern the finances used to run public universities.
Influence of Ownership Concentration on Financial Performance of Listed Firms in Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya
Authors: Kiruga Abraham Mutitu , Ombok (PhD) Dr. Benjamin O. , Adoyo (PhD) Dr. Philip 
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the influence of ownership concentration on the financial performance of listed firms in the Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya. For this study, the target population is represented by several companies from different sectors listed on the NSE in Kenya from 2016-2020. The study used data from firms that were consistently listed in NSE from 2016 – 2020 the ones that were delisted and or suspended and that were listed after 2016 was not included, creating a sample size of 55 firms yielding a panel of 275 data points. The study adopted a purposive sampling approach since it satisfied the criteria of my study. The study used secondary data obtained from annual audited financial statements of listed firms using data collection sheets. The results showed that local ownership concentration had a negative and insignificant effect on financial performance using ROA. However, local ownership concentration had a negative and little impact on financial performance using ROE (r=-0.055, p=0.334). Further results showed that government ownership concentration had a negative and significant impact on financial performance using ROA (r=-0.107, p=0.008). However, government ownership concentration had a positive and insignificant influence on financial performance using ROE. In addition, results further showed that foreign ownership concentration negatively and significantly influenced financial performance using ROA (r=-0.072, p=0.205). However, foreign ownership concentration had a positive and insignificant impact on financial performance using ROE. The study also concluded that ownership concentration has a significant influence on the financial performance of listed firms in Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya using ROA {F=35.88, p=0.000)} with overall R Square of 0.250 but had no significant influence on the financial performance of listed firms in Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya using ROE {F=4.910, p=0.437)} with overall R Square of 0.105. The study recommends that there should be a substantial shareholding with a sizable number of shares to take control of the company's performance with passion and interest.
Microcredit Risk Management Strategies and Loan Portfolio Quality of Microfinance Institutions in Kenya
Authors: Muindi Cellinah Wanza , Ambrose Jagongo 
Published: October 2024

The study investigated the effects of Microcredit risk strategies on the loan portfolio quality of microfinance institutions in Kenya. The analysis is based on a panel dataset of 14 microfinance institutions in the period 2017 to 2021. The study was guided by the following theories the institutional theory, the theory of information asymmetry, the theory of delegated monitoring and the modern portfolio. The study will be useful to the MFIs managers and will help them devise good policies to ensure borrowers are well screened to improve portfolio quality while improving the cases of loan defaults. The study adopted a desktop methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data that which can be collected without fieldwork. The quality of loan portfolio has been affected most by nonperforming loans and has affected largely the microfinance institution’s profitability and their financial performances, there have not been adequately featured in any of the studies reviewed. To the academicians and researchers, they will be furnished with relevant information regarding microcredit risk management and loan portfolio quality of the Microfinance institutions in Kenya. This will also contribute to the general body of banking sector and form a basis for further research. The regulators of Bank Sector will use it to formulate stringent policies to tame the rising cases of non-performing loans, evaluating how successive their approach has been identifying the gaps and adjust.
Kinematic characterization of backhand stroke accuracy in squash based on kinematic variables between two different skill levels—a preliminary cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Rui , Li Haojie , Jiang Jian , Zhou Zhitao , Xiu Chen 
Published: October 2024

Background
The aim of this study was to compare differences in shot placement and accuracy between national and international level squash players. Squash is a technically demanding sport and understanding the biomechanical characteristics of athletes at different levels is important for developing effective training strategies.

Methods
The study used a three-dimensional motion analysis system, a high-speed video camera, and a professional tee for biomechanical testing. Participants included national and international level squash players. The kinematic characteristics of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints of the upper extremity for backhand strokes, as well as the accuracy of the strokes, were analyzed to compare the differences between the two groups of athletes in terms of stroke posture and accuracy.

Results
The kinematic analysis of the backward backhand stroke revealed that national squash players showed significant differences compared to international players in several key parameters. Specifically, national players had significantly greater trunk flexion (P = 0.018) and less shoulder medial rotation (P = 0.027). They also had lower racket velocity in the X-direction (P = 0.043). However, there were no significant differences in trunk lateral flexion (P = 0.487), trunk rotation (P = 0.293), shoulder extension/flexion (P = 0.396), elbow flexion/extension (P = 0.818), wrist flexion/extension (P = 0.177), wrist rotation (P = 0.476), racket pitch (P = 0.112), racket velocity in the Y-direction (P = 0.587), or racket velocity in the Z-direction (P = 0.327). Additionally, data for racket yaw, racket roll, and racket Vx were not provided with significant values, indicating that these parameters do not show significant differences.

Conclusion
International level players outperformed national level players in squash stroke accuracy and control. Key kinematic factors influencing accuracy include trunk forward flexion, shoulder abduction, shoulder internal rotation, and racket angles. The study recommends that coaches design training to enhance technical details and positional control to improve squash performance.
Seasonal Behaviour of Arrivals and Prices of Major Crops in Krishi Upaj Mandis of Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Sonvanee O. P. , Bhargav Pankaj , Kurrey Devendra 
Published: October 2024

Chhattisgarh state is famous for its forest wealth and mineral resources and there is abundant production of crops. According to total area of crops, Paddy (77.47 percent) and Chickpea (5.43 percent) are major crops of Chhattisgarh state. Arrivals and price data (Year 2014-15 to 2023-24) of major crops were collected from website of Chhattisgarh state Mandi Board. The study was observed that the peak arrivals & price of paddy were started in the same months November to January in both market (KUM, Bemetra & KUM, Bhatapara) except peak price season starts in August to October with narrow difference in KUM, Bhatapara. In case of Chickpea, the peak arrivals and price started in the month of March to May & September to November, respectively. The Price stability of both crops (paddy & Chickpea) was higher in KUM, Bhatapara as compared to KUM, Bemetra. The less price fluctuation of paddy as compared to chickpea in Chhattisgarh state due to purchasing directly to farmers by the Government with Minimum Support Price (MSP) and also provided the Bonus. The study was suggested that the economic development of farmers in state, the government should purchase agricultural products other than paddy and cooperate in setting up dal mills & processing units. Necessary steps should be taken to increase of marketable surplus and development of community level threshing area. The study was importance in knowing the market behaviour and price fluctuation during the peak season and the major reason behind. The studies also throw light on the aspect how to enrich the economic condition of the farmers.
Extending Resolution of Fault Slip With Geodetic Networks Through Optimal Network Design
Authors: Sathiakumar Sharadha , Barbot Sylvain Denis , Agram Piyush 
Published: October 2017

AbstractGeodetic networks consisting of high precision and high rate Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) stations continuously monitor seismically active regions of the world. These networks measure surface displacements and the amount of geodetic strain accumulated in the region and give insight into the seismic potential. SuGar (Sumatra GPS Array) in Sumatra, GEONET (GNSS Earth Observation Network System) in Japan, and PBO (Plate Boundary Observatory) in California are some examples of established networks around the world that are constantly expanding with the addition of new stations to improve the quality of measurements. However, installing new stations to existing networks is tedious and expensive. Therefore, it is important to choose suitable locations for new stations to increase the precision obtained in measuring the geophysical parameters of interest. Here we describe a methodology to design optimal geodetic networks that augment the existing system and use it to investigate seismo‐tectonics at convergent and transform boundaries considering land‐based and seafloor geodesy. The proposed network design optimization would be pivotal to better understand seismic and tsunami hazards around the world. Land‐based and seafloor networks can monitor fault slip around subduction zones with significant resolution, but transform faults are more challenging to monitor due to their near‐vertical geometry.
The 2016 Kumamoto Mw = 7.0 Earthquake: A Significant Event in a Fault–Volcano System
Authors: Yue Han , Ross Zachary E. , Liang Cunren , Michel Sylvain , Fattahi Heresh , Fielding Eric , Moore Angelyn , Liu Zhen , Jia Bo 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe 2016 Kumamoto earthquake sequence occurred on the Futagawa–Hinagu fault zone near the Aso volcano on Kyushu island. The sequence was initiated with two major (Mw ≥ 6.0) foreshocks, and the mainshock (Mw = 7.0) occurred 25 h after the second major foreshock. We combine GPS, strong motion, synthetic aperture radar images, and surface offset data in a joint inversion to resolve the kinematic rupture process of the mainshock and coseismic displacement of the foreshocks. The joint inversion results reveal a unilateral rupture process for the mainshock involving sequential rupture of four major asperities. The slip area of the foreshocks and mainshock and the aftershock loci form a detailed complementary pattern. The mainshock rupture terminates near the rim of the caldera, leaving a ~10 km long gap of aftershocks. This area is characterized by high temperature and low shear wave velocity, density, and resistivity, which may be related to the partially melted geothermal condition. Ductile material property near the volcano may act as a “material barrier” to the dynamic rupture. Topographic weight of the caldera increases compressional normal stress on the fault plane, which may behave as a “stress barrier.” Long‐term seismic hazard and deformation behaviors related to these two types of barriers are discussed in terms of the associated frictional mechanism. Significant postseismic creeps observed near the volcano area indicates a velocity strengthening frictional behavior near the rupture termination, which confirms that the “material barrier” mechanism is likely the dominant rupture termination mechanism.
Data‐Constrained Projections of Methane Fluxes in a Northern Minnesota Peatland in Response to Elevated CO2 and Warming
Authors: Ma Shuang , Jiang Jiang , Huang Yuanyuan , Shi Zheng , Wilson Rachel M. , Ricciuto Daniel , Sebestyen Stephen D. , Hanson Paul J. , Luo Yiqi 
Published: October 2017

AbstractLarge uncertainties exist in predicting responses of wetland methane (CH4) fluxes to future climate change. However, sources of the uncertainty have not been clearly identified despite the fact that methane production and emission processes have been extensively explored. In this study, we took advantage of manual CH4 flux measurements under ambient environment from 2011 to 2014 at the Spruce and Peatland Responses Under Changing Environments (SPRUCE) experimental site and developed a data‐informed process‐based methane module. The module was incorporated into the Terrestrial ECOsystem (TECO) model before its parameters were constrained with multiple years of methane flux data for forecasting CH4 emission under five warming and two elevated CO2 treatments at SPRUCE. We found that 9°C warming treatments significantly increased methane emission by approximately 400%, and elevated CO2 treatments stimulated methane emission by 10.4%–23.6% in comparison with ambient conditions. The relative contribution of plant‐mediated transport to methane emission decreased from 96% at the control to 92% at the 9°C warming, largely to compensate for an increase in ebullition. The uncertainty in plant‐mediated transportation and ebullition increased with warming and contributed to the overall changes of emissions uncertainties. At the same time, our modeling results indicated a significant increase in the emitted CH4:CO2 ratio. This result, together with the larger warming potential of CH4, will lead to a strong positive feedback from terrestrial ecosystems to climate warming. The model‐data fusion approach used in this study enabled parameter estimation and uncertainty quantification for forecasting methane fluxes.
Soluble CD163 in intracerebral hemorrhage: biomarker for perihematomal edema
Authors: Roy‐O'Reilly Meaghan , Zhu Liang , Atadja Louise , Torres Glenda , Aronowski Jaroslaw , McCullough Louise , Edwards Nancy J. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractObjectivePatients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) may elaborate varying degrees of perihematomal edema (PHE), requiring closer monitoring and a higher intensity of treatment. Here, we explore whether the soluble form of CD163, a scavenger receptor responsible for hemoglobin sequestration, can serve as a prognostic biomarker of PHE development and poor outcome after ICH.MethodsOur study cohort was comprised of 51 primary age‐ and sex‐matched ICH patients with moderate‐sized, hypertensive deep hemorrhages. Patients were part of a prospective ICH registry cataloguing admission data along with functional outcomes. We measured sCD163 levels in serial serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples obtained at prespecified timepoints. Descriptive statistics, including a generalized estimating equation for longitudinal data, were used to analyze sCD163 in relation to ICH outcomes.ResultsAcute serum sCD163 (<48 h postictus) was significantly elevated in ICH patients compared to both acute neurological event controls (P = <0.001) and healthy controls (P = 0.003). As predicted, acute serum sCD163 levels were significantly associated with both hematoma volume expansion (P = 0.009) and PHE expansion (P = 0.002). Further examination determined that patients with high PHE expansion had poorer modified Rankin Scale scores at discharge (P = 0.024), and circulating sCD163 levels were found to be significantly lower in patients with high‐level PHE expansion.InterpretationAcute sCD163 levels may be a useful biomarker for the acute identification of patients at risk for hematoma expansion, perihematomal edema expansion and poorer short‐term outcomes.
Triplet Transfer Mediates Triplet Pair Separation during Singlet Fission in 6,13‐Bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)‐Pentacene
Authors: Grieco Christopher , Doucette Grayson S. , Munro Jason M. , Kennehan Eric R. , Lee Youngmin , Rimshaw Adam , Payne Marcia M. , Wonderling Nichole , Anthony John E. , Dabo Ismaila , Gomez Enrique D. , Asbury John B. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractTriplet population dynamics of solution cast films of isolated polymorphs of 6,13‐bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl) pentacene (TIPS‐Pn) provide quantitative experimental evidence that triplet excitation energy transfer is the dominant mechanism for correlated triplet pair (CTP) separation during singlet fission. Variations in CTP separation rates are compared for polymorphs of TIPS‐Pn with their triplet diffusion characteristics that are controlled by their crystal structures. Since triplet energy transfer is a spin‐forbidden process requiring direct wavefunction overlap, simple calculations of electron and hole transfer integrals are used to predict how molecular packing arrangements would influence triplet transfer rates. The transfer integrals reveal how differences in the packing arrangements affect electronic interactions between pairs of TIPS‐Pn molecules, which are correlated with the relative rates of CTP separation in the polymorphs. These findings suggest that relatively simple computations in conjunction with measurements of molecular packing structures may be used as screening tools to predict a priori whether new types of singlet fission sensitizers have the potential to undergo fast separation of CTP states to form multiplied triplets.
Platinum‐Based Nanowires as Active Catalysts toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction: In Situ Observation of Surface‐Diffusion‐Assisted, Solid‐State Oriented Attachment
Authors: Ma Yanling , Gao Wenpei , Shan Hao , Chen Wenlong , Shang Wen , Tao Peng , Song Chengyi , Addiego Chris , Deng Tao , Pan Xiaoqing , Wu Jianbo 
Published: October 2017

AbstractFacile fabrication of advanced catalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction with improving activity and stability is significant for proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells. Based on a generic solid‐state reaction, this study reports a modified hydrogen‐assisted, gas‐phase synthesis for facile, scalable production of surfactant‐free, thin, platinum‐based nanowire‐network electrocatalysts. The free‐standing platinum and platinum–nickel alloy nanowires show improvements of up to 5.1 times and 10.9 times for mass activity with a minimum 2.6% loss after an accelerated durability test for 10k cycles; 8.5 times and 13.8 times for specific activity, respectively, compared to commercial Pt/C catalyst. In addition, combined with a wet impregnation method, different substrate‐materials‐supported platinum‐based nanowires are obtained, which paves the way to practical application as a next‐generation supported catalyst to replace Pt/C. The growth stages and formation mechanism are investigated by an in situ transmission electron microscopy study. It reveals that the free‐standing platinum nanowires form in the solid state via metal‐surface‐diffusion‐assisted oriented attachment of individual nanoparticles, and the interaction with gas molecules plays a critical role, which may represent a gas‐molecular‐adsorbate‐modified growth in catalyst preparation.
Organic Diode Rectifiers Based on a High‐Performance Conjugated Polymer for a Near‐Field Energy‐Harvesting Circuit
Authors: Higgins Stuart G. , Agostinelli Tiziano , Markham Steve , Whiteman Robert , Sirringhaus Henning 
Published: October 2017

AbstractOrganic diodes manufactured on a plastic substrate capable of rectifying a high‐frequency radio‐frequency identification signal (13.56 MHz), with sufficient power to operate an interactive smart tag, are reported. A high‐performance conjugated semiconductor (an indacenodithiophene‐benzothiadiazole copolymer) is combined with a carefully optimized architecture to satisfy the electrical requirements for an organic‐semiconductor‐based logic chip.