Research Lake International Inc. - Open Access Journals
Not a member yet
381 research outputs found
Sort by
Navigating Global Regulations for Sustainable Electronics: A Strategic Innovation Framework
Get PDFThe electronics sector faces growing pressure to adopt Circular Economy (CE) principles. This study explores how environmental regulations, technological innovation, and different business approaches shape this transition, aiming to provide a strategic guide. The study analyzed 78 publications from 2012-2025 using a combined literature review and bibliometric analysis from key academic databases. The findings confirm increasing research interest in this area. Environmental regulations are shown to be powerful drivers for sustainable change in the industry. Key strategies identified include designing products for sustainability, using advanced recycling methods, and adopting circular business models, such as offering products as a service. However, significant challenges remain, including inconsistent policies across regions, differences in infrastructure, and the complexity of global supply chains. Research hotspots focus on recycling, resource recovery, and the roles of various stakeholders. Based on these insights, the study proposes a conceptual framework to help develop regionally appropriate circular economy business models for managing electronic waste. This framework offers practical guidance for businesses and policymakers, emphasizing how regulations can spur innovation and why locally adapted solutions are essential for a successful circular transition, moving beyond one-size-fits-all strategies. 
AI-Enhanced Mentoring for Social Entrepreneurship: Catalyzing Regenerative Finance and Sustainability Transitions
Get PDFObjectives: This research investigates the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), DeepTech, and social entrepreneurship (SE) in driving financial innovation for sustainability transitions within the banking, finance, and insurance sectors. It also examines the role and potential of mentoring, particularly AI-driven approaches, in guiding social entrepreneurs to develop and scale regenerative finance solutions and attract impact investment.
Methods: Employing a mixed-methods approach, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) following PRISMA guidelines was combined with Bibliometric Analysis. A comprehensive search across major academic databases yielded 99 relevant peer-reviewed articles. Analysis identified publication trends, citation metrics, and key thematic connections.
Results: Findings demonstrate that AI and Deep Tech are powerful catalysts for SE in finance, enabling data-driven innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and facilitating transformative instruments. Digital SE improves scalability. Bibliometric analysis confirmed “social entrepreneurship” centrality, linked to “deep tech startups” and “social impact.” Mentoring is critical for navigating complexities, strategic planning, and networks. AI enhanced mentoring's specific potential is currently underexplored in the literature, but it shows significant promise.
Conclusions: AI and Deep Tech catalyze SE financial innovation for sustainability. Mentoring (human and AI-enhanced potential) is vital for SEs to leverage these technologies effectively, scale impact, and attract investment. Developing ecosystems, tailored AI-mentoring models, and robust impact metrics is crucial for a regenerative financial future. This study identifies critical gaps and provides a framework for future research for academics and practitioners
An insight into the neuroanatomy of the basal ganglia in the cerebral hemisphere
Get PDFThe basal ganglia, or nuclei, are cluster of gray matter masses located within the white matter of the cerebral hemispheres. The anatomy and relationships of the basal ganglia can be confusing due to the varying terms and definitions used to describe this region. Understanding their anatomy is important because of their diverse connections and relationships with motor and cognitive functions. This anatomy must be clearly defined so that clinicians can identify any disorders affecting them. This short article aims to provide a simplified, concise, and up-to-date overview of the basal ganglia of the cerebrum. The basal ganglia are 4 pairs in number in the cerebrum; caudate nucleus, lentiform nucleus, claustrum and amygdala, plus two more associated with the midbrain called the subthalamic nuclei above the midbrain and substantia nigra within the midbrain. The basal ganglia of the cerebrum are closely connected to surrounding structures including the cerebral cortex, the substantia nigra of the midbrain, and the thalamus. The striatum, consisting of the caudate nucleus and the putamen of the lentiform nucleus, represents the primary input to the basal ganglia, while output information emerges mostly from the inner part of the lenticular nucleus called the pallidum. The basal ganglia are supplied with blood mainly by the middle cerebral artery via the lenticulostriate arteries, which are prone to hemorrhagic stroke in cases of uncontrolled hypertension
Evolution of Robotic Systems Utility in Anatomy and Surgery
Get PDFAs early as 1982 robotics systems such as the PUMA 200 were used in neurosurgery biopsies but at the time were limited for functional capability and large size. At this time in the early 20th century, telerobotics systems (or ability semi - sutomics or control from a distance) were being developed with help of NASA technology
Improving Adherence to Pulmonary Embolism Evaluation Consensus Guidelines: A Multimodal Approach
Get PDFObjective: Despite the publication of multiple widely accepted guidelines, Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA) remains overutilized in the emergency (ED) setting for evaluating suspected Pulmonary Embolism (PE). We developed and evaluated a multimodal program that aimed to improve ordering provider adherence to CTPA use guidelines, and consequently positivity rate.Methods: We retrospectively identified all CTPA studies ordered for suspected PE over three years for each provider at a single centre ED, and reviewed radiology reports to determine PE positivity. We then implemented a program that included an education session, individualized performance feedback, and discussion of possible incentives to improve guideline adherence. We prospectively collected CTPA results for the following year. Our primary outcome was the difference in positivity rate between the final pre-intervention year and the post- intervention year. Our secondary outcome was individual provider positivity rate between the pre-intervention and post-intervention period. We compared the primary outcome using chi-squared testing, defining statistical significance as P<0.05.Results: We identified 4265 CTPA studies performed during the pre-intervention period, ordered by 25 providers. 1582 studies were ordered during the final year, with an 11.00% positivity rate (174/1582). In the post intervention year, 1339 studies were ordered, with a significantly greater positivity rate of 13.67% (183/1339, P=0.028). For our secondary outcome, mean provider positivity rate was 11.49% during the pre-intervention period, and increased to 14.24% in the post intervention period.Discussion: We successfully implemented a multimodal program for ED providers that significantly increased the positivity rate of CTPAs ordered for suspected PE evaluation
X-Ray Interaction Cross-Sections and Scattering Coefficients of 21Sc45, 25Mn55, 31Ga70, 56Ba137, and 78Pt195 for Applications in Radiation Shielding and Radiology
No full textOne of the most successful ways of treating cancer and malignant tumors is radiation. Most of the radiological and diagnostic processes are also possible due to the use of radiation. However, it is important to protect radiation workers using various shielding materials due to the hazards associated with high-energy radiation. In addition, the quality of radiological images is also affected by the energy and intensity of radiation used in the imaging process. The use of shielding material is more productive in shielding as well as good quality radiological imaging only if its basic characteristics properties and interaction with radiation are studied. The purpose of the present work is to use the Klein-Nishina formula to calculate the electronic cross-sections, atomic cross-sections, energy-transfer cross-sections, and Compton scattering coefficients of Scandium (21Sc45), Manganese (25Mn55), Gallium (31Ga70), Barium (56Ba137), and Platinum (78Pt195) when X-rays or γ-radiation interact with these elements. The results show that the Klein-Nishina cross-section per electron and Klein-ishina cross-sections per atom decrease with increasing photon energy and increase when the charge number Z of the elements is increased. The Compton Scattering coefficients also decrease for highly energetic radiation and increase with the ratio of charge number Z and mass number A of an element. Thus, the Compton scattering coefficients should not be studied as a function of Z or A separately but instead as a function of Z/A. The results also conclude that the investigated materials can be used for applications in radiation shielding, dosimetry, and radiological imaging applications
The Importance of Teaching Anatomical Variations to Today’s Medical Students
Get PDFHuman anatomical variations are structures that deviate from the typical range of framework and morphology within the human body. They are prevalent and can be accompanied by other additional variations within the same person. Anatomical variations can be identified through dissection of human donors in anatomylaboratories as well as through findings obtained in radiological investigations and during surgical operations
Rational Use of Antimicrobials in the Management of Community Acquired Pneumonia at Ndola Teaching Hospital
Get PDFBackground: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a significant lower respiratory tract infection that poses challenges in treatment due to rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Rational antibiotic use is crucial for effective management and reducing the risk of resistant pathogens. This study aims to assess the rational use of antibiotics in treating CAP at Ndola Teaching Hospital (NTH) and evaluate adherence to established guidelines. By examining prescribing practices, the study seeks to identify gaps and inform best practices that enhance antibiotic stewardship. Ultimately, the findings will contribute to improving patient outcomes and guiding antibiotic prescriptions in similar healthcare settings in Zambia.
Objective: To assess the rational use of antibiotics in the management of community acquired pneumonia at Ndola Teaching Hospital.
Study Methodology: This was a mixed-method study that assessed the rational use of antibiotics in managing CAP at NTH. Data was collected and analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26, employing Chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify factors influencing in-hospital mortality.
Results: Out of 142 patient files reviewed, most patients were female (61.3%) and under 65 years old (69.0%), with ceftriaxone being the most prescribed antibiotic. Significant factors influencing in-hospital mortality included age over 65, length of hospital stay, allergies, co-morbidities, and management inconsistent with the 2020 national Standard Treatment Guidelines (p < 0.000). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that older age (aOR: 0.295, CI: 0.173-0.418, p < 0.000) and Length of hospital stay (aOR: 0.118, CI: 0.058-0.178, p < 0.000) significantly increased mortality risk. Additionally, 41.2% of prescribers had not seen the guidelines, highlighting the need for better dissemination and improved resources for effective CAP management at NTH.
Conclusion: This study emphasized the importance of improved adherence to national treatment guidelines. The implementation of educational interventions and the promotion of collaboration among healthcare professionals are essential to optimizing antibiotic use in the management of CAP, which could lead to reduced mortality rates and improved patient outcomes
Integrating IoT and Blockchain for Sustainable Waste Management in Cold Chain Food Supply Chains: Enhancing Efficiency and Accountability
Get PDFThis study applies Actor-Network Theory (ANT), Resource-Based View (RBV), and Closed-Loop Supply Chain (CLSC) Theory to investigate the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technology for sustainable waste management in cold chain food supply chains. Using a case study of Company A, supported by datasets such as the Time-Temperature Data and the Google Cloud Blockchain Dataset, the research evaluates how IoT sensors and blockchain systems monitor waste and enhance operational efficiency across supply chain stages. Findings reveal that IoT-enabled real-time monitoring significantly reduces waste by addressing temperature deviations, while blockchain enhances traceability and accountability through immutable record-keeping and smart contracts. The combined application of these technologies demonstrates substantial waste reduction potential, particularly in transportation and distribution stages, aligning with sustainability objectives such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This research provides both theoretical and practical contributions to the adoption of digital tools in sustainable supply chain management
Mainstreaming Biodiversity into Power Sector Planning and Policy to Deliver Better Outcomes for Nature and the Climate
Get PDFThe research aims to investigate how India’s current power sector planning and policy frameworks can be adapted to incorporate biodiversity considerations. It will identify the biodiversity impacts of renewable energy projects, examine the economic and social co-benefits of integrating biodiversity, and assess the challenges and potential solutions for implementing biodiversity-inclusive policies. The study employs a secondary data approach, analyzing national and state-level energy policies, regulatory frameworks, environmental guidelines, academic papers, case studies, and reports from global organizations. It includes a policy review, literature review, biodiversity impact assessment, stakeholder perspectives analysis, and economic and environmental co-benefits evaluation. Data integration and analysis are used to develop a framework for integrating biodiversity into India's power sector policy and planning. The research identifies significant gaps in current policies regarding biodiversity inclusion, such as inadequate biodiversity impact assessments, regulatory inconsistencies, and a lack of cross-sectoral coordination. It highlights the need for policy amendments, best practice guidelines, and collaborative approaches among government, the private sector, and conservation NGOs. The study also underscores the importance of conducting comprehensive environmental impact assessments, utilizing spatial planning approaches, and fostering partnerships to address biodiversity impacts. The research concludes that India's power sector must evolve to include biodiversity considerations as a central component of its planning and policy framework. By doing so, the country can achieve its energy goals while safeguarding its invaluable natural heritage, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between development and nature