Mutual Benefit Research Articles

Rural gentrification, the booming B&B industry and linked migration in China: To what extent can gentrification contribute to rural revitalisation?

AbstractAccompanying the functional transformation of rural areas from productivism to postproductivism, the rural areas with scenic views surrounding megacities are re‐evaluated in terms of their importance as destinations for visitors, especially in the case of booming bed and breakfast (B&B) industry in contemporary rural China. While private investment has generally led to improvements in the physical space and economic development of these villages, there is also concern about the negative effects of rural gentrification, such as the commercialisation of rural space, the alienation of rural culture and the displacement of indigenous residents. This study examines the multifaceted nature of rural gentrification by observing two villages within the Moganshan Mountain area—the birthplace of rural B&Bs in China, and explores how these processes have been leveraged to promote rural revitalisation. Research findings suggest that disparities in original resources and property rights allocation underpinning the B&B industries among the first‐wave gentrifiers and the local villagers, when viewed through the lens of linked migration, may lead to different socioeconomic outcomes. The B&B industry's growth can either be exclusive, primarily favouring gentrifiers, or complementary, fostering mutual benefits and learning opportunities for both gentrifiers and local villagers. Moreover, forming a collaborative network of rural villagers, returning migrants, and external elites can contribute to rural revitalisation through gentrification. These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of rural gentrification by adding evidence from the Global South and provide insights to inform Chinese rural revitalisation policies, especially alternatives to traditional state‐led revitalisation projects.

“Letting the ancestors speak”: collaborative archaeology at the Hastings Natural History Reservation

Since 2021, collaborative research at the University of California (UC), Berkeley's Hastings Natural History Reservation between the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County, UC-Berkeley, and the University of Oregon has demonstrated the mutual benefits of a co-created and Indigenous-centered archaeological research program within North America. While initial archaeological studies on the Hastings Reservation occurred over five decades ago, our project represents one of the first Tribal-centered archaeological field programs within the UC Natural Reserve System and, therefore, a model of collaborative research in the post-NAGPRA and CalNAGPRA era. The broader purpose of our research is to work with the Esselen Tribe to collect historical ecological information about the legacies of Native people and their relationship with the environment to help inform contemporary stewardship goals in their Tribal territory. Our archaeological research has confirmed the Indigenous occupation at the Hastings Reserve before, during, and after the Spanish Colonial period (1769–1821) in central California. By weaving archaeology, ethnobotany, ethnohistory, historical documents, ethnography, and Indigenous knowledge, this project documents the critical role of maintaining a connection to cultural landscapes despite three successive waves of European and Euro-American colonialism in the region. These findings provide an alternative narrative of cultural persistence, survivance, and resilience contrary to the narratives of culture loss and erasure espoused by 20th-century California anthropology regarding the Indigenous societies that occupied the central California coast.

Beyond the Financial Horizon: A Critical Review of Social Responsibility in Latin American Credit Unions

Credit unions in Latin America play an important role in the financial system, making a significant contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their focus on financial inclusion, sustainability, and economic resilience. Assessing the social responsibility of these cooperatives ensures ethical, sustainable operations that benefit the population. Unlike traditional financial institutions, cooperatives are based on principles focused on mutual benefit, democratic participation, and responsibility toward their members and the community. This critical literature review, conducted through scientific databases, synthesizes findings on social responsibility in credit unions. The financial system is relevant for global economic stability and growth, comprising institutions like credit unions that facilitate capital flow. It operates through financial instruments, intermediaries, and markets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and risk management. Effective financial management involves planning, organizing, directing, and controlling resources to achieve stability and growth, integrating social responsibility. Credit unions in Latin America highlight cooperative principles, emphasizing member service, community development, and sustainable practices over profit maximization, thereby fostering economic inclusion and ethical business practices. In conclusion, credit unions provide affordable financial services while promoting values of solidarity and equity. However, as entities directly linked to communities, it is essential for them to monitor their actions in terms of social responsibility. This is important to measure and ensure their impact on society and its context. Finally, future research should focus on balancing economic viability with social responsibility, exploring innovative models, governance frameworks, and technological impacts.

To what extent can prisoners dilemma in game theory be used in pricing strategy?

The title of this dissertation is to what extent can prisoners dilemma in game theory be used in pricing strategy? The purpose of the current study was to determine the extent of prisoner's dilemma used in pricing strategies, and how the prisoner's dilemma is used in pricing strategies. We first comprehensive analysis and evaluation of relevant literature about prisoners dilemma and common pricing strategies in literature review section. Then in discussion part, we use game theory models to describe and analyze the prisoner's dilemma in pricing strategies to predict various situations, make the optimal pricing strategies. In the dissertation, we found the effects of prisoners dilemma strategies on payoffs when pricing and explained why cooperative pricing agreements promote mutual benefits and long-term stability than non-cooperative pricing strategies. Then we analyzed the stability of cooperative pricing strategy, we also developed a pricing model based on Bayes theorem. Our research has important implications for economics, marketing and game theory. By applying prisoner's dilemma theory, firms can better understand the behavioral of competitors and enhance decision-making processes, optimize their pricing strategies, thereby enhancing market efficiency and profitability.

Reinforcement learning as a robotics-inspired framework for insect navigation: from spatial representations to neural implementation.

Bees are among the master navigators of the insect world. Despite impressive advances in robot navigation research, the performance of these insects is still unrivaled by any artificial system in terms of training efficiency and generalization capabilities, particularly considering the limited computational capacity. On the other hand, computational principles underlying these extraordinary feats are still only partially understood. The theoretical framework of reinforcement learning (RL) provides an ideal focal point to bring the two fields together for mutual benefit. In particular, we analyze and compare representations of space in robot and insect navigation models through the lens of RL, as the efficiency of insect navigation is likely rooted in an efficient and robust internal representation, linking retinotopic (egocentric) visual input with the geometry of the environment. While RL has long been at the core of robot navigation research, current computational theories of insect navigation are not commonly formulated within this framework, but largely as an associative learning process implemented in the insect brain, especially in the mushroom body (MB). Here we propose specific hypothetical components of the MB circuit that would enable the implementation of a certain class of relatively simple RL algorithms, capable of integrating distinct components of a navigation task, reminiscent of hierarchical RL models used in robot navigation. We discuss how current models of insect and robot navigation are exploring representations beyond classical, complete map-like representations, with spatial information being embedded in the respective latent representations to varying degrees.

Application of Article 6-Linked Debt-for-Climate Swap for the Clean Energy Transition in Africa

This study presents an innovative financial model that integrates the debt-for-climate swap mechanism with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, specifically designed to support Africa’s transition to clean energy. The model connects debt-for-climate swaps with the creation of internationally transferred mitigation outcomes (ITMOs), offering mutual benefits for both debtor and creditor nations. This approach aims to improve the debt sustainability of African countries while strengthening their climate resilience by combining Article 6 of the Paris Agreement with Official Development Assistance (ODA). Additionally, this model aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Furthermore, the study proposes a restructuring of existing environmental safeguards by incorporating the “Do No Significant Harm” (DNSH) criteria and environmental contribution indicators to ensure alignment with the minimum safeguards mandated by Article 6 and international development standards. Through quantitative analysis, our findings indicate that the proposed debt-for-climate swap model could significantly contribute to Africa’s clean energy transition, address the region’s external debt challenges, and enhance climate resilience.

Development of New Variant Beer Using Papaya

Beer becoming one of the ancient and most widely enjoyed beverages globally, is witnessing a growing popularity in the form of functional brews. Nevertheless, there is a constraint on conducting a study on the impact of incorporating functional adjuncts at different stages of the production process and how this affects the final physical, chemical, and sensory properties. The current study examines the ingredients employed and their degree of incorporation to produce a functional beer with bioactive compounds, improved antioxidant activity, and increased flavor qualities. Beer has been a trend with an infusion of fruit in the form of Pieces or extracts. In addition, they were successfully introduced into the various steps like wort boiling, fermentation, maturation, and packaging processes to enhance the consumer perception point of view and the mutual benefits of health such as heart diseases and Stroke as improvement of Bone Density. Beer samples were made with the addition of papaya pulp in different ratios in 17 combinations/replicants.

Educating gender equity through non-competitive cooperative motor games: Transforming stereotypes and socio-affective dynamics

Non-competitive cooperative motor games hold the potential to educate gender equity from a relational perspective. These motor games present educational relational challenges where different genders interact for mutual benefit. Such interactions generate emotional well-being, enhance socio-affective relationships, and promote feminized motor conducts that potentially perform gender hegemonies and reduce gender stereotypes. This study, grounded in the ethics of care and motor praxeology, explored the effects of non-competitive cooperative motor games on group and cross-gender socio-affective rejections, gender stereotypes and emotional well-being, along with the mediation effects of these interconnected variables. Researchers conducted a quasi-experimental study where 11 participants (Mage = 11.16; SD = 1.35) from a summer sports camp played non-competitive cooperative motor games. The study employed sociometric questionnaires, emotional questionnaires (PANAS-C) and gender stereotype questionnaires (NATGEN). Data were analyzed using inferential and descriptive statistical techniques, social network analysis and mediation analysis. Results revealed the effectiveness of non-competitive cooperative motor games in reducing cross-gender rejections among girls, maintaining low group rejections, promoting emotional well-being and reducing gender stereotypes. Mediation analysis showed that gender stereotypes and positive emotions act as a protective barrier against group rejection. This study presents an innovative educational perspective that combines the scientific foundations of motor praxeology with the theoretical bases of the ethics of care. The research provides teachers and researchers with a practical pedagogical tool based on non-competitive cooperative motor games. These games are designed to enhance gender equity, promote emotional well-being, and reduce gender-based rejection and stereotypes. Keywords: sociometry, group cohesion, non-formal education, friendship, feminism, sport, inclusion, social acceptance

Africa-China Relations and the Issue of South-South Cooperation

Africa-China or Sino-African relations continue to grow stronger. Africa sees China as a partner in development with the global South-South Cooperation. As a measure of friendship, China constructed the African Union headquarters at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for free. There has been cooperation between China and African countries. China’s role in Africa during the independence struggles is well noted and its development assistance to the continent has been phenomenal over the years. As Africa and China relations continue, several bottlenecks continue to mar the relationship. This paper highlights the bottlenecks of Africa-China relations by tracing the historical ties between China and African states. It delves into Africa-China relations in terms of South-South Cooperation and China’s foreign policy of non-interference in internal matters of other states. It uses 2019 data to analyze China-Africa trade, investments and revenues accruing to both partners. It concludes with how China-African states can achieve mutual benefits.

Trust as moral currency: Perspectives of health researchers in sub-Saharan Africa on strategies to promote equitable data sharing.

Groundbreaking data-sharing techniques and quick access to stored research data from the African continent are highly beneficial to create diverse unbiased datasets to inform digital health technologies and artificial intelligence in healthcare. Yet health researchers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) experience individual and collective challenges that render them cautious and even hesitant to share data despite acknowledging the public health benefits of sharing. This qualitative study reports on the perspectives of health researchers regarding strategies to mitigate these challenges. In-depth interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams with 16 researchers from 16 different countries across SSA between July 2022 and April 2023. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to invite participants via email. Recorded interviews were transcribed, cleaned, coded and managed through Atlas.ti.22. Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data. Three recurrent themes and several subthemes emerged around strategies to improve governance of data sharing. The main themes identified were (1) Strategies for change at a policy level: guideline development, (2) Strengthening data governance to improve data quality and (3) Reciprocity: towards equitable data sharing. Building trust is central to the promotion of data sharing amongst researchers on the African continent and with global partners. This can be achieved by enhancing research integrity and strengthening micro and macro level governance. Substantial resources are required from funders and governments to enhance data governance practices, to improve data literacy and to enhance data quality. High quality data from Africa will afford diversity to global data sets, reducing bias in algorithms built for artificial intelligence technologies in healthcare. Engagement with multiple stakeholders including researchers and research communities is necessary to establish an equitable data sharing approach based on reciprocity and mutual benefit.

Flexural Behavior of RC Continuous Beams Strengthened by Cementitious Composite Materials

Due to their great strain capacity, high tensile strength, and ability to localize cracks, cementitious composite materials are beneficial for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) members. This paper illustrates the application of cementitious composite materials in the form of precast thin layers to strengthen a double-spanned, full-scale RC beam. Both positive and negative zones were strengthened by the precast layer embedded into the concrete cover. The precast layers have a dimension of 20 mm in thickness and 150 mm in width as that of the substrate beam and were applied by two configurations: plain and reinforced layers. A ductile smooth steel sheet with 2 mm in thickness and 100 mm in width was used inside the reinforced precast layer. The composite action of the precast layer has mutual benefits; the embedded steel sheet localizes the cracks, while the surrounding cementitious composite materials protect the steel sheet from environmental impact. The experimental results showed that the strengthening system has a significant contribution to improve the failure mode and load-carrying capacity. The use of a plain precast layer caused a 6% increase in the ultimate load and a 33% enhancement in the moment redistribution ratio compared to the control beam (CB). Applying the strengthening system with reinforced precast layer shifted the failure mode from rupture failure in the precast layer to delamination without slippage in the embedded steel sheet and matrix, leading to the full tensile capacity of the precast layer. Besides, the yielded and ultimate loads increased by 34% and 41%, respectively, and maximum deflection increased by 36%. In addition, the beam's ductility increased by 36%, and the moment redistribution ratio was enhanced by 49% compared to the CB. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-09-05 Full Text: PDF

Analysis of Career Development Path Based on the Three Comprehensive Practice Education Models of Medical Laboratory Technology

This paper expounds on the connotation of the three complex practical education models of medical laboratory technology and its application in career planning. Through the cooperation and resource sharing of schools, enterprises, and hospitals, the 33 Complex realizes the close integration of theoretical teaching and practice and provides comprehensive preparation for students' clinical practice and employment. This paper further discusses the career planning strategies of medical laboratory technology students based on this model, including personal positioning, goal setting, and career development path analysis. Through the analysis of typical career development cases, the challenges and opportunities in the industry are revealed. Finally, this paper discusses the positive impact of the three complex models on career development, including the promoting role of resource sharing and the advantages of career development under mutual benefit and win-win results. It looks forward to the future trends and challenges.

Heterogeneous products operation decisions of online dual-channel supply chain considering online reviews under different financing modes

This research examines the operation decisions of the online supply chain for heterogeneous products under different financing modes: e-commerce platform financing or bank financing, when manufacturers face funding constraints. Considering the manufacturer’s adoption of differentiated channel strategies when providing heterogeneous products is also considered, and combined with the impact of online reviews on consumer utility, an e-commerce platform online dual-channel financing model is constructed. The research findings are as follows: (i) when the effectiveness of online reviews differs within a certain range, the equilibrium solution exists. If the relative interest rates of the e-commerce platforms and bank change within a certain range, the same financing mode can bring mutual benefits to both the manufacturer and e-commerce platform, resulting in a “win–win” situation. (ii) If the interest rates under both financing modes are the same, the e-commerce platform financing mode has a higher wholesale price, but the difference in retail prices of distribution products depends on the costs difference between the two products, and at this point, the manufacturer will select e-commerce platform financing mode. (iii) At the optimal interest rate, when the cost of heterogeneous products is the same, the e-commerce platform consistently offers a more favorable interest rate compared to the bank’s optimal rate. when the e-commerce platform’s commission and the positive difference in product reviews is large, the manufacturer will choose e-commerce platform financing mode. Under the e-commerce platform financing mode, both the manufacturer and e-commerce platform are willing to provide lower retail prices to attract more consumers.

The present and future of road Financing: Leveraging knowledge from the tolling industry to implement road-usage charge programs in the u.s

Historically, transportation funding in the United States has been supported primarily by motor fuel taxes. In recent years, revenues from fuel taxes have been shrinking. In response to the revenue shortfalls, many states have launched pilots or full-scale programs of road-usage charge (RUC) as an alternative to motor fuel taxes for transportation funding. Some of the challenges facing RUC is the cost of implementation compared to traditional motor fuel taxes, operational complexities, and the equity concerns (Caltrans, 2017). To address these challenges, states are looking to leverage existing vehicle-level pricing programs, such as road tolling, to learn about synergies between RUC and tolling. In this paper, we conducted semi-structured interviews with experts from tolling programs across the U.S. to identify areas of overlap between tolling and RUC. We built upon the interview findings by conducting a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) to evaluate how well the state-level RUC pilots and programs can integrate with tolling systems. Our results demonstrate that there are numerous mutual benefits of a RUC-tolling integration. Both the tolling industry and RUC implementations can benefit from the increased scale of operations and the spur of technical innovations, which would reduce administrative costs. RUC programs can also learn from the tolling industry to address data privacy and security issues. In terms of policy and program designs of RUC, it is essential to design RUC rates which are equitable by considering the financial burdens on low-income populations and ensuring access to the system for the unbanked and underbanked populations.

Building a robust international carbon crediting framework: insights from Indonesia’s Joint Crediting Mechanism

Abstract This research explores the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) implementation and effectiveness in Indonesia, a program adopted by Japan for carbon emissions reduction and climate change mitigation. Using a quantitative case study methodology, we combine primary and secondary resources to gain insights into the mechanism’s impact on low-carbon development. Findings reveal challenges in government commitment to green energy promotion and financial losses in the solar power sector. Future agreements must consider past implementation and develop a clear framework for Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) to yield mutual benefits. The JCM has implemented 50 industrial projects in Indonesia, primarily in renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors. It stands out as a leading pilot mechanism under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement and has reached full implementation, involving the collaboration of host and partner countries in line with international standards. Various funding models support JCM projects, but while some achieve impressive emissions reductions, the overall impact on Indonesia’s emissions remains relatively modest, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive strategies at the national level. The paper also compares the JCM with other carbon crediting mechanisms, highlighting differences and similarities. Challenges in constructing international carbon crediting mechanisms in Indonesia are discussed, and lessons learned from the JCM are outlined, offering valuable insights for the development of a global carbon crediting framework.

Fostering Excellence through Mentorship: A Study of Professional Growth in Data Engineering

This article examines the critical role of mentorship in developing data engineering skills and fostering professional growth within the field. Through a comprehensive analysis of mentorship programs in data engineering organizations, we investigate the impact on both technical proficiency and soft skill development. Our findings reveal that structured mentorship significantly enhances mentees' capabilities in areas such as programming, data modeling, and ETL processes, while also improving their communication and project management skills. The article highlights the mutual benefits for mentors and mentees, including accelerated learning curves, increased job satisfaction, and improved retention rates. We identify key elements of successful mentorship programs, including clear goal-setting, regular feedback mechanisms, and alignment with organizational objectives. The article also addresses common challenges in implementing mentorship initiatives and proposes best practices for overcoming these obstacles. Our results underscore the importance of mentorship as a strategic tool for talent development in the rapidly evolving field of data engineering, providing valuable insights for both practitioners and organizations seeking to cultivate expertise and drive innovation in this domain

Branch differentiation of financial mechanisms of enterprise restructuring

In the paper, the financial mechanism of enterprise restructuring is interpreted as a complex process, the object of comprehensive analysis, clear planning, effective implementation, the implementation of which allows enterprises to restore financial stability, increase competitiveness and ensure sustainable development in the long term. It has been proven that the general principles of the functioning of the financial restructuring mechanism are: transparent business conduct, openness in communication, mutual benefit, reaching consensus, analysis of all aspects of activity, integration of various measures, realistic goals, financial flexibility, constant monitoring, reporting to stakeholders, innovativeness, proactivity , flexibility and operational adaptation, alternative, optimality, etc. Adherence to the specified principles ensures the successful implementation of financial restructuring, increases trust in the enterprise and contributes to achieving its financial stability. It is shown that the sectoral differentiation of financial mechanisms of enterprise restructuring allows taking into account the specifics of each industry, ensuring effective management of financial risks and optimization of resources. Successful restructuring requires an individual approach that takes into account the unique needs and operating conditions of each enterprise. Based on the results of summarizing the experience of the functioning of financial mechanisms in various branches of the national economy, it was established that they differ in various aspects of restructuring, which can be of the following nature: adaptive, structural, structural-adaptive, integrative, security-oriented, reengineering of business processes. General financial instruments that can be used in all branches of the national economy are substantiated - state financing programs through the use of state grants, subsidies and credit programs to support restructuring measures, as well as public-private partnerships based on the involvement of private investors for joint financing of infrastructure projects.

Innovative strategic marketing practices to propel small business development and competitiveness

In today's dynamic and competitive business environment, small businesses face unique challenges in establishing their presence and achieving sustainable growth. This paper explores innovative strategic marketing practices that can propel small business development and enhance competitiveness. The primary focus is on leveraging digital marketing, personalization, customer engagement, data analytics, and strategic partnerships. Digital marketing has revolutionized how small businesses reach and engage with their target audiences. By utilizing social media platforms, search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, and email marketing, small businesses can create cost-effective and highly targeted campaigns. These strategies not only increase brand visibility but also foster customer loyalty through consistent and relevant communication. Personalization is another key strategy that drives small business competitiveness. By tailoring marketing messages and offers to individual customer preferences and behaviors, businesses can create more meaningful and impactful interactions. This approach enhances customer satisfaction and encourages repeat business, contributing to long-term growth. Effective customer engagement is critical for small businesses to build strong relationships and foster community. Utilizing interactive content such as polls, quizzes, and live chats on social media and websites can create a more engaging and immersive customer experience. Additionally, loyalty programs and personalized incentives can strengthen customer retention and advocacy. Data analytics plays a crucial role in informing and optimizing marketing strategies. By analyzing customer data, market trends, and campaign performance, small businesses can gain valuable insights that drive strategic decision-making. This data-driven approach allows for more precise targeting, efficient resource allocation, and continuous improvement of marketing efforts. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with other businesses, influencers, and community organizations can also enhance marketing effectiveness. These partnerships can expand reach, provide access to new customer segments, and enhance credibility. Co-marketing initiatives, joint events, and cross-promotions are examples of how small businesses can leverage strategic alliances for mutual benefit. In conclusion, innovative strategic marketing practices, including digital marketing, personalization, customer engagement, data analytics, and strategic partnerships, are essential for propelling small business development and competitiveness. By adopting these practices, small businesses can effectively navigate the competitive landscape, achieve sustainable growth, and secure a strong market position in today's ever-evolving business environment.

Nigeria’s Quest for Investments Relations from China: Prospects for Achieving Mutual Benefits

The study assessed the prospects for achieving mutual benefits in the investment relations between Nigeria and China from 1999 to 2022. The investment relations involved execution of government contracts in the form of infrastructure such as roads, dams among others. The objectives of the study were to examine the nature and benefits of investment relations between Nigeria and China from 1999 to 2022. The methodology used was the explanatory design. The data were analysed through themes and content analysis. The findings revealed that Chinese investments in Nigeria was not beneficial to Nigeria in the area of technology transfer and equal opportunities for market access. This implied that the unequal relationship increased the dependency of the Nigerian economy on China

Born4Life: Creating and Supporting Meaningful, Authentic Intergenerational Experiences

ABSTRACT Intergenerational Practice, which brings two or more generations together for mutual benefit, is growing in popularity in the United Kingdom. While practices are well meaning, they are not always research informed. This critical evaluation research draws upon an evaluation of meaningful practice undertaken by Born4Life practitioners; a network of early years educators based in some Early Years settings across the UK, who are on an intergenerational journey. Through surveys, focus groups, and interviews, this research aimed to determine what an intentional, meaningful, and sustainable intergenerational community looks like and how such communities can be supported by identifying training and development requirements for the intergenerational team.