Development Initiatives Research Articles

Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications: next-generation energy storage and 5G technology for enhanced connectivity and energy solutions

Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications involves leveraging next-generation energy storage and 5G technology to enhance connectivity and energy solutions. This review explores the intersection of these two domains, highlighting the importance of advancements in energy storage and 5G technology for a sustainable and connected future. Energy storage is crucial for balancing the supply and demand of electricity in modern power systems. Traditional energy storage methods, such as batteries and pumped hydro, have limitations in terms of scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Next-generation energy storage technologies, including advanced batteries, hydrogen storage, and thermal storage, offer promising solutions to overcome these limitations. These technologies enable efficient energy storage at scale, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the grid. By storing excess energy generated during periods of low demand, next-generation energy storage systems ensure a reliable and stable power supply, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In parallel, the evolution of telecommunications technology, particularly the advent of 5G networks, is revolutionizing connectivity and communication. 5G technology offers significantly higher data transfer speeds, lower latency, and increased network capacity compared to its predecessors. These capabilities are essential for supporting emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and smart grids. With 5G-enabled IoT devices, utilities can monitor energy consumption in real-time, optimize grid operations, and detect and respond to faults more efficiently. Moreover, 5G connectivity enhances the efficiency and reliability of energy storage systems by enabling seamless communication between distributed energy resources and grid operators. The convergence of next-generation energy storage and 5G technology presents numerous opportunities for driving innovation in both energy and telecommunications sectors. One of the key areas of innovation is the development of smart energy storage systems equipped with 5G connectivity. These systems can autonomously adjust their operation based on grid conditions, weather forecasts, and energy demand patterns, optimizing energy storage and distribution in real-time. Furthermore, advanced energy management algorithms leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms can optimize energy usage and storage, further improving the efficiency and reliability of the grid. Another area of innovation lies in the integration of renewable energy resources with 5G-enabled microgrids. Microgrids are localized energy systems that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main grid. By combining renewable energy sources with energy storage and 5G-enabled communication, microgrids can provide reliable, clean, and resilient power to remote or urban areas. These microgrids can also facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, allowing consumers to buy and sell excess energy within their communities, fostering energy independence and sustainability. Furthermore, advancements in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries and flow batteries, are enhancing the performance and reliability of energy storage systems. Solid-state batteries offer higher energy density, faster charging rates, and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Flow batteries, on the other hand, provide scalability and long-duration storage capabilities, making them suitable for grid-scale applications. Integrating these advanced battery technologies with 5G-enabled monitoring and control systems enhances the overall resilience and flexibility of the energy infrastructure. In addition to technological advancements, driving innovation in energy and telecommunications requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, industry players, and research institutions. Policies and regulations should incentivize the deployment of next-generation energy storage and 5G infrastructure, promote interoperability standards, and ensure data privacy and security. Public-private partnerships can facilitate the investment and deployment of innovative solutions, while research and development initiatives can spur further technological advancements. Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications through next-generation energy storage and 5G technology is essential for building a sustainable, connected, and resilient future. By leveraging advanced energy storage systems, smart grids, and 5G-enabled communication networks, we can optimize energy usage, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the reliability and efficiency of our energy infrastructure. Collaboration and investment across various sectors are key to unlocking the full potential of these transformative technologies and achieving a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Keywords: Innovation, Energy, Telecommunications, Next-Generation, 5G technology, Enhanced connectivity.

Wartime service provision and post-conflict state legitimacy: Perception-based foundation of sustainable development in Northwestern Pakistan

Promoting a peaceful environment is integral for socioeconomic reconstruction in conflict-affected societies. However, the absence of violence does not immediately result in national endeavors for development because a post-conflict state often lacks a popular base of state legitimacy owing to the wartime fragmentation of socio-political groups. Implementing a questionnaire survey in northwestern tribal areas in Pakistan, specifically the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas, this study explores how and why state legitimacy rises and declines as a result of wartime interactions between political actors and civilians. Empirical analyses of novel survey data reveal that wartime service provision is associated with post-conflict sustainable development regarding the civilian perception of legitimacy of the state. State legitimacy is strongly perceived by civilians who have received public services from the state and weakly by those who have been exposed to rebel services. We further disaggregate wartime service provision to explore the influence of providers and variety/types of services. The results indicate that the provision of a wider variety of wartime services impresses upon civilians’ perceived legitimacy; furthermore, while the delivery of basic and extra services beyond justice and security is associated with state legitimacy, the impact is conditional on service providers. State legitimacy has an important role in political stability and national collectivity needed for post-conflict sustainable development. As wartime civil–military relations persistently influence civilians’ perception of political legitimacy, post-conflict reconstruction needs to take locals’ experiences into consideration so that the development initiatives can be legitimate and sustainable.

Comparative assessment and policy analysis of forecasting quarterly renewable energy demand: Fresh evidence from an innovative seasonal approach with superior matching algorithms

In the pursuit of sustainable development, accurate renewable energy demand forecasting holds great significance for climate change mitigation and promoting sustainability. However, renewable energy forecasting has been consistently challenged by seasonality and nonlinearity. Identifying the periodic and nonlinear characteristics concealed within renewable energy sources accurately is still an unexplored problem. Consequently, an innovative nonlinear discrete seasonal grey model is proposed for renewable energy forecasting, which incorporates seasonal dummy variables and a power exponent term for handling the seasonality and nonlinear patterns in time series. Furthermore, an intelligent algorithm matching framework is proposed to augment the flexibility of the newly developed model. For practical purposes, the new methodology is contrasted against a range of benchmarks encompassing statistical, machine-learning, and traditional grey models in forecasting the quarterly total renewable energy consumption in the United States. The proposed model exhibits over 27% improvement rates over its counterparts, achieving the most superior predictive accuracies of 1.45%, 39.27, and 0.79 in MAPEP, RMSEP, and MASEP metrics, respectively. Furthermore, the probability density and sample size analyses are conducted to validate the robustness of the new model, confirming its adaptability and stability towards algorithm randomness and historical information volume. Consequently, the novel model is employed to forecast the short-to-long-terms renewable energy consumption in the U.S., showcasing an upward trend and seasonal fluctuations of the consumption for the forthcoming 24 quarters from 2023Q4 to 2029Q3. These insights can offer valuable implications to the stakeholders such as energy suppliers, utility managers, and policy advocates, highlighting actionable strategies for optimizing renewable energy consumption forecasting and aiding sustainable development initiatives.

Evaluation of diethyl 4-(5-bromo-1H-indol-3-yl)-2,6-dimethyl-1,4-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate: synthesis, anti-corrosion potential, and biomedical applications

The pursuit of advanced multifunctional compounds has gained significant momentum in recent scientific endeavours. This study is dedicated to elucidating the synthesis, rigorous characterization, and multifaceted applications—encompassing anti-corrosion, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties—of Diethyl 4-(5-bromo-1H-indol-3-yl)-2,6-dimethyl-1,4-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate. The 1,4-dihydropyridine derivative was meticulously synthesized through a strategic reaction of ethyl acetoacetate, ammonium acetate, and 5-bromoindole-3-carboxaldehydein the ethanol medium at 60 C. Subsequent spectral validations were conducted using sophisticated techniques, namely FTIR, NMR, and Mass spectrometry, resulting in data that perfectly resonated with the hypothesized chemical structure of the compound. Its anti-corrosive potential was assessed on mild steel subjected to an aggressive acidic environment, employing comprehensive methodologies like gravimetric analysis, Tafel polarization, and EIS. Concurrently, its antimicrobial prowess was ascertained against a spectrum of bacterial and fungal pathogens viz., Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Candida albicansandAspergillusniger, leveraging the disc diffusion method and using Gentamicin as a reference standard.The empirical results illustrated a substantial decrement in corrosion rates with ascending concentrations of the organic compound, achieving an apex of anti-corrosive efficacy at 81.89% for a concentration of 2 × 103 M. Furthermore, the compound outperformed Gentamicin in antimicrobial screenings, manifesting superior efficacy against all tested pathogens. The antioxidant potential, quantified using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay against ascorbic acid as a benchmark, was found to have an IC50 value of 113.964 ± 0.076 µg/ml.This comprehensive investigation accentuates the paramount potential of the synthesized dihydropyridine derivative in diverse domains—from industrial applications as a corrosion inhibitor to therapeutic avenues given its pronounced antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities. The compelling results obtained pave the way for expansive research and development initiatives cantered around this multifaceted compound.Graphical

Enhancing workplace spirituality for higher education academicians through human resource practices

PurposeThis study investigates how human resource training and development (HRTD) shapes workplace spirituality in higher education. It delves into key factors impacting spirituality among academics, such as colleague support and e-learning initiatives. Through analytical tools like percentage analysis and Garret ranking, it divides workplace spirituality in academia, exploring the HR strategies that induce it.Design/methodology/approach(a) Type of research – Descriptive research (b) Area of research – The present study is taken up by the academicians as a respondent in selected colleges in Salem district. (c) Sampling technique – Simple random method was adopted. (d) Sources of data collection – The study comprises mixed data method that both types of data were adopted. (i) Primary data – Researcher conducted data by selecting a representative sample of the teaching faculties from various institutions employed in higher education in Salem. (ii) Secondary data – It is mostly gathered through content found on websites. (e) Method of data collection – Structured questionnaires were employed in this research to acquire the data needed for the investigation. Every item it is rated through five-point scale of with 1 denoting “Strongly Agree” to “Strongly Disagree,” this includes questions about the job, coworkers, seniors and training. (f) Research tools used – Descriptive statistics, Friedman test and Garret ranking.FindingsFindings highlight the significance of encouraging colleagues, workplace development and online learning in fostering workplace spirituality. Faculty encouragement emerges as the most impactful HR practice, while development initiatives improve the reputation of training for new aspects. Notably, online training significantly affects workplace spirituality, increasing the influence of cultural training.Research limitations/implicationsImplications for future research arise, suggesting potential models for studying workplace spirituality in academia and sparking curiosity about the connection between HR practices and spirituality.Practical implicationsFrom a practical viewpoint, the study offers actionable insights for authorities to improve workplace spirituality by supporting colleagues and emphasizing growth strategies. It outlines clear steps for organizations to create more spiritually enriching work environments.Social implicationsSocially, the study advocates for healthier work cultures that impact society's perspective on work–life balance and employee well-being. It promotes positive work environments that benefit both individuals and society.Originality/valueThis paper's originality lies in its focus on how HRTD contributes to workplace spirituality in higher education. It emphasizes supporting colleagues, fostering growth and utilizing e-learning, offering unique insights into spirituality at work. The methodology, using structured questionnaires and statistical analysis among faculty, provides a distinct approach to studying this area.

Towards social equity and sustainable economic prosperity through ecotourism: A case of caste diversified community along Annapurna Sanctuary trail (AST), Nepal

The key to social equity and sustainable economic prosperity rests on the inclusion of diverse socio-cultural and ethnic groups in socio-economic activities. Ecotourism promotes the fair and equitable sharing of available opportunities among local people to ensure social equity, sustainable economic prosperity, and tourism sustainability. This study presents an analysis of how ecotourism has contributed to social equity and sustainable economic prosperity within multicultural communities in three villages: Ghandruk, Landruk, and Dhampus along the Annapurna Sanctuary Trail (AST) in Nepal, through the lens of the local community with 120 face-to-face questionnaire surveys, five key informant interviews, six focus group discussions, and field observations. Ecotourism is found to be an effective mechanism for fostering social equity and economic prosperity through socio-economic empowerment, particularly among marginalized groups such as women, Dalits, and Janajatis through the reduction of gender-based income disparities, increased access to micro-financial services, enhanced social cohesion, and increased participation in decision-making processes. Furthermore, the study reveals that households from diverse castes and ethnic backgrounds have benefitted from ecotourism through various income-generating activities, including the sale of local handicrafts and agricultural products, leasing land and property, and infrastructure development. However, it also identifies challenges such as rising living costs, land prices, abandoned agricultural lands, and income inequality. For the sustainability of ecotourism in the region, the need for regulatory measures to control local prices, and integrate agricultural activities into tourism experiences is proposed. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of engaging marginalized groups, particularly Janajatis and Dalits, in ecotourism development initiatives.

Sharing data, caring for collections. Open data on collection agents affiliated with the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin

Linked open data on collection agents contribute to increased discoverability, accessibility and transparency of natural history collections. Despite major efforts to digitise and open up museum and university object collections, related information is often stored in internal resources. This paper describes a project conducted at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin (MfN) contributing to its collection disclosure and development initiatives. Information on historical collectors and other collection agents was transferred from the internal MfN collector wiki to Wikidata. For a total of 600 collection agents, existing Wikidata items were enriched or new items created. Special emphasis was put on linking these people to the Museum, to document their affiliation with the MfN, its collection and its archive. Within the project, an open participatory approach was taken. Several Wikidata edit-a-thons were organised to test this collaborative and innovative format for possible future application by the Museum. By opening up institutional silos and openly sharing data on agents connected to museum holdings, these data become more widely accessible and reusable, for example, as a resource for transdisciplinary provenance research.

The Inclusion of Women with Disabilities in Internal Savings and Lending Schemes (ISALS) by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Small and Medium Enterprises Development in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe

Women with disabilities remain among the common social groups in communities that face sidelining and exclusion from development interventions, often referred to as the ‘unseen’ and ‘left behind’ group. Most research focuses on development initiatives for all women generally whilst following on interventions by the civil society to the relative exclusion of disabled women. Hence, this study was influenced by the need to examine the services of the government through the Ministry of Women Affairs in ensuring inclusion of women with disabilities in development initiatives in particular Internal Savings and Lending Schemes (ISALs) that are being carried out in Harare. The study was informed by the intersectionality approach and used a qualitative research approach in which a case study design was employed. The study involved fourteen participants who included women with disabilities, Community Development Officers/Coordinators (CDOs/ CDCs), Provincial Development Officer (PDO) and other professionals from disability rights agencies. Qualitative data was gathered through interviews, and findings were analyzed using thematic analysis. The major services that were found included mobilizing and training women in communities and monitoring ISAL activities. It was revealed that inclusion of women with disabilities in ISALS is still low and in gradual progression. The study also showed major challenges that the ministry faces in their efforts to include women with disabilities in ISALs, which include shortage of resources to fund reasonable accommodation and inclusive ISALS, lack of support from the families and communities of women with disabilities, stigmatization, and discrimination. The researchers went on to make recommendations towards the implementation of ISALS to promote full inclusion of women with disabilities.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT & DEMOCRACY IN INDIA A POLICY ANALYSIS FROM TRIPURA & WEST BENGAL

This research article delves into the intricate relationship between sustainable development and democracy, with a specific focus on the states of Tripura and West Bengal in India. Through a comprehensive policy analysis, it examines the extent to which democratic governance influences sustainable development initiatives in these regions. Tripura and West Bengal offer contrasting socio-political landscapes, making them ideal case studies to explore the interplay between democratic principles and sustainable development policies. By scrutinizing the implementation, effectiveness, and outcomes of various sustainability initiatives in both states, this study aims to identify key factors that either facilitate or hinder the integration of sustainable development goals within democratic frameworks. Furthermore, it evaluates the role of governmental institutions, civil society organizations, and grassroots movements in promoting sustainable development practices amidst democratic governance structures. The findings of this research contribute to a deeper understanding of how democracy can serve as a catalyst or a constraint in fostering sustainable development at the regional level, offering valuable insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and scholars alike.

Integrating Open Knowledge and Administrative Management in the Digital Transformation Model of Education Institutions: An Effective Approach

This paper explores the integration of Open Knowledge and Administrative Management into the Digital Transformation Model within educational institutions, focusing on the National Academy of Education Management and three secondary schools in Hanoi. Through a comprehensive methodology involving data collection, analysis, and system development, the study examines the effectiveness of this integrated approach in enhancing educational outcomes. The findings reveal significant improvements in knowledge dissemination, resource allocation, and administrative efficiency following the implementation of the integrated model. By harnessing open knowledge resources and streamlining administrative processes, educational institutions have been able to optimize teaching and learning practices, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, and promote innovation in education. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of ongoing research, evaluation, and professional development initiatives to sustain the momentum of this integrated approach. By investing in capacity building, promoting collaboration, and embracing emerging technologies, educational institutions can adapt to the evolving needs of learners and prepare them for success in the digital age. Overall, the integration of Open Knowledge and Administrative Management represents a promising pathway towards educational excellence and equity. Through collective efforts and a commitment to continuous improvement, educational stakeholders can drive meaningful change and empower learners to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Technical support as a catalyst for innovation and special project success in oil and gas

In the dynamic landscape of the oil and gas industry, technical support emerges as a pivotal force driving innovation and ensuring the success of special projects. This paper explores the multifaceted role of technical support in this sector, shedding light on its significance in maintaining operational efficiency, safety, and fostering innovation. Amidst the ever-evolving challenges faced by the industry, from fluctuating market demands to stringent regulatory requirements, technical support stands as a cornerstone in navigating complexities and driving progress. Drawing from real-world examples and industry insights, the paper elucidates the challenges and opportunities encountered in fostering innovation within the oil and gas sector. It highlights the critical role of technical support in identifying technological gaps, spearheading research and development initiatives, and facilitating the implementation of innovative solutions. Moreover, the paper delves into the realm of special projects, exploring their importance in driving strategic growth and competitive advantage. It examines the challenges inherent in executing special projects and underscores the indispensable role of technical support in mitigating risks and ensuring successful outcomes. Through a comprehensive analysis of best practices and case studies, the paper elucidates strategies for leveraging technical support as a catalyst for innovation and special project success in oil and gas. It emphasizes the importance of integrating technical support into innovation initiatives, fostering collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, and investing in advanced technologies and expertise. Ultimately, the paper underscores the transformative potential of technical support in shaping the future of oil and gas operations, driving sustainable growth, and fostering resilience in an ever-changing landscape. Keywords:  Technical Support, Catalyst for Innovation, Special Project Success, Oil and Gas.

EXAMINING THE CRITICAL ROLE OF YOUTH'S PARTICIPATION AS CATALYSTS FOR SUSTAINABLE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DRIVERS OF DEVELOPMENT

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the critical role of youth participation as catalysts for sustainable social and economic drivers of development in Africa.   Theoretical Reference: The study adopted the theory of Positive Youth Development to contexualise the aim of the study. The study argues that, youth workers and other service providers using a youth development approach would be able to analyze the theories in this study and determine what influences their practice, anticipate the results of their interventions, choose the best course of action at each stage of the process, and explain their actions when working with young people.   Method: Through the application of qualitative research techniques, the study primarily used peer-reviewed secondary sources available within the public domain. Since they provided the researchers with a great opportunity to connect with the body of knowledge already in existence and allowed the researchers to gain insight into the thoughts and experiences of other scholars regarding the area of study. Hence advanced searches of baseline literature were used to collect qualitative data.   Results and Conclusions: The literature review examined the vital role that young people play as engines for long-term social and economic development in several African. The study argued that youth involvement promotes project ownership and sustainability and increases young people's ability to meet their basic needs.   Implications of Research: Unemployment has caused Africa a lot of woes as youths embrace violence rather than embarking on projects that would benefit the continent. The paper concluded that unless impediments to the actualisation are expunged, the African continent will still take its back seat in this era of unprecedented development. Originality/ Value: The study made the case that young people must be involved as advisors, collaborators, and stakeholders if development initiatives are to be effective and representative. To guarantee that young people are engaged, it is not enough to rely just on one-time conversations; there needs to be an ongoing process.

LIVED EXPERIENCES OF RECEIVING TEACHERS IN HANDLING BEHAVIORAL ISSUES OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

This qualitative phenomenological study provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges, strategies; coping mechanisms, and insights experienced by receiving teachers in addressing behavioral issues among students with special needs in inclusive education settings. Through in-depth focus group discussions with five receiving teachers from Island Garden City of Samal, Davao Del Norte, the study exposes the real struggle and complexities of managing diverse behavioral concerns. The thematic analysis uncovers the intricate web of both academic obstacles and behavioral manifestations, prompting the development and implementation of tailored strategies, including individualized behavior plans and collaborative problem-solving approaches. Moreover, the study highlights the vital role of coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from colleagues and prioritizing self-care practices amidst the demanding educational landscape. The insights gleaned from teachers lived experiences underscore the transformative potential of empathy, adaptability, and inclusive teaching methodologies. Ultimately, the research advocates for targeted professional development initiatives and collaborative support networks to empower receiving teachers to effectively navigate the unique challenges presented by students with special needs, especially students with behavioral issues. By promoting inclusive and supportive learning environments, this study contributes significantly to the enhancement of special education practices and resources. KEYWORDS: Special Education, Behavioral Issues, Receiving teachers, research, teaching, Inclusive Education, and special education practices.

Understanding School Middle-Leading Practices: Developing a Middle-Leading Practice Model

School systems in Australia, and internationally, are focused on improving classroom teaching and learning to enhance student outcomes. Middle leaders (MLs) are increasingly required to lead school-based development initiatives to improve classroom practices. Informed by previous research on middle-leading and the theory of practice architectures, a survey instrument was created to understand who Australian school MLs are (n = 199) and ascertain their perceptions of the practices central to leading teaching and learning in their school sites. Through descriptive, exploratory, and confirmatory factor analyses, this paper reports on the reported practices of Australian MLs, and, through the analysis, a revised ML practice model is proposed. The results confirm that ML practices are orientated to the people they lead in their school site, who they support, collaborate with, and advocate for, with practising leading upwards to the school principal identified as an important ML practice.

Abstract PO3-18-07: Therapeutic Potential of Combining Eltanexor with Tamoxifen to Treat Primary and Metastatic Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancers

Abstract Estrogen receptors are key pathway initiators in the aggressive development of more than two-thirds of all breast cancers. Tamoxifen (TAM) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator that disables the ER pathway and inhibits the progression of ER+ breast cancer. Unfortunately, 10-40% of patients with ER+ breast cancer who were treated with TAM experience recurrence and metastasis within 10 years. We have previously identified exportin 1 (XPO1) to be more highly expressed in breast cancers with acquired TAM resistance compared to TAM-sensitive counterparts and showed that a combination treatment of TAM with an XPO1 inhibitor, selinexor, is an effective method of tumor suppression in preclinical models. In this study we investigated the activity of eltanexor, an investigational second generation XPO1 inhibitor with minimal penetration of the blood-brain barrier, to inhibit cancer growth without leading to weight loss. Our results show that mice harboring MCF7-ESR1Y537Sxenograft tumors had significantly less (P < .05) flank tumor growth when administered a treatment regimen of TAM and eltanexor compared to control mice. In metastatic tumor models, we observed decreased metastatic burden in mice harboring MCF7-ESR1 D538G and MCF7-ESR1Y537S tumors when co-administered TAM and eltanexor. We did not observe weight changes in either model. Our findings suggest that eltanexor may be a relevant treatment for further exploration in the context of a TAM combination therapy for treatment of ER+ breast cancer. Citation Format: Vedant Jain, Myra Kamdar, Hannah McGee, Qianying Zuo, Jin Young Yoo, Yosef Landesman, Christopher Walker, Zeynep Madak-Erdogan. Therapeutic Potential of Combining Eltanexor with Tamoxifen to Treat Primary and Metastatic Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-18-07.

Model city failure: New Haven and limits to the entrepreneurial state

ABSTRACT This paper critically examines the concept of the entrepreneurial state by focusing on the case study of New Haven, Connecticut, during the mid-20th century. We delve into the ambitious urban development efforts spearheaded by Mayor Richard Lee and his administration. In particular, we examine the construction of the Chapel Square Mall as a response to urban decline with the hope it would stimulate economic growth. Through a comprehensive analysis of historical records, political dynamics, and the socioeconomic context of New Haven, we highlight the inherent challenges and limitations faced by local governments in acting as entrepreneurs. Our findings reveal that despite the strategic intentions to revitalize the city and foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem, the project ultimately resulted in substantial financial losses, displacement of communities, and failed urban planning ambitions. This case study underscores the complexities of state entrepreneurship at the local level, where political motives, limited information, and the pursuit of voter support can diverge significantly from entrepreneurial objectives, leading to outcomes that are detrimental to both the city’s economic health and its residents. By comparing New Haven’s experience with broader critiques of the entrepreneurial state, this paper contributes to a nuanced understanding of the potential and pitfalls of government-led economic development initiatives.

THE FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT, INSTITUTIONS, AND POVERTY REDUCTION: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES

Fighting poverty is one of the most critical targets of development plans and initiatives. In the pursuit of lasting growth, emerging nations now face the most challenging issue of eliminating poverty, which remains one of the most significant challenges addressing humanity nowadays. The study explores the relationships between the institutional quality, financial development, and poverty-fighting initiatives of South Asian states. It goes beyond the potential bias in earlier studies caused by omitting variables by considering the impact of the interaction between the financial sector and institutional framework. The fixed effects models with STATA15 are employed in this study from 2000 to 2019. This study's analysis uses panel data and secondary sources to conduct the inquiry with a sample of 7 South Asian economies such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. This comprehensive compilation of annual data was done with consultation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Development Indicators (WDI). The study results show that a 1% increase in financial development is associated with a 39.88% decrease in poverty, which is statistically significant and favourable. It also reveals that institutional quality plays a vital role in poverty reduction in South Asia, with a 1% increase in institutional quality leading to a 2.61% increase in poverty. Besides, a 1% increase in GDP per capita growth correlates with a 0.12% decrease in poverty. The study's findings provide significant insights into poverty reduction by considering the relationship between institutional challenges and financial development through a flexible, functional structure in South Asian countries.

Global transmission of extended-spectrum cephalosporin resistance in Escherichia coli driven by epidemic plasmids

Extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs) are third and fourth generation cephalosporin antimicrobials used in humans and animals to treat infections due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Resistance to ESCs (ESC-R) in Enterobacterales is predominantly due to the production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamases (AmpCs). The dynamics of ESBLs and AmpCs are changing across countries and host species, the result of global transmission of ESC-R genes. Plasmids are known to play a key role in this dissemination, but the relative importance of different types of plasmids is not fully understood. In this study, Escherichia coli with the major ESC-R genes blaCTX-M-1, blaCTX-M-15, blaCTX-M-14 (ESBLs) and blaCMY-2 (AmpC), were selected from diverse host species and other sources across Canada, France and Germany, collected between 2003 and 2017. To examine in detail the vehicles of transmission of the ESC-R genes, long- and short-read sequences were generated to obtain complete contiguous chromosome and plasmid sequences (n=192 ESC-R E.coli). The types, gene composition and genetic relatedness of these plasmids were investigated, along with association with isolate year, source and geographical origin, and put in context with publicly available plasmid sequences. We identified five epidemic resistance plasmid subtypes with distinct genetic properties that are associated with the global dissemination of ESC-R genes across multiple E.coli lineages and host species. The IncI1 pST3 blaCTX-M-1 plasmid subtype was found in more diverse sources than the other main plasmid subtypes, whereas IncI1 pST12 blaCMY-2 was more frequent in Canadian and German human and chicken isolates. Clonal expansion also contributed to the dissemination of the IncI1 pST12 blaCMY-2 plasmid in ST131 and ST117 E.coli harbouring this plasmid. The IncI1 pST2 blaCMY-2 subtype was predominant in isolates from humans in France, while the IncF F31:A4:B1 blaCTX-M-15 and F2:A-:B- blaCTX-M-14 plasmid subtypes were frequent in human and cattle isolates across multiple countries. Beyond their epidemic nature with respect to ESC-R genes, in our collection almost all IncI1 pST3 blaCTX-M-1 and IncF F31:A4:B1 blaCTX-M-15 epidemic plasmids also carried multiple antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes conferring resistance to other antimicrobial classes. Finally, we found genetic signatures in the regions surrounding specific ESC-R genes, identifying the predominant mechanisms of ESC-R gene movement, and using publicly available databases, we identified these epidemic plasmids from widespread bacterial species, host species, countries and continents. We provide evidence that epidemic resistance plasmid subtypes contribute to the global dissemination of ESC-R genes, and in addition, some of these epidemic plasmids confer resistance to multiple other antimicrobial classes. The success of these plasmids suggests that they may have a fitness advantage over other plasmid types and subtypes. Identification and understanding of the vehicles of AMR transmission are crucial to develop and target strategies and interventions to reduce the spread of AMR. This project was supported by the Joint Programming Initiative on Antimicrobial Resistance (JPIAMR), through the Medical Research Council (MRC, MR/R000948/1), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CFC-150770), and the Genomics Research and Development Initiative (Government of Canada), the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) grant no. 01KI1709, the French Agency for food environmental and occupational health & safety (Anses), and the French National Reference Center (CNR) for antimicrobial resistance. Support was also provided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) through the BBSRC Institute Strategic Programme Microbes in the Food ChainBB/R012504/1 and its constituent project BBS/E/F/000PR10348 (Theme 1, Epidemiology and Evolution of Pathogens in the Food Chain).

A Study on Customer Awareness Towards Sustainable Packaging and Its Utilization

Abstract: "Sustainable packaging is a comprehensive approach to packaging design and production that seeks to minimize environmental impact while still meeting the functional needs of packaging." This includes the use of renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable materials to minimize overall packaging waste. The use of recycled paper, cardboard, bioplastics, and compostable materials can be utilized to achieve this goal, along with innovative design methods like lightweighting and right-sizing to minimize packaging. The circular economy is a fundamental principle of sustainable packaging, where materials are recycled or composted after their lifetime. The process involves collaborating from raw material suppliers to manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. Consumers have increasingly called for sustainable packaging in recent years due to growing awareness of the harmful effects of packaging waste. Businesses have increasingly adopted sustainable packaging as a strategy to decrease their environmental impact and enhance brand image, which has also been observed. Nonetheless, the application of sustainable packaging solutions can be problematic due to the high cost associated with research and development initiatives, as well as changes in infrastructure and processes. Sustainability may require balancing other factors like cost, performance, and shelf life. Despite these obstacles, the advantages of sustainable packaging are evident. This method not only reduces waste that goes to landfill and conserves resources, but also results in reduced material and transportation expenses for businesses. Ultimately, it is imperative to make packaging more sustainable and contribute to the environment and social responsibility. Businesses can reduce their environmental impact and meet consumer demands for more sustainable products by adopting sustainable practices.

The Impact Of Training And Develpement On The Organizational Perfrormance Of Infosys

This research paper investigates how training and development initiatives at Infosys influence the overall organizational performance. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, empirical data, and case studies, it explores the correlation between employee training programs and various performance metrics such as productivity, employee satisfaction, innovation, and profitability within Infosys. The abstract highlights key findings, suggesting that effective training and development programs positively contribute to enhancing employee skills, knowledge, and capabilities, thereby leading to improved organizational performance and competitiveness in the global marketplace. Additionally, it discusses implications for both theory and practice, emphasizing the importance of strategic investment in employee development for sustaining long-term organizational success