Browse Items (5511 total)
Sort by:
-
Protection of intellectual property and human rights during health emergencies: an assessment of the patent waiver proposal
Purpose: Several countries, such as South Africa and India, believe that intellectual property rights (IPRs), including patents, impede the efficient increase in vaccine production to inoculate the global population as they scramble to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Their proposal at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to waive these pharmaceutical patents has been met with resistance from a few developed countries, who believe that the abrogation of IPRs is unnecessary, even during a pandemic. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the impact of a potential waiver of medical patents at the WTO versus the status quo of IPR laws in the global economy. Design/methodology/approach: This study examines key arguments from economic and moral standpoints regarding the provisions of the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement and other related international agreements and their validity based on the premise of the internalisation of positive externalities posed by vaccines. Findings: The effectiveness of the TRIPS agreement in securing medical access is weak on account of the ability of profit-making multinationals to secure IP rights and on account of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a multilateral agreement that supports patent evergreening and a period of protection on test data which challenges the access to medicines and the fundamental human right to health. Originality/value: This study examines international IPRs through the lens of human rights and proposes a new system that balances the two. 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Utilization of CO2 for Electrocarboxylation of Benzophenone Using MXene-Based Electrodes: A Sustainable Approach
The significant rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels has prompted the need to develop efficient methods for CO2 conversion and fixation methods. Electrocarboxylation reaction is a highly efficient and sustainable method for activating and utilizing CO2, yielding essential carboxylic acids and their analogues, which are important intermediates in the pharmaceutical and fuel industries. This research demonstrates the efficiency of 2D Ti3C2Tx and Ta2CTx MXene-modified carbon fiber paper electrodes (Ti3C2Tx/CFP and Ta2CTx/CFP) for CO2 fixation with benzophenone in a tetrabutylammonium bromide/acetonitrile (TBABr/CH3CN) medium, yielding benzilic acid. Ti3C2Tx/CFP exhibited superior electrocatalytic activity with a lower reduction potential for benzophenone at ?1.0 V and achieved a 72% yield of benzilic acid at an optimum current density of 50 mA cm-2. In comparison, Ta2CTx/CFP exhibited a cathodic peak at ?1.08 V, producing a 66% yield at 70 mA cm-2. The electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum substantiates the generation of reactive radical intermediates during the reaction. Ti3C2Tx/CFP showed robust structural stability with ?88% Faradaic efficiency and a turnover frequency of 1.90444 10-5 s-1, indicating its potential for CO2 fixation. 2024 American Chemical Society. -
Leveraging digital yarn dyeing for colour consistency in apparel weaving
When compared to traditional processes, digital yarn dyeing provides substantial benefits in terms of color control, versatility, and environmental impact. However, technological obstacles and constraints exist. The promise of digital dyeing may be realized by carefully selecting technology, optimizing ink consumption, and adopting stringent quality control methods, resulting in improved colour constancy and a more sustainable textile sector. -
The role of energy efficiency in income inequality dynamics in developing Asia: Evidence from artificial neural networks
This study investigates the drivers of income inequality trends in seven developing Asian countries between 1990 and 2022, exploring the effects of energy efficiency, government spending, economic growth, globalization, and human development. The study investigates how these variables affect income inequality using various statistical methods, including long-run machine learning and prediction models. The findings indicate a negative impact of energy efficiency on income inequality, highlighting the potential of energy-saving measures in narrowing the income gaps between the rich and poor. Government spending, economic growth, globalization, and human development are also crucial in alleviating income inequality in developing Asian countries. This study underscores the importance of tailored policies, advocating for investments in energy efficiency, targeted government spending, larger economic integration, and inclusive growth strategies to address income inequality in developing Asia. 2024 -
Delving into the Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) Market: Understanding Market Efficiency
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are the most popular products in the financial sector today. There is extensive literature on the multifractal analysis of some stock markets, but not about the multifractal behaviour of the ETF market. This study examines the efficiency of stock index ETFs worldwide from an Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH) perspective, using the ETFs: Ishares Msci World ETF (URTH), Ishares Russell 1000 ETF (IWB), SPDR S&P 500 ETF TRUST (SPY), Ishares Global Clean En. ETF (ICLN), Ishares USD Green Bond ETF (BGRN), from 1 January 2021 to 24 May 2024. It analyses a pre-conflict and a geopolitical conflict to uncover distinct patterns of behaviour reflecting significant changes in market conditions. Before the conflict, the Ishares MSCI World, Ishares Russell 1000, SPDR S&P 500 and Ishares USD Green Bond ETFs showed signs of anti-persistence in returns, indicating a lack of strong relationship or predictability between short-term price movements. The Ishares Global Clean Energy ETF did not reject the random walk hypothesis, suggesting that returns follow a pattern closer to random, where market prices already efficiently reflect all available information. During the conflict, there was a transition in the ETFs' behaviour patterns, as evidenced by the increases in slope values for Ishares MSCI World, Ishares Russell 1000, SPDR S&P 500, Ishares Global Clean Energy and Ishares USD Green Bond. Thus, the possible transition from anti-persistence to long-term memories in ETF returns during the conflict. For portfolio managers, these findings highlight the need to continually adapt investment strategies to manage risks better and take advantage of opportunities in a dynamic and complex investment environment. 2024, Creative Publishing House. All rights reserved. -
A study on deg-centric graphs
The deg-centric graph of a simple, connected graph G, denoted by Gd, is a graph constructed from G such that, V (Gd) = V (G) and E(Gd) = {vivj: dG(vi, vj) ? degG(vi)}. This paper introduces and discusses the concepts of deg-centric graphs and iterated deg-centrication of a graph. (2024), (Universidad Catolica del Norte). All rights reserved. -
Caste, Cricket, and Community Fraternal Intersections in Blue Star
[No abstract available] -
Exploring In Situ Kinetics of Oxygen Vacancy-Rich B/P-Incorporated Cobalt Oxide Nanowires for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Defect-engineering of transition-metal oxide-based nanocatalysts is an innovative approach for improving the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) owing to their enhanced activity and stability. The present study introduces a facile approach aimed at enhancing OER activity by incorporating boron and phosphorus into cobalt oxide nanowires (B/P-CoOx NWs). The resulting material, enriched with oxygen vacancies (Ov), as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), induced a complete structural transformation from Co3O4 to a CoO phase. The B/P-CoOx NWs exhibited an impressive overpotential of only 230 mV to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm-2 in 1 M KOH. The presence of Ov was proved to be responsible for the improvement in conductivity along with the quantity and quality of active sites. Electrochemical kinetic analysis was performed to reveal the crucial role of Ov in facilitating the OER mechanism by enhancing the adsorption and desorption of OH- ions and O2 molecules from the surface. The robustness of the developed electrocatalyst was demonstrated through a chronoamperometric test conducted over 80 h and a recyclability test spanning 10 000 cycles. This study focuses on the fabrication and dynamic investigation of the electrocatalyst, laying the groundwork for further advancements in non-noble material-based electrocatalysts. 2024 American Chemical Society. -
Functional carbon nanoparticles modified poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) nanocomposites with enhanced dielectric and antibacterial properties
The importance of nanocomposites with tailored properties is growing due to their applications in various fields. In the present study, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and functionalized carbon nanoparticles (f-CNPs) are synthesized by in-situ chemical oxidative polymerization and pyrolysis methods, respectively. The f-CNPs-PEDOT nanocomposites are prepared by varying the concentration of PEDOT (i.e., 1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 wt%), and the thermal stability, dielectric properties and antibacterial activities of f-CNPs-PEDOT nanocomposites were evaluated. The dielectric studies indicated that the addition of PEDOT has enhanced the dielectric properties due to interfacial polarization effect, whereas decreased the thermal stability due to degradation of PEDOT in the nanocomposite, however, it is higher than the pure PEDOT. The antimicrobial potential of synthesized f-CNPs-PEDOT nanocomposites was studied against two different bacterial strains, namely Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli. The findings of this research have potential to open new opportunities for employing f-CNPs-PEDOT nanocomposites in physical sciences and antimicrobial applications. 2024 The Authors -
Studies on air jet erosion behavior of plasma-sprayed Cr2C3 coatings on Al6061 alloy
This study assesses the efficacy of plasma-sprayed Cr2C3 coatings on AA6061 aluminum alloy in reducing erosion at different angles (30, 60, and 90). The experimental setup involved maintaining a distance of 80 mm between the components, feeding the powder at a rate of 55 g/min, and applying a current density of 460 amps. Weight loss measurements and surface morphology analyses were performed using scanning electron and confocal microscopy. The findings suggest that the Cr2C3 coating significantly improves erosion resistance when compared to specimens without any coating. The erosion angle had a significant impact on the performance of the coating. The coating experienced the least weight loss at an angle of 30 (28.45 g), followed by increased losses at angles of 60 (30.34 g) and 90 (34.2 g). These findings emphasize the significance of the impact angle in determining the severity of material removal. 2024 The Authors -
Analysis of nonlinear convection and diffusion in viscoelastic fluid flow with variable thermal conductivity and thermal radiations
The study offers a thorough evaluation of the complex fluid dynamics and heat transfer phenomena in Williamson viscoelastic fluid flow, taking into account thermal radiations and variable thermal conductivity. The paper extends its analysis to include heat transfer effects, which are critical in several engineering and industrial applications, and digs into the complexity of non-Newtonian fluid behavior, with a special focus on thermal radiation, heat production, diffusion and viscous dissipation. The study makes use of mathematical models and numerical method RK4 to clarify the nonlinear interactions between convection and diffusion processes in this viscoelastic fluid. The energy and concentration equations are simulated in the presence of the modified Fourier and Fick laws. Moreover, the predicted heat flow is based on the Cattaneo-Christov theory. This research also sheds light on the interaction between rheological properties and thermal characteristics, providing important new knowledge to the broader field of fluid dynamics and heat transfer. 2024 World Scientific Publishing Company. -
Enhanced visible light harvesting in dye-sensitized solar cells through incorporation of solution-processable silver plasmons and anthracite-derived graphene quantum dots
The major setback for the enhanced performance of DSSC is the narrow absorption window and the interfacial exciton recombination. Therefore, in this work, the photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells has been improved by the synergistic effect of anthracite-derived graphene quantum dots and silver plasmons. GQD and Ag coupled photoanodes were fabricated by a facile solution processable process under room temperature. The as-fabricated DSSC TiO2/Ag/GQD (TAG) exhibited an enhanced power conversion efficiency of 10.5 % with a current density of 22.40 mAcm?2 measured under solar irradiation of 100 mWcm?2 with AM 1.5G. An enhancement surpassing 30.5 % was obtained for the champion cell when compared to the pristine TiO2 based DSSC. Furthermore, this study emphasizes developing a cutting-edge approach for the high-quality use of fossil fuel-derived graphene quantum dots in energy conversion systems, thereby encouraging the green conversion of fossil fuels and broadening the potential of anthracite coal's utilization in energy conversion applications. 2024 Elsevier Ltd -
Theoretical investigation of SH wave transmission in magneto-electro-elastic structure having imperfect interface using approximating method
Assuming different types of imperfect interfaces composed of a magnetoelectroelastic (MEE) structure, the current work investigates the transmission of a Love-type wave in a MEE solid cylindrical structure. The spatially variable quasi-classical technique is applied to derive the analytical solution of the layers. The substantial impact of factors related to the imperfect interface on the wave phase velocities is illustrated numerically. The Love-type wave's dispersion relation has been established as the determinant for electrically and magnetically open and short cases. Moreover, the article investigates the consequences of six different imperfect parameters namely mechanical imperfection, electrical imperfection, magnetic imperfection, magneto-mechanical imperfection, electro-mechanical imperfection, and magneto-electrical imperfection parameters in magnetically and electrically open and short scenarios are covered. The findings demonstrate that, in comparison to the short case, the electric and magnetic open case has a higher phase velocity. Here are some key findings: imperfection parameters strongly affect the phase velocity and attenuation coefficient curves and the bonding parameter's prominent influence is inversely proportional to the attenuation coefficient and well-proportional to the phase velocity. Identifying the piezoelectric and piezomagnetic connection and its possible use in the construction of sensors, actuators, energy harvesters, and nano-electronics is the result of this theoretical investigation. This is the first time that a polar coordinate system was used in the quasi-classical method of solving differential equations. The results argue that the outcomes of this specific model have an immense ability to deal with various commercial and industrial applications in acoustical engineering, geotechnical design, ultrasonic technology, and SAW devices. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2024. -
Synthesis and characterization of alkali-activated binders with slag and waste printed circuit board
The global production of printed circuit board (PCB) is expected to rise substantially in the next decade due to the advancement in technology. The production of PCB results in generation of hazardous waste of various kinds, and one such waste is the very fine particles of the board material that is generated due to drilling and other preparatory operations. The disposal of such waste in the environment can result in serious consequences which needs attention. Therefore, recycling of waste printed circuit board (WPCB) can mitigate its harmful effects on the environment and also reduce the remediation costs. In this study, the WPCB is used as a substitute to ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) in development of alkali-activated binder. Alkali-activated binder was synthesized with GGBFS, WPCB, sodium hydroxide sol. (NaOH), and sodium silicate sol. (Na2SiO3). GGBFS was replaced with WPCB at replacement rates of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% by volume. Additionally, the effect of varying concentration of NaOH and Na2SiO3 on the physical and mechanical performance of the binder was studied. The developed binders were evaluated for workability, strength, water absorption, and efflorescence properties. Further, to ascertain its safety on the environment, the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) test was also performed. The results indicate that WPCB characteristics are compatible with GGBFS in terms of its particle size distribution. Moreover, the replacement of GGBFS with up to 20% WPCB provides desirable properties for the alkali-activated binder. However, higher replacements are not recommended, since it had detrimental effect on the mechanical performance of the binder. The study revealed that desirable performance can be achieved for binders with 8 M NaOH and with Na2SiO3 to NaOH ratio of 2, and up to 20% GGBFS replaced with WPCB. The results of TCLP test disclose that the contaminant in the leachate from alkali-activated binders with WPCB are within regulatory limits, and do not pose any threat to the environment. Finally, the outcome of this study provides an innovative approach towards formulation of eco-friendly binder for various construction applications such as foundations, buildings, bridges, pavements, etc. 2024 The Author(s) -
Link stability - based optimal routing path for efficient data communication in MANET
The paper delves into the complexities of Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs), which consist of a diverse array of wireless nodes. In such networks, routing packets poses a significant challenge due to their dynamic nature. Despite the variety of techniques available for optimizing routing in MANETs, persistent issues like packet loss, routing overhead, and End-to-End Delay (EED) remain prevalent. In response to these challenges, the paper proposes a novel approach for efficient Data Communication (DC) by introducing a Link Stability (LS)-based optimal routing path. This approach leverages several advanced techniques, including Pearson Correlation Coefficient SWIFFT (PCC-SWIFFT), Galois-based Digital Signature Algorithm (G-DSA), and Entropy-based Gannet Optimization Algorithm (E-GOA). The proposed methodology involves a systematic process. Initially, the nodes in the MANET are initialized to establish the network infrastructure. Subsequently, the Canberra-based K Means (C-K Means) algorithm is employed to identify Neighboring Nodes (NNs), which are pivotal for creating communication links within the network. To ensure secure communication, secret keys (SK) are generated for both the Sender Node (SN) and the Receiver Node (RN) using Galois Theory. Following this, PCC-SWIFFT methodologies are utilized to generate hash codes, serving as unique identifiers for data packets or routing information. Signatures are created and verified at the SN and RN using the G-DSA. Verified nodes are subsequently added to the routing entry table, facilitating the establishment of multiple paths within the network. The Optimal Path (OP) is selected using the E-GOA, considering factors such as link stability and network congestion. Finally, Data Communication (DC) is initiated, continuously monitoring LS to ensure optimal routing performance. Comparative analysis with existing methodologies demonstrates the superior performance of the proposed model. In summary, the proposed approach offers a comprehensive solution to enhance routing efficiency in MANETs by addressing critical issues and leveraging advanced algorithms for key generation, signature verification, and path optimization. 2024, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan. All rights reserved. -
Complex and Multifaceted Nature of Cryptocurrency Markets: A Study to Understand its Time-Varying Volatility Dynamics
Decentralised Finance (DeFi) provides a new way to perform complex financial transactions by exploiting blockchain's ability to maintain a decentralised ledger of transactions without being constrained by centralised systems or human intermediaries. DeFi provides alternative financial instruments that might lessen portfolio risk, especially given the erratic state of the financial markets today. This study analyses the association between the year of the coin in which it was introduced and the market capitalisation of the respective companies. Furthermore, the study also tries to understand the volatility associated with cryptocurrencies using EGARCH & GJR-GARCH models. The results reveal that market capitalisation is not similar for all three stages of the age of cryptocurrency. Also, negative news tends to impact Bitcoin more than positive news, and the volatility is persistent and long-lasting. Ethereum, BNB & Solana see more volatility from absolute past shocks; however, Tether exhibits low but persistent volatility as a stablecoin. 2024, Creative Publishing House. All rights reserved. -
Education Inequality in India: An Empirical Analysis Using National Sample Survey Data
This research examines the ruralurban differences in educational inequality of major states in India. Using National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data and decomposition methods, this study finds that overall educational inequality has come down but still very high in rural areas. We found that factors such as limited access to higher education, financial constraints and social factors are responsible for the high inequality in rural areas. This study highlights the need for government intervention to enhance educational access by increasing institutions and providing financial aid. It also notes that non-financial barriers like English proficiency further exclude lower socio-economic groups. Hence, we argue for inclusive education policies to improve the existing situation. 2024 Institute for Human Development. -
Exploring the Relationship between Clean Energy Indices and Oil Prices: a Ten-Day Window approach
This paper aims to assess the comovements between clean energy indices, namely the Clean Energy Fuels (CLNE), Nasdaq Clean Edge Green Energy (CELS), S&P Global Clean Energy (SPGTCLEN), TISDALE Clean Energy (TCEC.CN), Wilderhill (ECO), West Texas Intermediate (WTI) stock indices, over the period from 1 January 2018 to 23 November 2023. We used 10-day windows to analyse the duration and nature of the shocks. Granger causality tests revealed that 20 of the 30 possible pairs showed significant movements, with the WTI influencing all the clean energy indices, highlighting its global importance. CELS also showed a robust influence on all pairs, while SPGTCLEN had a significant but less far-reaching influence. The CLNE and ECO indices showed limited influences, suggesting the potential for diversification, the TCEC.CN proved to be independent and a determining factor for portfolio diversification. The Impulse Response Functions (IRF) confirmed significant movements between CELS, SPGTCLEN and WTI, reflecting the market's response to policies and adjustments in expectations. Fluctuations in oil prices substantially affect clean energy indices, highlighting the interconnectedness and volatility of these markets. In conclusion, these results indicate that despite the growth of clean energy, the sector is still influenced by fluctuations in the fossil fuel market. 2024, Creative Publishing House. All rights reserved. -
Mathematical model for effective CO2 emission control with forest biomass using fractional operator
The emission of CO2 is the foremost culprit for global warming and is also considered a significant greenhouse gas. Due to the human populations tremendous growth and activities, the rate of CO2 in the atmosphere has increased. To mitigate the emission of CO2 there are artificial ways. But, naturally have a natural resource called "Forest Biomass," one of the significant sinks to absorb CO2 during photosynthesis. Considering all these factors, the main objective of the current investigation is to understand and illustrate the importance of forest biomass in the emission of CO2. The proposed nonlinear model consists of four variables: atmospheric CO2, human population, energy sectors, and forest biomass. We have studied the model both qualitatively and quantitatively, which will help us make future predictions. To study the model in depth, we have formed a fractional-order model to study the systems behavior at different ranges of fractional orders. The model is termed with the Caputo fractional operator. Boundness and Lyapunov stability for non-linear and fractional order models are studied, and equilibrium points, existence and uniqueness, and numerical simulation are examined. The Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method illustrates the essence of the systems numerical method. The numerical approach reveals that the altered models stability is unchanged. Also, we have examined the model by changing the parameter values to different fractional orders to understand the systems behavior, and the changes are captured as figures. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024. -
Embracing intelligent machines: Aqualitative study to explore thetransformational trends inthe workplace
Purpose: With Industry 4.0 and the extensive rise of smart technologies, we are seeing remarkable transformations in work practices and workplaces. Scholars report the phenomenal progress of smart technologies. At the same time, we can hear the rhetoric emphasising their potential threats. This study focusses on how and where intelligent machines are leveraged in the workplace, how humans co-working with intelligent machines are affected and what they believe can be done to mitigate the risks of the increased use of intelligent machines. Design/methodology/approach: We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 respondents working in various leadership capacities associated with intelligent machines and technologies. Using NVivo, we coded and churned out the themes from the qualitative data collected. Findings: This study shows how intelligent machines are leveraged across different industries, ranging from chatbots, intelligent sensors, cognitive systems and computer vision to the replica of the entire human being. They are used end-to-end in the value chain, increasing productivity, complementing human workers skillsets and augmenting decisions made by human workers. Human workers experience a blend of positive and negative emotions whilst co-working with intelligent machines, which influences their job satisfaction level. Organisations adopt several anticipatory strategies, like transforming into a learning organisation, identifying futuristic technologies and upskilling their human workers, regularly conducting social learning events and designing accelerated career paths to embrace intelligent technologies. Originality/value: This study seeks to understand the emotional and practical implications of the use of intelligent machines by humans and how both entities can integrate and complement each other. These insights can help organisations and employees understand what future workplaces and practices will look like and how to remain relevant in this transformation. 2024, Sumathi Annamalai and Aditi Vasunandan.