Quantitative Techniques Research Articles

Relationship Between Environmental, Social and Governance and Corporate Financial Performance: A Systematic Literature Review

This study conducts a systematic literature review to examine the relationship between Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Financial Performance (CFP). ESG represents the non-financial performance of a business, while CFP reflects its financial performance. Achieving long-term success requires firms to find a balance between ESG performance and CFP. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement is employed to analyze the systematic literature review in this investigation. Data for the article were collected from Scopus and Web of Science databases spanning from 2000 to 2022. Both databases show consistent growth rates, with India being their top setting. This study reveals that quantitative techniques have been predominantly used in conducting investigations on this topic. With global emphasis on sustainable development and green economy, expectations of governments, regulators, corporations, and investment organizations have evolved beyond economic sustainability towards considering the well-being and responsibility of enterprises towards various stakeholders. Few scholars have utilized the PRISMA approach to analyze the impact of ESG on CFP; therefore, this study employs it to summarize how ESG ratings influence CFP as a reference for current research stage. Limitations are discussed along with recommendations for future research.

Methodology exploration and reproducibility evaluation of TAI and TSI for quantitative ultrasound assessment of hepatic steatosis

Background and aimNew quantitative ultrasound techniques can be used to quantify hepatic steatosis, including tissue attenuation imaging (TAI), tissue scatter -distribution imaging (TSI), and the hepatorenal index (HRI). However, the measurement norms and the effects of fasting on these measurements remain unclear. The present study performed a methodological exploration and investigated the reliability of these measurements. MethodsIn total, 103 participants were prospectively recruited for ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. For the TAI and TSI data, the upper (2 cm), middle (4 cm) and lower (6 cm) areas determined according to the depth of the region of interest from the liver capsule, were sampled three times. Correlation analyses were performed to compare the measurements of TAI, TSI, and HRI with the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) or MRI-proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). Intra- and inter-operator repeatability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. The effects of fasting on these measurements were then compared. ResultsThe TAI and TSI measurements obtained from the upper and middle depths exhibited stronger correlations with the CAP measurements than those obtained from the lower depth. Specifically, the mean TAI had a significant positive correlation with MRI-PDFF (r = 0.753, P<0.0001). TAI and TSI measurements exhibited excellent intra- (0.933 and 0.925, respectively) and inter- (0.896 and 0.766, respectively) examiner reliability. However, the correlation between HRI and CAP measurements was only 0.281, with no significant correlation with MRI-PDFF, and intra- and inter-examiner reproducibility of 0.458 and 0.343, respectively. Fasting did not affect these measurements. ConclusionsTAI and TSI measurements demonstrated good intra- and interobserver reliability and correlated well with CAP and MRI-PDFF measurements. However, in practice-based clinical applications, the sampling depth should be controlled within 2-4 cm of the hepatic capsule; no fasting is required before the examination.

Quantitative and qualitative phytochemical analysis of ethanol leaf extract of Pleiocarpa mutica

This research project examined Pleiocarpa mutica leaf extract, extracted from ethanol using both quantitative and qualitative phytochemical analysis. Sourced is at Ugbene-Ajima in the Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria, where fresh Pleiocarpa mutica leaves were collected. After been gathered, the newly sprouted P. mutica leaves were cleaned. We then shade-dried the leaves until they were crispy, rotating them frequently to prevent them from rotting. A mechanical grinder was utilized to reduce the dried leaves to a powdered state while a maceration flask was used to macerate 1.5 kg of the known weight of the ground leaves in 10 liters of 100% ethanol. In using a muslin cloth, the mixture was filtered into a flask with a flat bottom after being left for 72 hours with irregular stirring. Quantitative phytochemical analysis procedures identified the specific concentration of a certain chemical constituent present in a plant sample using methods such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, and spectrophotometry. This makes it possible to determine the concentration of a component in the plant material. Qualitative phytochemical analysis techniques focus on identifying the presence or absence of several chemical groups in a plant sample. Discovering the existence of substances such as alkaloids, phenols, terpenoids, and flavonoids often requires a range of chemical analyses or the use of specific reagents. Thus, the standard quantitative and qualitative phytochemical analysis technique were used to investigate the chemical composition of plants and identify bioactive compounds that may offer nutritional, medicinal, or pharmacological advantages. Hence, it has been shown that the ethanol leaves extract of P. mutica contains various concentrations of phytochemical constituents, which might be responsible for its biological activities.

Challenges of implementing social studies curriculum: A case of selected secondary schools in Kafue district of Lusaka Province, Zambia

Overview: The purpose of this study was to examine the challenges that schools are facing in the implementation of the Social Studies curriculum and its effect on learner’s academic performance in secondary schools of Kafue district in Lusaka province, Zambia. Body of Knowledge: The study was guided by the following specific objectives: to investigate whether the absence of teachers trained to teach social studies has an effect on implementation of curriculum of social studies in schools; to examine the extent to which absence of teaching and learning materials like text books for social studies affect the academic performance of learners; and to establish measures put in place to mitigate the challenges of curriculum implementation for social studies in schools. Methods: The population of the study comprised head teachers, heads of departments, teachers, DESO officers, and learners. The total target population was 1500. The sample size involved a total of 150 respondents, which was 10% of the target population. A mixed method approach was used in this study in combination with the descriptive survey design. Interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data. Qualitative and Quantitative techniques of data analysis was used, and data was presented on the analytical tools such as tables, figures, charts and software; SPSS. Results: The study established that the major challenges that affected curriculum implementation and influenced learners’ academic performance were: absence of trained teachers of the subject, and inadequate teaching/ learning materials, physical facilities and the way the curriculum was being implemented itself. This undermined effectiveness of school administrators and teachers in ensuring there is smooth teaching and learning process in schools which eventually translated to poor academic performance among learners. Recommendation: Ministry of Education should ensure that schools have adequate resources such as textbooks, teaching aids, and technology to support the implementation of the social studies curriculum.

Cultural factors contributing to gender-based violence in Zambian societies

Overview: This study examined the intricate cultural dynamics underlying the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) within Zambian societies. Despite legislative efforts and international campaigns to combat GBV, its persistence underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the cultural underpinnings that perpetuate such violence. Body of Knowledge: Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, this study sought to identify key cultural elements such as patriarchal structures, beliefs about masculinity and femininity, and the role of family and community dynamics in shaping attitudes and behaviors related to gender-based violence. Additionally, this study delves into the multifaceted ways in which cultural norms, beliefs, and practices intersect with gender dynamics to foster environments conducive to GBV. Methods: The population comprised of government officials at the district level who had some responsibility for GBV, police officers from VSU, and Members of the community. The total target population was 1000. The sample size involved a total of 100 respondents which is 10% of the target population. The study used purposive sampling to select government officials and police officers while simple random sampling was used to selected community members. This study used descriptive design to analyze the data. Interviews, ethnographic observation, and questionnaires were used to collect data. Qualitative and Quantitative techniques of data analysis was used, and data was presented on the analytical tools such as tables, figures and charts. Results: Initial findings revealed that traditional gender roles deeply entrenched in Zambian culture play a pivotal role in perpetuating GBV. The patriarchal structure of society often assigns men dominance and control over women, leading to power imbalances that facilitate violence. Furthermore, beliefs surrounding masculinity, including expectations of aggression and dominance, contribute to a culture of impunity surrounding GBV. Men are often socialized to perceive violence as a legitimate means of asserting authority, while women may internalize norms of submission and silence. Recommendation: This study underscores the urgent need for culturally sensitive interventions that address the root causes of GBV in Zambia. By engaging communities in dialogue and challenging harmful cultural norms, sustainable solutions can be developed to promote gender equality and create safer environments for all individuals.

Heterogeneous distribution of mitochondria and succinate dehydrogenase activity in human airway smooth muscle cells

AbstractSuccinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is a key mitochondrial enzyme involved in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, where it facilitates the oxidation of succinate to fumarate, and is coupled to the reduction of ubiquinone in the electron transport chain as Complex II. Previously, we developed a confocal‐based quantitative histochemical technique to determine the maximum velocity of the SDH reaction (SDHmax) in single cells and observed that SDHmax corresponds with mitochondrial volume density. In addition, mitochondrial volume and motility varied within different compartments of human airway smooth muscle (hASM) cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that the SDH activity varies relative to the intracellular mitochondrial volume within hASM cells. Using 3D confocal imaging of labeled mitochondria and a concentric shell method for analysis, we quantified mitochondrial volume density, mitochondrial complexity index, and SDHmax relative to the distance from the nuclear membrane. The mitochondria within individual hASM cells were more filamentous in the immediate perinuclear region and were more fragmented in the distal parts of the cell. Within each shell, SDHmax also corresponded to mitochondrial volume density, where both peaked in the perinuclear region and decreased in more distal parts of the cell. Additionally, when normalized to mitochondrial volume, SDHmax was lower in the perinuclear region when compared to the distal parts of the cell. In summary, our results demonstrate that SDHmax measures differences in SDH activity within different cellular compartments. Importantly, our data indicate that mitochondria within individual cells are morphologically heterogeneous, and their distribution varies substantially within different cellular compartments, with distinct functional properties.

Granzyme B Promotes Proliferation, Migration and EMT Process in Gastric Cancer.

Granzyme B (GZMB), a critical member of the Gr gene family, is known to play an essential role in diverse physiological and pathological processes such as inflammation, acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, and cancer progression. In this study, we delve deeper into the role of GZMB within the context of gastric cancer (GC) to examine its expression patterns and functional implications. To accomplish this, we applied a combination of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry techniques. These methodologies allowed us to accurately gauge GZMB expression levels in GC tissues and investigate their correlation with various clinical-pathological variables. Our secondary focus was to discern the regulatory influence of GZMB on GC cell biology. We used an array of assays including cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine, and migration assays. The effect of GZMB on gastric cancer progression was further validated through a subcutaneous xenograft mouse model. Our findings underscored that GZMB mRNA and protein levels were upregulated in GC tissues, a feature that showed a significant correlation with GC staging. We also discovered that a decrease in GZMB expression via knockdown experiments suppressed the proliferation and migration capabilities of GC cells. This effect was manifested through diminished expression levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. In stark contrast, the overexpression of GZMB through plasmid transfection appeared to enhance the proliferation and migration abilities of GC cells. This was coupled with an upregulation in EMT expression. Our study concludes by emphasizing that GZMB promotes the growth, migration, and EMT processes in gastric cancer. In vitro, cell-based experiments and in vivo xenograft mouse models confirm this. Our findings provide a more comprehensive understanding of GZMB's role in gastric cancer pathogenesis, potentially opening doors for novel therapeutic strategies targeting this molecular pathway.

There is high variability in quantitative measurement techniques in glenohumeral capsular measurements for shoulder instability: A systematic review.

Instability of the glenohumeral joint remains a complex clinical issue with high rates of surgical failure and significant morbidity. Advances in specific radiologic measurements involving the glenoid and the humerus have provided insight into glenohumeral pathology, which can be corrected surgically towards improving patient outcomes. The contributions of capsular pathology to ongoing instability remain unclear. The purpose of this study is to provide a systematic review of existing glenohumeral capsular measurement techniques published in the last 15 years. A systematic review of multiple databases was performed following PRISMA guidelines for all primary research articles between 2008 and 2023 with quantitative measurements of the glenohumeral capsule in patients with instability, including anterior, posterior and multi-directional instability. There were a total of 14 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. High variability in measurement methodology across studies was observed, including variable amounts of intra-articular contrast, heterogeneity among magnetic resonance sequence acquisitions, differences in measurements performed and the specific approach taken to compute each measurement. There is a need for standardization of methods in the measurement of glenohumeral capsular pathology in the setting of glenohumeral instability to allow for cross-study analysis. Level III.

Influence of Management of Physical Facilities on Quality of Education in Selected Private Universities in Kenya

Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to assess the influence of management of physical facilities on quality of education in selected private universities in Kenya. The study aimed to investigate the deans of schools, heads of department and lecturers’ perceptions towards management of physical facilities on quality of education in private universities in Kenya. Methodology: The study used two types of research instruments, namely; lecturers’ Questionnaire; and deans of schools and departmental heads’ Interview Guide. Data was analyzed used mixed methods, involving qualitative and quantitative techniques. Findings: The study revealed that most of the respondents disagreed that there were adequate physical facilities which affected the quality of education in selected private universities in Kenya. Further, there was a significant positive correlation between management of physical facilities and quality of education in private universities. Unique contribution to theory policy and practice: The study recommends that the managers of private universities should ensure allocation of more funds for construction and maintenance of physical facilities for realization of quality education.

ELF3 plays an important role in defining TRAIL sensitivity in breast cancer by modulating the expression of decoy receptor 2 (DCR2).

TRAIL protein on binding to its cognate death receptors (DR) can induce apoptosis specifically in breast tumor cells sparing normal cells. However, TRAIL also binds to decoy receptors (DCR) thereby inhibiting the apoptotic pathways thus causing TRAIL resistance. Also, one of the barriers due to which TRAIL-based therapy could not become FDA-approved might be because of resistance to therapy. Therefore, in the current study we wanted to explore the role of transcription factors in TRAIL resistance with respect to breast cancer. Microarray data from TRAIL-sensitive (TS) and TRAIL-resistant (TR) MDA-MB-231 cells were reanalyzed followed by validation of the candidate genes using quantitative PCR (qPCR), immunoblotting and immunofluorescence technique. Overexpression of the candidate gene was performed in MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells followed by cell viability assay and immunoblotting for cleaved caspase-3. Additionally, immunoblotting for DCR2 was carried out. TCGA breast cancer patient survival was used for Kaplan-Meier (KM) plot. Validation of the candidate gene i.e. ELF3 using qPCR and immunoblotting revealed it to be downregulated in TR cells compared to TS cells. ELF3 overexpression in MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells caused reversal of TRAIL resistance as observed using cell viability assay and cleaved caspase-3 immunoblotting. ELF3 overexpression also resulted in DCR2 downregulation in the MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells. Furthermore, KM analysis found high ELF3 and low DCR2 expression to show better patient survival in the presence of TRAIL. Our study shows ELF3 to be an important factor that can influence TRAIL-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer. Also, ELF3 and DCR2 expression status should be taken into consideration while designing strategies for successful TRAIL-based therapy.

Pengembangan Lembar Kerja Peserta Didik Berbasis Pendekatan Metaphorical Thinking Terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis

This research aims to develop and produce mathematics LKPD (Learner Worksheets) based on the Metaphorical Thinking Approach that meet the criteria of valid, practical and effective in linear program material. This type of research is development research (Research and Development) with the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). The subjects of this research were class XI students at SMA IT Wihdatul Ummah Kolaka, media experts and learning material experts who came from lecturers, mathematics subject teachers. The object of this research is LKPD based on the Metaphorical Thinking approach to linear program material. Data collection instruments include questionnaires and tests. The data obtained was then analyzed using qualitative data analysis techniques and quantitative data analysis techniques. The research results showed that based on the validity test, the LKPD based on the Metaphorical Thinking approach was declared very valid with a percentage level of 89.44%. The results of the small group practicality test using a response questionnaire with a total of 6 students as respondents showed that the LKPD based on the Metaphorical Thinking approach was very practical with a percentage level of 90.42% and the results of the limited group test showed that the LKPD based on the Metaphorical Thinking approach was very practical with a percentage level of 91. 53%. From the calculation results, it appears that 83.33% of students who completed KKM 73 achieved the KKM completion requirements. Based on the overall development process, it can be concluded that the LKPD based on the Metaphorical Thinking approach to linear program material is effective.

Community Perceptions on Environmental Impact Assessments in the Construction of the Toll Road between Solo and New Yogyakarta International Airport, in Indonesia

Background and Objective: The development of toll roads between Solo and New Yogyakarta International Airport of Indonesia is part of the government's endeavor to improve the accessibility, connectivity, and capacity of inter-regional transportation networks in order to considerably boost economic growth through increased regional links. The research will analyze at the socio-cultural circumstances, social conflict, public health, and community views and attitudes about toll road building. Research Methods: This study employs a qualitative and quantitative technique, which involves in-depth interview observation processes. The data analysis comprises the identification, categorization, and interpretation of community opinions as perceived by 200 respondents from impacted communities. Results: The majority of respondents were male, 106 (53%), with the highest degree of education being senior high school a total of 118 respondents (59.50%). The majority of their jobs were as private employees number 84 respondents (42%), with an average salary of Rp. 3,195,000. The surrounding community is religious, with 106 respondents (84%) actively engaged in Islamic studies in a mutually beneficial atmosphere, and 171 respondents (88.5%). Conflicts in society are always addressed pleasantly, according to 198 respondents (99%). Theoretical and Practical Implications: The community does not oppose toll road building, according to 188 respondents (94%) since they feel it would serve regional interests. Environmental impact analysis is carried out in a proportionate manner by incorporating the community through public engagement. Implementation of public consultation throughout ten time periods. The outcomes of public consultations are utilized to provide supporting and critical comments. 42 community figures were chosen as members of the Environmental effect Assessment technical team, which was in charge of overseeing the execution of environmental effect management and monitoring. Changes in public views and attitudes about toll road development must be regulated and monitored to ensure that the public impression of toll roads remains favorable throughout construction. Recommendations: Project implementers are responsible for the impacts caused and comply with all detailed provisions in accordance with management and monitoring plan documents that have been approved by the Ministry of Environment.

Jagged1-Notch1 Signaling Pathway Induces M1 Microglia to Disrupt the Barrier Function of Retinal Microvascular Endothelial Cells

Purpose Microglia-related inflammation is closely linked to the pathogenesis of retinal diseases. The primary objective of this research was to investigate the impact and mechanism of M1 phenotype microglia on the barrier function of retina microvascular endothelial cells. Methods Quantitative polymerase chain reactions and western blot techniques were utilized to analysis the mRNA and protein expressions of M1 and M2 markers of human microglial clone 3 cell line (HMC3), as well as the levels of Notch ligands and receptors under the intervention of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or interleukin (IL)-4. ELISA was utilized to detect the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines from HMC3 cells. The cellular tight junction and apoptosis of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were assessed by western blot and fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran permeability assay. The inhibitors of Notch1 and RNA interference (RNAi) targeting Jagged1 were used to assess their contribution to the barrier function of vascular endothelial cells. Results Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and IL-1β were considerably elevated in LPS-treated HMC3, while CD206 and Arg-1 markedly elevated under IL-4 stimulation. The conditioned medium derived from LPS-treated HMC3 cells promoted permeability, diminished the expression of zonula occludens-1 and Occludin, and elevated the expression of Cleaved caspase-3 in HRMECs. RNAi targeting Jagged1 or Notch1 inhibitor could block M1 HMC3 polarization and maintain barrier function of HRMECs. Conclusion Our findings suggest that Jagged1-Notch1 signaling pathway induces M1 microglial cells to disrupt the barrier function of HRMECs, which may lead to retinal diseases.

Whether Access to Agricultural AID Improves the Welfare of Farmer Households in Palopo, Indonesia with Budget as a Moderate Variable

Purpose: The agricultural industry significantly contributes to poverty alleviation, particularly in rural regions as opposed to metropolitan ones. Hence, government programs should be able to target the areas afflicted by poverty effectively. Rural regions serve as the hub of commercial operations and play a crucial role in safeguarding and empowering farmers, particularly those who are small-scale. Methodology/approach: This research aims to analyze the access to assistance and agricultural estimates by examining farmers' prescriptions. Data analysis techniques in this study are explanatory, descriptive statistical techniques with quantitative approaches and inferential statistical analysis using the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: The objective is to determine if there is an impact on the growth in farm family welfare in the City of Palopo based on data from 105 farmers. This study utilises a descriptive and explanatory methodology, including quantitative techniques and inferential statistical analysis via Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) utilising Partial Least Squares (PLS). Hypothesis 1: Influence Aid (X) positively and significantly impacts to (Y) Household Welfare is accepted. The outcomes of SEM analysis obtained T statistical = 4.339 &gt; T table = 1.983 and P value = 0.000 &lt; Cut off Value = 0.05. Hypothesis 2: Influence the Aid (X) positively and significantly to (Z) Budget is accepted. The outcomes of the SEM analysis obtained T statistical = 89,957 &gt; T table = 1.983 and P value = 0.000 &lt; Cut off Value = 0.05. Hypothesis 3: Influence the Budget (Z) positively and significantly to (Y) Household Welfare is accepted. The outcomes of SEM analysis obtained T statistical = 2,872 &gt; T table = 1.983 and P value = 0.004 &lt; Cut off Value = 0.05. Hypothesis 4: Influence the Aid (X) positively and significantly to (Y) Household Welfare through Budget (Z) as a moderate variable is accepted. The outcomes of SEM analysis obtained T statistical = 2,830 &gt; T table = 1.983 and P value = 0.005 &lt; Cut off Value = 0.05. Originality/scientific novelty: It was found that the access of farmer group households to agricultural assistance and the sustainable use of budgets and their very effective distribution in general can be said to greatly improve the welfare of farmer group households. This research is topically broader in scope making it very specific based on the scope of sources in Palopo, Indonesia. As far as is known, these results have not been previously reported. Practical value/implications: Management in the distribution of aid and access to agricultural budgets which are very vulnerable to misappropriation by the state apparatus has been identified as not improving the welfare of farmer households. One very effective way is to increase inherent surveillance.

Combining analytical techniques to assess the translocation of diesel particles across an alveolar tissue barrier in vitro

BackgroundDuring inhalation, airborne particles such as particulate matter ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5), can deposit and accumulate on the alveolar epithelial tissue. In vivo studies have shown that fractions of PM2.5 can cross the alveolar epithelium to blood circulation, reaching secondary organs beyond the lungs. However, approaches to quantify the translocation of particles across the alveolar epithelium in vivo and in vitro are still not well established. In this study, methods to assess the translocation of standard diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) across permeable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) inserts at 0.4, 1, and 3 μm pore sizes were first optimized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), and lock-in thermography (LIT), which were then applied to study the translocation of DEPs across human alveolar epithelial type II (A549) cells. A549 cells that grew on the membrane (pore size: 3 μm) in inserts were exposed to DEPs at different concentrations from 0 to 80 µg.mL− 1 ( 0 to 44 µg.cm− 2) for 24 h. After exposure, the basal fraction was collected and then analyzed by combining qualitative (TEM) and quantitative (UV-VIS and LIT) techniques to assess the translocated fraction of the DEPs across the alveolar epithelium in vitro.ResultsWe could detect the translocated fraction of DEPs across the PET membranes with 3 μm pore sizes and without cells by TEM analysis, and determine the percentage of translocation at approximatively 37% by UV-VIS (LOD: 1.92 µg.mL− 1) and 75% by LIT (LOD: 0.20 µg.cm− 2). In the presence of cells, the percentage of DEPs translocation across the alveolar tissue was determined around 1% at 20 and 40 µg.mL− 1 (11 and 22 µg.cm− 2), and no particles were detected at higher and lower concentrations. Interestingly, simultaneous exposure of A549 cells to DEPs and EDTA can increase the translocation of DEPs in the basal fraction.ConclusionWe propose a combination of analytical techniques to assess the translocation of DEPs across lung tissues. Our results reveal a low percentage of translocation of DEPs across alveolar epithelial tissue in vitro and they correspond to in vivo findings. The combination approach can be applied to any traffic-generated particles, thus enabling us to understand their involvement in public health.

Determination of butylated hydroxytoluene in edible oil using near-infrared spectroscopy combined with multivariate analysis

Edible oil is a fundamental component of human daily diet and has a wide impact on global agriculture and economy. The issue of additives in edible oil has always been a concern for its quality and safety, as excessive use of additives can be harmful to human health. This study suggests a quantitative detection technique for determining the concentration of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in edible oil using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology. Firstly, the spectral characteristics of edible oil samples with different concentrations of BHT are characterized using a near-infrared spectrometer. Then, particle swarm optimization (PSO), butterfly optimization algorithm (BOA), and fox optimizer (FOX) are employed to optimize the preprocessed spectral wavelengths. Finally, a detection model based on the optimized wavelengths is established using backpropagation neural network (BP-ANN) to achieve quantitative detection of BHT content in edible oil. The results show that the model based on the feature wavelengths optimized by the FOX algorithm has the best detection performance. This model takes 7 features as inputs, with a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 1.6116 g·kg−1 and a prediction determination coefficient (RP) of 0.9900 on the prediction set. The results demonstrate that near-infrared spectroscopy technology can accurately predict the BHT content in edible oil.

Digital transformation model for universities: A preliminary proposal

This article presents the results of a research project aimed at designing a theoretical model for digital transformation at the Autonomous University of Chile. The research methodology adopts a case study approach with a mixed method combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. This approach provides a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the dimensions and factors shaping the digital transformation model, incorporating insights from 97 students and eight experts. The model comprises three phases, nine dimensions, and 54 indicators, emphasizing the integral connection between digital maturity and value creation for students. Key success determinants in the university's digital transformation processes are outlined, including the strategic approach, organizational culture, utilization of technological infrastructure, and technology management capabilities. Practical implications underscore the significance of acknowledging the impact of power relations during the digital transformation journey, influencing internal processes, IT governance coordination, roles of personnel in technical and managerial positions, teachers’ performance, and students' trust and loyalty to the institution. The article concludes by identifying factors that influence the institution's capacity to implement technological changes aligned with its strategic, technical, and logistical requirements. Future studies could redefine the roles of administrative, teaching, and student staff, fostering increased digital maturity, continuous innovation in services and processes, and the creation of new digital learning spaces centered around student needs.

Effectiveness of The Education Level, Understanding of Accounting and Work Experience on the Quality of Financial Statements in The MSMEs Indonesian Local Government

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) face several obstacles so that in their business it is difficult to develop, one of which lies in financial management in their business activities so that the presentation of financial statements poses its own problems for MSMEs. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of education level, accounting understanding and work experience on the quality of financial statements produced by MSMEs in MaLang City. This research approach uses quantitative techniques and measures the results using the Likert scale sourced from questionnaire data. Using agency theory and stewardship theory. The sampling technique uses a purposive sampling method with predetermined criteria. The population of this study is MSMEs in Malang City, the number of respondents who filled out questionnaires that have been distributed through whatsapp grub assisted by the MSME cooperative office in Malang City 45 respondents but who met the criteria of 38 respondents. Using analysis techniques which include validity, reliability and hypothetical tests used are R tests and T tests with the help of SPSS 25 software. The results showed that 53.4% of the influence of the quality of MSME financial statements was influenced by the variables studied. Understanding accounting has a significant positive effect on the quality of financial statements, the level of education and work experience does not affect the quality of financial statements.

Quantitative Detection for Fatigue Natural Crack in Aero-Aluminum Alloy Based on Pulsed Eddy Current Technique

Aero-space aluminum alloys, as vital materials in aerospace engineering, find extensive application in various aerospace components. However, prolonged usage often leads to the emergence of fatigue natural cracks, posing significant safety risks. Therefore, research on accurate quantitative detection techniques for the cracks in aerospace-aluminum alloys is of vital importance. Firstly, based on the three-points bending experimental model, this paper prepared the fatigue natural crack specimen, and the depth of the natural crack is calibrated. Then, given the complexity of geometric characteristics inherent in natural cracks, the pulsed eddy current signal under the different natural crack depth is acquired and analyzed using an experimental study. Finally, to better exhibit the non-linearity between PEC signal and crack depth, a GA-based BPNN algorithm is proposed. The Latin Hypercube method is considered to optimize the population distribution in the genetic algorithm. The results indicate that the characterization accuracy reaches 2.19% for the natural crack.

Assessing the expectations of Generation Z customers towards last-mile delivery in E-commerce: A case study in Ho Chi Minh City

This study focuses on assessing the impact of various factors influencing Generation Z consumers' expectations of last-mile delivery services when purchasing goods on e-commerce platforms within Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), to improve service quality and propose delivery processes for efficient last-mile delivery. What is new compared to previous studies is the emphasis on the impact of environmental protection policies and green initiatives on the expectations of Gen Z customers. In this study, the authors propose the factor "Environmental Protection Policy" to build a scale to measure customer expectations in last-mile delivery service. A survey involving 435 participants who belong to Gen Z and frequently utilize e-commerce services in HCMC provided the primary data for this analysis. Utilizing quantitative analytical techniques, including Cronbach's alpha reliability test, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and multiple regression analysis, this research tested several hypotheses. The results corroborate that the expectations of Gen Z consumers regarding delivery services on e-commerce platforms in HCMC are significantly shaped by five pivotal factors: Delivery speed, reliability, responsiveness, environmental protection policy, and cost. The study notably highlights cost as the predominant factor exerting the most substantial influence on the expectations concerning last-mile delivery services. This study has made a significant contribution to the body of knowledge that e-commerce platforms and logistics firms may use to raise the bar for delivery services that Gen Z consumers anticipate.