Key Drivers Research Articles

Life’s building blocks: the modular path to multiscale complexity

Modularity, the structuring of systems into discrete, interconnected units, is a fundamental organizing principle in biology across multiple scales. Recent progress in understanding the role of modularity as an evolutionary mechanism and a key driver of biological complexity has highlighted its importance in shaping the structure and function of living systems. Here, we propose a unifying framework that identifies the potential evolutionary advantages of modularity in systems ranging from molecular networks to ecologies, such as facilitating evolvability, enhancing robustness, improving information flows, and enabling the emergence of higher-level functions. Our analysis reveals the pervasiveness of modularity in living systems and highlights its crucial role in the evolution of multiscale hierarchies of increasing complexity.

BANKING SUPERVISION THROUGH SUPTECH

Victor Ababii E-mail: ababii.victor@gmail.com PhD student, Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova Head of Division, Reporting and Statistics Department, National Bank of Moldova Chișinău, Republic of Moldova https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9573-0204 Abstract: The banking system requires continuous development to enhance stability and integrity of the financial sector by implementing the latest technological tools. Maintaining a sustainable financial system, resilient to the shocks generated by the digital age and able to adapt and prevent emerging cyber risks remains a priority for supervisory institutions, in response to financial supervision and risk management framework through leveraging state-of-the-art technology for better governance and control. SupTech's primary objective is to promote inclusion in the financial sector by focusing on governance management and digital financing. It`s goal is to support the development of an inclusive financial system built on a robust digital infrastructure that enhances efficiency, transparency, and resilience. As technological innovations advance, financial services have to evolve, requiring financial institutions to adapt their surveillance technologies (SupTech) to safeguard citizen interests. Establishing both normative and technical SupTech frameworks helps supervisory authorities to eliminate gaps in internal processes, streamline workflows, fortify risk management, protect consumers, and maintain financial system stability amid ongoing market changes. Implementing a SupTech framework involves several stages: diagnosing the institution's current state, defining the purpose, vision, and objectives of SupTech, identifying key drivers and adaptive capabilities, evaluating necessary actions, and detailing steps for successful implementation. A thorough diagnosis of the supervisory institution involves IT solutions that facilitate continuous bank monitoring and offsite supervision. This diagnostic analysis includes: (1) Data products – identifying the position and trends to reach the level of AI-augment business intelligence tools; (2) Analytics – aiming to implement analytics tools perspectives; (3) Access controls - with the position on the agency - wide access; (4) Storage – oriented towards the use target of big data tools; (5) Validation and processing – aiming at the use of advanced data processing; (6) Collection – using the latest AI-based collection trends or alternative data sources. Configuring the SupTech framework involves transforming vulnerabilities into opportunities. For example, automating data flows can address deficiencies in manual data handling, risk assessment, and report generation. Implementing a data warehouse can solve challenges related to data consolidation, multiple analysis tools, system integration complexity, and data correlation. SupTech aims to provide supervisory authorities with reliable, high-quality data, aligning with best practices in governance and data management. This ensures consistency in the supervisory process and resilience to technological advancements. Digitizing surveillance processes is crucial for operational efficiency, with advanced analytics and business intelligence solutions enhancing surveillance information and decision-making. Keywords: SupTech, Fintech, Regtech, risks, data model. JEL classification: G21

Micro-business participation in collective flood adaptation: lessons from scenario-based analysis in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract. Although research on the impacts of climate change on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their adaptation to climate change risks has recently received more attention, the focus on micro-businesses and household businesses is still very limited. Micro-businesses and household businesses are adversely affected by compound flooding events – a situation that will become more acute in the future – but there is little attention in the scientific literature to their adaptation options and actual implementation. Against this background, the paper analyzes the following research questions. How are micro-businesses already responding to flooding? Are micro-businesses willing to collectively invest in future proactive adaptation efforts in their neighborhoods? What are the key drivers of and barriers to adaptation? Based on scenario-based field experiments in Ho Chi Minh City, our results show that micro-businesses could play a much larger role in collective adaptation. Often overlooked in adaptation research, their willingness to engage in collective action under severe constraints is surprising. The conceptual framework presented in this paper helps us to understand the key drivers of and barriers to micro-business willingness to participate in collective adaptation activities. The most important key barriers for micro-businesses are limited financial capacity and lack of support from local authorities. However, micro-businesses are willing to contribute depending on the concrete adaptation measure and financing options. If no financial contribution is expected, almost 70 % are willing to participate in awareness-raising campaigns. And although their financial capacity is very limited, 39 % of micro-businesses would contribute financially if the costs were shared with other businesses in their neighborhood and with local authorities. In this context, micro-businesses should be much more involved in adaptation plans and measures. Through their local embeddedness, they can be important multipliers in strengthening adaptive capacity at the local level.

Can Company Size and Region Shape the Sustainability Landscape?

This research investigates the status of green innovation within the supply chain context, emphasizing the roles of organizational support, competitive pressure, and relative advantage. A total of 286 valid samples collected from employees within the supply chain of the manufacturing industry in China were analyzed. Findings reveal significant impacts of organizational support, competitive pressure, and relative advantage on green supply chain innovation adoption, with nuances observed based on organizational characteristics and regional differences. Competitive pressure is a key driver for small organizations to adopt green supply chain innovations, whereas the relative advantage significantly influences larger organizations' adoption intentions. Organizations in different regions exhibit different adoption intentions of green supply chain innovations. Practical implications for managers in different contexts are discussed, emphasizing the importance of tailored strategies to leverage strengths and mitigate challenges in fostering sustainable and innovative supply chains.

UBE2D1 promotes glioblastoma proliferation by modulating p21 ubiquitination.

Glioblastoma (GBM) cells exhibit aberrant proliferative abilities and resistance to conventional therapies. However, the mechanisms underlying these malignant phenotypes are poorly understood. In this study, we identified ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2D1 (UBE2D1) as a crucial stimulator of GBM development. It is highly expressed in GBM and closely associated with poor prognosis in patients with GBM. UBE2D1 knockdown inhibits GBM cell growth and leads to G1 cell cycle arrest. Mechanistically, UBCH5A binds to p21 at the protein level and induces the ubiquitination and degradation of p21. This negative regulation is mediated by STUB1. Our findings are the first to identify UBE2D1 as a key driver of GBM growth and provide a potential target for improving prognosis and therapy.

The Complex Relationship Between Pain, Mental Health, and Quality-of-Life in Patients With Cirrhosis Undergoing Liver Transplant Evaluation.

Patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation have high rates of pain and mental health comorbidities; both may significantly impair health-related quality of life (HRQL). We investigated the association between pain, anxiety/depression, and HRQL in this population. In 62 patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation, we performed 4 validated assessments to characterize: pain (Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, BPI-SF), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-8), and liver-specific HRQL (Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire). The presence of pain was determined using the BPI-SF screening question. Linear regression was used to identify demographic or clinical factors predictive of pain severity (PS) and interference (PI) and to evaluate the association between pain, anxiety/depression, and HRQL. Seventy-one percent of patients reported pain, 26% had clinical depression, and 24% had moderate-severe anxiety. Neither liver disease severity, nor its complications were associated with pain (PS or PI), but anxiety and depression were predictors of pain on bivariate analysis. Only depression remained a significant predictor of PS (b=0.28, P<0.05) and PI (b=0.30, P<0.05) in multivariable models. HRQL was inversely associated with PS, PI, depression, and anxiety, but only anxiety (b=-0.14, P=0.003) remained associated with HRQL in the adjusted model. Pain is present in over 70% of patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation. Anxiety and depression were highly correlated with pain and appeared to be key drivers in predicting poor HRQL. Evaluating and managing mental health comorbidities should be explored as a strategy to improve HRQL in patients with cirrhosis and pain.

Spatial Evolution and Driving Factors of Ecological Well-Being Performance in the Yellow River Basin

Ecological well-being performance (EWP) is a key indicator of sustainable development and has garnered significant research attention. This study measures the overall and stage-by-stage efficiency of the urban agglomerations in the Yellow River Basin based on the ends–means framework of steady-state economics. This study then delves into the spatiotemporal transfer characteristics of EWP through Moran’s I, and spatial Markov chains. Additionally, this research investigates the factors influencing EWP using a random forest model. The findings indicate a notable enhancement in EWP in the urban agglomerations in the YRB from 2006 to 2021, showing clear spatial agglomeration patterns. The shift in EWP types displays a “path dependence” effect, with distinct evolutionary paths influenced by spatial lag effects. Ecological input emerges as a key internal driver of EWP, while urbanization and technological advancements are highlighted as significant external factors. Industrial agglomeration and industrial structure also contribute to improving EWP. The findings of this study help to clarify the spatial and temporal characteristics of ecological welfare performance and its driving mechanisms in the urban agglomerations of the Yellow River Basin. This is conducive to the achievement of high-quality urban transformation and regional green development, and it provides a reference for the construction of an ecological civilization.

The Impact of Customer Retention on Organization Profitability in the FMCG Sector in Nigeria

In the competitive domain of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), retaining customers is essential for the overall organisational performance of an FMCG company. This research investigated the impact of customer retention on organisational profitability in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector in Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional survey approach, with data collected from 248 employees in 10 different FMCG companies in Oyo State, South West, Nigeria. The findings revealed a strong positive correlation (r=0.783) significant at p &lt; 0.01 between customer retention and organisational profitability, highlighting customer retention as a key driver of sustained profitability. The study further explored specific components of customer retention, including personalised marketing, loyalty programs, quality products, and customer support, all of which showed strong positive associations with organisational profitability. Survey results indicated that customer satisfaction is a leading factor contributing to customer retention, emphasising the importance of understanding and meeting customer expectations. Based on these findings, recommendations are provided for FMCG companies to prioritise customer retention strategies, such as personalised marketing and quality customer support, to enhance organisational profitability and success in the Nigerian FMCG sector.

T cell and airway smooth muscle interaction: a key driver of asthmatic airway inflammation and remodelling.

Crosstalk between T cells and airway smooth muscle (ASM) may play a role in modulating asthmatic airway inflammation and remodelling. Infiltrating T cells have been observed within the ASM bundles of asthmatics, and a wide range of direct and indirect interactions between T cells and ASM have been demonstrated using various in vitro and in vivo model systems. Contact-dependent mechanisms such as ligation and activation of cellular adhesion and costimulatory molecules, as well as the formation of lymphocyte-derived membrane conduits, facilitate the adhesion, bidirectional communication and transfer of materials between T and ASM cells. T cell-derived cytokines, particularly of the Th1, Th2 and Th17 subsets, modulate the secretome, proliferation and contractility of ASM cells. This review summarizes the mechanisms governing T cell-ASM crosstalk in the context of asthma. Understanding the underlying mechanistic basis is important for directing future research and developing therapeutic interventions targeted towards this complex interaction.

Taxes and Infrastructure Development: A Review from Various Countries

The purpose of this study is to examine the intricate interplay between taxation policies, infrastructure financing, and economic competitiveness, with a focus on identifying key drivers and challenges in facilitating sustainable infrastructure development. Employing a qualitative literature review approach, the research design involves systematically analyzing a diverse range of scholarly articles, books, and reports related to taxation, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships (PPPs). Keywords such as "taxation policies," "infrastructure financing," "public-private partnerships," "economic competitiveness," and "sustainable development" are utilized to refine the search and ensure inclusivity. The findings and discussion highlight the pivotal role of taxation policies in mobilizing funds for infrastructure projects, the potential benefits and challenges of PPPs in addressing infrastructure deficits, and the implications of sustainable infrastructure development for long-term economic prosperity. The implications of this study extend to both academia and practice, offering insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in infrastructure development. By understanding the mechanisms driving infrastructure investment and governance, policymakers can formulate evidence-based strategies to promote inclusive and sustainable development. Moreover, practitioners can leverage these findings to enhance project planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement in infrastructure projects. Overall, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding taxation, infrastructure development, and PPPs, ultimately informing more effective and sustainable approaches to infrastructure investment and governance.

Evaluation of an antioxidant to improve the aging resistance of SBS modified asphalt binder based on chemical mechanical analysis (TI CAB)

The use of antioxidants in asphalt binder is significant in prolonging the service life of asphalt pavements. In order to improve the aging resistance of asphalt binder, an antioxidant was mixed into SBS modified asphalt binder in this study. The effects of the antioxidant on the properties and aging resistance of SBS modified asphalt binder were characterised based on rheological parameters, chemical composition and morphology. The results showed that the aging resistance index quantitatively evaluated the aging resistance of different asphalt binders. The average aging resistance index of asphalt binder with 3% antioxidant based on different properties index was about 3.5, which meant it can prolong the aging life by approximately 3.5 times. The control of carbonyl and sulfoxide formation by antioxidant was the key driver to inhibit the macroscopic property degradation of asphalt binder. However, the antioxidant did not effectively inhibit the degradation of SBS modifiers during aging.

Inflammatory response of leptomeninges to a single cortical spreading depolarization

BackgroundNeurogenic meningeal inflammation is regarded as a key driver of migraine headache. Multiple evidence show importance of inflammatory processes in the dura mater for pain generation but contribution of the leptomeninges is less clear. We assessed effects of cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), the pathophysiological mechanism of migraine aura, on expression of inflammatory mediators in the leptomeninges.MethodsA single CSD event was produced by a focal unilateral microdamage of the cortex in freely behaving rats. Three hours later intact cortical leptomeninges and parenchyma of ipsi-lesional (invaded by CSD) and sham-treated contra-lesional (unaffected by CSD) hemispheres were collected and mRNA levels of genes associated with inflammation (Il1b, Tnf, Ccl2; Cx3cl1, Zc3h12a) and endocannabinoid CB2 receptors (Cnr2) were measured using qPCR.ResultsThree hours after a single unilateral CSD, most inflammatory factors changed their expression levels in the leptomeninges, mainly on the side of CSD. The meninges overlying affected cortex increased mRNA expression of all proinflammatory cytokines (Il1b, Tnf, Ccl2) and anti-inflammatory factors Zc3h12a and Cx3cl1. Upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines was found in both meninges and parenchyma while anti-inflammatory markers increased only meningeal expression.ConclusionA single CSD is sufficient to produce pronounced leptomeningeal inflammation that lasts for at least three hours and involves mostly meninges overlying the cortex affected by CSD. The prolonged post-CSD inflammation of the leptomeninges can contribute to mechanisms of headache generation following aura phase of migraine attack.

A quality improvement project on reducing antibiotic use duration in very low birth weight preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit

To develop effective measures to reduce antibiotic use duration in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit through quality improvement methods. The study population consisted of hospitalized VLBW preterm infants, with the percentage of hospitalization time during which antibiotics were used from November 2020 to June 2021 serving as the baseline. The specific quality improvement goal was to reduce the duration of antibiotic use. Factors affecting antibiotic use duration in preterm infants were analyzed using Pareto charts. Key drivers were identified, and specific interventions were formulated based on the stages of antibiotic use. Changes in the percentage of antibiotic use duration were monitored with run charts until the quality improvement target was achieved. From November 2020 to June 2021, the baseline antibiotic use duration percentage was 49%, with a quality improvement target to reduce this by 10% within 12 months. The Pareto analysis indicated that major factors influencing antibiotic duration included non-standard antibiotic use; delayed cessation of antibiotics when no infection evidence was present; prolonged central venous catheter placement; insufficient application of kangaroo care; and delayed progress in enteral nutrition. The interventions implemented included: (1) establishing sepsis evaluation and management standards; (2) educating medical staff on the rational use of antibiotics for preterm infants; (3) supervising the enforcement of antibiotic use standards during ward rounds; (4) for those without clear signs of infection and with negative blood cultures, discontinued the use of antibiotics 36 hours after initiation; (5) reducing the duration of central venous catheterization and parenteral nutrition to lower the risk of infection in preterm infants. The control chart showed that with continuous implementation of interventions, the percentage of antibiotic use duration was reduced from 49% to 32%, a statistically significant decrease. The application of quality improvement tools based on statistical principles and process control may significantly reduce the antibiotic use duration in VLBW preterm infants. Citation:Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, 2024, 26(7): 736-742.

SDS3 regulates microglial inflammation by modulating the expression of the upstream kinase ASK1 in the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.

Microglia, the main innate immune cells in the central nervous system, are key drivers of neuroinflammation, which plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The Sin3/histone deacetylase (HDAC) complex, a highly conserved multiprotein co-repressor complex, primarily performs transcriptional repression via deacetylase activity; however, the function of SDS3, which maintains the integrity of the complex, in microglia remains unclear. To uncover the regulatory role of the transcriptional co-repressor SDS3 in microglial inflammation, we used chromatin immunoprecipitation to identify SDS3 target genes and combined with transcriptomics and proteomics analysis to explore expression changes in cells following SDS3 knocking down. Subsequently, we validated our findings through experimental assays. Our analysis revealed that SDS3 modulates the expression of the upstream kinase ASK1 of the p38 MAPK pathway, thus regulating the activation of signaling pathways and ultimately influencing inflammation. Our findings provide important evidence of the contributions of SDS3 toward microglial inflammation and offer new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of microglial inflammatory responses.

Factors affecting ecological footprint in Saudi Arabia: a panel data analysis

The global environment has witnessed an increase in environmental risks over the last few decades due to the rising demand for energy to support economic development and urbanization. These environmental risks are exacerbated by the escalating human activity that depletes natural resources. Therefore, analyzing factors affecting Ecological Footprint (EFP), which include many variables such as urbanization, energy consumption, natural resources, economic growth, and technological innovation, is essential to achieve sustainable development. Urbanization is a key driver of economic growth. Achieving economic development requires the utilization of natural resources and energy which increase the EFP. Therefore, the focus on technological innovation is essential to reduce the EFP. Despite the critical environmental and economic implications of factors affecting EFP, studies on this area are lacking, especially across Middle Eastern countries, and present contradictory findings. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to investigate the effect of urbanization, energy consumption, natural resources, economic growth, and technological innovation on the EFP in Saudi Arabia. To this end, the study utilizes an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, which is considered the most suitable econometric approach when variables are stationary at I (0) or integrated of order I (1), based on data collected from various international sources for the period spanning from 1990 to 2022. In both the long run and the short run, empirical findings show that urbanization, natural resources, and technological innovation decrease the EFP, while energy consumption and economic growth increase the EFP. These results reveal that energy policies need to be addressed, and economic growth is unable to lower the EFP due to a lack of connection between economic policies and environmental goals. On the other hand, the study shows that urban policies and the management of natural resources are effectively linked to environmental goals. These findings have several significant policy implications for reducing the EFP. Suggestions include effectively linking economic policies to environmental goals by electrifying the economy. Additionally, several procedures should be considered, including replacing current carbon-based energy with renewable sources, reevaluating the pricing of the energy system, increasing taxes on carbon-based energy, and reassessing current energy laws and regulations.

Development and Control of Virtual Industrial Process using Factory IO and MATLAB

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the strategic adoption of virtual manufacturing methods has emerged as a key driver for companies seeking to streamline operations and expedite product launches in a cost-effective manner. This progressive approach involves the creation of a synthetic and interconnected environment, empowered by advanced software tools and systems, including Virtual Reality and Simulation technologies, tailored to optimize industrial processes. Our methodology employs a unique combination of two simulation software tools: Factory I/O for process development and MATLAB for control program implementation. Furthermore, we explore the use of the Modbus TCP/IP communication protocol as the framework for seamless interaction between these software tools during simulation. This research presents practical insights into the transformative potential of virtual manufacturing, showcasing its real-world application in enhancing operational efficiency and agility within industrial settings.

A Critical Study on the Rise of Regional Party and Weakening of National Party in Tamil Nadu with Special Reference to Chennai

The political landscape of Tamil Nadu has witnessed a significant transformation characterised by the ascendancy of regional parties and the concurrent weakening of national parties. This research delves into the underlying factors contributing to this phenomenon and its implications for the state's political trajectory.Drawing on a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, this study examines historical trends, electoral data, party manifestos, and socio-political dynamics to elucidate the rise of regional parties such as the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), alongside the diminishing influence of national parties like the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Key drivers identified include linguistic identity politics, regional pride, historical grievances, charismatic leadership, and effective mobilization strategies. Additionally, socio-economic factors such as caste dynamics, welfare policies, and regional disparities play a crucial role in shaping voter preferences and party allegiances.The ramifications of this shift extend beyond electoral outcomes to governance, policy formulation, and federal dynamics. The dominance of regional parties has led to the prioritization of state-centric issues and the articulation of Tamil Nadu's distinct socio-cultural identity within the Indian federal framework.By offering a comprehensive analysis of the rise of regional parties and the decline of national parties in Tamil Nadu, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of sub-nationalism, federalism, and political decentralisation within the Indian context.This research follows a empirical research method and a total of 202 samples have been collected through questionnaire.

(Re)Emerging disease and conflict risk in Africa, 1997-2019.

While the number of infectious zoonotic disease outbreaks has been rising, their impact on civil war and social conflict is poorly understood. This study addresses this fundamental limitation using a geolocated monthly dataset on 22 zoonotic diseases in Africa. Zoonotic disease is a key driver of new epidemics, making such pathogens a useful test case. Results suggest that over the January 1997 to December 2019 period, zoonotic disease was negatively associated with state initiation of civil conflict and positively associated with social conflict involving identity militias. Additional analyses find that the effect for identity militias is consistent with a causal interpretation. Rebel violence is not significantly associated with outbreaks. The results are robust to endogeneity concerns and additional sensitivity analyses.

Superior cuproptotic efficacy of diethyldithiocarbamate-Cu4O3 nanoparticles over diethyldithiocarbamate-Cu2O nanoparticles in metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma

Metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HC) is a serious health concern. The stemness of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is a key driver for HC tumorigenesis, apoptotic resistance, and metastasis, and functional mitochondria are critical for its maintenance. Cuproptosis is Cu-dependent non-apoptotic pathway (mitochondrial dysfunction) via inactivating mitochondrial enzymes (pyruvate dehydrogenase “PDH” and succinate dehydrogenase “SDH”). To effectively treat metastatic HC, it is necessary to induce selective cuproptosis (for halting cancer stemness genes) with selective oxidative imbalance (for increasing cell susceptibility to cuproptosis and inducing non-CSCs death). Herein, two types of Cu oxide nanoparticles (Cu4O3 “C(I + II)” NPs and Cu2O “C(I)” NPs) were used in combination with diethyldithiocarbamate (DD, an aldehyde dehydrogenase “ALDH” inhibitor) for comparative anti-HC investigation. DC(I + II) NPs exhibited higher cytotoxicity, mitochondrial membrane potential, and anti-migration impact than DC(I) NPs in the treated human HC cells (HepG2 and/or Huh7). Moreover, DC(I + II) NPs were more effective than DC(I) NPs in the treatment of HC mouse groups. This was mediated via higher selective accumulation of DC(I + II) NPs in only tumor tissues and oxidant activity, causing stronger selective inhibition of mitochondrial enzymes (PDH, SDH, and ALDH2) than DC(I)NPs. This effect resulted in more suppression of tumor and metastasis markers as well as stemness gene expressions in DC(I + II) NPs-treated HC mice. In addition, both nanocomplexes normalized liver function and hematological parameters. The computational analysis found that DC(I + II) showed higher binding affinity to most of the tested enzymes. Accordingly, DC(I + II) NPs represent a highly effective therapeutic formulation compared to DC(I) NPs for metastatic HC.

Decomposition of food price inflation in Sri Lanka

The recent upsurge in food prices in Sri Lanka has raised significant concerns, posing a threat to the food and nutritional security of the population. However, the causal factors driving this inflation still need to be better understood. Our study, utilizing Cointegration and Vector Error Correction Models (VECM), investigates the role of supply and demand-side determinants of food inflation. The study identified changes in exchange rate, agricultural wages, fuel prices, money supply, and fertilizer prices as key drivers of food inflation in Sri Lanka. Expansion of the money supply exerted the most substantial influence on food inflation in the long run. At the same time, changes in world market prices were found to be the most influential determinants of food inflation in the short run. Findings underscore the need for a comprehensive strategy that combines supply-side enhancements and demand-side management to control food inflation in Sri Lanka.