Search Results (1,280)

Customer experience is central to omnichannel marketing and is increasingly the focus of research attention. However, few studies have focused on the development of excellent omnichannel customer experiences. To fill this research gap, we examined the drivers of these experiences from a customer journey design perspective. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and partial least squares multigroup analysis (PLS-MGA) were employed to analyze 775 valid omnichannel customers’ data, which were collected through an online survey. The findings suggest that the thematic cohesion, consistency, context sensitivity, and connectivity of touchpoints play an important role in improving omnichannel customer experience. Value co-creation behavior can be significantly increased by affective, cognitive, physical, relational, and symbolic experiences, but not by sensorial omnichannel customer experiences. These results not only contribute to the knowledge of omnichannel customer experiences, customer journeys, and value co-creation behavior, but also offer useful advice for omnichannel marketers. Full article

Cellular senescence, a state of stable cell cycle arrest accompanied by a complex senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is a fundamental biological process implicated as a key driver of lung aging and lung age-related diseases (LARDs). This review provides a comprehensive overview of the rapidly evolving field of senotyping based on cellular heterogeneity in lung development and aging in health and disease. It also delves into the molecular mechanisms driving senescence and SASP production, highlighting pathways such as p53/p21, p16^INK4a/RB, mTOR, and p38 MAPK as therapeutic targets. The involvement of various novel SASP proteins, such as GDP15, cytokines/chemokines, growth factors, and DNA damage response proteins. We further highlight the effectiveness of senotherapeutics in mitigating the detrimental effects of senescent cell (SnC) accumulation within the lungs. It also outlines two main therapeutic approaches: senolytics, which selectively trigger apoptosis in SnCs, and senomorphics (also known as senostatics), which mitigate the detrimental effects of the SASP without necessarily removing the senescent cells. Various classes of senolytic and senomorphic drugs are currently in clinical trials including natural products (e.g., quercetin, fisetin, resveratrol) and repurposed drugs (e.g., dasatinib, navitoclax, metformin, rapamycin) that has demonstrated therapeutic promise in improving tissue function, alleviating LARDs, and extending health span. We discuss the future of these strategies in lung research and further elaborate upon the usability of novel approaches including HSP90 inhibitors, senolytic CAR-T cells, Antibody drug conjugate and galactose-modified prodrugs in influencing the field of personalized medicine in future. Overall, this comprehensive review highlights the progress made so far and the challenges faced in the field of cellular senescence including SnC heterogeneity, states of senescence, senotyping, immunosenescence, drug delivery, target specificity, long-term safety, and the need for robust cell-based biomarkers. Future perspectives, such as advanced delivery systems, and combination therapies, are considered critical for translating the potential of senotherapeutics into effective clinical applications for age-related pulmonary diseases/conditions. Full article

Global modern renewable energy based on geothermal, wind, solar, and marine resources has grown rapidly over the last decades despite low energy density, intermittent supply, and other qualities inferior to those of fossil fuels. What is the explanation for this growth? The main drivers of growth are assessed using economic theories and verified with statistical data. From the neo-classic viewpoint that focuses on price substitutions, the growth can be explained by the shift from energy-intensive agriculture and industry to labour-intensive services. However, the energy resources complemented rather than substituted for each other. In the evolutionary idea, investments supported by policies enabled cost-reducing technological change. Still, policies alone are insufficient to generate the growth of modern renewable energy as they are inconsistent across countries and in time. From the behavioural perspective that is preoccupied with innovative entrepreneurs, the value addition of electrification can explain the introduction of modern renewable energy in market niches, but not its fast growth. Instead of these mono-causalities, the growth of modern renewable energy is explained by technology diffusion during the pioneering, growth, and maturation phases. Possibilities that postpone the maturation are pinpointed. Full article

All over the world, the problem of ensuring the safety of pedestrians, who are the most vulnerable road users, is becoming more acute due to urbanization and the growth of micromobility. In 2013, according to WHO data, more than 270 thousand pedestrians were dying each year worldwide (accounting for 22% of all traffic accidents). Currently, experts report that around 1.3 million people die every year globally from road crashes. The roads in developing countries are particularly hazardous, according to experts, because the increase in the number of vehicles far exceeds the development of road infrastructure and safety systems. Since the risk of hitting a pedestrian depends on many factors that can have different natures, and the severity of the consequences can be determined by a set of other factors, the risk of an accident can only be reduced by influencing all these factors in a comprehensive manner. The novelty of our approach is to create an intelligent system that will gradually accumulate all the best practices into a single complex aimed at reducing the risk of an accident with pedestrians and the severity of the consequences if an accident does occur. The distinction lies in offering an integrated system where each module addresses a particular task, so by mitigating risks at every stage, one achieves a synergistic outcome. From the analysis of existing and applied developments, it is known that many specialists mainly solve a narrowly focused problem aimed at ensuring the one subsystems sustainability in the “vehicle-infrastructure-driver-pedestrian” system. Some of these ideas are given as practical examples. The relevance of the designated problem increases with the emergence of autonomous vehicles and smart cities, the sustainability of which depends on the sustainable interaction between all road users. As experience shows, only the implementation of comprehensive solutions allows us to solve strategic problems, including improving road safety. Here, by complex solutions we mean solutions that combine technical issues, as well as environmental, social, and managerial aspects. To account for different kinds of effects, indicator systems are developed and composite indices are computed to choose the most rational solution. The novelty of our approach consists in combining within a unified DSS algorithms for assessing the efficiency of the proposed solution with respect to technological soundness, environmental sustainability, economic viability, social acceptability, as well as administrative rationality and computation of interrelated effects resulting from implementing any given project. In our opinion, the proposed system will lead to a synergistic effect due to the integrated application of various developments, which will ensure increased sustainability and safety of the transport system of smart cities. Our paper proposes a conceptual approach to addressing pedestrian safety, and the examples provided illustrate how the same model or algorithm can lead to positive changes from different perspectives. Full article

Cybersecurity is increasingly recognized as a key enabler of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and especially SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) as healthcare systems become more digitized. This study prioritizes cybersecurity control families from the NIST 800-53r5 framework using a structured framework combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Impact–Feasibility Matrix. From the impact–feasibility perspective, expert judgment reveals that while impact is the primary driver in selecting controls, feasibility—particularly budget and cost constraints—plays a decisive role in real-world implementation. A group of fifteen experts, including cybersecurity officers, health IT professionals, and public health advisors, has participated in structured surveys as per the methodological framework of this paper. Financial and budgetary limitations emerged as the top feasibility barrier, often determining whether high-impact controls are deployed or delayed. This underscores the need for strategic investments and phased implementation approaches, particularly in resource-constrained health systems. The results provide a practical roadmap for policymakers and healthcare administrators to allocate cybersecurity resources effectively, balancing technical necessity with economic feasibility to support resilient digital health infrastructures. Full article

This study evaluates the impact of mineralogy, elemental composition, and reaction pathways on hydrogen (H₂) generation in seven ultramafic and mafic (basaltic) rocks. Experiments were conducted under typical low-temperature hydrothermal conditions (150 °C) and captured early and evolving stages of fluid–rock interaction. Pre- and post-interactions, the solid phase was analyzed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), while Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to determine the composition of the aqueous fluids. Results show that not all geologic H₂-generating reactions involving ultramafic and mafic rocks result in the formation of serpentine, brucite, or magnetite. Our observations suggest that while mineral transformation is significant and may be the predominant mechanism, there is also the contribution of surface-mediated electron transfer and redox cycling processes. The outcome suggests continuous H₂ production beyond mineral phase changes, indicating active reaction pathways. Particularly, in addition to transition metal sites, some ultramafic rock minerals may promote redox reactions, thereby facilitating ongoing H₂ production beyond their direct hydration. Fluid–rock interactions also regenerate reactive surfaces, such as clinochlore, zeolite, and augite, enabling sustained H₂ production, even without serpentine formation. Variation in reaction rates depends on mineralogy and reaction kinetics rather than being solely controlled by Fe oxidation states. These findings suggest that ultramafic and mafic rocks may serve as dynamic, self-sustaining systems for generating H₂. The potential involvement of transition metal sites (e.g., Ni, Mo, Mn, Cr, Cu) within the rock matrix may accelerate H₂ production, requiring further investigation. This perspective shifts the focus from serpentine formation as the primary driver of H₂ production to a more complex mechanism where mineral surfaces play a significant role. Understanding these processes will be valuable for refining experimental approaches, improving kinetic models of H₂ generation, and informing the site selection and design of engineered H₂ generation systems in ultramafic and mafic formations. Full article

The synergy between carbon neutrality and urbanization is essential for effective climate governance and socio-ecological intelligent transition. From the perspective of coupled urban dynamic evolution and carbon metabolism systems, this study integrates the Sen-MK trend test and the geographical detector model to explore the spatial–temporal differentiation patterns and driving mechanisms of carbon balance across 337 prefecture-level cities in China from 2012 to 2022. The results reveal a spatial–temporal mismatch between carbon emissions and carbon storage, forming an asymmetric carbon metabolism pattern characterized by “expansion-dominated and shrinkage-dissipative” dynamics. Carbon compensation rates exhibit a west–high to east–low gradient distribution, with hotspots of expansionary cities clustered in the southwest, while shrinking cities display a dispersed pattern from the northwest to the northeast. Based on the four-quadrant carbon balance classification, expansionary cities are mainly located in the “high economic–low ecological” quadrant, whereas shrinking cities concentrate in the “low economic–high ecological” quadrant. Industrial structure and population scale serve as the dual-core drivers of carbon compensation. Expansionary cities are positively regulated by urbanization rates, while shrinking cities are negatively constrained by energy intensity. These findings suggest that differentiated regulation strategies can help optimize carbon governance within national territorial space. Full article

As self-service technologies (SSTs) such as kiosks become embedded in service infrastructure, understanding the socio-cognitive drivers of adoption has grown in importance. This study extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by integrating Digital Readiness (DR), Trust in Technology (TT), Perceived Usefulness (PU), and Perceived Barriers (PB) into a single framework, and tests it using structural equation modeling (SEM) with survey data from 750 kiosk users in China. TT emerges as the strongest direct predictor of intention to use (IU) and also increases PU while reducing PB. The deterrent effect of PB exceeds the positive effect of PU. DR promotes adoption indirectly by raising TT and PU and lowering PB, whereas its direct path to IU is negative, suggesting a tension between readiness and heightened expectations. Multi-group analyses show that non-digital natives and low-frequency users are more sensitive to trust-related factors, whereas digital natives and high-frequency users respond more to barrier reduction. These findings integrate trust and barrier perspectives into TAM and reconceptualize DR as an ambivalent antecedent. Practically, a segment- and journey-oriented design frame centered on trust and friction provides a common reference for aligning kiosk design, KPIs, and investment decisions across industries. Full article

Incorporating sustainable design practices into creative economy businesses is increasingly vital amidst growing global environmental concerns and shifting market demands. This research examines the factors that promote or hinder the adoption of sustainable design from a strategic business perspective. Utilizing data from a detailed survey, it adopts a multi-faceted approach, incorporating descriptive analysis, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, structural equation modeling (SEM), cluster analysis, and machine learning methods. Findings indicate that leadership vision, innovative capacity, and customer engagement are primary motivators, whereas internal inefficiencies and limited resources present significant obstacles. Cluster analysis reveals three strategic profiles: Innovation-Driven, Strategically-Aligned, and Barrier-Dominated, offering meaningful insights for designing targeted strategies. The study delivers a validated framework that enhances sustainability theory and supports strategic decision-making within the creative sector. Full article

Using the Kaya identity and LMDI method, this study analyzes the influence of population, GDP per capita, energy intensity, and carbon intensity on Xinjiang’s carbon emissions, and compares the effects of industrial structure, energy intensity, and carbon intensity on the industrial sectors during the Eighth to Twelfth Five-Year Plan (FYP) periods. Key findings are as follows: (1) Xinjiang’s carbon emissions center on resource- and energy-intensive sectors, emissions from sectors such as extraction of petroleum and natural gas, fuel processing, chemicals, ceramics and cement, iron and steel, and non-ferrous and power generation accounted for 62% of carbon emissions in 2015; (2) after the Sixth FYP, GDP per capita effect turned into the core driver of carbon emission growth, while the population effect played an auxiliary role. Meanwhile, the energy intensity effect exerted a marked inhibitory impact on the increase in carbon emissions, yet the restraining effect of carbon intensity was comparatively limited; (3) during the Eighth to Twelfth FYPs, carbon emission growth was mainly attributed to industrial structure effects of the mining and washing of coal, extraction of petroleum and natural gas, fuel processing, chemicals, ceramics and cement, iron and steel, non-ferrous and power generation. Energy intensity and carbon intensity effects in various industries inhibited emission growth. Based on new trends in Xinjiang’s socioeconomic development, policy recommendations proposed including promoting the low-carbon transformation of industrial structure, profound restructuring of energy consumption, and improving energy efficiency by advancing energy-saving technology. Full article

The digital transformation of agricultural product supply chains has emerged as a strategic direction that cannot be overlooked in the global modernization of agriculture. This paper adopts a narrative review framework based on the “Technology–Collaboration–Sustainability” perspective in the digital transformation of agricultural product supply chains, summarizing the drivers of digital transformation, the application of digital technologies, multi-stakeholder collaborative mechanisms, and pathways for sustainable development within these supply chains. The study finds that the core drivers promoting the digital transformation of agricultural product supply chains include external environmental factors (such as population growth, dietary shifts, and food waste) and internal demand drivers (such as industrial upgrading and increased corporate competition). The application of digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly improved the efficiency, transparency, and resilience of the supply chains. Furthermore, various models of multi-stakeholder collaborative mechanisms have optimized resource allocation and enhanced supply chain stability. Finally, the paper proposes a pathway for the sustainable development of agricultural product supply chains based on digital transformation, providing directions for future research and practice. Full article

The emigration of highly skilled individuals has become a critical concern for many countries amid increasing global labor mobility. This study employs the Improved Fuzzy Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (IF-SWARA) method within a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (FMCDM) framework to identify and prioritize the key drivers of skilled migration. Drawing on opinions from sixteen Turkish emigrants currently residing abroad, the study captures firsthand perspectives on the structural factors influencing their migration decisions. The results indicate that the most influential factors are workplace conditions, living standards, and academic standards. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of brain drain and highlight the necessity for comprehensive policy approaches that address both push and pull dynamics. By systematically ranking these determinants, the study contributes to the growing body of evidence-based research on international human capital flows. Full article

Exploring the impact of socio-ecological drivers on ecosystem services (ESs) is critical to ES conservation and restoration. Although a considerable amount of the literature has focused on this topic, few studies have investigated the non-linear impact thresholds of socio-ecological drivers on ESs from a global perspective. In this study, multisource geospatial data was integrated with ecological modeling to quantify six typical ESs in Wuhan, China. Dominant drivers were identified through random forests, and non-linear relationships and thresholds were analyzed by partial dependence analysis. The results revealed that elevator, distance from rivers, soil organic carbon content, aggregation index, and Shannon diversity index were the dominant drivers of most ESs. Moreover, three types of non-linear impact thresholds exist in the relationship between ESs and their socio-ecological drivers: “single threshold” effects; “monotonic impact” effects; and “complex curve” effects, including “S-shape”, “inverted U-shape” and “inverted S-shape” effects. Based on these findings, we proposed policy guidance to inform ecological protection and restoration aimed at enhancing ES provision and promoting sustainable development. Full article

As a vital driver of supply chain management, data has evolved into both a foundational resource and a critical production factor for optimizing supply chains and mitigating risk. This study adopts a four-dimensional framework (i.e., visibility, coordination, flexibility, and redundancy) to investigate how data asset information disclosure (DAID) shapes supply chain risk (SCR). Relative to the existing literature, this paper contributes by examining the determinants of supply chain risk from the perspective of data asset information disclosure and by conducting empirical analyses using double debiased machine learning and causal mediation analysis. The results show that DAID significantly lowers SCR, with results robust to multiple sensitivity checks. Economically, a one-standard-deviation increase in DAID leads to an average decline in SCR of 0.63%. Causal mediation analysis, aligned with the theoretical dimensions, reveals that DAID mitigates SCR through four channels: enhancing information transparency, improving visibility, strengthening agile responsiveness, and increasing supply chain concentration. Heterogeneity tests reveal stronger effects among firms facing fewer financing constraints, operating in more marketized environments, and designated as chain master firms. Further evidence suggests that reduced SCR promotes a greater capacity for coordinated innovation within the supply chain. Full article

The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines marked a turning point in pandemic control, yet vaccine hesitancy emerged as a significant obstacle in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The study aims to investigate socio-behavioural drivers of vaccine hesitancy in three high-resistance countries: the Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. By employing a qualitative ethnographic design, in the period from April to October 2022, the study enrolled 752 participants in semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, involving community leaders, women’s leaders, healthcare providers, traditional practitioners, traditional leaders, drivers, and youth leaders, ensuring diverse perspectives. Findings indicate that vaccine hesitancy is fluid and contextual with three principal drivers: (1) denial of COVID-19’s existence, often reinforced by scepticism among healthcare providers and the belief that the disease is foreign or a governmental scheme for financial gain; (2) misinformation, including rumours about vaccine incompatibility with certain foods, and fears of sterility and witchcraft; (3) a firm reliance on traditional medicine, seen as effective alternative to biomedical interventions. Vaccine hesitancy can only be addressed through culturally responsive, multisectoral approaches centred on community dialogue, improved communication, and the integration of trusted networks. Without inclusive strategies, resistance will undermine pandemic response and future health interventions in SSA. Full article