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This study explores how machine learning can optimize financial risk management for non-profit organizations by evaluating various algorithms aimed at mitigating loan default risks. The findings indicate that ensemble learning models, such as random forest and LightGBM, significantly improve prediction accuracy, thereby enabling non-profits to better manage financial risk. In the context of the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis, which underscored the volatility of financial markets, this research assesses a range of risks—credit, operational, liquidity, and market risks—while exploring both traditional machine learning and advanced ensemble techniques, with a particular focus on stacking fusion to enhance model performance. Emphasizing the importance of privacy and adaptive methods, this study advocates for interdisciplinary approaches to overcome limitations such as stress testing, data analysis rule formulation, and regulatory collaboration. The research underscores machine learning's crucial role in financial risk control and calls on regulatory authorities to reassess existing frameworks to accommodate evolving risks. Additionally, it highlights the need for accurate data type identification and the potential for machine learning to strengthen financial risk management amid uncertainty, promoting interdisciplinary efforts that address broader issues like environmental sustainability and economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiovascular imaging has revolutionized the field, offering significant advancements in diagnostic accuracy and clinical efficiency. However, the complexity and opacity of AI models, particularly those involving machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), raise critical legal and ethical concerns due to their "black box" nature. This manuscript addresses these concerns by providing a comprehensive review of AI technologies in cardiovascular imaging, focusing on the challenges and implications of the black box phenomenon. We begin by outlining the foundational concepts of AI, including ML and DL, and their applications in cardiovascular imaging. The manuscript delves into the "black box" issue, highlighting the difficulty in understanding and explaining AI decision-making processes. This lack of transparency poses significant challenges for clinical acceptance and ethical deployment. The discussion then extends to the legal and ethical implications of AI's opacity. The need for explicable AI systems is underscored, with an emphasis on the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. The manuscript explores potential solutions such as explainable AI (XAI) techniques, which aim to provide insights into AI decision-making without sacrificing performance. Moreover, the impact of AI explainability on clinical decision-making and patient outcomes is examined. The manuscript argues for the development of hybrid models that combine interpretability with the advanced capabilities of black box systems. It also advocates for enhanced education and training programs for healthcare professionals to equip them with the necessary skills to utilize AI effectively. Patient involvement and informed consent are identified as critical components for the ethical deployment of AI in healthcare. Strategies for improving patient understanding and engagement with AI technologies are discussed, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication and education. Finally, the manuscript calls for the establishment of standardized regulatory frameworks and policies to address the unique challenges posed by AI in healthcare. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and continuous monitoring, the medical community can ensure the responsible integration of AI into cardiovascular imaging, ultimately enhancing patient care and clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive approach is essential in India's ongoing battle against air pollution, combining technological advancements, regulatory reinforcement, and widespread societal engagement. Bridging technological gaps involves deploying sophisticated pollution control technologies and addressing the rural–urban disparity through innovative solutions. The review found that integrating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI&ML) in air quality forecasting demonstrates promising results with a remarkable model efficiency. In this study, initially, we compute the PM2.5 concentration over India using a surface mass concentration of 5 key aerosols such as black carbon (BC), dust (DU), organic carbon (OC), sea salt (SS) and sulphates (SU), respectively. The study identifies several regions highly vulnerable to PM2.5 pollution due to specific sources. The Indo-Gangetic Plains are notably impacted by high concentrations of BC, OC, and SU resulting from anthropogenic activities. Western India experiences higher DU concentrations due to its proximity to the Sahara Desert. Additionally, certain areas in northeast India show significant contributions of OC from biogenic activities. Moreover, an AI&ML model based on convolutional autoencoder architecture underwent rigorous training, testing, and validation to forecast PM2.5 concentrations across India. The results reveal its exceptional precision in PM2.5 prediction, as demonstrated by model evaluation metrics, including a Structural Similarity Index exceeding 0.60, Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio ranging from 28–30 dB and Mean Square Error below 10 μg/m3. However, regulatory challenges persist, necessitating robust frameworks and consistent enforcement mechanisms, as evidenced by the complexities in predicting PM2.5 concentrations. Implementing tailored regional pollution control strategies, integrating AI&ML technologies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting sustainable practices, and encouraging international collaboration are essential policy measures to mitigate air pollution in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the rapidly evolving field of quantum communication, the regulatory framework plays a crucial role in ensuring security, standardization, and international cooperation. This article examines various approaches employed by countries to regulate quantum communication. The purpose of this research is to comprehensively analyze and compare different international approaches to the regulation of quantum communication to identify key features characteristic of the current stage of development and regulation of quantum communication, as well as to develop recommendations for optimizing and improving regulatory governance in this area. The methodological basis of the study consisted of general scientific and special methods. A detailed study of various legal documents, strategies, and standards related to quantum communication was conducted using the following general scientific methods: analysis, synthesis, induction, and system analysis. Among the special legal methods used was the comparative legal method, which made it possible to identify general trends, differences, and unique approaches in the regulation of quantum communication, as well as the formal-legal method for studying legal categories and legislative techniques used in various acts in the studied area. The study systematically examines legislative measures, government policies, and industry standards to determine the relationship between technological innovation and regulatory governance in the field of quantum communication. The research revealed that the regulation of quantum communication is primarily carried out at the level of strategic documents, such as national roadmaps, which contain recommendations and guidelines for regulating quantum communication. It was found that technical standards play a vital role in the development of quantum communication, with this development occurring at both national and international levels. Special groups and centers have been established for the effective implementation, development, and regulation of quantum communication, which allows for the identification of social, legal, political, and ethical issues. The main conclusions include the need to monitor administrative barriers, identify priority sectors for the implementation of quantum communication, and recognize quantum communication as a dual-use technology. It is recommended that an international certification and tracking system be created for quantum communication devices for export and import control purposes.

Abstract A comprehensive approach is essential in India's ongoing battle against air pollution, combining technological advancements, regulatory reinforcement, and widespread societal engagement. Bridging technological gaps involves deploying sophisticated pollution control technologies and addressing the rural–urban disparity through innovative solutions. The review found that integrating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI&ML) in air quality forecasting demonstrates promising results with a remarkable model efficiency. In this study, initially, we compute the PM2.5 concentration over India using a surface mass concentration of 5 key aerosols such as black carbon (BC), dust (DU), organic carbon (OC), sea salt (SS) and sulphates (SU), respectively. The study identifies several regions highly vulnerable to PM2.5 pollution due to specific sources. The Indo-Gangetic Plains are notably impacted by high concentrations of BC, OC, and SU resulting from anthropogenic activities. Western India experiences higher DU concentrations due to its proximity to the Sahara Desert. Additionally, certain areas in northeast India show significant contributions of OC from biogenic activities. Moreover, an AI&ML model based on convolutional autoencoder architecture underwent rigorous training, testing, and validation to forecast PM2.5 concentrations across India. The results reveal its exceptional precision in PM2.5 prediction, as demonstrated by model evaluation metrics, including a Structural Similarity Index exceeding 0.60, Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio ranging from 28–30 dB and Mean Square Error below 10 μg/m3. However, regulatory challenges persist, necessitating robust frameworks and consistent enforcement mechanisms, as evidenced by the complexities in predicting PM2.5 concentrations. Implementing tailored regional pollution control strategies, integrating AI&ML technologies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting sustainable practices, and encouraging international collaboration are essential policy measures to mitigate air pollution in India.

This paper examines the impact of adopting IFRS on economic growth and further development in the Arab Gulf countries, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. It, therefore, answers the research question of how IFRS adoption affects financial transparency, regulatory frameworks, and economic stability in general in oil-dependent economies. Using data from 2010 to 2020, the research uses regression models to test the influence of IFRS adoption on several key economic indicators. The results, thus, indicate that the adoption of IFRS considerably increases the level of transparency and, hence, enables the inflow of FDI as well, therefore ensuring economic growth. This result also sheds light on the critical roles that regulatory solid frameworks and political stability play in amplifying the benefits of IFRS adoption. However, family-based and state-owned enterprises' resistance to increased demands for transparency is an issue that would provide a challenge. Implications for policy will be such that comprehensive reforms will be required with the countries' regulatory frameworks, including more transparency and fitting the IFRS guidelines into local business practice and the cultural context. Future studies should also underscore sector-wise impact and go deeper into how cultural and institutional factors impact the effectiveness of implementing IFRS in the Arab Gulf region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of commercial probiotics for health improvement and disease treatment has increased in popularity among the public in recent years. The local shops and pharmacies are brimming with various probiotic products such as probiotic food, dietary supplement and pharmaceuticals that herald a range of health benefits, from nutraceutical benefits to pharmaceutical effects. However, although the probiotic market is expanding rapidly, there is increasing evidence challenging it. Emerging insights from microbiome research and public health demonstrate several potential limitations of the natural properties, regulatory frameworks, and market consequences of commercial probiotics. In this review, we highlight the potential safety and performance issues of the natural properties of commercial probiotics, from the genetic level to trait characteristics and probiotic properties and further to the probiotic-host interaction. Besides, the diverse regulatory frameworks and confusing probiotic guidelines worldwide have led to product consequences such as pathogenic contamination, overstated claims, inaccurate labeling and counterfeit trademarks for probiotic products. Here, we propose a plethora of available methods and strategies related to strain selection and modification, safety and efficacy assessment, and some recommendations for regulatory agencies to address these limitations to guarantee sustainability and progress in the probiotic industry and improve long-term public health and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary consumer of natural resources is the construction industry. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to assess the factors influencing circular economy practices in building construction projects in Ondo State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Data obtained reveals that economic factors, such as cost-effectiveness (mean = 3.61) and financial viability (mean = 4.11), emerged as primary drivers for adopting CE practices. However, regulatory frameworks were found lacking in promoting CE principles (mean = 1.95). While technological factors like advanced technology usage scored low (mean = 2.29), the employment of innovative technologies for material repurposing was higher (mean = 3.92). Organizational commitment to integrating CE principles received a moderate score (mean = 3.23). The study recommended the need for improved regulatory support, stronger economic incentives, enhanced technological integration, and increased organizational and community engagement to effectively foster CE practices in the construction sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has introduced significant cybersecurity challenges, necessitating innovative solutions to protect these interconnected systems. This paper explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on cybersecurity within the context of IoT. By examining AI's role in enhancing threat detection, predictive analytics, and overall security protocols, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of how AI can transform IoT cybersecurity. This study highlights key findings, discusses their implications, and offers recommendations for future advancements in the field. Furthermore, the study addresses the limitations and potential risks associated with integrating AI into cybersecurity measures, including concerns related to AI-driven false positives and the evolving nature of cyber threats. By integrating case studies and real-world examples, this paper aims to bridge the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications, ultimately guiding industry professionals towards more resilient and adaptive security strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Genome editing and gene drive technologies are increasingly gaining attraction in Africa, with researchers exploring their potential applications in agriculture, health and the environment. Acknowledging that robust regulatory frameworks are crucial in facilitating the development and utilization of these technologies, informed decision-making is, however, being impeded by the fragmented information availability and readiness of regulatory authorities on the continent.ObjectivesThis study investigates the regulatory frameworks governing genome editing and gene drive technologies in African countries, identifies common regulatory challenges and proposes actionable solutions.MethodsPrimary data were collected through questionnaires and complemented by analysing existing biosafety regulations from online databases and scientific literature.ResultsOur findings suggest that while a few African countries have recently updated their regulatory frameworks, many are still under discussion. Challenges to development and implementation include limited resources, expertise, awareness, and public resistance.ConclusionThe findings underscore the urgent need for further development in regulatory capacities. By shedding light on these challenges, our study could provide African regulators with valuable insights to guide the formulation of effective regulatory frameworks. Such frameworks are essential for harnessing the potential of genome editing and gene drive technologies while safeguarding human health and the environment in Africa.

Heavy metals pose significant threats to ecosystems and human health due to their persistence and bioaccumulation. In Thailand, rapid industrialization, extensive agriculture, and urban development have exacerbated heavy metal pollution in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This systematic review, conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, evaluates study designs and methodologies to assess heavy metal bioaccumulation in Thai fauna, with a focus on ecological and health impacts. The review reveals that fish, particularly from families like Cyprinidae and Cichlidae, account for 42.11 % of studies, with species such as swamp eel, Henicorhynchus siamensis, Arius maculatus, Osteogeneiosus militaris, Puntioplites proctozystron, and Channa striata showing significant bioaccumulation. Molluscs (31.58 %), including Tegillarca granosa and Filopaludina martensi, serve as critical bioindicators of aquatic pollution due to their filter-feeding habits. Amphibians and crustaceans, like Fejervarya limnocharis and Fenneropenaeus merguiensis, also demonstrate vulnerability to heavy metal contamination. Key contamination hotspots include urban waterways in Bangkok, industrial discharges in Songkhla Lake, and mining sites in Loei Province, highlighting widespread environmental and health impacts. Despite extensive research, gaps remain, particularly concerning benthic scavengers and detritivores, which are vital for ecosystem functions. The review underscores the need for targeted monitoring and mitigation, including stricter regulations on industrial discharges, improved waste treatment, and better management of agricultural runoff. While metals like cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) are well-studied, further research on less-examined metals and species-specific bioaccumulation patterns is crucial to enhancing environmental management, supporting biodiversity conservation, and improving ecosystem resilience in Thailand.

The first point of contact for patients and families seeking professional help for health problems is often in nonspecialist community healthcare settings that vary widely across the countries in funding sources, resources and support from specialist services. They typically involve general practitioners, family physicians, general and community paediatricians, and nonphysician health workers such as nurses, social workers and public health professionals. This article discusses the role of nonspecialists in addressing the challenges of limited resources in Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMH) care services as healthcare systems struggle to meet the high demand. Stakeholders and decision‐makers need to reconsider traditional healthcare models and service delivery. Integrating nonspecialist community care can be a potential solution but is beset with ethical, geopolitical, practical and economic challenges. The urgency and complexity of the issue are highlighted, emphasising the need for global discussion around CAMH care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractAmong the many verticals in India’s rich kaleidoscope of tourism services, agritourism offers a vivid rural experience to tourists. National and state-level tourism policies focused on agritourism play a pivotal role in its performance enhancement. Despite its potential, the country needs a foundational framework through a National Tourism Policy. This missing link encouraged us to conduct a scoping review to synthesize and understand policy interventions in India aimed at promoting agritourism by following the guidelines espoused by Arksey and O’Malley. Individual policies of India’s states and union territories were synthesized to understand the significance of agritourism in the region. We also searched for scientific articles on Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar that focused on agritourism development through policy dimensions and regulatory frameworks. The results are presented through the lens of Carol Bacchi's framework. In the final review, 23 documents were included. Our findings reflect an urgent need to develop and implement policies that define strategic and financial support to encourage farmers to take up agritourism on their land. In addition, the development of agritourism policies must be followed by implementation and monitoring through definitive institutional mechanisms.

Nanomaterials (NMs) are having a huge impact in several domains, including the fabrication of medical devices (MDs). Hence, nanostructured MDs are becoming quite common; nevertheless, the associated risks must be carefully considered in order to demonstrate safety prior to their immission on the market. The biological effect of NMs requires the consideration of methodological issues since already established methods for, e.g., cytotoxicity can be subject to a loss of accuracy in the presence of certain NMs. The need for oversight of MDs containing NMs is reflected by the European Regulation 2017/745 on MDs, which states that MDs incorporating or consisting of NMs are in class III, at highest risk, unless the NM is encapsulated or bound in such a manner that the potential for its internal exposure is low or negligible (Rule 19). This study addresses the role of NMs in medical devices, highlighting the current applications and considering the regulatory requirements of such products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of the research is the transformative impact of digital platforms on traditional market structures. Qualitative research is used to gain a deep understanding of how traditional market structures are impacted by digital platforms. Interviews with eight participants highlight the shift towards gig and freelance work, the erosion of traditional employment protections, and the emergence of new business models facilitated by technological advancements. The study adopted thematic analysis to analyze the collected data. The study reveals that digital platforms have significantly lowered barriers to market entry and fostered economic inclusion. As a result, the initial costs of starting a business have significantly decreased. However, they have also introduced complexities surrounding labor rights and necessitated a re-evaluation of regulatory frameworks to address monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition. This is due to the lack of labor regulations protection for freelance workers compared to traditional employment. The study stresses the need for agile, forward-looking, and internationally coordinated regulatory approaches to effectively govern digital platforms, balancing innovation with the protection of consumer and worker rights. Such an approach should aim to address the current challenges but also anticipate future developments by ensuring that regulations evolve in tandem with technological advancements without stifling innovation. Furthermore, fostering technological literacy among lawmakers, adopting adaptive regulatory frameworks, and ensuring the inclusion of diverse perspectives are crucial steps towards achieving effective governance of digital technologies. The findings contribute to the ongoing dialogue on digital governance, offering insights for policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders in crafting regulations that harness the benefits of digital platforms while mitigating their negative impacts on society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The popularity of bottled drinking water stems from its convenience and purity, driving its rapid growth, but concerns about safety and quality persist. Physicochemical and microbiological parameters of bottled drinking in Dodoma City were evaluated from September to December 2023. Additionally, key informant interviews and questionnaire surveys were conducted with government regulators, producers, and consumers on regulatory frameworks, production processes, and consumer perceptions. Overall, all brands tested were suitable for drinking and met World Health Organization and Tanzania Bureau of Standards guidelines. The total dissolved solids (F = 0.86, p < 0.05), calcium (F = 5.26, p < 0.05) and chloride (F = 0.32, p < 0.05) were significantly different, while other parameters were not (p > 0.05) between measured and labelled values. The total viable and coliform counts in two brands (10%) of water were higher than the suggested levels of 100 cfu/ml and 0 cfu/ml, respectively. Bottling companies reported observance of quality control measures (93%), adherence to regulations (91%), transparency in production processes (86%), and consumer awareness of labels, expiration dates, and trust in the bottled water industry (95%). Public awareness, inspection, and testing of bottled water, as well as strengthening the existing framework, are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research delves into integrating blockchain technology in green finance, uncovering its potential for amplifying transparency and efficiency in sustainable investments. It fills a void by elucidating blockchain's role within environmental and financial contexts and examining pragmatic applications under the Paris Climate Agreement. The study underscores how profoundly transformative blockchain can be, notably impacting energy distribution, waste management, and water resource monitoring. The research additionally emphasises the impact of blockchain on tokenisation strategies within the green bond market, a phenomenon that promotes liquidity and accessibility. It acknowledges promising opportunities and identifies challenges, such as funding gaps and regulatory structures prevalent in the renewable energy sector. The study highlights the need for customised regulations and an international framework to unleash blockchain's potential in sustainable finance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In terms of the definition of a biologic and the technical specifications for approval, the United States and the European Union have different but overlapping regulatory frameworks for biologics. The term "biological product" has been used in the United States for a long time, and its understanding is still influenced by historical background. Biologics are primarily categorised in the European Union based on the components that make them up and the processes used to make them. Notwithstanding these differences, both jurisdictions agree that biologics require particular handling due to their unique qualities, such as their complicated structures and vulnerability to change during manufacturing. Biologics are subject to the general approval process in the EU as well as a few unique restrictions, in contrast to the US, where Congress passed a special statute for them. There is significant overlap in the standards imposed by both regions despite the fact that US and EU authorities have made steps to harmonise some technical requirements for biologics applications. An overview of the regulatory frameworks in the US and the EU is given in this chapter, covering everything from nonclinical trials to clinical trials and approval. The article then goes through approval and rejections in the us and Europe [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This policy insights paper explores the development of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region over the past three decades and argues that although GCC states did not embark on a full-fledged experience with PPPs, unstable oil and gas prices are changing this approach. PPPs are increasingly gaining strong political support, and GCC states have made numerous reforms to the existing regulatory and institutional systems to enable a more extensive uptake of PPPs that encompasses a broader spectrum of social and economic infrastructure services. This article offers an overview of the historical development of PPPs in the GCC region since the 1990s, illustrating policy discussions and motivations for adopting PPPs, the meaning and types of PPP projects that have been implemented or planned in the region, and the most recent developments in the regulatory and institutional frameworks underpinning PPPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The International Coffee Convention 2023 comprehensively addressed the contemporary challenges and advancements in the coffee industry, emphasizing sustainability, health, and innovation. This convention gathered experts and stakeholders to explore diverse aspects of coffee, ranging from the potential of underutilized species like Coffea liberica in terms of climate resilience to the innovative use of coffee by-products. The convention featured presentations and discussions, employing both empirical research and analytical reviews to explore various topics, including the health benefits of coffee, the advancements in traceability and authentication methods, and the impact of global regulatory changes on coffee production and trade. The key findings highlighted the importance of biodiversity in coffee production as a response to climate change, the significant health benefits and sustainability potential of coffee by-products, and the evolving landscape of coffee consumption patterns driven by technological innovations. The convention also stressed the need for alignment in global coffee trade regulations, particularly concerning deforestation and traceability. The 2023 convention underscored the complexity and interconnectivity of the coffee industry's challenges and opportunities. It concluded with a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing the need for continued research, sustainable practices, and collaborative efforts to shape the future of the coffee industry. The community is looking forward to furthering these discussions at the next International Coffee Convention in 2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the integration of telemental health services for older adults. But such digitization also created new complexities regarding equitable access, privacy, and regulation. This article summarizes the evolving digital mental health landscape, focusing on regulatory frameworks, inherent risks, and the transformative potential of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Also covered are shifts in Medicare coverage and calls for standardized guidelines, interdisciplinary collaboration and robust regulation focused on patient privacy and AI ethics. Despite challenges, AI-driven diagnostic, monitoring, and intervention tools offer insights into mental health trajectories, using data generated by wearables, social media, and immersive technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The healthcare sector is faced with challenges due to a shrinking healthcare workforce and a rise in chronic diseases that are worsening with demographic and epidemiological shifts. Digital health interventions that include artificial intelligence (AI) are being identified as some of the potential solutions to these challenges. The ultimate aim of these AI systems is to improve the patient's health outcomes and satisfaction, the overall population's health, and the well-being of healthcare professionals. The applications of AI in healthcare services are vast and are expected to assist, automate, and augment several healthcare services. Like any other emerging innovation, AI in healthcare also comes with its own risks and requires regulatory controls. A review of the literature was undertaken to study the existing regulatory landscape for AI in the healthcare services sector in developed nations. In the global regulatory landscape, most of the regulations for AI revolve around Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) and are regulated under digital health products. However, it is necessary to note that the current regulations may not suffice as AI-based technologies are capable of working autonomously, adapting their algorithms, and improving their performance over time based on the new real-world data that they have encountered. Hence, a global regulatory convergence for AI in healthcare, similar to the voluntary AI code of conduct that is being developed by the US-EU Trade and Technology Council, would be beneficial to all nations, be it developing or developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary consumer of natural resources is the construction industry. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to assess the factors influencing circular economy practices in building construction projects in Ondo State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Data obtained reveals that economic factors, such as cost-effectiveness (mean = 3.61) and financial viability (mean = 4.11), emerged as primary drivers for adopting CE practices. However, regulatory frameworks were found lacking in promoting CE principles (mean = 1.95). While technological factors like advanced technology usage scored low (mean = 2.29), the employment of innovative technologies for material repurposing was higher (mean = 3.92). Organizational commitment to integrating CE principles received a moderate score (mean = 3.23). The study recommended the need for improved regulatory support, stronger economic incentives, enhanced technological integration, and increased organizational and community engagement to effectively foster CE practices in the construction sector.

This study explores the impact of Islamic loans on promoting financial inclusion and addressing socio-economic issues in Muslim-majority countries. It compares Islamic loans with other financial instruments to demonstrate their contribution to creating an inclusive financial system.The research analyzes the challenges associated with using Islamic loans to enhance financial inclusiveness and mitigate economic and social challenges. The research explores the unique characteristics of Islamic loans and their impact on financial accessibility, savings, credit availability, and comprehensive banking services through a comparative descriptive methodology, including a literature review and data analysis. The study's findings reveal that Islamic finance presents opportunities for financial inclusion. However, there are several obstacles that need to be addressed, including regulatory and legal frameworks, scalability issues, global integration, public awareness, and technical accessibility. To promote the adoption of Islamic finance and advance financial inclusion, collaboration among regulatory bodies, financial institutions, legislators, and the public is crucial. Further research and the development of effective strategies are necessary to promote financial inclusion in the Islamic economy.

Afghanistan's Electronic Banking (E-Banking) landscape is experiencing a transformative shift amidst post-conflict challenges, technological innovation, and evolving societal dynamics. This research delves into the complex landscape of E-Banking adoption in the Afghan banking sector, unravelling the intricate relationships among technological innovation, regulatory frameworks, and customer dynamics. With 180 participants in a cross-sectional design, combining quantitative survey data and qualitative insights from interviews, the study employs regression and correlation analysis, ANOVA, and t-tests for preliminary analysis. Exploring the relationships between variables, operational efficiency, and customer perceptions, ethical considerations uphold participant confidentiality. The study's significance lies in contributing to academic discourse and offering practical insights into the Afghan banking industry, shedding light on the nuanced dynamics of E-Banking adoption. The findings provide valuable implications for policymakers and financial institutions by emphasising technology, regulation, and customer-centric perspectives. Navigating post-conflict challenges, this research aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing digital transformation.The inclusion of a complete conclusion underscores the study's potential impact on shaping interventions for sustainable growth in Afghanistan's financial sector.

This study explores how machine learning can optimize financial risk management for non-profit organizations by evaluating various algorithms aimed at mitigating loan default risks. The findings indicate that ensemble learning models, such as random forest and LightGBM, significantly improve prediction accuracy, thereby enabling non-profits to better manage financial risk. In the context of the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis, which underscored the volatility of financial markets, this research assesses a range of risks—credit, operational, liquidity, and market risks—while exploring both traditional machine learning and advanced ensemble techniques, with a particular focus on stacking fusion to enhance model performance. Emphasizing the importance of privacy and adaptive methods, this study advocates for interdisciplinary approaches to overcome limitations such as stress testing, data analysis rule formulation, and regulatory collaboration. The research underscores machine learning’s crucial role in financial risk control and calls on regulatory authorities to reassess existing frameworks to accommodate evolving risks. Additionally, it highlights the need for accurate data type identification and the potential for machine learning to strengthen financial risk management amid uncertainty, promoting interdisciplinary efforts that address broader issues like environmental sustainability and economic development.