UNDERSTANDING MARKETS IN AFGHANISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF CARPETS AND THE ANDKHOY CARPET MARKET

Industrial Organization,

Analysis of the lactose metabolism in E. coli using sum-of-squares decomposition

We provide a system-theoretic analysis of the mathematical model of lactose induction in E.coli which predicts the level of lactose induction into the cell for specified values of external lactose. Depending on the levels of external lactose and other parameters, the Lac operon is known to have a low steady state in which it is said to be turned off and high steady state where it is said to be turned on. Furthermore, the model has been shown experimentally to exhibit a bi-stable behavior. Using ideas from Lyapunov stability theory and sum-of-squares decomposition, we characterize the reachable state space for different sets of initial conditions, calculating estimates of the regions of attraction of the biologically relevant equilibria of this system. The changes in the basins of attraction with changes in model parameters can be used to provide biological insight. Specifically, we explain the crucial role played by a small basal transcription rate in the Lac operon. We show that if the basal rate is below a threshold, the region of attraction of the low steady state grows significantly, indicating that system is trapped in the (off) mode, showing the importance of the basal rate of transcription

Foreign direct investment in Malaysia: Trends and prospects

This paper reports on a study analyzing recent trends, pattern and prospects of the foreign direct investment (FDI) in Malaysia in the post-1997 financial crisis period. Among the ASEAN-4 countries, Malaysia continues to remain as the main centre for attracting FDI.The macroeconomic variables such as GDP, exports and employment are found to be positively influenced by the growth of FDI in Malaysia. To enhance the positive effect of FDI on the growth process of the Malaysian economy the flow of FDI into export-oriented sector and use of domestic inputs by the foreign oriented firms need to be encouraged.It is suggested that for sustained flow of FDI, continual price stability, macroeconomic balances, good governance and economic liberalization reforms are crucially important in the country.In the event of declining inflows of FDI, Malaysia has to shiR towards inward looking policies and search other alternatives to sustain its growth and economic prosperity by seeking more investment oufflows as a global player

Validation of Dysfunctional Attitude Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Cognitive interviewing and Differential Item Functioning analysis

AbstractBackground and Objectives Depression is a worldwide health problem that affects millions and causes personal suffering and economic strain. Existing assessment tools like PHQ-9 and DAS fail to fully capture the intricacies of individual experiences, especially when considering socioeconomic factors. By addressing these limitations, we can enhance the accuracy and significance of depression measures, resulting in more effective and personalised interventions. Through a mixed method approach, the study aimed to investigate both lived experiences and potential bias to enhance tool validity.MethodThe study employed both cognitive interview and Differential Item Functioning (DIF) analysis. Eight university students were interviewed to gain qualitative insights into their understanding and responses to DAS and PHQ-9 items. In addition, the data from 3500 patients who underwent psychological treatment at NHS AIPTs service was retrospectively analysed. The cognitive interviews examined participant interpretations of survey items, while DIF analysis looked at response biases related to socioeconomic status (SES) and specifically deprivation decile. Results Participants in cognitive interviews frequently relied on their personal experiences when answering questions about depression, highlighting the importance of relatable and clear items. The perception of ambiguity in multiple DAS items led to a decrease in their relatability and meaningfulness. The DIF analysis revealed significant variations on some items in how different socioeconomic groups respond to DAS and PHQ-9, suggesting potential biases. Therefore, this suggests that certain items in the scale may not capture the complete range of lived experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds.ConclusionsThe study emphasises the importance of incorporating the patient's personal experience in creating depression assessment tools. The current measures, such as DAS and PHQ-9, may not effectively capture the full range of individual experiences, particularly regarding socioeconomic factors. By addressing these limitations, we can create assessment tools that are accurate and meaningful, leading to better interventions. Ongoing research should focus on exploring item bias and the role of socioeconomic and cultural factors in depression assessment, to enhance the development of assessment tools. <br/