Customizable System Research Articles

Trends in Photopolymerization 3D Printing for Advanced Drug Delivery Applications.

Since its invention in the 1980s, photopolymerization-based 3D printing has attracted significant attention for its capability to fabricate complex microstructures with high precision, by leveraging light patterning to initiate polymerization and cross-linking in liquid resin materials. Such precision makes it particularly suitable for biomedical applications, in particular, advanced and customized drug delivery systems. This review summarizes the latest advancements in photopolymerization 3D printing technology and the development of biocompatible and/or biodegradable materials that have been used or shown potential in the field of drug delivery. The drug loading methods and release characteristics of the 3D printing drug delivery systems are summarized. Importantly, recent trends in the drug delivery applications based on photopolymerization 3D printing, including oral formulations, microneedles, implantable devices, microrobots and recently emerging systems, are analyzed. In the end, the challenges and opportunities in photopolymerization 3D printing for customized drug delivery are discussed.

COMPARATION OF MEDIATION IN THE COURT AND OUTSIDE THE COURT IN RESOLVING STATE ADMINISTRATIVE CASES

Disputes in legal relations that arise in the community are a natural thing as a result of a consequence of the legal relationship. In practice, the process of resolving disputes can be carried out within the court and outside the court, the determination of which is chosen by the disputing party. In the process before a dispute resolution is carried out, mediation efforts are made first. which aims to take steps that are mutually beneficial to both parties to the dispute. Regarding the mediation effort, it raises the question whether the process ns equally between mediation carried out in court and mediation efforts carried out outsde the court Dispute resolution as mediation has been known since the first in Indonesia because of the customs system in resolving a case always uphold discussion and consensus through traditional forums of each region in Indonesia. As it grows by time, this is enforced in the court (Court Connected Mediation) as form of justice law

A newly custom coordinate system used for preoperative planning of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty

PurposePreoperative planning is critical for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) performed with surgical robots, as it involves establishing a coordinate system to calculate the angle values of the components. This coordinate system serves as a reference during the surgical planning stage. This study aimed to develop a newly custom coordinate system suitable for integration with a surgical robot system. MethodsThe “Skywalker” surgical robot system was used to import computed tomography (CT) images of the entire lower extremities from 50 patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Three-dimensional reconstruction was subsequently performed. The TKA component was positioned at a fixed angle using the newly developed custom coordinate system. The angle values of the components, based on the standard CT coordinate system, were then recorded without altering their positioning. These values were analyzed to assess the differences between the two coordinate systems. ResultsThe mean and standard deviation values for the coronal, sagittal, and transverse plane positioning of the femoral component (absolute value of error) were 0.004° ± 0.020°, 0.006° ± 0.024°, and 0.158° ± 0.186°, respectively. Similarly, the mean and standard deviation values for the coronal, sagittal, and transverse plane positioning of the tibial component (absolute value of error) were 0.544° ± 0.452°, 0.042° ± 0.076°, and 0.348° ± 0.445°, respectively. ConclusionThis newly developed custom coordinate system can be employed for preoperative planning in Skywalker surgical robot system-assisted TKA, particularly for patients with significant positional abnormalities in their CT scans.

Sistem Otomatis Penyimpanan Data Pendeteksi Fase Pelanggan Tegangan Rendah

Inaccurate phase detection due to manual data recording often led to errors, impacting load balancing processes in electrical distribution. This research aimed to develop an automated phase detection system for low-voltage customers, utilizing a MicroSD-Card for data storage to reduce human error and enhance data reliability. The device used Power Line Carrier (PLC) communication technology integrated with customer identity (ID PEL) and employed Arduino Uno for phase data processing. The research method involved designing and testing phase detection and data storage functions across various distances to assess system accuracy. Findings indicated the system accurately detected customer phases and stored data efficiently, with minor delays only at longer distances. This automated solution effectively minimized manual errors in phase data entry. Future applications of this system could significantly improve load balancing accuracy and data management in electrical distribution networks

Integrating AI and Blockchain Technologies for Enhanced Risk Management and Operational Efficiency in Indonesian Airport Customs: Challenges and Opportunities

The rapid growth of global trade has increased the need to modernize customs operations, especially in Indonesia, where traditional methods struggle with fraud and inefficiency. This study explores the integration of disruptive technologies, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain, to enhance risk management and operational efficiency in Indonesian customs. Using a qualitative methodology, including literature reviews, case studies, and interviews with customs officials, the research highlights AI's ability to automate risk assessments and fraud detection, while blockchain ensures secure, transparent transaction records. Despite the significant benefits, challenges such as personnel resistance, outdated infrastructure, and regulatory uncertainties hinder implementation. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive training for customs officers and collaboration with Cross-Border Regulatory Agencies (CBRAs) to overcome these obstacles. Case studies from Singapore and the UAE provide valuable insights into best practices for integrating these technologies. With strategic investment and strong stakeholder commitment, Indonesia can modernize its customs systems, improve efficiency, and strengthen national security. The study concludes with recommendations for creating a comprehensive integration roadmap, developing skills initiatives, and strengthening regulatory frameworks to support the successful adoption of AI and blockchain in Indonesian customs.

CONCEPT AND CHARACTERISTICS OF CUSTOMS AUTHORITIES’ COMPETENCE IN THE CONTEXT OF INNOVATIVE PROCESSES IN UKRAINIAN CUSTOMS AFFAIRS

This article analyzes the concept and characteristics of customs authorities’ competencies in Ukraine within the context of ongoing innovations in customs practices. As Ukraine pursues its Euro-integration goals — aimed at modernizing economic infrastructure, overcoming technological lag, attracting foreign investments, and enhancing international competitiveness — customs authorities play a pivotal role in ensuring the effective functioning of foreign economic activities. The focus of the article is on the necessity to modernize the competencies of customs authorities in line with global standards and to implement advanced innovative technologies, as outlined in Ukraine’s Innovation Development Strategy up to 2030. It examines the impact and significance of innovations such as the ‘Single Window’ system, ‘Smart Customs’ initiatives, pre-arrival cargo information technologies radio-frequency identification (RFID), and blockchain for enhancing customs control, management, and interactions with external partners. A central issue discussed in the article is the development of new competencies required for the effective implementation of these innovations by customs authorities. Specifically, it addresses the need to cultivate digital, intellectual, partnership, and security skills. The article also explores the effects of economic and political instability, particularly the wartime conditions in Ukraine, on the implementation of innovations in customs operations. Key challenges are identified, such as difficulties in exporting high-tech goods, granting incentives for importing innovative equipment, and applying non-tariff regulatory measures, including certification, quotas, and licensing. Recommendations are provided for improving the organizational structures of customs authorities and updating the legal and regulatory framework to adapt to modern requirements and standards. The article advocates for the development of a new, intelligent customs system that can swiftly and effectively respond to changes by employing cutting-edge digital technologies and security methods. Emphasis is placed on the importance of enhancing the qualifications of customs professionals, which is essential for the successful implementation of innovations in customs control.

Customs competencies in ukraine: embracing innovation for enhanced efficiency

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the concept and features of the competencies of Ukrainian customs authorities considering ongoing innovations in the customs sector. As Ukraine follows its Euro-integration path, aimed at modernizing its economic infrastructure, addressing technological gaps, attracting foreign investments, and enhancing its international competitiveness, the role of customs authorities becomes vital in facilitating effective foreign economic activities. The article underscores the critical need to update the competencies of customs authorities to meet global standards and incorporate advanced innovative technologies, as envisioned in Ukraine’s Innovation Development Strategy up to 2030. It explores the impact and relevance of innovations such as the ‘Smart Customs’ initiatives, ‘Single Window’ system, pre-arrival cargo information systems, radio-frequency identification, and blockchain technology in improving customs control, management, and interactions with external partners. A major focus of the article is on the new competencies required by customs authorities to successfully implement these innovations. It highlights the importance of developing digital, intellectual, partnership, and security skills. Furthermore, the article examines the effects of economic and political instability, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, on the innovation processes within customs operations. It identifies significant challenges such as the difficulties in exporting high-tech goods, offering incentives for the import of innovative equipment, and the application of non-tariff regulatory measures, including certification, quotas, and licensing. The article provides detailed recommendations for enhancing the organizational structures of customs authorities and calls for updating the legal and regulatory framework to align with current demands and standards. It advocates for the creation of a modern, intelligent customs system that can rapidly and effectively adapt to changes using state-of-the-art digital technologies and security methods. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of enhancing the qualifications of customs professionals, which is deemed essential for the successful integration of innovations in customs control.

Development of free flowing granular hybrid functionalized clay sorbent filters for chromium removal from waste water

Chromium (VI) contamination in water resources at industrial sites poses significant environmental and health risks. Conventional sorbents often suffer from limitations such as clogging, back pressure, poor kinetics, and challenges in coupling with flow systems and regeneration. This study focuses on developing, characterizing, and applying free-flowing granular (FFG) amidoxime-functionalized montmorillonite (Mt) clay sorbents (AO-Mt-H-C) to enhance chromium (VI) removal from contaminated waste water. Batch adsorption experiments demonstrated that AO-Mt-H-C outperformed montmorillonite clay modified with quaternary ammonium alone (Mt-H-C), achieving a Cr (VI) removal efficiency of 50.6 mg g−1 compared to 44.3 mg g−1, due to the synergistic interactions of quaternary ammonium and amidoxime functionalities. To address the limitations of conventional sorbents, such as clogging and poor kinetics, an FFG filter column was developed and tested, showing effective Cr (VI) removal across various water sources with minimal interference in drinking and groundwater. In industrial wastewater with higher matrix loads, over 99 % removal efficiency was achieved with a 25 % increase in sorbent dosage. Desorption and reusability assessments confirmed the AO-Mt-H-C's effectiveness across three cycles. Mathematical modelling using Thomas and Yoon–Nelson equations supported the design of customized treatment systems. Scalability was demonstrated by treating 1.6 m3 of textile industrial effluents (100 mg L−1 Cr (VI)) with quantitative removal efficiency (>99.5 %). This study illustrates that the hybrid functionalization and free-flowing granulation of clay sorbent materials significantly enhance Cr (VI) removal, providing valuable insights for advanced water pollution mitigation and environmental sustainability.

Effect of Staff Digital Literacy on Customs Goods Clearance at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Kenya

Purpose: The clearance of imported goods at airports used the risk-based management customs systems of clearance to enhance faster clearance of goods from air cargo complexes, the use of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), there was quick cargo clearance of perishable cargo, and uniform and simple procedure of cargo handling. There were e-payment systems that enhanced faster clearances with an overall aim of minimizing dwell time of cargo to be handled at the airport's storage complexes. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of staff digital literacy on customs goods clearance at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Kenya. Methodology: This study employed an explanatory research design. The target population of the study was 245 KRA employees. Data was collected using questionnaires. The data were coded and entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings showed that staff digital literacy had a positive and significant effect on customs goods clearance (β=0.485, p=0.000). Conclusion: KRA needs to engage its staff in digital literacy training. Furthermore, gaining digital literacy skills helps staff to make use of all that technology has to offer in terms of learning, creativity, and teamwork, which enhances their custom goods clearances even more.

THE LINGUISTIC PICTURE OF THE WORLD IN THE KAZAKH FAIRY TALE: THE CONCEPT OF GOOD AND EVIL

The article considers the concept of «good» in Kazakh fairy tales. Revealing the worldview, behavior, and general character of a people means identifying the most important socio-psychological characteristics that have historically developed from the socio-economic system, way of life, existence, living conditions, etc. The formation of people’s national way of life is influenced by natural conditions, the world of plants and animals, which, in turn, determines the type of work they do, the system of traditions and customs. The linguistic picture of the world is a holistic, systematic reflection of reality, carried out using various linguistic means. The article examines the reflection of the fable «Good follows good, evil follows evil» in fairy tales, which was formed in the Kazakh worldview. It is studied as the basis of knowledge accumulated from the life experience of the people, and is subjected to scientific analysis based on the data of the fairy tale. When we study good and evil together, no matter what folk tale we take, there is no hero who gets his way by doing bad things. There will never be such a hero. It is believed that the opposition of good and evil is present in every language, in the linguistic image of every world. In the texts of folk tales there are sometimes multiple variations. This is natural, since folk tales have many different versions. In this case, one of the most important factors is that the fairy tale is easy to read and easily perceived. The difference between good and evil, which is still considered relevant today in the linguistic picture of the world in Kazakh fairy tales, and its definition through simple reflections of everyday life is easily illustrated with visual and specific data. Keywords: literature, fairy tale, national peculiarity, culture, folklore, opposition, concept.

КОНВЕРГЕНЦІЯ МАРКЕТИНГУ ТА ФІНАНСОВО-ЕКОНОМІЧНОЇ БЕЗПЕКИ В УМОВАХ ЦИФРОВОЇ ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЇ

The article examines the relationship between marketing and financial and economic security in the context of the development of information technologies, as their convergence is an integral part of modern business. Digital transformations significantly change the landscape of marketing and financial and economic security, in order to work successfully in new conditions, enterprises must invest in digital technologies, protect customer data and systems from cyber attacks and fraudulent actions, constantly adapt to new technologies and market conditions. In today's conditions, economy, rationality and maximum efficiency based on the use of modern information and multimedia technologies are a guarantee not only of quality management, but also of the company's overall competitiveness in the markets. Marketing plays a key role in ensuring the financial and economic security of the enterprise, i.e. constant monitoring of the market, analysis of competitors and study of customer needs allow timely detection of potential threats and development of effective strategies to neutralize them. Thanks to a deep understanding of customer needs and market dynamics, marketing contributes to the development of effective strategies that allow the enterprise to adapt to changes and maintain its competitiveness, optimize its costs, improve product quality and strengthen its position in the market. In the conditions of growing global competition, companies must understand the development trends of international markets, cultural characteristics and take into account legislative norms in their activities. In this case, marketing helps to adapt business to new conditions, and economic security provides protection from external threats. The rapid development of digital technologies is changing the rules of the game in the market, while marketing allows effective use of digital channels to interact with customers, and economic security provides protection against cyber threats and other risks related to digital technologies. Consumers increasingly expect a personalized approach and high quality products and services, so marketing helps to understand the needs of customers and develop appropriate offers, and financial and economic security ensures that these offers will be fulfilled with quality and time. New players are constantly entering the market, which complicates competition, so there is a need to stand out among competitors, determine the company's competitive advantages, build a positive image and effectively manage crisis situations. In this case, economic security protects against unfair competition, ensures business stability in conditions of uncertainty, helps protect company data from cyber attacks and fraudulent actions, and prevents financial losses. Therefore, ensuring financial and economic security during marketing operations is a complex task that requires a complex approach. The convergence of marketing and financial and economic security allows you to minimize risks, ensure sustainable business development and effective promotion of goods and services, and protect the reputation of the company and its assets. The interaction of marketing and economic security helps prevent crisis situations related to security breaches that can negatively affect the company's image, as well as avoid ineffective spending on marketing campaigns related to unsafe or unethical practices

Validation of In-House Imaging System via Code Verification on Petunia Images Collected at Increasing Fertilizer Rates and pHs.

In a production environment, delayed stress recognition can impact yield. Imaging can rapidly and effectively quantify stress symptoms using indexes such as normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Commercial systems are effective but cannot be easily customized for specific applications, particularly post-processing. We developed a low-cost customizable imaging system and validated the code to analyze images. Our objective was to verify the image analysis code and custom system could successfully quantify the changes in plant canopy reflectance. 'Supercascade Red', 'Wave© Purple', and 'Carpet Blue' Petunias (Petunia × hybridia) were transplanted individually and subjected to increasing fertilizer treatments and increasing substrate pH in a greenhouse. Treatments for the first trial were the addition of a controlled release fertilizer at six different rates (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 g/pot), and for the second trial, fertilizer solution with four pHs (4, 5.5, 7, and 8.5), with eight replications with one plant each. Plants were imaged twice a week using a commercial imaging system for fertilizer and thrice a week with the custom system for pH. The collected images were analyzed using an in-house program that calculated the indices for each pixel of the plant area. All cultivars showed a significant effect of fertilizer on the projected canopy size and dry weight of the above-substrate biomass and the fertilizer rate treatments (p < 0.01). Plant tissue nitrogen concentration as a function of the applied fertilizer rate showed a significant positive response for all three cultivars (p < 0.001). We verified that the image analysis code successfully quantified the changes in plant canopy reflectance as induced by increasing fertilizer application rate. There was no relationship between the pH and NDVI values for the cultivars tested (p > 0.05). Manganese and phosphorus had no significance with chlorophyll fluorescence for 'Carpet Blue' and 'Wave© Purple' (p > 0.05), though 'Supercascade Red' was found to have significance (p < 0.01). pH did not affect plant canopy size. Chlorophyll fluorescence pixel intensity against the projected canopy size had no significance except in 'Wave© Purple' (p = 0.005). NDVI as a function of the projected canopy size had no statistical significance. We verified the ability of the imaging system with integrated analysis to quantify nutrient deficiency-induced variability in plant canopies by increasing pH levels.

Hydrogen embrittlement of Zircaloy-4 fabricated by ultrasonic additive manufacturing

Ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) was successfully applied to the zirconium material system to create a planar geometry. Following fabrication, SS-J3 type tensile specimens of the UAM and wrought Zircaloy-4 with a nominal gage section of 5 × 1.2 × 0.75 mm were machined for hydriding studies and mechanical testing. The SS-J3 type tensile specimens were gas-charged with hydrogen using a custom system that precisely controls hydrogen gas flow rate, hydrogen partial pressure, and temperature. To avoid altering the UAM material, the maximum process temperature was limited to 550 °C. Using different initial hydrogen gas pressures and flow rates, various hydrogen contents (70–1755 wppm) were achieved for Zircaloy-4 specimens. Tensile testing shows that, regardless of hydrogen content, all UAM specimens measured yield strengths in the range of 557 ± 16 MPa and ultimate tensile strengths of 660 ± 4 MPa. However, total elongation clearly decreased as a function of increasing hydrogen content. At the lowest hydrogen content, the total plastic elongation measured 21.5 %, and this value decreased to less than 2 % when the hydrogen content was increased to 1000 wppm. Cross-sectional optical microscopy images revealed that the hydride distributions are randomly oriented. For the low hydrogen content specimen, these randomly distributed hydrides are isolated from each other. A sandwiched structure, consisting of high-density and low-density layers, was also observed for the specimens with hydrogen content between 200 and 400 wppm. As the hydrogen content increases, the hydrides diffuse into the low-density hydride layers to form a network across the whole specimen. Although the tensile properties of UAM and wrought Zircaloy-4 exhibit the same behavior with increasing hydrogen content, the distinctions in grain orientations led to differences in the hydride orientations at low and intermediate hydrogen concentrations.

Mito-kaede photoactivation and chase experiment for mitophagy: optimizing flux measurement via fluid exchange system.

Modulating autophagy and mitophagy, vital cellular quality control systems, offer therapeutic potential for critical illnesses. However, limited drug screening options hinder progress. We present a novel assay using the photoswitchable fluorescent reporter, mito-Kaede, to quantify mitophagy flux. Mito-Kaede's superior UV-induced photoconversion and brightness post-conversion make it ideal for prolonged mitochondrial dynamics tracking. Its specificity in responding to mitophagy, confirmed by parkin-knockout cells, adds value. When coupled with a custom fluid exchange system, enabling efficient medium changes, precise mitophagy observations become feasible. This mitophagy assay, alongside our methodological insights, can decipher mitophagy's role in pathology and supports drug screening efforts.

Pumping-less 3D concrete printing using quick nozzle mixing

Nozzle technologies for 3D concrete printing have been evolving to balance the conflicting demands of buildability and pumpability. This study introduces a simplified approach that eliminates the need for pumping by developing a customized system, the parameters of which were evaluated. The effect of process parameters (i.e., the flow rates of liquid and solid materials) and mixture proportions (i.e., the ratios of powder to sand and liquid to solid) on the extrudability and print quality was explored. Furthermore, the mechanical properties and microstructure of concrete printed using the Quick Nozzle Mixing system were examined. Results show that Quick Nozzle Mixing Technology not only enables high-quality printing but also exhibits the potential for achieving better process efficiency and higher aggregate content. The water-to-solid ratio is a critical factor influencing extrudability and buildability. Due to anisotropy caused by this new method, printed concrete has a lower strength than cast concrete.

Low-carbon oriented planning of shared photovoltaics and energy storage systems in distribution networks via carbon emission flow tracing

With the targets of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, carbon emission reduction measures have become significant issues in new-type power systems. Distribution networks (DNs), which multiple power sources and flexible loads access to, play an essential role in exploiting the potential of reducing carbon emissions on the demand side. To achieve a global carbon emission reduction considering the carbon quota of each customer, shared photovoltaics (PVs) and energy storage systems (ESSs) are allocated with a centralized calculation and optimization conducted by DNs. To solve two key points in demand-side planning of shared PVs and ESSs in distribution networks, i.e., the accuracy of carbon emission flow (CEF) calculation and carbon quota-oriented optimization planning, this paper proposes a low-carbon oriented planning method for shared PVs and ESSs via CEF tracing. Firstly, a novel CEF calculation method is proposed based on the forward current sweep and backward voltage sweep algorithm, which considers the tracing of reactive power and power losses. Next, carbon emission index and economic index of allocating shared PVs and ESSs are defined. Subsequently, a bi-level optimization model is presented, considering the excess carbon emissions of each load based on carbon accounting and carbon quotas. Finally, the superiority of the proposed method is verified through a modified IEEE 33-node distribution network, and the effects of various investment constraints and carbon quotas are discussed.

RECORD, a high-throughput, customizable system that unveils behavioral strategies leveraged by rodents during foraging-like decision-making

Translational studies benefit from experimental designs where laboratory organisms use human-relevant behaviors. One such behavior is decision-making, however studying complex decision-making in rodents is labor-intensive and typically restricted to two levels of cost/reward. We design a fully automated, inexpensive, high-throughput framework to study decision-making across multiple levels of rewards and costs: the REward-COst in Rodent Decision-making (RECORD) system. RECORD integrates three components: 1) 3D-printed arenas, 2) custom electronic hardware, and 3) software. We validated four behavioral protocols without employing any food or water restriction, highlighting the versatility of our system. RECORD data exposes heterogeneity in decision-making both within and across individuals that is quantifiably constrained. Using oxycodone self-administration and alcohol-consumption as test cases, we reveal how analytic approaches that incorporate behavioral heterogeneity are sensitive to detecting perturbations in decision-making. RECORD is a powerful approach to studying decision-making in rodents, with features that facilitate translational studies of decision-making in psychiatric disorders.

The Prospects of AfCFTA in Promoting Industrialization and Economic Diversification in Africa

African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) functions as a boost for Africa's economic development by enhancing intra-African trade. This is because trade is an engine of growth and development. For the fact that most African nations that are located within the same region engage in similar and competitive production, the ensuing economic cooperation and trade exchanges not only have the promise of increasing trade but also stimulating other ancillary economic activities, creating new job opportunities, speeding up economic growth, promote the standard of living, and promote economic development. However, AfCFTA's record has not been very impressive. The main obstacles to intra- regional commerce among African countries include heavy reliance on trade in primary goods, high product and market concentration of exports, and inadequate regional manufacturing networks. This study therefore examines continental economic trends and Intra African Trade: Prospects for African Continental Free Trade Area. The study adopted qualitative methods of data collection and analysis and the comparative theory of integration. The study found that the low level of trade diversification implicated the capacity of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to achieve improved intra-regional trade performances in Africa. African countries maintain as much as 77% export specialization, with higher external/world trade at 84.6 percent of their total import and export trade. The study recommended that Governments should invest in infrastructure development, including building roads, railways, ports, and airports, as well as improving access to electricity and broadband. Governments should adopt modern trade facilitation measures such as electronic customs systems, single window platforms, and risk management techniques and should align their technical regulations and norms with global best practices and standards, as those created by appropriate international standard-setting organisations like the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).

Methodological Perspectives on Smuggling: The GDL-Prussia Borderlands in the Late Eighteenth Century

ABSTRACT In this article we explore the customs system of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (GDL) along its border with Prussia in the late eighteenth century, using as primary sources four inspection reports submitted to the GDL’s Treasury Commission between 1788 and 1792. We focus primarily on the extent of smuggling practices, the state of the customs administration, and the amount of revenues collected from cross-border trade. Our research is an example of a spatial humanities project, and for this reason we are primarily interested in methodological questions. More specifically, we employ a mixed methods analytical framework that includes GIS mapping, qualitative spatial reasoning (QSR), and corpus linguistics to explore the borderlands of the GDL at multiple scales of analysis. We do so to illustrate how a mix of methods and tools can shed new light on the degree of control exerted by the GDL along its border with Prussia.

Electronic Cargo Tracking and Trade Facilitation Among Clearing and Forwarding Companies at Inland Container Deport Nairobi, Kenya

The increasing forces of globalization around the world require that goods and services are moved from one part of the country to the other hence the need for customs. It is the responsibility of KRA to ensure that all taxes have been collected on behalf of the government of Kenya. However, several challenges have been evident in the operations of KRA as far as the realization of its objectives of customs system automation on trade facilitation is concerned. The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of electronic cargo tracking on trade facilitation among clearing and forwarding companies at inland containers deport Nairobi, Kenya. The study was grounded by the New Trade Theory. The explanatory research design was used. The target population of this study was the 369 clearing and forwarding agents and KRA staff and transporters, and a sample size of 191 respondents. Primary data was collected through a close-ended questionnaire. The data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that electronic cargo tracking has a positive and significant effect on trade facilitation (β = 0.323; p = 0.000). The study emphasized the direct contribution of electronic cargo tracking to the enhancement of trade facilitation processes. KRA is recommended to support research initiatives that focus on the continuous improvement of customs systems and trade facilitation technologies. The study recommends that KRA establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess the implementation and impact of electronic cargo tracking. The study recommends that the treasury establishes and implement policies that encourage the seamless integration of advanced technological solutions within the customs and trade facilitation processes.