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Publications - 6515

Economic and environmental drivers of renewable energy transition in the EU

Publication Name: Environmental Economics

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 15

Issue: 2

Page Range: 232-245

Description:

The current green agenda, the climate change, and sustainability frameworks are closely linked to the successful transition to renewable energy. The study purpose is to estimate the influence of economic and environmental drivers of renewable energy promotion in the EU-27, using the 2013–2021 data for member states. Breusch and Pagan Lagrangian multiplier test and Hausman specification test were performed to determine the proper model specification. Using random-effects GLS regression for selected data, the study found that the rise in the magnitude of the Land-Ocean Temperature Index by one unit contributes to an increase in renewable energy sources by 10-16 percentage points. The rise in natural gas prices in the EU by USD 10 per MMBtu is associated with an average growth of renewable energy sources by 2.1-2.6 percentage points and three percentage points for growth in renewable electricity. An increase in GDP per capita of USD 1,000 led to an average increase in renewable electricity by 0.2 percentage points. An increase in CO2 per capita by one ton is associated with an average decrease in renewable electricity by 0.85 percentage points. This study proves that the critical point of GDP per capita within the “economic growth/renewable energy” nexus when economic stimulus starts to decline was estimated at USD 121,227-148,623. Thus, for countries that have reached the break-even point in GDP per capita, the incentives for introducing renewable energy sources are reduced when the effect of wealth prevails over the impact of environmental awareness and responsibility.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.21511/ee.15(2).2024.16

Pregnancy-induced gait alterations: meta-regression evidence of spatiotemporal adjustments

Publication Name: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 12

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

During pregnancy, women undergo significant physiological, hormonal, and biomechanical changes that influence their gait. The forward shift of the center of mass and increased joint loads often result in a “waddling gait,” elevating the risk of falls. While gait changes during pregnancy have been documented, findings across studies remain inconsistent, particularly regarding variations at different pregnancy stages. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the impact of pregnancy stages on spatiotemporal gait parameters. A comprehensive literature search across six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, Embase, and Cochrane Library) was conducted to identify studies on pregnancy and gait, and data on publication details, methodology, participant characteristics, gait outcomes, and study limitations were extracted. Out of 4,581 initial records, 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed significant changes in gait parameters during pregnancy, with decreases in stride length (effect size = −0.29) and gait speed (effect size = −0.55), and increases in stride width (effect size = 0.45), cycle time (effect size = 0.38), and double support time (effect size = 0.41). Meta-regression analyses indicated that gestational weeks significantly impacted stride length (β = −0.03 [95% CI, −0.055 to −0.002], p < 0.05) and stride width (β = 0.02 [95% CI, 0.003 to 0.039], p < 0.05), while no significant effects were found for cycle time, double support time, or gait speed. In conclusion, pregnancy leads to significant changes in gait patterns, with a notable increase in stride width and a decrease in stride length as gestation progresses, suggesting these adjustments are strategies for maintaining balance and stability in response to physiological changes. The analysis also emphasizes that while gestational age influences gait adaptations, other factors such as pelvic girdle pain, footwear, and psychological influences play crucial roles. Understanding these complex gait changes can inform interventions and guidelines to support mobility and safety for pregnant women throughout their pregnancy.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1506002

Does supplier management matter for supply chain performance? Evidence from the textile industry

Publication Name: Industria Textila

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 75

Issue: 6

Page Range: 676-684

Description:

This study examines the impact of long-term relationships and vendor-managed inventory on supply chain performance and the mediating role of information sharing in Pakistan’s textile industry. For testing the proposed hypotheses of the present study, the primary data was gathered with the help of a questionnaire from past studies via a convenience sampling strategy. Three hundred fifty questionnaires were distributed among the textile industry through the HR department of the concerned firm. However, only 330 cases were considered for data analysis after data clearing in SPSS version 25. Hence, the response rate is 94%. The data were analysed using SEM in Smart-PLS version 3. The results of hypothesis testing indicated the direct effect of long-term relationships and vendor-managed inventory, which was found to have a positive and significant impact on information sharing and supply chain performance in Pakistan’s textile industry. Furthermore, the mediating effect of information technology between long-term relationships and vendor-managed inventory revealed a partial mediation effect on supply chain performance. The policymakers and top management of concerned firms should consider these variables for future strategies to get better supply chain performance.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.35530/IT.075.06.20243

VARIANCE AND DEVIATIONS IN THE BUDGETS OF REGIONAL ENTERPRISES AS AN ELEMENT OF RISK MEASUREMENT IN THE PROBABILISTIC MODEL

Publication Name: Romanian Journal of Economic Forecasting

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 27

Issue: 3

Page Range: 120-139

Description:

The aim of this article is to develop models that can measure probabilistic budget volatility risk in a manner that is not dependent on the type of cost or financing unit. Budgets are essential tools in facilitating the management process of any organization, while budget control helps optimize resource allocation and enhance operational efficiency. Using the methodology of budget deviation analysis can significantly improve the management of organizational units. However, the authors identify a research gap in terms of both methodology and application when it comes to analyzing the risk of budget variances. To address this, the authors develop models based on the theory of extreme values. The models can determine the deviation level for a specific probability level and estimate the limit level of deviation for assumed probabilities. These models can be used to holistically evaluate the level of budget implementation in the enterprise, compare the quality of budget implementation overtime and across units, and identify materiality limits of budget variances. To validate the models, empirical data from the budget control system of a major European city university was used. Empirical distributions obtained from the data were used to determine budget variances that indicate the level of deviation for a given probability level.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: DOI not available

Exploring the challenges and barriers to implementing public auditor recommendations in Ghana’s public sector

Publication Name: Journal of Infrastructure Policy and Development

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 8

Issue: 12

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

This study investigates the multifaceted challenges and barriers to implementing public auditor recommendations in Ghana’s public sector over an eighteen months period, aiming to enhance governance and accountability. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the study involved semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including officials from the Ghana Audit Service, government ministries, and civil society organizations. The findings reveal a complex interplay of organizational, political, and attitudinal factors that impede effective implementation. Key challenges identified include the lack of clear implementation plans, insufficient resources, weak political commitment, and a pervasive culture of mistrust towards audit recommendations. The research underscores the necessity for a comprehensive and holistic approach to address these barriers, advocating for strengthened political leadership, enhanced accountability mechanisms, and improved stakeholder coordination. Additionally, fostering a sense of ownership and buy-in among implementation stakeholders is crucial for successful reform. The study contributes valuable insights into the systemic issues affecting public sector governance in Ghana and offers practical recommendations for overcoming the identified challenges, ultimately aiming to empower citizens and enhance governmental accountability. By addressing these barriers, the research highlights the potential for transformative change in the governance landscape of Ghana’s public sector.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.24294/jipd.v8i12.8404

Role of technology development, organizational development and individual development on knowledge sharing in developing country

Publication Name: Journal of Infrastructure Policy and Development

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 8

Issue: 9

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

The purpose of this research study is to identify the factors of knowledge sharing among library professionals of higher educational institutions of Pakistan. There are very few studies on the knowledge exchange between library professionals in Pakistan’s higher education institutions. In this study model which has all the elements used to examine the knowledge sharing, in the study researcher investigate the impact of technological, organizational and individual on library professionals’ knowledge sharing behavior. The study adopted a descriptive survey design as research design and quantitative as type of research type. Questionnaire was adapted and used to collect data from 240 librarians through Google form survey in the higher educational institutions. The population of study is higher educational institutions of Pakistan. Convenience sampling techniques was used for data collection. The data were analyzed through the measurement model and structural equation model (PLS-SEM). The results of the study technological development, organizational development and individual development are significant for knowledge sharing in higher educational intuitions in Pakistan. This study gave new insights through to policy makers for the future polices to higher authorities.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.24294/jipd.v8i9.3099

The role of forestry sciences in combating climate change and advancing sustainable development goals

Publication Name: Frontiers in Forests and Global Change

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 7

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Introduction: As ecological disasters loom, forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aims to systematically examine the contribution of forestry science research to the SDGs through a multidisciplinary perspective, highlighting its role in advancing global sustainability efforts. Methods: Utilizing the PRISMA protocol, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of 39,841 publications since 2015, focusing on the intersection of forestry sciences with the SDGs. Network and keyword co-occurrence analyses were performed to identify thematic clusters and interdisciplinary linkages among SDGs. Results: Our findings indicate a significant focus on SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), emphasizing the forestry sector’s contributions to biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem services. The analyses revealed thematic clusters centered around ecological sustainability, sustainable energy, and social development, demonstrating the diverse ways in which forestry research supports the SDGs. Discussion: This study highlights the interdisciplinary nature of forestry sciences and identifies key areas of contribution while pointing to potential research gaps. Future research should explore advanced technologies such as AI-driven analytics and remote sensing, socioeconomic impacts of forest-based livelihoods, and innovative reforestation techniques. Strengthening urban forestry, enhancing interdisciplinary cooperation, and improving governance are recommended to ensure continued contributions of forestry sciences to global sustainability and the SDGs.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3389/ffgc.2024.1409667

Rethinking running biomechanics: a critical review of ground reaction forces, tibial bone loading, and the role of wearable sensors

Publication Name: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 12

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

This study presents a comprehensive review of the correlation between tibial acceleration (TA), ground reaction forces (GRF), and tibial bone loading, emphasizing the critical role of wearable sensor technology in accurately measuring these biomechanical forces in the context of running. This systematic review and meta-analysis searched various electronic databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ScienceDirect) to identify relevant studies. It critically evaluates existing research on GRF and tibial acceleration (TA) as indicators of running-related injuries, revealing mixed findings. Intriguingly, recent empirical data indicate only a marginal link between GRF, TA, and tibial bone stress, thus challenging the conventional understanding in this field. The study also highlights the limitations of current biomechanical models and methodologies, proposing a paradigm shift towards more holistic and integrated approaches. The study underscores wearable sensors’ potential, enhanced by machine learning, in transforming the monitoring, prevention, and rehabilitation of running-related injuries.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1377383

East-to-west dispersal of bird-associated ixodid ticks in the northern Palaearctic: Review of already reported tick species according to longitudinal migratory avian hosts and first evidence on the genetic connectedness of Ixodes apronophorus between Siberia and Europe

Publication Name: Current Research in Parasitology and Vector Borne Diseases

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 6

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Birds are long-known as important disseminators of ixodid ticks, in which context mostly their latitudinal, south-to-north migration is considered. However, several bird species that occur in the eastern part of the northern Palaearctic are known to migrate westward. In this study, a female tick collected from the sedge warbler, Acrocephalus schoenobaenus, in Lithuania was identified morphologically and analyzed with molecular-phylogenetic methods. In addition, literature data were reviewed on ixodid tick species known to be associated with birds that have recorded east-to-west migratory route in the Palaearctic. The tick collected from A. schoenobaenus was morphologically identified as Ixodes apronophorus. Two mitochondrial genetic markers for this specimen showed 100% identity with a conspecific tick reported previously in Western Siberia, Russia. Based on literature data, as many as 82 bird species from 11 orders were found to have records of ringing in the easternmost part of the northern Palaearctic and recaptures in Europe. Of these bird species, 31 ixodid tick species were reported in the Euro-Siberian region. Nearly all passeriform bird species with east-to-west migration were reported to carry ticks, whereas no reports of tick infestation were documented from the majority of wetland-associated bird species, mostly from the orders Anseriformes and Charadriiformes. The first European sequences of bona fide I. apronophorus revealed genetic connectedness with conspecific ticks reported from Siberia. Since the principal hosts of this tick species are rodents which do not migrate large distances, the most likely explanation for genetic similarity in this direction is dispersal of this tick species via migratory birds. Given the high number of tick species that are known to associate with bird species migrating in westward direction, this appears to be an important means of the gene flow between geographically distant tick populations in the northern Palaearctic.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2024.100201