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Frontier and laggard firms are always engaged in the process of building capabilities through continuous ‘learning’ to compete in the technologically driven world. Firms focus on ‘learning by Doing, Using and Interacting’ (DUI) and/ or ‘learning by Science, Technology, and Innovation’ (STI) modes. Usually, in the initial stages, firms learn through the DUI mode; subsequently they upgrade through combining DUI with the STI mode of learning, followed with an advanced stage where they increasingly invest in the STI mode of learning. In this context, it is important to determine how ‘learning’ happens within the clustered firms in a developing economy. Therefore, we have taken the case of machine-tools firms located in the district of Ludhiana in the north Indian state of Punjab. We draw data through self-structured questionnaires from 101 machine-tools manufacturing firms and employed exploratory factor analysis to identify the factors through which the industrial advances are ‘learned’ by the firms. It was found that in the sample firms the five important factors that affect ‘learning’ are ‘networking’, ‘imitation’, ‘industrial institutions’, ‘customer feedback’ and ‘codified knowledge’, in that order of the importance. It was observed that the firms are mainly, ‘technology adopters’ and ‘technology modifiers’ rather than ‘technology developers’. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this short essay, Steve Blank describes his personal experiences and his role in founding the Lean Startup movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing an electromagnetic wave absorber that can meet the needs of wide frequency, high efficiency, wide‐angle absorption and strong mechanical bearing capacity is still a challenge. In this paper, a core‐shell structure Carbonyl iron powder (CIP)@Carbon (C)@Carbon black (CB) composite material was prepared by coating and vacuum carbonization process. Using it as a filler, PLA as a matrix to prepare 3D printing composites. The unique structure and material distribution of CIP@C@CB gives the composite a variety of loss mechanisms that greatly improve microwave absorption capacity. Superstructure electromagnetic wave absorbers with integrating broadband microwave absorption and good mechanical bearing performance were designed and prepared by using CIP@C@CB/PLA 3D printing composites. By optimizing the parameters of this superstructure absorber, an EAB of 5.5–18 GHz is realized, and its yield limit reaches 11.5 MPa. In addition, the superstructure absorber also has excellent wide‐angle absorption capacity, with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 10GHz at 0°–40° transverse radio (TE) and 0–70° transverse magnetic wave (TM). This research offers a straightforward and effective method for crafting broadband wide‐angle absorbers that possess the added advantage of mechanical load‐bearing capacity. Highlights: The core‐shell structure was prepared by coating and carbonization processes.The unique structure of CIP@C@CB enhances the interfacial polarization effect.At a thickness of 2 mm, 30% CIP@C@CB/PLA achieves a maximum EAB of 5.0 GHz.The stepped structure achieves 90% effective absorption in the 5.5–18 GHz range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractWith the size reduction of structures into micro/nanoscale, the size-dependent effect arises in mechanical properties. For micro/nanostructures working in transient thermal environment, the thermal relaxation needs to be considered in heat conduction. Functionally graded carbon nanotubes/graphene platelets reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC/GPLRC) materials as new generation of advanced materials have attracted much attention due to their excellent mechanical or thermoelastic performance. Though the mechanical or non-coupled thermoelastic behaviors of beam, plate and shell made of FG-CNTRC/GPLRC materials have been extensively studied, there lacks of investigations on the coupled thermoelastic behaviors of micro/nanostructures of FG-CNTRC/GPLRC in the context of generalized thermoelasticity where both the elastic nonlocality and thermal relaxation need to be considered. To fill this gap, in this work, the Lord–Shulman (L-S) type generalized thermoelasticity incorporating the fractional-order nonlocal theory is applied to investigating the thermoelastic bending wave propagation characteristics of a nanocomposite microbeam reinforced by GPLs and CNTs simultaneously for the first time. The Halpin–Tsai micromechanical model is used to assess the effective elastic modulus and the other properties are evaluated by the rule of mixture. Then, the governing equations are formulated based on the Euler–Bernoulli beam model. By assuming the wave-type solutions, the governing equations are solved and the dispersion relation between frequency and wave number and the relation between phase velocity and wave number are determined, respectively. In calculation, the effects of the thermal relaxation time, the elastic nonlocal parameter, the fractional order parameter and the mass fractions of GPLs and CNTs on the dimensionless frequency and phase velocity are analyzed and discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the collective behavior of micro/nanorobots has shown unprecedented potential in biomedicine and environmental remediation. Collective behavior can work more efficiently, adaptively, and robustly than individual micro/nanorobots. The paradigm of collective behavior needs to be understood in different dimensions, including from individual to cluster, from planar to spatial, and from mono‐functional to multifunctional. In this review, the focus will be on summarizing the achievements of collective control of micro/nanorobot swarms in recent years from different dimensions, in an attempt to better understand how the structure and materials of individuals should be designed, how collective behavior should be implemented, and how robots are functionalized to cope with practical applications under the introduction of collective control. The opportunities and challenges that collective control faces at this stage are illustrated to provide perspectives for its future development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Davao de Oro by employing descriptive quantitative research. The focus is on demographics and operational characteristics. Twelve registered MSMEs from five municipalities were included using convenience sampling. Our analysis revealed a dynamic entrepreneurial landscape among respondents aged 26-30 years old, with a significant presence of female entrepreneurs. Maragusan and New Bataan emerged as central hubs, reflecting diverse geographical distribution. The duration of operations indicated a mix of newer and established enterprises, and a substantial portion of surveyed businesses operated with moderate monthly expenses. Perceptions regarding the impact of lockdown measures were consistent, with a significant proportion of respondents perceiving severe negative effects, particularly at Level 5. This study underscores the challenges faced by MSMEs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for tailored policies to support diverse business needs. Policymakers are urged to leverage these insights for evidence-based interventions, considering the urgency of addressing economic repercussions and promoting resilient recovery in Davao de Oro. Suggested strategies include financial assistance, business continuity programs, and capacity-building initiatives to alleviate hardships and foster economic recovery post-COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A vibrant Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector is fundamental for ongoing development in both advanced and emerging economies. MSMEs are significant employment providers, particularly in OECD countries, employing around two-thirds of the formal workforce. In India, MSMEs play an important role in the economy by fostering entrepreneurial culture, innovation, and job creation. They are well-distributed across various economic sectors, catering to domestic and international markets. As of November 2021, India had approximately 63.38 million MSMEs, with significant portions in manufacturing and trading, contributing about 29% to India's GDP. Despite their economic importance, MSMEs face significant challenges in securing financing, particularly working capital. Compared to larger businesses, MSMEs have higher capital intensity per unit of revenue due to limited internal cash reserves, making timely access to affordable finance essential. Liquidity issues, primarily due to delayed payments from corporate buyers, exacerbate these challenges. The Reserve Bank of India introduced the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) in 2014 to address these issues by facilitating the financing of MSME trade receivables from corporate buyers through multiple financiers. This study examines the condition of MSMEs in India, their economic significance, and their financing challenges, with a particular focus on the TReDS e-discounting platform. The study updates the literature by detailing the TReDS process, presenting recent data on its growth, and identifying current challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steppe peony (Paeonia tenuifolia L.) is a strictly protected herbaceous species in Serbia, yet its growing conditions, nutrient needs, and heavy metal status are under-researched. This research is vital for conservation, as it supports sustainable cultivation, genetic diversity, and habitat restoration. This study addresses the gap in understanding how climate and soil characteristics affect P. tenuifolia, particularly regarding nutrient availability and heavy metal accumulation. Despite its recognized medicinal value, insufficient data on environmental impacts limit effective conservation and cultivation strategies. Addressing this gap will help determine optimal growth conditions and ensure the species' survival and medicinal use. Data on P. tenuifolia natural habitats in Serbia were collected following the Descriptor List for medicinal plants. Field and laboratory analyses assessed climatic and soil characteristics, as well as macro- and microelement contents and heavy metals in soil and plant organs. In Serbia, P. tenuifolia thrives in a semi-arid steppe climate on light, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.9–7.4. The soils are rich in humus (4.36–5.76%) and nitrogen (0.34–0.37%), but low in phosphorus (1.16–3.50 mg/100 g) and variable in potassium (12.5–52.4 mg/100 g). Soil microelements are abundant, and harmful heavy metals are below critical levels. Plant organs, including flowers, seeds, leaves, and stems, show high phosphorus and magnesium levels, while potassium, manganese, and copper are generally low. The levels of potentially harmful elements like cadmium and chromium are near the maximum-allowed limits, suggesting avoidance of highly acidic soils for the cultivation of P. tenuifolia. Among the examined soils, Arenic chernozem is recommended for preserving the species' natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article attempts to understand the impact of Covid-19 induced disruptions on the business activities of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Southern State of Tamil Nadu, through a primary survey conducted in Chennai, Coimbatore, Sivakasi, Tiruppur and Tiruchirappalli districts of the State during February-March 2022. Survey results indicate that MSMEs’ sales and liquidity were severely affected during the pandemic, with 65 per cent of the surveyed firms reporting decline in sales and 86 per cent reporting decline in liquidity. The proportion of firms receiving some Government support during Covid-19 was the highest in the micro category. Among various schemes, the outreach of the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) was found to be highest. Econometric analysis suggests that the incidence of shutdown was significantly higher among the ‘micro’ category. Further, revenue loss to a greater extent was more likely among the manufacturing MSMEs as compared to the MSMEs in the services sector, though job losses due to retrenchment was more likely in the case of MSMEs in the services sector. Exporting firms, firms with a website and firms selling online were less likely to face a sharp fall in liquidity. Though MSMEs were found to be optimistic about overall business situation and turnover going forward, these firms remained wary of increased cost of finance, raw material, and wage bill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to investigate the contribution of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to the economic well-being and earnings of their owners/managers with reference to the Cachar district of Assam. A standardised questionnaire is utilised to collect data from 200 randomly chosen MSMEs operating in the Cachar district of Assam, a developing region of India, to accomplish the aim of the study. Descriptive statistics are used to analyse the collected data. Additionally, the study employs Wilcoxon signed-rank test to examine the statistical difference between the income of MSME owners/managers before and after joining MSMEs. The results demonstrate that MSMEs enhance the monthly income of 74 per cent of owners/managers. The results of the Wilcoxon signed-rank test indicate that the median income of MSME owners/managers has significantly increased after their involvement in MSMEs. The study also indicates that almost 9 out of every 10 MSMEs generate earnings of the owner-managers above the poverty line, whereas 83.9 per cent of MSMEs generate household income of owners/managers above the defined poverty line. MSMEs significantly improve the households' material well-being by enhancing the spending ability of their owners/managers and increasing asset holding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore and nuclear power plants use titanium condensers to cool exhaust steam from turbines. Preparation of robust superhydrophobic Titanium surfaces is necessary to protect these condensers from fouling and pitting phenomena. This study investigates the impact of various laser-textured Titanium grade 2 surface configurations followed by silicone oil heat treatment on enhancing its wettability and tribological properties. Seven distinct micropatterns were fabricated using a fiber laser with a laser power of 7.5 W, a scanning speed of 300 mm/s, a scan loop of 10, and a pulse frequency of 20 kHz. Patterned surfaces were characterized using different techniques, namely, micro-hardness, surface morphology, wettability, elemental analysis and wear. Improvement in wetting property was observed in laser textured samples after heating with silicone oil due to the adsorption of nonpolar groups (C=O, –CH3) resulting in a low energy surface. The grid pattern surface exhibited the highest water contact angle (WCA) of 151.01° due to a dense microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to examine the use of project management practices in Slovenian micro and small firms (MSFs) and to identify project success factors (SF) and project success criteria (SC).

A circular economy has become an innovative business model, though contentious, to replace a linear economy in achieving sustainable and efficient production. This study aims to investigate the level of awareness, adoption, and effect of factors driving the circular economy adoption on the financial performance of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Saudi Arabia. The survey was conducted among 301 MSMEs, and the method of logistic regression was utilized for its analysis. The results revealed that the level of awareness is averagely high, with an average of seven out of 10 enterprises. However, the outcome further showed that only an average of three out of 10 had implemented a circular economy during the period of the survey. In addition, logistic regression revealed the significant influence of drivers of circular economy adoption on the financial performance of MSMEs. The following drivers of circular economy adoption have a great likelihood and significant effect on the enterprise’s financial performance: training of employees, availability of financial resources, top management commitment, digital technology, product/service upgrade, material generated/buy back cheaper to use, and pressure from people. This is based on the outcome of logistic regression of the survey conducted on the factors driving circular economy adoption in the previous literature. However, the results revealed that regulatory incentives toward the environment and pressure from government and companies are not significant. Hence, this study provides policy implications for stakeholders in the circular economic system.

Industry 4.0, or I4.0, uses digitalization, blockchain technology (BCT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to improve supply chain responsiveness and efficiency while cutting costs. Production planning (PP) is emphasized in manufacturing, a critical stage of supply chain management (SCM). In order to meet changing customer demands and optimize manufacturing processes, researchers concentrate on creating customized PP modules for use within enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. ERP modules support predictive analytics for ideal inventory levels, resource needs, and supply chain risks in addition to managing operations. However, it is financially difficult for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to implement a comprehensive ERP system. Implementing ERP in MSMEs for production scheduling is challenging due to time, information technology (IT) expertise, and cost constraints, especially for make-to-order (MTO) MSMEs. Microsoft Excel (MS Excel) and Power BI offer a better alternative with easier learning, customization, quicker implementation, and lower cost. This solution integrates both for efficient production scheduling and resource planning. A concurrent, adaptable PP system that integrates MS Excel and Power BI is suggested as a solution to this problem. Machine schedules and important performance indicators are projected onto an operational dashboard by this system, which is intended for a parallel machine environment. The objective is to find the best combination of shifts (s = 1 to 3) and machines (m = 1 to 6) for a workload through 18 simulations, helping planners to meet delivery deadlines. The PP system's ideal combination changes over the course of six weeks of simulations, from 1s-1m to 3s-5m to 2s-3m, demonstrating its flexibility in response to shifting production demands. Despite fluctuating workload over six weeks, (i) 92% orders met the 45-day lead time, (ii) plant ran continuously for a month (100% achievement), and (iii) visibility for stakeholder was enhanced with efficient resource planning and providing scope for further detailed analysis towards improving important performance indicators.

Introduction: Nigeria is Africa's most populous country, third largest fish producer, and second largest aquaculture producer. There have been numerous studies of aquaculture and fisheries in Nigeria, but no study to date has analyzed aquaculture and capture fisheries value chains together, while giving equal weight to all value chain segments and systematically capturing information on temporal trends in value chain structure, conduct, and performance. This paper does so. Methods: We conducted a structured, qualitative, rapid reconnaissance survey of 180 actors from eight segments of the aquatic food value chain in three Nigerian states with contrasting geographies, Ebonyi, Kebbi, and Oyo. Results: Results particularly important for future research and policy are as follows. (1) Partial vertical integration is a common feature of the organization of firms in all value chain segments, as a risk reduction strategy to overcome market imperfections and frictions. Scarcity and high cost of imported intermediate inputs is stimulating local innovation and import substitution manufacturing of feeds and fabricated items. (2) Inter-sectoral spillovers from the poultry industry have hastened the development of fish value chains, while improvements in power supply have enabled the expansion of cold storage capacity, facilitating the geographical lengthening of frozen fish value chains. (3) Rapid technological and/or institutional change is occurring in all value chain segments, including those usually viewed as traditional, such as processing and fishing. Logistics services are becoming more specialized and sophisticated, and digital communications technologies including social media play an increasingly important role in value chain coordination and marketing. (4) Increasing opportunity costs of time drive demand for convenience foods such as smoked and fried fish, which require little further preparation and can be stored at room temperature. Demand for farmed catfish is linked to growing consumption of food away from home at bars and restaurants. (5) Significant opportunities exist to improve the performance of value chains in terms of gender equity, environmental impacts, and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) activities in Cilegon City are one of the growing business sectors to support the national economy. For business actors starting a business, they need to think about the concept of business and intellectual property protection. In the business world, Intellectual Property can be one of the important elements because it can give the owner an advantage over the results of his invention. This study aims to determine the concept and product innovation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Selar Fish Crackers in Warnasari Village, Citangkil District, Cilegon City, and to determine the legal protection of intellectual property for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME products), Selar Fish Crackers in Warnasari Village, Citangkil District, Cilegon City. This research uses qualitative methods and empirical juridical approaches. Where the research is conducted by looking at the law as a norm or das sollen and as a socio-cultural reality or das sein obtained directly from the research location. The data analysis technique uses descriptive analytical techniques. The results showed that the concept and innovation of MSMEs is the first step taken to develop the Akbar Jaya Fish Crackers business and protect intellectual property in its products, one of which is by registering the brand to the Directorate General of Intellectual Property to obtain legal certainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, small and medium enterprises worldwide have increasingly adopted digital technologies and cloud computing. The pace of this digital transition has varied across countries, and the socioeconomic conditions during the pandemic have further accelerated the digitalization of enterprises. This situation calls for an examination of the reasons, benefits, and risks associated with enterprises adopting cloud computing in different settings. Our study aimed to collect longitudinal data from 71 Montenegrin micro, small, and medium enterprises. We conducted a repeated measurement study with two measurement periods: 2017 and 2023. The quantitative results were analyzed alongside qualitative data from a semi-structured interview (N = 15) conducted in 2023. The findings revealed substantial shifts in SME attitudes towards cloud computing, highlighting key catalysts and influencing factors such as security, technological accessibility, external expertise, effort expectations, privacy, social influence, perceived security and safety, ease of use, and usefulness. These factors were examined in the context of global digital innovation, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and recent cyberattacks that disrupted national e-services in Montenegro for 3–9 months. The findings provide new insights into how enterprises can become more prepared to effectively use cloud computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabricating micro-pillars is a tough procedure as these features are highly debile. Wire Electro-Discharge Machining (WEDM) is a popular micromachining process to fabricate complex features on electrical conducting materials. SS304 stainless steel is commonly used in manufacturing of heating and cooling devices. A simple method of micro-pillars array fabrication on SS304 Stainless Steel material using WEDM was used through perpendicular crossed wire movement, keeping specified amount of step-over distance to form pillars. An analytical model for material removal rate prediction was developed using input parameters like spark duration, off time, voltage and current. Also, the influence of the process parameters was studied on depth and kerf width produced. Voltage and pulse-on time were found to be the major influencing parameters. Micro-featured surfaces fabricated for minimum kerf width and maximum feature depth were analysed using SEM and EDS along with the wettability study. The fabricated surfaces remained hydrophobic even after 100s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, micro-electric discharge drilling (µEDD) is conducted on a titanium grade 2 alloy using a tungsten carbide (WC) tool electrode of 496 µm diameter. Capacitance, voltage, and feed rate are selected as machining variables to conduct the experiments based on the full factorial experimental design method. Overcut, material removal rate (MRR), circularity, and hole taper are considered as performance measures. Furthermore, overall evaluation criteria (OEC) is utilized for multiple-objective optimization by allotting varying and equal weight percentages to each response measure. The results of OECs are compared with a revolutionary heuristic multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA), resulting in a similar optimal parametric combination and close response measures are obtained. Micrographic investigation demonstrates that at lower capacitance and voltage levels, there is less burr formation, recast layer, and circularity error. Moreover, FESEM and EDS analyses are employed to investigate the machined surface topology and elemental composition respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the critical importance of destination resilience in enhancing tourism, particularly in the wake of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary aim of the research is to analyze how effective governance, stakeholder engagement, resource management, and risk assessment contribute to the resilience of tourist destinations and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). To achieve this, the study employs a comprehensive literature review methodology, synthesizing existing research on destination resilience strategies and their implications for tourism promotion. The findings reveal that destination resilience plans significantly impact tourism performance, stakeholder participation, and sustainable development. Additionally, the study highlights the necessity of integrating innovative practices and technology to bolster the resilience of tourism sectors. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights for destination management organizations, policymakers, and industry researchers, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and collaboration to foster longterm sustainability and resilience in tourism. The study serves as a foundation for future investigations and policy-making in the realm of sustainable tourism, addressing existing gaps in the literature and offering practical recommendations for enhancing destination resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almonds are one of the most popular and widely consumed tree nuts in the world, prized for their taste, texture, and nutritional benefits. However, the quality and characteristics of almonds can vary significantly depending on the variety and growing conditions. In this context, a comparative study was conducted to explore the nut quality traits of almond local and foreign cultivars, as well as their F1 hybrid offspring resulting from crossbreeding. "Nut quality" is a dynamic concept changing based on consumer needs and perceptions that reflect sociocultural evolution. The aim of this study was to identify the most promising almond varieties and hybrids based on some nut quality traits including macro–micro elements and tocopherol contents. To accomplish this goal, samples were collected from local (Gulcan 2 and Nurlu) and foreign (Lauranne and Guara) almond cultivars, as well as F1 hybrid offspring resulting in two cross-breading ("Gulcan 2 × Lauranne" and "Guara × Nurlu"), and conducted a comprehensive analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Our results showed that the nut quality traits of almonds can vary significantly among different cultivars and hybrids, with some varieties and hybrids exhibiting superior characteristics compared to others. These findings provide important insights into the potential for improving almond quality through crossbreeding and the development of new varieties with improved characteristics which can help inform breeding programs and improve the quality of almonds available in the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Exacta is the property of Exacta - Engenharia de Producao and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper provides a systematic review of the literature on big data capabilities, business model innovation, firm performance, and environmental uncertainty. It aims to establish a foundation for theoretical modeling, research proposition refinement, and the overall research framework by meticulously examining the theoretical backgrounds of existing studies and identifying research gaps. An initial search yielded 1,360 articles, which were filtered to remove duplicates and irrelevant studies, resulting in 475 articles for final analysis. These articles were classified into three main categories: the relationship between big data capabilities and business model innovation, the impact of business model innovation on firm performance, and the integrated relationship involving environmental uncertainty. Additionally, it examines the mediating role of business model innovation on firm performance as well as the moderating effect of environmental uncertainty on these relationships. Finally, the paper formulates research hypotheses and discusses identified research gaps, establishing a solid groundwork for methodological discussions in future research and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Oeconomicus is the property of Znanstvena Rijec d.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector plays a vital role in the growth of the economies of developing countries. Similarly, microfinance facilities are crucial to MSMEs financial performance as they facilitate the growth and development of MSMEs. This study, therefore, investigates the effects of microfinance on MSME performance in Jos metropolis of Plateau State. The research design is descriptive and employs the survey method. Simple random sampling technique was adopted as a technique in selecting the 323 MSMEs that form the sample size of the study. A structured questionnaire was used in the collection of relevant data used for analysis. Data was presented through the use of frequency tables and Chi-square test was used to carry out the analysis. The study found that microfinance has a positive effect on sales revenue and profitability and non-current assets. The study recommends creating awareness especially for women on the importance of microfinance in entrepreneurship development. The study also recommends that the Plateau State government should set up and implement policies that will ease access to microfinance credit by MSMEs, especially from microfinance banks. The study also recommends the granting of more loans to women to increase the number of women engaged in entrepreneurship activities within Jos metropolis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitinol alloy is widely utilized across various industries due to its special properties. In this paper, the compound effects of two kinds of energy fields on material removal rate (MRR), hole wall quality, machining accuracy, and recast layer in ultrasonic combined magnetic field assisted EDM (UV-MFEDM were studied and analyzed. In addition, the influence of magnetic field intensity on the efficiency and accuracy of micro-hole machining is analyzed systematically. The results show that the surface quality of the micropore is significantly improved, the MRR is increased by 31.6%, the taper of the micropore is reduced by nearly 30%, the overcut diameter is reduced by nearly 23%, the recast layer is more uniform and the thickness of the recast layer is reduced by nearly half. Appropriate magnetic field intensity proves beneficial for improving micro-hole machining efficiency while reducing both taper angle and diameter overcut of micro-holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tax incentives have been used as tools to encourage investments and tax compliance from businesses. Little is known about the effect of tax incentives on tax compliance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. The study, therefore, investigated the effect these tax incentives (the Nigerian government tax exemption to MSMEs with income of a particular threshold and low-interest financing) have on the tax compliance of MSMEs in Nigeria. The study adopted quantitative research and administered questionnaires to MSMEs in Nigeria. Guided by the theories of social influence and slippery slope, the study employed the regression technique for the analysis and concluded that tax incentives have a significant effect on the tax compliance of MSMEs in Nigeria. Also, tax exemption and low-interest financing have a significant effect on the tax compliance of MSMEs in Nigeria. The study has contributed to the body of knowledge by showing the effect the government tax policy of tax exemption to MSMEs has on tax compliance. The different incentives of government are not sufficiently communicated to these businesses to take advantage of. It is, therefore, recommended that government policies especially on incentives to MSMEs should be well broadcast through different social media platforms for them to benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro, small and medium enterprises are business fields that contribute greatly to the national economy. West Kaduara Village has great economic potential where there are approximately 800 MSMEs recorded in the village. However, most MSMEs in West Kaduara village are still not developing optimally due to limited knowledge of business actors to develop their businesses properly. The purpose of this service is to empower MSME players in increasing their entrepreneurial capacity in marketing their products. The method used in this service is by training and mentoring. The result of this dedication is that MSME players are able to develop business strategies and market their products digitally optimally so that they can expand their market reach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have now developed well, where the natural resources in Indonesia and the development of the tourism sector have caused MSMEs to increase. In the development of MSMEs in Situ Gintung as an area that has tourism potential in the form of a situ, a building plan for the MSME center will be made that applies a tropical architecture approach to its design. Tropical architecture is architecture that adapts to climatic conditions. This research uses a qualitative method, collecting data and observing the needs of MSME players along with observing the site conditions in Situ Gintung. This research has produced a design for an MSME center that is adapted to site and climate conditions and tailored to the activities needed by MSME actors. The use of appropriate materials applied to the design such as secondary skin, the positioning of buildings that are adjusted to the climatic conditions on the site. From the results of the planning that has been done, it produces a design that can be used as the Situ Gintung MSME Center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are business activity units that run businesses in several fields, are vital for the economies of several countries. Credit access (CA) is regarded as an important matter for MSMEs' growth in the development and sustainable growth of MSMEs. In the financial sectors, the government's role via policies like augmenting MSMEs' credit becomes completely significant. For evaluating CA towards MSMEs in Kerala, this study was developed. Analysing the challenges in accessing credit in MSMEs is the aim. For evaluating the outcomes, a simple random sampling methodology was deployed. In Kerala, the impact of credit knowledge was significant on MSMEs' CA. As per the outcomes, a greater probability of augmenting loan access is engendered by the factor of challenges in attaining private equity funding and high lending interest rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Recently, the collective behavior of micro/nanorobots has shown unprecedented potential in biomedicine and environmental remediation. Collective behavior can work more efficiently, adaptively, and robustly than individual micro/nanorobots. The paradigm of collective behavior needs to be understood in different dimensions, including from individual to cluster, from planar to spatial, and from mono‐functional to multifunctional. In this review, the focus will be on summarizing the achievements of collective control of micro/nanorobot swarms in recent years from different dimensions, in an attempt to better understand how the structure and materials of individuals should be designed, how collective behavior should be implemented, and how robots are functionalized to cope with practical applications under the introduction of collective control. The opportunities and challenges that collective control faces at this stage are illustrated to provide perspectives for its future development.

The positive role played by micro and small enterprises in developing the economy and providing job opportunities requires further care and support to ensure maximum benefits from them. In this vein, this research attempts to understand how networking support (NS), training programmes (TPs), and entrepreneurial intention (EI) interact on one end and how EI and growth aspirations (GAs) interact together on the other. It also investigates the direct influence of NS and TPs on GAs and assesses whether EI can mediate the connection between NS, TPs, and GAs. Data collected from micro and small entrepreneurs operating in different places in Saudi Arabia through a self-administered questionnaire are analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling and the testing of hypotheses. The findings confirm a positive and significant relationship between TPs and EI, while there is no relationship between NS and EI. Further, TPs and NS have a positive and significant direct connection with GAs. The results also reveal that EI can mediate the relationship between TPs and GAs but not the relationship between NS and GAs. The study concludes by providing the practical and theoretical implications of these findings and offering recommendations for policymakers and entrepreneurs.

Abstract Continuous technological development, digitalization, Industry 4.0, robotization, virtualization, and related investments in new types of physical assets are imposing increasing financial and intellectual demands on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). While fast technological development and rapid societal change make maintenance of a successful competitive edge ever more challenging, they also offer considerable potential for differentiation. In the area of networking and outside resources, MSMEs can utilize external resources and cooperate and collaborate with higher educational institutions (HEI) to boost their innovations pipeline and develop new technologies and processes to generate commercial products/services and improve their service offering. This research explores existing highly effective university–industry collaboration (UIC) models and seeks explanations for their success by examining the literature from the point of view of establishing successful relationships, emphasizing the importance of critical drivers for success. Our work synthesizes current knowledge of best practices based on a comparative analysis of practical collaboration. In the work, we identify eight popular and successful collaboration models: research and development partnerships, internships and co-op programs, knowledge transfer programs, entrepreneurship, and incubation programs, sponsored projects and grants, joint ventures and licensing agreements, executive education, professional and student career development. Based on analysis of globally reviewed successful models, a concept for robust, productive, and extended collaboration between companies and universities is produced suitable for the Finnish context. Several practical experiences are given for robust collaboration in the current post-COVID transition and energy crisis.

Factors influencing the resilience of rural agricultural and retail Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in Zimbabwe have received less research focus. To addresses this gap in the literature, this article analyzes factors influencing the resilience of rural agricultural and retail MSMEs. Data used in this article is drawn from a survey of 492 MSME owners/managers from Chirumanzu, Gweru, Shurugwi and Mberengwa districts of Midlands Province, Zimbabwe. Principal component analysis was used to compute the resilience index and multivariate linear regression was used for statistical data analysis. The regression results show that MSME internal resources proxied by asset value increased MSME resilience by 0.22 index points. A conducive environment improved the MSME resilience by 1.88 index points. Entrepreneurial orientation manifested through MSME support increased MSME resilience by 0.81 index points. Robustness tests using FinScope data also show that MSME internal resources, denoted by access to credit and financial capital, increased MSME resilience. Risk-taking and conflict resolution, which measure entrepreneurial, increased MSME resilience. Policymakers and business owners need to promote initiatives that improve access to MSME finance to increase their resilience. The public sector should nurture a conducive business environment with sound and predictable macroeconomic policies that foster business stability. MSME owners must constantly scan their business environment to identify opportunities to enhance their resilience capabilities. The government and private sectors should offer entrepreneurship training to MSMEs to build their resilience.