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Open Access February 03, 2023

Novel nano-thermal ablation therapy using functionalized heat-generating nanoparticles for solid cancer treatment

Abstract This seminar in writing introduced novel cancer thermal therapy using functionalized heat-generating nanoparticles with about 100 nm diameter, administered via intratumor injection. The nanoparticles named magnetites cationic lipid composite particles (MCL particles) were composed of about 10 nm magnetites (Fe3O4), a cationic lipid and two neutral lipids. Magnetites in MCL [...] Read more.
This seminar in writing introduced novel cancer thermal therapy using functionalized heat-generating nanoparticles with about 100 nm diameter, administered via intratumor injection. The nanoparticles named magnetites cationic lipid composite particles (MCL particles) were composed of about 10 nm magnetites (Fe3O4), a cationic lipid and two neutral lipids. Magnetites in MCL particles generated heat due to external alternating magnetic field (AMF) irradiation to kill cancer cells nearby located. A cationic lipid component conferred several functions to MCL particles necessary for its efficacy and safety. Origination of the therapy with MCL particles was summarized by referring to our earlier reports in 1996-2014. Further characterizations of MCP particles and utility of heat dose index for treatment control were summarized by referring to our recent reports in 2019-2022. Unpublished data were supplemented to support overall understanding of the therapy. Purpose of this seminar is to clarify novel principle of the therapy in comparison with conventional thermal therapies and to discuss its clinical application.
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Seminar in writing
Open Access September 01, 2022

Expanded Design between Design Activism and Collectible Design

Abstract The last three decades have witnessed in Europe an increasing interest from institutions, and creative communities in independent research connected to crafting, DIY, maker culture, and design activism. A new generation of designers has focused on the experimentation of processes, materials, and technologies used as a vehicle for socio-political and environmental messages and as the starting point [...] Read more.
The last three decades have witnessed in Europe an increasing interest from institutions, and creative communities in independent research connected to crafting, DIY, maker culture, and design activism. A new generation of designers has focused on the experimentation of processes, materials, and technologies used as a vehicle for socio-political and environmental messages and as the starting point of solid narrative projects. This paper aims to analyse this phenomenon inside the niche of Collectible Design, a field in recent years of great interest by galleries and institutions for its ability to embrace material and technological research as well as craftsmanship and art. We investigate the phenomenon, through a series of interviews with designers such as Shahar Livne, Eugenia Morpurgo, Pleun van Dijk, Tellurico, and Standard 404, selected for their ability to use experimental materials and technologies, as communicative media for reflections on systemic issues.
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Case Study
Open Access January 25, 2026

Meigs’ syndrome presenting with pleuritic chest pain and dyspnea: rapid resolution after resection of an ovarian fibroma

Abstract Meigs’ syndrome is a rare triad of a benign ovarian fibroma (or fibroma‑like tumor), ascites, and pleural effusion that resolves after tumor resection. A 53‑year‑old multiparous woman presented with progressive exertional dyspnea and right‑sided pleuritic chest pain. Respiratory and cardiac evaluations were initially unrevealing. Bedside assessment identified mild right basal dullness, and [...] Read more.
Meigs’ syndrome is a rare triad of a benign ovarian fibroma (or fibroma‑like tumor), ascites, and pleural effusion that resolves after tumor resection. A 53‑year‑old multiparous woman presented with progressive exertional dyspnea and right‑sided pleuritic chest pain. Respiratory and cardiac evaluations were initially unrevealing. Bedside assessment identified mild right basal dullness, and point‑of‑care abdominal ultrasound demonstrated mild free fluid and a solid right adnexal mass. Chest radiography confirmed a small right pleural effusion. Without computed tomography and without diagnostic paracentesis or thoracentesis, Meigs’ syndrome was suspected. The patient underwent laparotomy with total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‑oophorectomy. Histopathology confirmed an ovarian fibroma. Postoperatively, symptoms resolved dramatically, and follow‑up imaging demonstrated complete resolution of the pleural effusion and ascites. This case highlights the importance of considering gynecologic etiologies in unexplained pleural effusion and dyspnea, especially when accompanied by abdominal distension or pelvic pressure.
Case Report
Open Access September 14, 2025

Lifecycle Management as a Roadmap to the Tobacco Endgame

Abstract Background: Tobacco endgame, defined as elimination of commercial tobacco sales The U.S. tobacco control landscape is a complex, adaptive system shaped by diverse stakeholders, evolving products and regulations, shifting social norms, and the strategic countermeasures of a powerful industry. Managing such complexity requires more than isolated interventions—it demands a coordinated, [...] Read more.
Background: Tobacco endgame, defined as elimination of commercial tobacco sales The U.S. tobacco control landscape is a complex, adaptive system shaped by diverse stakeholders, evolving products and regulations, shifting social norms, and the strategic countermeasures of a powerful industry. Managing such complexity requires more than isolated interventions—it demands a coordinated, enterprise-wide approach that accounts for dynamic interactions, feedback loops, and emergent risks. Objective: Drawing on complex systems thinking, Zachman enterprise architecture model, and public health best practices, we conceptualize tobacco control as an evolving enterprise progressing through six interconnected phases: (1) Conception & Initiation, (2) Policy & System Design, (3) Implementation & Operation, (4) Evaluation & Adaptation, (5) Consolidation & Endgame Transition, and (6) Sustainment or Sunset. Each phase incorporates governance structures, performance benchmarks, and transition criteria designed to manage interdependence and reduce systemic vulnerabilities. Results: The lifecycle framing emphasizes how tobacco control in the U.S. can evolve as a complex, adaptive enterprise—integrating public health objectives with legal, operational, and cultural change processes. This model supports strategic sequencing, cross-sector alignment, and risk mitigation against emergent industry tactics, enabling a resilient and measurable pathway to the endgame. Conclusions: Seeing tobacco control as a complex enterprise that operates under a lifecycle model may offer a roadmap for achieving and sustaining the tobacco endgame. Using this approach may enhance policy coherence, resource efficiency, and adaptability, ensuring tobacco endgame is achieved.
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Open Access August 18, 2023

Barriers to Effective Solid Waste Management in Ghana: A Case of Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality

Abstract The objective of this study was to examine the barriers to effective solid waste management in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana. This study adopted the cross-sectional descriptive survey research design. The population for the study comprised all residents of 18 years or older as well as waste management agencies in the KEEA Municipality. A simple random [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to examine the barriers to effective solid waste management in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana. This study adopted the cross-sectional descriptive survey research design. The population for the study comprised all residents of 18 years or older as well as waste management agencies in the KEEA Municipality. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 380 residents together with 45 staff of the Zoomlion Company Ltd in the KEEA Municipality for the study. The questionnaire was the main instrument used for the data collection. Frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were used to analyse the questionnaire items on the research questions. This was done with the use of the Statistical Package for Service Solutions (SPSS) version 21. There were a number of barriers to effective solid waste management practices. Some of the barriers were inadequate environmental education; inadequate logistics and funds; inadequate depots, skips and dustbins; lack of adequate skilled personnel to manage services efficiently; and apathetic attitude/inertia on the part of some of the residents. Some other barriers included: irregular collection of waste by waste management companies; lack of appropriate sites for waste disposal; unwillingness of some households to pay for the collection and appropriate disposal of solids; and refuse dumps located very far from home. It is recommended that the government through the Ministry of Local Government should provide adequate logistics and funds for the procurement of dustbins in order to ensure proper solid waste management. The Assembly should ensure that Zoomlion collects waste regularly. The Assembly should encourage residents to pay for the collection of waste and sanction recalcitrant residents who do not adhere to appropriate solid waste management practices.
Article
Open Access June 21, 2023

Effectiveness of Environmental Solid Waste Management Policies and Practices for Sustainable Development

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of environmental solid waste management policies and practices for sustainable development in Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana. The case study research design was adopted for the study. Using the simple random sampling procedure, 425 respondents comprising of 380 residents and 45 Zoomlion staff were [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of environmental solid waste management policies and practices for sustainable development in Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana. The case study research design was adopted for the study. Using the simple random sampling procedure, 425 respondents comprising of 380 residents and 45 Zoomlion staff were involved in the study. The data were analysed through the computation of frequencies, percentages, as well as means and standard deviations. On the waste management strategic action plan for sustainable development, it can be concluded that, regular monitoring system should be in place to ensure that households adhere to the solid waste management practices; and education/training programmes on solid waste management should be provided for employees so that they can appreciate the need for sustainable development practices. It can also be concluded that, most of the environmental management policies and practices of solid waste management were not effective in the KEEA Municipality because the residents were uncertain about the effectiveness of the environmental policies that have been put in place. Perhaps, the Assembly does not conduct regular monitoring to find out solid waste management practices of the various households. It could be that the Assembly does not enforce bye-laws on sanitation on appropriate solid waste management practices. It is recommended that, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Assembly should conduct regular monitoring system in order to ensure that residents adhere to the solid waste management practices. Again, the Assembly should make available a reliable data on solid waste generation for households in the Municipality. It is also recommended that, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Assembly should ensure proper enforcement of the bye-laws on sanitation on appropriate solid waste management practices. Residents of the KEEA Municipality should be encouraged by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to consider reuse and recycling as important activities.
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Article
Open Access June 09, 2022

The role of Diversity in The war of Talents

Abstract This article provides an overview of the opportunities and risks of Diversity Management. It also attempts to close the research gap that results from the interrelationship between Diversity Man-agement and the War of Talents. The thesis is that the full benefits of Diversity Management in the War of Talents can only be real-ized if an appropriate diversity strategy has been established and [...] Read more.
This article provides an overview of the opportunities and risks of Diversity Management. It also attempts to close the research gap that results from the interrelationship between Diversity Man-agement and the War of Talents. The thesis is that the full benefits of Diversity Management in the War of Talents can only be real-ized if an appropriate diversity strategy has been established and communicated. Through teleological and historical perspectives as well as causal research of the topics and inter-faces, research questions will be answered and research gaps will be closed. The article thus pre-sents the essential theories on the significance of Diversity Management in the War of Talents. Mutual dependencies can thus be identified in order to assess the impact of Diversity Manage-ment. The bottom line is that diversity efforts must be concentrated and qualitative. A solid strategy forms the basis for this. However, external, non-operational influences are also of decisive im-portance for successful Diversity Management.
Theoretical Conceptual Article
Open Access May 22, 2022

Students’ Knowledge Base in the Value of Honesty in Senior High Schools

Abstract The purpose of the study was to examine the knowledge base of students in the Assin Manso Senior High School in the central region of Ghana. A qualitative method was used in this study. The population of the study comprised students from Assin Manso senior high school in the Central Region of Ghana. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select forty (40) respondents for this study. The [...] Read more.
The purpose of the study was to examine the knowledge base of students in the Assin Manso Senior High School in the central region of Ghana. A qualitative method was used in this study. The population of the study comprised students from Assin Manso senior high school in the Central Region of Ghana. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select forty (40) respondents for this study. The forty (40) respondents consisted of all Students Representative Councils (SRC) members in the school. Each class has a representation in the study. The main instrument for data collection was interview guide. The data collection was done using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The qualitative data was analysed by the use of the interpretative technique based on the themes arrived at during the interview. The themes were related to the research question. The study revealed that honesty is being loyal to a colleague, covering them up and standing by them as well. The study also indicated that honesty depict “we feeling” or “solidarity”, so to them any students who does the opposite is considered to be dishonest. It is recommended that, Students who obey the school rules and regulations should be motivated by the school authorities in order to encourage the other students to do same. It is also recommended that parents and educators, should all advocate the teaching of moral values in our schools to instil in students the benefits that honest brings to them, the school, the family, community and the country as a whole.
Review Article
Open Access May 21, 2022

State of knowledge and challenges in the control and eradication of Onchocerciasis in Africa: a mini scoping review

Abstract Background: Onchocerciasis is a vector-borne neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by the filarial worm Onchocerca volvulus [...] Read more.
Background: Onchocerciasis is a vector-borne neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by the filarial worm Onchocerca volvulus. Given the high morbidity and mortality, onchocerciasis control gained great attention from many stakeholders both nationally and internationally. However, there are still the need for further solidified commitments and compelling initiatives across concerned stakeholders including regional bodies in the fight toward controlling its burden and risks. Thus, this review briefly appraised the current understanding and dynamics in the control and eradication efforts of Onchocerciasis in Africa. Methods: A rapid scoping review was used for this paper. Key databases used for this study include Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed and Google Scholar to identify a series of relevant peer-reviewed publications. The search contained just English-language articles. In addition, African government websites and specialized organizations such as WHO, UNAIDS, CDC, etc. were accessed and reviewed to gather important data on national and international control programs, related documentation and consultative expert reports. Results: In Africa, long-standing strides toward the control and elimination measures for onchocerciasis were conducted for several decades. Between 1974 to 2002, OCP had actively led the control and containment efforts for onchocerciasis in the context of 11 West Africa. However, endemic regions and states have switched their policies from controlling to eradication, with the ultimate objective of preventing their territories from parasite spread. Some key challenges are the insufficient identification of all endemic areas, high prevalence of both onchocerciasis and loiasis, potential development of resistance to ivermectin, inconsistent initiatives to address cross-border problems, disagreements and social disturbance. Various challenges, however, impede current efforts to eradicate African onchocerciasis. Conclusion: In the last decades, extensive measures have been taken with specialized state programs, largely efficient in high endemic nations, to manage and control onchocerciasis in African regions. The implications of these and other difficulties at country level control programs must therefore be identified and country-specific contextual remedies used to expedite the elimination of onchocerciasis.
Mini Review
Open Access May 21, 2022

Solid Waste Disposal Practices on the Environment

Abstract The purpose of the study was to examine solid waste disposal situation and its resultant effects in Winneba The research adopted quantitative approach for the study. The design for this research was a descriptive survey. The population for the study were residents of Winneba Township the capital of the Effutu municipality. The area is a fast growing urban community. Stratified sample sampling [...] Read more.
The purpose of the study was to examine solid waste disposal situation and its resultant effects in Winneba The research adopted quantitative approach for the study. The design for this research was a descriptive survey. The population for the study were residents of Winneba Township the capital of the Effutu municipality. The area is a fast growing urban community. Stratified sample sampling technique was used to select the respondents for the study. One hundred and fifty-six (156) residents were selected using strata sampling to answer questionnaires. The data entry and analysis was done by using the SPSS software package. The data was edited, coded and analysed into frequencies, percentages with interpretations. The study revealed that there was irregular or lack of routine collection of waste by WMD of EMA and ZoomLion Ghana Ltd. The study also indicated that, the landfill did not meet the requirement of a sanitary landfill as in the case of EMA and therefore could be described as an open dump. It is recommended that, adequate dustbins and skips should be provided by ZoomLion Ghana Ltd. in collaboration with the WMD and Municipal Assembly for residents in the Municipality for waste storage. It is recommended that the landfill site should be properly managed to avoid heaping of waste and burning.
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Article
Open Access November 22, 2021

COVID-19 and Legionella Co-Infection

Abstract Introduction: Concurrent infections or co-infections in patients diagnosed with Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) are not uncommon and predict a pejorative prognosis. A co-infection accounts for 1 out of every 5 cases of COVID-19 and increases the likelihood of adverse health outcomes such as mechanical ventilations, ICU admissions, and death. Specifically, Legionella spp. [...] Read more.
Introduction: Concurrent infections or co-infections in patients diagnosed with Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) are not uncommon and predict a pejorative prognosis. A co-infection accounts for 1 out of every 5 cases of COVID-19 and increases the likelihood of adverse health outcomes such as mechanical ventilations, ICU admissions, and death. Specifically, Legionella spp. co-infection presents additional challenges in COVID-19 patients because of its rarity, similar clinical presentation to SARS-CoV-2, and poorer outcomes without prompt treatment. Cases Presentation: Case 1. A 62-year-old female presented with a 3-day history of subjective fever and worsening shortness of breath. Room air saturation (saO2) was 70% and improved to 100% on noninvasive positive- pressure ventilation (NIPPV). Lung auscultation revealed rales BL. Chest X –Ray (CXR) showed patchy airspace opacities bilaterally (BL), SARS-CoV-2 PCR and urine legionella antigen tests were positive. The diagnosis of hypoxic respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19 and Legionella pneumonia was made. Patient was admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) and managed with decadron, remdesivir, one unit of convalescent plasma for COVID-19 and Azithromycin for Legionella. Patient subsequently developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS protocol was initiated. 13 days after, the patient was compassionately extubated. Case 2. A 41-year-old male presented with 5-day history of fever, worsening shortness of breath, cough and diarrhea. Patient admitted history of ethanol abuse. SaO2 was 88% and improved on oxygen canula. Lung auscultation revealed rhonchi BL. CXR showed extensive left lung consolidation. Urine test for legionella antigen was positive. COVID-19 PCR was negative, but SARS-CoV-2 IgG was reactive. The diagnosis of Legionnaire disease was made. Despite initial treatment with Azithromycin, patient's hypoxia continued to worsen requiring NIPPV, and subsequently mechanical ventilation in the ICU. The adjunction of empiric treatment for COVID-19 with convalescent plasma, remdesivir and steroids improved both clinicals and laboratory findings. Discussion: The cases illustrated the practical challenges of managing COVID-19 and legionella co- infection. Legionella spp and SARS-CoV-2 overlapping incubation periods and similar clinical presentations and complications. In the absence of diagnosis and treatment, legionella pneumonia has an intrinsic mortality rate of up to 80%. As some COVID-19 mitigation strategies, such as the closure of businesses, have enhanced the conditions for Legionella spp proliferation, the incidence of Co-infection with COVID-19 may increase. We recommend clinicians to have high-indexed suspicion of COVID-19 and Legionella co-infection in order to obtain complete work up at patient’s initial presentation.
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Case Report
Open Access October 28, 2021

Development of an Improved Solid Waste Collection System using Smart Sensors

Abstract Waste collection system has become a challenging task, occasioned by the overflowing garbage bins littered all over the environment, causing environmental hazard and further leading to incurable diseases which endanger life. The present-day waste collection system has proven to be inefficient, taking into consideration the advancement in the technologies on the rise in recent years as well as the [...] Read more.
Waste collection system has become a challenging task, occasioned by the overflowing garbage bins littered all over the environment, causing environmental hazard and further leading to incurable diseases which endanger life. The present-day waste collection system has proven to be inefficient, taking into consideration the advancement in the technologies on the rise in recent years as well as the continuous increase in population growth. As a result of this inefficiency observed, this work developed a model for electronic waste collection system in a telecommunication driven environment. In the system's implementation, PIC18F4620 based instrumentation, integrated with proximity sensor for external monitoring and level sensors for internal monitoring was adopted, while the controlling of the opening and closing of the cabins was implemented using a smart switching board. A remote reporting to the waste management authority so as to systematically plan route-map for garbage collection when the waste cabin is fully filled was done by deploying a 900MHz transmitter interfaced with the system’s controller. The result shows that with this model the waste cabin opens only on account of a user approaching the sensing distance of the system and the cabin is not filled. But when the cabin gets filled and a user approaches the sensing distance of the system, it directs the user to use the nearest waste cabin by displaying a message on the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), while communicating with relevant authority for the evacuation of the cabin via SMS. It was obviously seen that the automation incorporated into the system had zero impact on the success rate of the system or system availability while introducing a latency of 5.6seconds, which is just 28.0% of the maximum allowable latency of this kind of system, while protecting the environment from environmental pollution and spread of diseases. This work highlights the potentials of (EWCS) Electronic Waste Collection System in monitoring and controlling waste disposal for healthy and clean environment.
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Article
Open Access August 25, 2021

The Extent of the Researcher's Liability for Environmental Damage Caused by Academic Research

Abstract The right to the environment and the research right are human rights that must be protected. The right of individuals to a healthy environment is part of the human rights that are increasingly threatened by human activities. This right is a prominent example of solidarity rights and a prerequisite for realizing many human rights. Exercising this right requires a level of development that provides [...] Read more.
The right to the environment and the research right are human rights that must be protected. The right of individuals to a healthy environment is part of the human rights that are increasingly threatened by human activities. This right is a prominent example of solidarity rights and a prerequisite for realizing many human rights. Exercising this right requires a level of development that provides the basis for further environmental degradation. The activities of academic researchers in the direction of progress and development can pave the way for environmental damage. This article discusses when a researcher causes harm in conducting academic research. The need to compensate and support the researcher in conducting their research contrasts these two rights; Therefore, it is necessary to look for ways of compensation that make possible the simultaneous protection of these two rights. Because according to Article 21 of the Stockholm Declaration and Article 2 of the Rio Declaration, governments are responsible for ensuring that their activities do not lead to environmental damage. The key role of governments in resolving this conflict and helping to promote academic research, reducing harm, and trying to prevent this kind of harm is obvious. In this article, we intend to resolve this conflict by examining the principles of human rights, the right to research, and the right to the environment and to examine Iran’s legal approach in this regard.
Article
Open Access August 24, 2021

The Art of Shoot: The 3D Model Presents a Smart Digital Way Teaching of Basketball

Abstract Sport is an art form. Every athlete thinks, creates, obeys rules, plans, and produces tangible results. Like most art forms, basketball for learning, monitoring, and understanding the sport requires all five senses. With the same logic by which an architect plans to build a building, the basketball team prepares for the game mode, the systems, which they will have in a match. In summary the [...] Read more.
Sport is an art form. Every athlete thinks, creates, obeys rules, plans, and produces tangible results. Like most art forms, basketball for learning, monitoring, and understanding the sport requires all five senses. With the same logic by which an architect plans to build a building, the basketball team prepares for the game mode, the systems, which they will have in a match. In summary the players and the coaching staff think before they do. For this reason, in basketball it is important to create a philosophy and a system of values in the team. Values such as trust, solidarity, cooperation, ambition, consistency are important for building the mindset among stakeholders for the successful course of the team and for titles. Finally, sport produces knowledge. Basketball is an evolving and progressive sport. Adapting to modern requirements, studying, and monitoring new trends. For example, the specialization of players in Shoot, in speed in, power, strong, results in an increase in the ability of players to man-to-man attacks. On the other hand, the defensive function of both individual and team needs to deepen the proper treatment of powerful offensive players.
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Article
Open Access August 09, 2021

Investigation of the Optimal Model for the Development of Renewable Energy in Iran using a Robust Optimization Approach

Abstract Due to its geographical location, Iran has numerous capacities in renewable energy, and this issue has made the need to develop renewable energy on the authorities’ agenda. This underscores the need to provide an optimal model for developing renewable energy. Therefore, in this study, the main purpose was to provide an optimal renewable energy model. In line with this goal, by choosing the cost [...] Read more.
Due to its geographical location, Iran has numerous capacities in renewable energy, and this issue has made the need to develop renewable energy on the authorities’ agenda. This underscores the need to provide an optimal model for developing renewable energy. Therefore, in this study, the main purpose was to provide an optimal renewable energy model. In line with this goal, by choosing the cost function as the objective function and considering the potential constraints of renewable energy (resource constraints), the amount of electricity consumption in each of the 16 electricity regions (demand constraint) and the limitation of renewable energy production coefficient (Technical constraints), the optimal model of renewable energy use was designed and solved using a solid programming model in LINGO software. The optimal model results show 15.19% small hydropower, 24.30% wind energy, 5.52% biomass energy, 6.13% is geothermal energy, 4.79% is tidal energy, and 44.07% solar energy. The optimum portfolio of renewable energy is estimated in this paper using the robust optimization approach. The results showed which renewable technology has the greater potential to take more share of the energy portfolio. The results of this investigation help policymakers to choose the most suitable renewable technologies to support.
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Article
Open Access December 27, 2021

Sustainability in Construction: Exploring the Development of Eco-Friendly Equipment

Abstract The equipment used in the construction industry is usually associated with a high impact on the environment. Although sustainable design has shown to be a main player among the initiatives focused on reducing environmental impact, it has been driven by the workers and processes, leaving the equipment endeavors in more restrictive and later stages. The equipment industry has been a constant target [...] Read more.
The equipment used in the construction industry is usually associated with a high impact on the environment. Although sustainable design has shown to be a main player among the initiatives focused on reducing environmental impact, it has been driven by the workers and processes, leaving the equipment endeavors in more restrictive and later stages. The equipment industry has been a constant target of environmental standards and economic pressure, but the increasing technological development allows it to respond to sustainability and safety expectations while enhancing its performance. However, there are still several limitations that lead this sector to be one of the last to reach upgrading levels in terms of development. A study identified some gaps in the equipment design that require a greater effort to effectively support the workers and companies towards sustainable construction. This chapter is based on a study aiming to understand the consolidated knowledge of technologically sustainable equipment design and to identify the challenges left for its full development. The findings support the development of innovative eco-friendly equipment, taking into consideration sustainable materials and product guidelines, as well as green economy initiatives. It also supports complex system approaches and safety by design specificities to establish a corporate knowledge of sustainable equipment and align it with the new regulations of the construction industry. The chapter introduces the context of construction equipment in terms of new challenges when faced with the need to provide construction work with a greater capacity for safety, from an environmental and energy efficiency perspective, and within the paradigm of sustainability. Then, it presents the concept of sustainable equipment considering its principles, followed by a characterization of the agents involved in its life cycle.
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Review Article
Open Access December 27, 2023

Leveraging Machine Learning Techniques for Predictive Analysis in Merger and Acquisition (M&A)

Abstract M&A is a strategic concept of business growth through consolidation, gaining market access, increasing strategic positions, and increasing operational efficiency. To understand the dynamics of M&A, this paper looks at aspects such as targeted firm identification, evaluation, bidding for the target firm, and post-acquisition integration. All forms of M&A, including horizontal, [...] Read more.
M&A is a strategic concept of business growth through consolidation, gaining market access, increasing strategic positions, and increasing operational efficiency. To understand the dynamics of M&A, this paper looks at aspects such as targeted firm identification, evaluation, bidding for the target firm, and post-acquisition integration. All forms of M&A, including horizontal, vertical, conglomerate, and acquisitions, are discussed in terms of goals and values, including synergy, cost reduction, competitive advantages, and access to better technology. However, issues such as cultural assimilation, adhesion to regulations, and calculating an inaccurate value are also resolved. The paper then goes deeper to provide insight into how predictive analytics applies to M&A, using ML to improve decision-making with forecasting benefits. Including healthcare, education, and construction industries, the presented predictive models using regression analysis, neural networks, and ensemble techniques help to make decisions. Through time series and real-time data, PDA enables sound M&A strategies, effective risk management and smooth integration.
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Review Article
Open Access December 18, 2020

Event-Driven Architectures for Real-Time Regulatory Monitoring in Global Banking

Abstract The global banking industry is subject to ever-growing regulatory requirements, designed to prevent financial tour de force repeats tearing through the world economy. The changes are incomplete and new rules being enacted each year. Implementing and executing these rules and regulations requires the guiding principles from senior management to reach the product desks in a clear and efficient way. [...] Read more.
The global banking industry is subject to ever-growing regulatory requirements, designed to prevent financial tour de force repeats tearing through the world economy. The changes are incomplete and new rules being enacted each year. Implementing and executing these rules and regulations requires the guiding principles from senior management to reach the product desks in a clear and efficient way. Technical systems must implement these rules. Differences in interpretation, implementation, and warnings must be addressed during normal operations. Most importantly, systems must provide warning alerts to management and the business as early as possible, to allow for proper handling. History has shown that the importance of early warnings has been overlooked repeatedly. Real-time capabilities are essential to meet these business needs. Organizations must therefore be ready to embrace a next-generation architecture that enables real-time alert and warning generation. Systems based on a streaming architecture, combined with systems enabling the real-time flow of events between domains supported by orchestration, provide a solid foundation to meet these requirements.
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Review Article

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