Initial Expenditure Research Articles

Improving Performance of Microbial Fuel Cells with Molecular Catalysts of Iron Azaphthalocyanine in Air-Breathing Cathode

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) present a viable, sustainable methodology for the transformation of organic waste in wastewater into bioelectricity. Despite the promising potential of MFCs, challenges such as reduced power density and elevated initial expenditures have impeded their broader commercial adoption. Numerous studies have been directed toward advancing technologies that enhance MFC power densities. One notably effective strategy involves the reduction of overpotentials at the cathode. It is essential for optimal power generation that all electrons produced from the anode chamber are utilized in the cathode during the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The ORR can follow either a two-electron (2e−) or a four-electron (4e−) pathway. Particularly, the four-electron (4e−) transfer pathway is preferred, ultimately producing water. Platinum group metals (PGMs) are traditionally employed as standard electrocatalysts for the cathodic ORR, acclaimed for facilitating a four-electron transfer and minimizing hydrogen peroxide production. This enhancement in ORR efficacy has rendered PGMs as highly favorable electrocatalysts. Nevertheless, the cost of PGMs and their deactivation due to poisoning by various chemical interactions have limited their use in large-scale applications. Recent research has increasingly focused on developing non-platinum group metal (Non-PGM) catalysts, particularly based on iron transition metals or heteroatom-doped carbon alloys, synthesized through high-temperature pyrolysis to yield atomically dispersed iron on carbon supports.Molecularly dispersed electrocatalysts constitute an emerging category of catalysts, synthesizable at temperatures below 200°C, compared with carbon-supported metal alloy catalysts using pyrolysis at temperatures above 800°C. The synthesis of molecularly dispersed electrocatalysts at lower temperatures provides a cost-efficient alternative, diminishing energy expenditures associated with heating and thereby facilitating mass production.Iron phthalocyanine (FePc), characterized by its macrocyclic structure (FeN4), enables straightforward modification of the catalyst on carbon through a wet process and significantly augments ORR activity. The MN4 within FePc, comprising four ligands, exhibits a high oxygen affinity, thereby enhancing oxygen adsorption essential for ORR activity. Specifically, with iron as the central metal, it critically aids in electron transfer during the ORR, promoting the more efficient four-electron pathway.In this study, a novel molecular electrocatalyst was developed through the introduction of iron azaphthalocyanine (FeAzPc), a derivative of iron phthalocyanine (FePc) [1]. This modification involved the replacement of the four benzene rings in FePc with pyridine rings, yielding FeAzPc. Previously, FeAzPc has exhibited superior performance among FePc analogs, particularly under alkaline conditions[2]. The focus of the current research was on the synthesis and characterization of FeAzPc adsorbed on carbon nanotubes (FeAzPc-CNT), which was then assessed as a cathodic catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in a neutral medium. The catalytic activity of FeAzPc-CNT for the ORR was evaluated using a rotating ring-disk electrode (RRDE) setup, simulating the medium conditions typical of MFCs. Analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), were employed to elucidate the morphology of the synthesized electrocatalyst. Subsequently, this electrocatalyst was integrated into the air-breathing cathode of a two-chamber MFC, where its effectiveness was quantified by measuring voltage generation over time and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency.[1] EO Nyangau et al., Bioresource Technology Reports 23, 101565, 2023[2] H. Abe et al., NPG Asia Materials 11 (1), 57, 2019

IoT—A Promising Solution to Energy Management in Smart Buildings: A Systematic Review, Applications, Barriers, and Future Scope

The use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology is crucial for improving energy efficiency in smart buildings, which could minimize global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. IoT applications use numerous sensors to integrate diverse building systems, facilitating intelligent operations, real-time monitoring, and data-informed decision-making. This critical analysis of the features and adoption frameworks of IoT in smart buildings carefully investigates various applications that enhance energy management, operational efficiency, and occupant comfort. Research indicates that IoT technology may decrease energy consumption by as much as 30% and operating expenses by 20%. This paper provides a comprehensive review of significant obstacles to the use of IoT in smart buildings, including substantial initial expenditures (averaging 15% of project budgets), data security issues, and the complexity of system integration. Recommendations are offered to tackle these difficulties, emphasizing the need for established processes and improved coordination across stakeholders. The insights provided seek to influence future research initiatives and direct the academic community in construction engineering and management about the appropriate use of IoT technology in smart buildings. This study is a significant resource for academics and practitioners aiming to enhance the development and implementation of IoT solutions in the construction sector.

The rising cost of liver transplantation in the United States.

Liver transplantation (LT) is the only curative treatment for end-stage liver disease and significantly improves patient outcomes. However, LT is resource-intensive and costly, with expenditures rising dramatically in recent years. Factors contributing to this increase in cost include expanded transplant criteria, utilization of marginal organs, and broader organ distribution, resulting in significant logistical expenses. Advanced technologies like organ perfusion devices, while promising better outcomes, further inflate costs due to their high price and market monopolization. Moreover, living donor liver transplant (LDLT) and utilization of donation after cardiac death (DCD) organs introduce higher initial expenditures yet potential long-term savings. Despite rising costs, reimbursement has remained largely stagnant, putting financial strain on transplant programs, and threatening their sustainability. This review examines the multifaceted drivers of rising costs in LT, focusing on recent policy changes, the role of organ procurement organizations (OPOs) and the impact of new technologies. We also propose comprehensive solutions at national, OPO, and local levels, including optimizing resource allocation, leveraging regional collaborations, and advocating for revised reimbursement models to curb escalating costs. Addressing these challenges is critical to ensuring the continued viability of LT programs and maintaining patient access to this life-saving intervention.

Sustainable Business Practices through IoT: Energy Efficiency and Cost Reductions

This is the age of industrial transformation that is being driven by the Internet of Things (IoT). It offers very unique chance to maximize productivity excellence and foster economic expansion while having the opportunity to meet environmental concerns. This comprehensive study looks into not only the IoT contribution to energy efficiency and cost reduction but also potential use in areas of administrative operations with the same objective of energy efficiency and cost reduction. With the aid of rigorous mixed methods research that brings together qualitative data from multiple industries, against the backdrop of carefully selected case studies showing the actual benefits of IoT installations, the paper seeks to give a clear picture of the practical advantages of IoT-powered organizations. The research presents information regarding how IoT technologies function to optimize energy applications, enhance processes, and cut down waste through their ability to collect data in real-time and manage systems. Besides, it will analyze the problems companies may run into while adding IoT solutions, such as technological complexity, initial expenditure, and security matters. On the other hand, the research also designs the tactical moves that the companies can opt for as an alternative to completely eradicate these barriers and successfully deploy the IoT technology. Through the systematic study of the role of the Internet of Things on green business practices policymakers, business leaders, and technologists will gain valuable insights which can be applied in whatever levels they are working from. This policy is based on a systematic approach to IoT adoption, which, inter alia, suggests the organization of the project, statistical analysis, and improvement of the present situation to get the best economic and environmental state of affairs. This will further the comprehension of the power of IoT technology in both developing sustainability and increasing profitability, all indications that it is not just a technological advantage but rather a basic instrument for the future sustainability of business practices.

A STUDY ON INDIAN RETAIL MARKETING

Over 10% of India's GDP and about 8% of the workforce are employed in retail, making it the country's largest industry. There is a turning point in the Indian retail business. A number of new competitors have entered the market, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors. Breakeven is tough to get due to the high initial expenditures needed, and many of these players have not experienced success thus far. The market is expanding, government policies are improving, and new technology are making operations easier, so there is hope for the future. The entrance of international businesses in consumer retailing will mark the next phase of development in the Indian consumer markets. Most businesses are optimistic that the retail industry's onerous FDI regulations would soon be lifted. further while domestic Indian businesses have a leg up in the market knowledge department, international competitors will soon be able to undercut them financially and force prices further down. The forthcoming conflict will center on that. Keywords:- India, Retail, Marketing,

Automatic detection of potholes using VGG-16 pre-trained network and Convolutional Neural Network

A self-driving car is necessary to implement traffic intelligence because it can vastly enhance both the safety of driving and the comfort of the driver by adjusting to the circumstances of the road ahead. Road hazards such as potholes can be a big challenge for autonomous vehicles, increasing the risk of crashes and vehicle damage. Real-time identification of road potholes is required to solve this issue. To this end, various approaches have been tried, including notifying the appropriate authorities, utilizing vibration-based sensors, and engaging in three-dimensional laser imaging. Unfortunately, these approaches have several drawbacks, such as large initial expenditures and the possibility of being discovered. Transfer learning is considered a potential answer to the pressing necessity of automating the process of pothole identification. A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is constructed to categorize potholes effectively using the VGG-16 pre-trained model as a transfer learning model throughout the training process. A Super-Resolution Generative Adversarial Network (SRGAN) is suggested to enhance the image's overall quality. Experiments conducted with the suggested approach of classifying road potholes revealed a high accuracy rate of 97.3%, and its effectiveness was tested using various criteria. The developed transfer learning technique obtained the best accuracy rate compared to many other deep learning algorithms.

In-house molecular diagnosis of diffuse glioma updating the revised WHO classification by a platform of the advanced medical care system, Senshin-Iryo.

Since the World Health Organization (WHO) 2016 revision, the number of molecular markers required for diffuse gliomas has increased, placing a burden on clinical practice. We have established an in-house, molecular diagnostic platform using Senshin-Iryo, a feature of Japan's unique healthcare system, and partially modified the analysis method in accordance with the WHO 2021 revision. Herein, we review over a total 5 years of achievements using this platform. Analyses of IDH, BRAF, and H3 point mutations, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on 1p/19q and chromosomes 10 and 17, and MGMT methylation were combined into a set that was submitted to Senshin-Iryo as "Drug resistance gene testing for anticancer chemotherapy" and was approved in August 2018. Subsequently, in October 2021, Sanger sequencing for the TERT promoter mutation was added to the set, and LOH analysis was replaced with multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) to analyze 1p/19q codeletion and newly required genetic markers, such as EGFR, PTEN, and CDKN2A from WHO 2021. Among the over 200 cases included, 54 were analyzed after the WHO 2021 revision. The laboratory has maintained a diagnostic platform where molecular diagnoses are confirmed within 2 weeks. Initial expenditures exceeded the income from patient copayments; however, it has gradually been reduced to running costs alone and is approaching profitability. After the WHO 2021 revision, diagnoses were confirmed using molecular markers obtained from Senshin-Iryo in 38 of 54 cases (70.1%). Among the remaining 16 patients, only four (7.4%) were diagnosed with diffuse glioma, not elsewhere classified, which was excluded in 12 cases where glioblastoma was confirmed by histopathological diagnosis. Our Senshin-Iryo trial functioned as a salvage system to overcome the transition period between continued revisions of WHO classification that has caused a clinical dilemma in the Japanese healthcare system.

Investment Review in Marine Fish Distribution, Baleendah Sub-District, Bandung District, Indonesia: A Case Study

The stable availability of fish as a crucial source of affordable animal protein with commendable nutritional content, contributing significantly to quality protein intake. To provide and ensure a steady supply of raw materials, a marine fish distributor in Baleendah Sub-district, Bandung Regency, is imperative. This distributor, functioning as a fish container (cold storage), acts as a crucial link between major marine fish producers and local fish processing farmers. During abundant fish seasons, the distributor collects fish, supporting prices during limited stock periods. This strategic intervention ensures the continuity of activities for salt-boiled fish processing farmers in Bandung Regency.The key objectives in establishing a marine fish distributor in Baleendah Sub-district, Bandung Regency, include optimizing the operation of distribution facilities and infrastructure. This optimization ensures a consistent supply of raw materials, reducing price fluctuations and ultimately lowering the production cost of processed fish. For the marine fish distribution company to operate sustainably, controlling fixed and variable expenses is crucial. Distributors of marine fish have total fixed and variable costs of IDR 271,950,000. The net result is calculated by deducting the whole fixed and variable costs from the revenue, which comes to IDR 688,050,000. The calculated Revenue/Cost (R/C) Ratio of 3.542 suggests a positive equilibrium between revenue and expenses. This ratio is a crucial financial indicator that shows profitability potential. Furthermore, the payback period—which is projected to be 0.46 years—indicates the amount of time needed to recoup the initial expenditure in relation to the net benefit that is delivered.

Comparative Feasibility and Environmental Life Cycle Assessment of Cotton Stalks Gasification and Pyrolysis

In a circular economy, significant emphasis is given to the energetic valorization of agricultural byproducts. Cotton stalks are suitable as a feedstock for the production of bioenergy due to their high energy content. This study’s main focal areas are the economic viability and environmental implications of a system that can gasify or pyrolyze 25,500 tons of cotton stalk annually. To learn more about how gasification and pyrolysis affect the environment, a life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted. This analysis evaluates the whole value chain and covers all stages of the cotton supply chain from cradle to gate, including production, harvest, transportation, and utilization. According to the findings, both systems exhibit economic viability, generating sizable profits and having quick payback times. However, despite its larger initial expenditure of EUR 2.74 million, the pyrolysis unit ends up being the better option because it has a payback period of 1.58 years, a return on investment (ROI) of 58% and a net present value (NPV) of EUR 21.5 million. Gasification is still an economically attractive alternative with a lower initial investment (EUR 1.81 million), despite having a lower ROI (36%) and NPV (EUR 10.52 million), as well as a longer payback period (2.41 years). However, the environmental implications of the gasification option are generally higher than those of pyrolysis. The impacts of gasification on fossil depletion (FDP) were estimated to be 5.7 million kg oil eq., compared to 5.3 million kg oil eq. for pyrolysis. Similarly, gasification resulted in 41.55 million kg U235 eq. and pyrolysis in 41.5 million kg U235 eq. related to impacts on ionizing radiation (IRP_HE). Other impact categories that emerge as the most important are freshwater eutrophication (FEP) and marine eutrophication (MEP).

Machine Vision for Efficient Electric Vehicle Charging Station Deployment

This research examines the optimization of the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations by using machine vision technology, which involves analyzing real-time data and geographical information. Geospatial data analysis reveals prospective sites for charging stations by considering population density and accessibility to roads, hence identifying regions with increased demand for electric vehicle charging. The assessment of electric vehicle (EV) traffic patterns highlights the ever-changing charging requirements at various times and places, underscoring the need of flexible deployment techniques. Furthermore, evaluating the costs of implementing the deployment and the capabilities of charging, it becomes apparent that there are compromises to be made between the initial expenditures of installation, the amount of power generated, and the quantity of charging stations. These trade-offs are essential for optimizing resources. The usage study of charging stations using machine vision reveals variations in the number of available charging points at different stations and the need for adaptive resource distribution timestamps, techniques. The examination of percentage change reveals notable fluctuations in population density, installation costs, and the availability of charging points. This information is crucial for making well-informed decisions about the deployment of charging infrastructure. Combining machine vision insights with geographical and traffic analyses presents a promising method to create data-driven strategies for the placement of EV charging stations. This approach addresses the changing needs of electric mobility and provides guidance to stakeholders for efficient and flexible charging solutions.

Circular Economy in Manufacturing: Optimization using Lean Six Sigma

This research examines the amalgamation of Circular Economy concepts with Lean Six Sigma approaches to enhance manufacturing operations, emphasizing waste minimization, resource efficiency, and economic performance. The study assesses the influence of Lean Six Sigma on production efficiency and environmental sustainability via empirical analysis and process optimization methodologies. Conventional manufacturing procedures, including machining, milling, and grinding, were assessed for resource utilization and waste production, revealing that Lean Six Sigma methodologies markedly decreased material waste, especially in milling operations, where waste was curtailed by 20%. Advanced precision techniques, including CNC and laser cutting, were evaluated for their efficiency, with CNC cutting realizing a 15% decrease in energy usage and a 30% enhancement in material utilization. Laser cutting exhibited improved accuracy, resulting in a 35% decrease in rework and scrap. The economic study indicated that the application of Lean Six Sigma in CNC operations resulted in a 25% reduction in operating expenses over time, albeit greater initial expenditures. These results provide significant insights into the enhancement of industrial efficiency and the promotion of sustainable production practices via the integration of Circular Economy concepts with Lean Six Sigma methodologies. Keywords: Circular Economy, Precision Manufacturing, Comparative Analysis, Tool Life, Economic Implications.

Multiple-criteria decision analysis techniques for anaerobic digester technology assessment

Effective decision-making requires the evaluation of several criteria rather than a single, preferred criterion. The best decision options (alternatives) are recommended to decision-makers when a multi-criteria decision problem is addressed. This study develops a multi-criteria selection method for the assessment of small-scale anaerobic digester technology by combining two existing methods. The Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART) and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approaches of multiple-criteria decision analysis were used as a decision support tool, and the preferred anaerobic digester technology was selected from a list of eleven potential small-scale digester technologies used in low to middle-income countries. These techniques were applied under two scenarios for a case study in the South African smallholder farmers. Scenario 1 involves a subsistence smallholder farming context, while scenario 2 involves a commercially oriented smallholder farming context. The overall results revealed that the DIY Biobag and Puxin digester design models achieved 82.1 and 73.7 % preference in comparison to other digester technologies for scenarios 1 and 2, respectively. The Biobag digester technology achieved the highest ranking, which is consistent with the significant cost advantage and technical characteristics of the technology. However, for those households with sufficient access to funds for the initial expenditure, the method identifies the Puxin digester as the most appropriate alternative, excluding cases where underground construction is not possible. The AGAMA BiogasPro digester was ranked in the second position in both scenarios. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the effect of changes in the assessment criteria weights and found the selected alternatives stable and robust. Finally, it can be concluded that the developed technology selection model contributed a knowledge-based framework to be used in various situations by different decision-makers, thereby providing a method applicable to particular local conditions to identify the most suitable technology choices.

Cost Impact Comparative Analysis via BIM between Heritage Regular Maintenance Projects and Long-Term Restoration Projects—A Case Study

The financial implications of long-term restoration projects for cultural heritage, as compared to regular maintenance efforts, often underscore a flawed decision-making process. This can result from years of neglect versus consistent, organized maintenance. Striking a balance between these strategies is paramount for preserving cultural legacies. This research aims to evaluate the trade-offs between the initial expenditures of restoration initiatives and the consistent costs of maintenance activities. We leverage Building Information Modelling (BIM) and its specialized application for heritage preservation, known as Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM). This offers a digital depiction of the heritage building’s conservation state and associated intervention costs. Specifically, this study taps into the fifth dimension of BIM, cost estimation, to draw a comparative analysis between the financial ramifications of regular maintenance and long-term restoration projects. This assessment is exemplified through a case study on the “Aidkeen Al-Bendqdari Dome” located in historic Cairo, Egypt—a component of the Prince Taz Palace. The analysis integrates cost data to generate insights. The ultimate goal is to devise a comparative framework that can guide authorities in budgetary decisions and resource distribution.

10098-MPC-10 HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND TO REPEATED WHO REVISIONS? IN-HOUSE MOLECULAR DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM BY ADVANCED MEDICAL SYSTEM

Abstract BACKGROUND Since the WHO2016 revision, required molecular markers has been increasing, placing a burden on clinical practice of diffuse gliomas. We established an in-house molecular diagnostic platform by Senshin-Iryo (meaning advanced medical care system) and have since been partially modifying the analysis method in accordance with the WHO2021 revision. We review our achievements in total 5 years. METHODS Analyses of IDH, BRAF, and H3 point mutations, loss of heterozygosity on 1p19q and chromosomes 10 and 17, and MGMT methylation were combined into a set and submitted as a Senshin-Iryo "Drug resistance gene testing for anticancer chemotherapy" and approved in August 2018. Subsequently, in October 2021, Sanger sequencing for TERT promotor mutation was added to the set and the LOH analysis was replaced to MLPA, in order to analyze 1p19q codeletion and newly required genetic markers; EGFR, PTEN, CDKN2A, etc. in WHO2021. RESULTS The cumulative number of cases has reached over 200. Among them, 54 cases were analyzed after WHO2021 revision. The laboratory has maintained the diagnostic platform in which molecular diagnoses are steadily confirmed generally within two weeks. The initial expenditure was exceeded the income obtained from the patient co-payment, however, it has gradually been reduced to running costs alone, then is approaching profitability. After WHO2021 revision, diagnoses could be confirmed by molecular markers obtained from Senshin-Iryo in 38 of 54 cases (70.1%). Among the remaining 16, only 4 (7.4%) cases remained diagnosed as diffuse glioma, NEC, exclusionary after 12 cases in which glioblastoma was confirmed by histopathological diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Our Senshin-Iryo trial has functioned as a salvage system to overcome the current transition period in which the continuing revision of WHO classification causing a clinical dilemma of healthcare system.

Unequal Expenditure Switching: Evidence from Switzerland

Abstract What are the unequal effects of changes in consumer prices on the cost of living? In the context of changes in import prices (driven by, e.g. changes in trade costs or exchange rates), most analyses focus on variation across households in initial expenditure shares on imported goods. However, the unequal welfare effects of non-marginal foreign price changes also depend on differences in how consumers substitute between imported and domestic goods, on which there is scant evidence. Using data from Switzerland surrounding the 2015 appreciation of the Swiss franc, we provide evidence that lower-income households have higher price elasticities. We quantify the contribution of heterogeneous elasticities for the unequal welfare effects of observed price changes between 2014 and 2015 and for counterfactual shocks to the mean and dispersion of import price changes.

Management Strategy for Seaports Aspiring to Green Logistical Goals of IMO: Technology and Policy Solutions

Abstract Recently, because of serious global challenges including the consumption of energy and climate change, there has been an increase in interest in the environmental effect of port operations and expansion. More interestingly, a strategic tendency in seaport advancement has been to manage the seaport system using a model which balances environmental volatility and economic development demands. An energy efficient management system is regarded as being vital for meeting the strict rules aimed at reducing the environmental pollution caused by port facility activities. Moreover, the enhanced supervision of port system operating methods and technical resolutions for energy utilisation also raise significant issues. In addition, low-carbon ports, as well as green port models, are becoming increasingly popular in seafaring nations. This study comprises a comprehensive assessment of operational methods, cutting-edge technologies for sustainable generation, storage, and transformation of energy, as well as systems of smart grid management, to develop a green seaport system, obtaining optimum operational efficiency and environmental protection. It is thought that using a holistic method and adaptive management, based on a framework of sustainable and green energy, could stimulate creative thinking, consensus building, and cooperation, as well as streamline the regulatory demands associated with port energy management. Although several aspects of sustainability and green energy could increase initial expenditure, they might result in significant life cycle savings due to decreased consumption of energy and output of emissions, as well as reduced operational and maintenance expenses.

Evaluating the Techno-Economic Effect of Pricing and Consumption Parameters on the Power-to-Energy Ratio for Sizing Photovoltaic-Battery Systems: An Assessment of Prosumers in the Mediterranean Area

The momentous deployment of photovoltaic (PV) installations in modern times converted schemes utilised to support behind-the-meter systems to compensation mechanisms promoting self-consumption for all prosumer types. Moreover, their incorporation with battery storage systems (BSS) is expected to remove technical counter effects and assist in more self-sufficient prosumer sites. As electricity prices are continuously rising, negatively impacting consumers, we intend for this study to serve as a guideline for residential PV-BSS sizing. Additionally, its objective is to provide an operational and economic evaluation of PV-BSS by considering relevant schemes and concentrating on the most effective parameters. This study contributes to the literature with a holistic methodology for sizing and techno-economically evaluating residential systems in the Mediterranean area that is replicable for any state or consumption class. Simulations addressing PV-BSS performance were exploited with the use of real (high-resolution) data, estimating particular sizing, operational, and techno-economic indicators during the entire system lifetime within the framework of a techno-economic analysis. The simulations calculated the initial expenditure, the yearly revenues from the PV-BSS operation, and the corresponding expenses, contrasting them on a year-to-year basis. The results demonstrate that for the five countries addressed as case studies, PV-BSS sizing is significantly impacted by the supporting scheme regarding maximum financial gains. A likeness amid the ideal power-to-energy ratio (PER) indicator of every addressed state for the examined parameters (electricity price and consumption class) was demonstrated for the full self-consumption scheme, whereas for net billing, intercountry discrepancies and generally higher optimal PER values were observed. Finally, an increase in electricity prices or consumption generally decreases optimal PER; therefore, a recommendation is provided for the avoidance of inessential expenditures in surplus system component sizes.

Microfinance for Women Micro and Small-Scale Entrepreneurs Using COPRAS Method

A micro entrepreneur is, to put it bluntly, the person who started a small company. These "super small" firms are commonly understood to be those that have less than ten personnel and a low initial expenditure. Entrepreneurs utilise money—often the money of others—to create a company that is larger than oneself and a reliable source of long-term profits. Entrepreneurs prioritise expansion and scaling their work. While they sleep, business owners generate revenue. Microbusiness owners, on the other hand, get compensated for their own labour. Macro companies handle financial matters that are associated with the country as a whole on a large scale, such as the gross creation/production in a year, whereas micro companies control monetary matters that are related to a particular industry or specific location, the linkages of firms and individuals inside the market. Alternative: Credit histories, Behaviour preference, Performance abilities, Identity features, Interpersonal relationships. Evaluation option: Entrepreneur 1, Entrepreneur 2, Entrepreneur 3, Entrepreneur 4, Entrepreneur 5. Entrepreneurs 2 is got the first rank whereas is the Entrepreneurs3is having the Lowest rank. The value of the dataset for Micro and Entrepreneurs in COPRAS method shows that it results in Entrepreneurs 2 and top ranking.

Does plant-based milk reduce sales of dairy milk? Evidence from the almond milk craze

AbstractIn recent years, there has been significant growth in the sales of plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy products. However, it remains unclear whether these alternatives are actually reducing sales of livestock-derived products. This paper examines the relationship between the sales of one particular livestock-derived product – unflavored dairy milk – and its plant-based alternative – nondairy milk. Using data from a panel of US consumers between 2004 and 2018, I find that a 1-gallon increase in nondairy milk sales is associated with a 0.43–0.60 gallon reduction in dairy milk sales. The inverse relationship between dairy and nondairy milk purchases is strongest among households with high initial expenditure on dairy milk. Despite the inverse relationship between dairy and nondairy milk purchases, the rapid increase in nondairy milk sales between 2009 and 2018 explains little of the concomitant decline in dairy milk sales.

An Assessment and Design of a Distributed Hybrid Energy System for Rural Electrification: The Case for Jamataka Village, Botswana

This research focuses on an assessment and design of a hybrid Photo Voltaic (PV)-wind system for rural electrification in Jamataka village, Botswana. The assessment revealed the most pressing factors for the need for reliable energy and the issues that the village community had with existing electricity sources. Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software was used to perform all the hybrid system configurations, simulations, and selections. The assessment research was carried out using questionnaires and physical data collection on site. With a peak load of 27.31 kW, the annual average demand is 165.29 kWh/day. The results show that the PV/wind/battery system generates the most economic and technical benefits, as measured by the Net Present Cost (NPC). Due to the high initial expenditures on renewable energy systems, the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of the system is 65 percent higher than the present energy cost in Botswana for households and 57 percent higher for companies. The International Renewable Energy Agency’s global report of renewable energy generation costs between 2010 and 2020 revealed a significant decrease, with utility-scale solar PV costs falling by 85% and onshore wind costs falling by 56 percent. As a result, the LCOE decreases as the cost of renewable energy decreases. Subsidies for renewable energy systems, on the other hand, can significantly reduce the LCOE.