Abstract:To solve the network slicing placement problem, the methods based on CNN/RNN were inadequate in handling the randomness of fluctuating channel quality and bandwidth needs for each network slice. While the Monte Carlo Tree Search (MCTS) methodology effectively deals with the unpredictability of each slice’s channel quality and bandwidth request to optimize throughput, it remains time-consuming in finding an optimal solution. The cause is that MCTS relies on a uniform distribution to randomly sample one possible solution, which leads to subpar sampling efficiency. Our objective is to integrate a deep neural network (DNN) to assist MCTS. Specifically, the DNN first analyses the current allocation situation to predict probability distributions for achieving optimizing throughput. MCTS then leverages this DNN-produced probability distribution to pinpoint the best allocation scenario. Experimental results indicate that the performance of DNN-based MCTS with only 50 search iterations surpasses that of the original MCTS with 4,000 search iterations.
Abstract:This study examines the impact of sports event quality on attendees' satisfaction, word-of-mouth (WOM), and return intentions through a chain mediation analysis. Adopting a multidimensional framework, we conceptualize sports event quality across four key dimensions: game quality, interaction quality, outcome quality, and physical environment quality. The study further investigates the mediating roles of satisfaction and WOM in linking event quality to attendees' return intentions, using survey data from 338 participants from running events in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The findings reveal that event quality significantly enhances satisfaction and WOM, both of which, in turn, positively influence return intentions. Notably, WOM has a more pronounced effect than satisfaction on attendees' likelihood of returning. Additionally, this study underscores the influence of cultural factors in Vietnam, where social proof and peer recommendations play a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior. These insights offer valuable implications for sports event organizers seeking to improve attendee experiences and foster long-term engagement, particularly in emerging markets.
Abstract:This paper explores the integration of carbon finance, particularly focusing on carbon emission rights pledge financing, as a pivotal instrument in attaining carbon peak targets. This integration is crucial in the context of growth stabilization and structural adjustment. The study identifies key challenges hindering the development of carbon emission rights pledge financing, such as process discrepancies, limited bank engagement, and suboptimal risk management. Addressing these issues, we propose a novel model featuring government intervention. This model employs an evolutionary game approach involving key stakeholders: power companies, carbon emission exchanges, and banks. The objective is to navigate towards a Pareto optimal outcome for the pledging of carbon emission rights. Numerical analyses reveal that appropriate government sanctions can effectively streamline the pledging process. Results show a higher compliance rate from carbon emission exchanges under stringent regulations and increased bank participation under direct government incentives. The study advocates for the establishment of a robust public disclosure mechanism for carbon emission pledge financing and urges the government to enact unified trading regulations. This proposed method not only tackles existing impediments in carbon finance but also significantly contributes to the global pursuit of sustainable development.
Abstract:The Georgian medical sector operates within a complex entrepreneurial framework where business structures, particularly holdings, play a dominant role. This paper examines the development and operational mechanisms of holdings in the medical field, analyzing their influence on market competition, pricing strategies, and state-business relations. The study highlights the monopolistic tendencies, cartel agreements, and elite lobbying practices that shape the sector. Additionally, it evaluates the state's regulatory inefficiencies and the economic and social consequences of medical business consolidation. Drawing comparisons with European regulatory practices, the paper advocates for a more structured and transparent approach to price regulation and market competition in Georgia’s healthcare industry.
Abstract:Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) affects tens of millions of people globally and is frequently associated with many comorbidities. Its economic burden on the patient, family, and society is heavy. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the outpatient medical costs of patients with PD to those of controls (non-PD group: people without Parkinson's disease) to understand potential future challenges in caring for PD patients. Methods: We identified 2,746 PD patients as the PD group and 5,492 persons, matched in age, gender, and significant comorbidities, as the non-PD group from the National Health Insurance (NHI) database in Taiwan. We calculated the costs and explored the differences in outpatient care costs, including medicines of different classes. Results: The total outpatient payment by NHI in 2013 for PD patients was 77,096 per person. In contrast, it was 40,259 for the non-PD group. For outpatient care in the PD group, the costs of (a) diagnostic fees, (b) medicines, (c) laboratories, images, small operations, and management, (d) unique medical materials, and (e) pharmacist service fees were (a) 12,093, (b) 33,412, (c) 30,254, (d) 1,729, and (e) 1,816, respectively. The non-PD group's costs were (a) 8,981, (b) 19,711, (c) 23,124, (d) 1,345, and (e) 1,181. Neurotic disorders and organic psychotic conditions are present at a much higher frequency in the PD group. Functional GI disorders were more common, too. Finally, the cost of tranquilizers is significantly higher in PD patients. Conclusion: Patients with Parkinson's Disease incur higher medical expenses compared to control groups. The increased reliance on tranquilizers suggests that PD patients face not only a significant economic burden but also substantial mental strain. Therefore, integrating psychotherapy with medical treatment may be essential for effectively supporting individuals with PD.
Abstract:The labor protection policies that policy makers implement to regulate the labor market are critical to labor productivity and unemployment rates. The theory generally holds that employment protect8on ra8ses the costs of layoffs for f8rms. Policy makers consider at the theory framework that it is possible to protect employment and reduce unemployment with Employment Protection Legislation (EPL). There 8s a large l8terature descr8b8ng the effects of str8ct EPL on employment and unemployment rates across countr8es. However, 8t 8s d8ff8cult to be prec8se about the est8mates of the effects of employment protect8on on youth unemployment and labour product8v8ty. The aim of this article is to investigate whether EPL is an important determinant of labor productivity and unemployment rates (unemployment and youth unemployment) in OECD countries during the period 2004-2019 using panel data analysis. The results show that EPL can reduce labor productivity by affecting employment decisions in the labor market.
Abstract:Zinder, a conservative town with a strong ulama influence, where distraction, recreation and leisure activities are equated with the depravity of morals, is now seeing the development of nightlife. Indeed, urban growth, the demolition of the central market and the proliferation of passengertransport company head offices havemade the citymore attractive for certain tertiary services(such as banks, various offices,shops,recreational areas,restaurants, catering services, etc.) and the deployment of nightlife activities beyond the city center.This article examinesthe perception of the night by residents and other stakeholders, spatial practices and public nighttime policies in Zinder.Answering these questions will help to lay the foundations for a better understanding of night-time issues and how they can be taken into account in the planning and development of tomorrow's city. The methodology is based on 14 focus groups and 32 individual interviewswith residents,managers ofthe city'stechnicalservices,municipal police, national police, urban planning and various trade unions. The results show that night-time in Zinder is a forgotten area of public policy, despite the growing importance of night-time activities.
Abstract:The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TTIR; Middle Corridor (MC)) presents significant potential, as it may evolve into a reliable and competitive route compared to traditional routes and contribute to substantial economic development and trade facilitation. The present research aims to realize the tangible benefits of MC to Georgia from the perspective of Georgian stakeholders, identify gaps and areas for improvement, and transcend the mere transit economy status. This research was conducted through consultations with stakeholders, including logistics companies, ports, rail, and state entities, all of which possess extensive experience in MC. Research shows that Georgia's strategic location, a key transit point between Asia and Europe, plays a crucial role in the MC and can further strengthen its geopolitical position. MC offers Georgia unique economic growth opportunities, benefiting from increased trade flows and potential investments in infrastructure. This research identifies the challenges facing MC, which extend beyond Georgia's control, necessitating active participation from all countries along the route to uniformly develop infrastructure. Success depends on comprehensive coordination among parties, complete digitalization of the corridor, and a transparent pricing structure. This research describes the various initiatives taken by Georgia. Such initiatives include active engagement in digital projects led by the World Bank, UN, TRACECA, CAREC, and the construction of a deep-sea port in Anaklia, among others.
Abstract:Handball is a high-intensity team sport characterized by rapid gameplay, requiring agility, coordination, and strategic decision-making. It integrates fundamental motor skills such as running, throwing, and jumping with complex movement patterns that enhance both physical and cognitive performance. The sport’s dynamic nature demands a combination of strength, speed, endurance, and technical precision, making it an effective means of developing overall athletic ability. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the training process and performance development of a high school handball team. Specifically, the research examines whether the pandemic negatively influenced athletes' physical preparedness and sports performance over a six-month training period conducted as part of the physical education and sports curriculum. The study sample consisted of 18 male students, born between 2007 and 2008, who actively participated in the training program. The findings indicate that the pandemic did not have a detrimental effect on the athletes’ performance. A comparative analysis of pre- and post-training assessments demonstrated an improvement in key performance indicators. Based on the arithmetic mean values derived from centralized data tables, the 50-meter sprint performance showed an enhancement, with the mean time decreasing from 7.9 seconds in the initial assessment to 7.8 seconds in the final assessment, reflecting a 0.1- second improvement. Additionally, the standing long jump results improved by 5 cm in the final evaluation compared to the initial test. Technical execution speed also exhibited positive changes, with a recorded improvement of 0.9 seconds between the initial and final assessments. These results suggest that the structured training program implemented during the study period contributed to enhanced physical performance, despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended training periods is recommended to validate these findings and explore additional performance parameters.
Abstract:The FIFA World Cup's cultural impact extends beyond sporting achievement, fundamentally transforming host nations through complex social and institutional dynamics. This study examines these transformative mechanisms, with particular emphasis on Qatar 2022 as the first Middle Eastern host nation, analysing how mega-sporting events influence cultural evolution while preserving indigenous values. Through systematic historical analysis of five World Cup tournaments (2002-2018), the research identifies patterns of cultural impact and transformation across multiple societal dimensions. The findings reveal three primary vectors of cultural transformation: institutional reform initiatives, social integration processes, and strategic international perception management. Comparative analysis of previous hosts - South Korea/Japan (2002), Germany (2006), South Africa (2010), and Brazil (2014) - demonstrates how nations leveraged the tournament to address historical grievances, reshape global narratives, and catalyse domestic social reform. Each case study reveals distinct approaches to cultural transformation, from Germany's confrontation with historical legacy to South Africa's post-apartheid reconciliation efforts. Qatar's preparation introduces novel paradigms for balancing traditional cultural preservation with international standards, particularly evident in labour rights reform, infrastructure development, and cultural diplomacy initiatives. The research identifies critical success factors for cultural transformation through mega-sporting events: sustained institutional commitment to reform, strategic integration of cultural elements in infrastructure development, and proactive management of international perceptions. Qatar's experience provides insights into how host nations can challenge stereotypes while maintaining cultural authenticity. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of mega-sporting events as catalysts for cultural change, extending beyond sports management to international relations and cultural diplomacy. The findings establish a framework for analysing how such events facilitate cultural transformation while preserving host nation identities. Results indicate that successful cultural change requires sustained commitment beyond the tournament timeframe, with significant implications for future host nations and international sporting organizations.