The logistics industry in Pakistan is experiencing significant growth, particularly as it serves as a cornerstone of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), aimed at fostering regional connectivity. This study targets prospective entrepreneurs interested in facilitating the movement of goods via road transportation along the proposed CPEC route between China and Pakistan. Methodologically, qualitative research was employed to identify the potential opportunities for Pakistani entrepreneurs within the CPEC framework, focusing specifically on the transport and logistics sector. The study reveals that improved logistics services would not only enhance supply chain solutions across the two nations but also underscore the increasing importance of effective Supply Chain Management in a globalized context. Ultimately, the proposed approach aims to assist entrepreneurs in identifying and implementing logistic ventures along the CPEC route
The relevance of wind power forecasting has been underscored by the increased rise of wind power generation in Egypt in the future. Wind power, on the other hand, is extremely difficult to model and forecast. Because of the continual variation in wind speed and direction, the power generated by the wind changes rapidly. Despite the research’s that has been done in this field, more effective wind power forecasting algorithms are still needed. Wind power is forecasted using artificial neural network techniques in this article. This strategy is based on the use of real-time data from weather stations. Using a local onshore wind farm in Zafarana-Site3, Egypt. ANN model was created through MATLAB 2020a which depends on input data were wind speed, air density, and swept area, and the tar-get data was wind power. The suggested ANN model was trained, tested, and evaluated.
The swift expansion of Ethiopia's textile industries is a significant driver of economic progress. Nevertheless, the sludge produced by their wastewater treatment facilities is frequently deemed hazardous due to contamination with heavy metals from dyes and chemicals. In this study; a physical and chemical analysis of sludge was conducted using gravimetric method, while test for compressive strength, soundness and setting time were performed with blending ratios of 5%, and 10%. The analysis of sludge revealed a moisture content of 27%, volatile organic matter of 17%, and an inorganic ash content of 53%. The effects of replacing cement with textile sludge evaluated in terms of compressive strength and water absorption after 2, 7, and 28 days, using a design mix ratio of cement to sand of 1:3 and 225 ml. of water to form the cement paste. The analysis indicate ensuring sludge loading remains below 10% when combined with OPC cement guarantees desired properties, but raising the sludge content diminishes compressive strength. Extending curing periods results in enhanced compressive strength, as seen in a significant rise from day two to twenty-eight. Blending cement with sludge decreases raw material expenses and cement prices, offsetting the 10% rise in construction material costs while maintaining quality. This fosters economic growth in brick manufacturing industries by reducing energy usage, cutting expenditures, and reducing brick weight, thereby reducing transportation costs and mitigating environmental pollution associated with cement manufacturing.
This scholarly article explores the potential impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) on Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) adoption in Africa. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis of real-life case studies, the article examines the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations associated with integrating AI and ML technologies into HRIS. By synthesizing insights from academic research and industry reports, the article aims to provide a scholarly perspective on the prospects of AI and ML in enhancing HR processes and organizational performance in the African context.
This study focuses on the evaluation and management of improper design from an ergonomic perspective. Visual ergonomics emphasizes optimizing visual conditions and body posture to minimize eye fatigue, head/shoulder/wrist aches, eye strain, chemical burns, and other symptoms associated with incorrect ergonomic design. Optometrists play a crucial role in identifying and addressing these issues by providing personalized solutions and ergonomic advice.
Microplastics are defined as particles under 5mm (Thompson et al.,2004; NOAA). They are introduced into the environment when larger plastic pieces break into smaller fragments, known as 'secondary' microplastics, or when they are directly produced to be small in size, known as 'primary' microplastics (Anderson et al., 2016). Regardless of their origin, both primary and secondary microplastics pose risks to the environment and human health (Pironti et al.,2021). Microplastics not only act as carriers, for pollutants in the environment (Hartmann et al.,2017) but also transport pathogenic microorganisms (Foulon et al.,2016). Additionally, they may also transport chemical additives in them during the production process that disrupt hormones in marine life, even in small quantities, and pose threats to ocean ecosystems, wildlife, and food sources (Gallo et al., 2018). Microplastics, because of their smaller size and high molecular weight (Lee et al., 2023) have become widely distributed and pervasive in various environmental settings such as air, water, and soil (Wright et al., 2013). The low biodegradability of these microplastics allows their long-term presence in the environment. This has raised concerns about impacts on human health especially since humans are often at the end of the food chain (Mamun et al., 2023). Humans primarily encounter microplastics through inhalation, ingestion, and through skin contact. Such exposure is associated with health risks including inflammation disruptions, in gut microbiota and the potential for contaminants to enter the body (Pironti et al., 2021). Concerns are mounting over the prevalence of microplastics in the environment. According to research conducted by Cox et al. (2019), it is revealed that Americans may be unintentionally consuming amounts of these particles each year both through their diet and the consumption of water. Additionally, there is a potential, for increased exposure to microplastics through inhalation from dust (Cox et al.,2019). Multiple studies highlight the potential of microplastics to trigger inflammatory responses, digestive upset, hormonal imbalances, and the spread of disease-causing bacteria. Breathing in microplastics poses significant risks, potentially affecting lung and heart health. Also, skin exposure to microplastics is less studied but could lead to irritation and allergies (Emenike et al., 2023).
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune demyelinating inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which resulted in the severe neurological defects. Mostly MS affected the adult life in their early life and it shows huge affect on family, and on professional and on daily life. The rate of multiple sclerosis according to some research in women is four times higher than in man, though the exact reason of this is still unclear but the researchers associated this with the difference in sex that linked with the brain in the MS. The disease progression of multiple sclerosis and its developments entails fundamental steps: (1).The destruction of myelin sheath and formation of lesions, (2).Inflammation. These steps are communicated together in a collaborative way, destroying the neuron tissues and causing MS. The goal of the research is to develop the EAE model for the identification of proteins involved in Multiple Sclerosis and then develop the interventions that can improve the lives of those living with MS. Synaptosomal-associated protein 25 (SNAP-25) is a 25kD protein with 206 amino acids. The pre-synaptic terminal of neurons is composed of a t-SNARE or target SNARE molecule. Formation of neural soluble Methylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes occurs because of SNAP -25 and has a great importance. Calcium-dependent exocytosis of synaptic vesicles, proper efficient release of neurotransmitters and propagation of action potential is done by SNARE complex. The normal levels of SNAP-25 are mandatory for neurotransmission; the changes in its expression can cause many disorders including autoimmune disorder like Multiple Sclerosis. The ultimate goal of this research is to assess the behavioral changes and pathophysiology of MS
An internally displaced person (IDP) is forced to flee his or her home but who remains within his or her country’s borders. They are often referred to as refugees (Webster Encyclopedia Dictionary, 1992). According to Deng (2007), there is no legal definition as there is for a refugee. However, a United Nations report, “Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement” uses the definition: people or groups of people who have been forced or obliged to flee or to leave their homes or places of habitual residence, in particular as a result of or in order to avoid the effects of armed conflict, situations of generalized violence, violations of human rights or natural or human-man disasters, and who have not crossed an internationally recognized State border (Deng, 2007 as cited by Abdulrahman, et.al, 2013). While the above stresses two important elements of internal displacement (coercion and the internal movement) it is important to note that rather than a strict definition, the Guiding Principles offer a descriptive identification of the category of persons whose needs are the concern of the Guiding Principle (Kalin, 2000). In this way, the document intentionally steers toward flexibility rather than legal precision (Vincent, 2000) as the words “in particular” indicate that the list of reasons for displacement is not exhaustive. However, as Erin Mooney pointed out, global statistics on internal dis-placement generally count only IDPs uprooted by conflict and human rights violations. Moreover, a recent study has recommended that the IDP concept should be defined even more narrowly, to be limited to persons displaced by violence. Thus, despite the non-exhaustive reasons of internal displacement, many consider IDPs as those who would be defined as refugees if they were to cross an international border hence the term refugees in all, but name is often applied to IDPs (Mooney, 2005).