Search Results (400)

This study analyzes the relationship between remote work and job satisfaction from a bibliometric perspective. Remote work has grown in popularity, especially due to global trends accelerated by the pandemic, which impacts employee safety, wellbeing, and satisfaction. Based on 199 articles indexed in Scopus from 2014 to 2024, we identified a steady growth of this topic, with significant increases between 2021 and 2023. Global collaboration analysis indicates that the United States, India, and the United Kingdom are at the forefront of research and should work towards bridging knowledge across the Global North and South. We identify factors related to the satisfaction of remote workers (balance between on-site and off-site work, autonomy, flexibility, social isolation, gender differences). A keyword co-occurrence analysis was conducted to identify topical coverage and was complemented by clustering highly cited studies. We examine differences between the public and private sectors and suggest research paths to better understand the implications of remote work for job satisfaction in different organizational contexts. Full article

Public housing tenants in many countries have multiple challenges, often including socioeconomic disadvantage, family health and disability limitations, and compromised potential to earn income. An understanding of this group’s travel behaviours is particularly salient when policies to limit carbon emissions are being considered because such policies can exacerbate transport inequities. The current study makes use of an ongoing national travel survey in New Zealand that uses in-person interviews. We studied travel behaviours from neighbourhoods with mostly public housing tenants compared to other areas with no, or low numbers of, public housing tenants. Respondents from public-housing-intensive areas tended to be younger, have lower incomes, have more dependent children, have fewer household vehicles, and reside in areas with the highest levels of socioeconomic deprivation, all features that are known to affect travel patterns. The public-housing-intensive areas had a much higher proportion of trips made as passengers and hence higher levels of car occupancy than people living in other areas. The distance driven per person was less than half that of other areas, as were carbon emissions per person arising from private vehicle travel. Public housing providers and transport planners need to collaborate so that public housing is close to public transport and active transport facilities to allow tenants ready access. Public housing tenants are likely to suffer aspects of transport poverty, and where policies designed to limit carbon emissions increase the price of fossil-fuelled private car travel, other affordable and accessible transport options need to be available. Full article

Background: Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing women’s health conditions, such as pelvic pain and postpartum recovery. However, its integration into standard care relies heavily on the awareness and referral practices of gynecologists and obstetricians, which may be suboptimal. Objective: To investigate the awareness, attitudes, and referral practices of gynecologists and obstetricians in Libya regarding the role of physiotherapy in women’s health. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in public and private hospitals in Tripoli, Libya. A total of 100 practitioners were invited to participate. A self-administered questionnaire assessed demographics, awareness, attitudes, and practices. Results: The response rate was 67% (n = 67/100). The results revealed a key disparity: while the vast majority of respondents (94.1%) acknowledged the importance of physiotherapy in women’s health and 76.1% reported a willingness to refer patients, only 67.1% perceived physiotherapists as competent to manage these conditions. This indicates a significant gap in understanding specific physiotherapy techniques. Awareness percentage was significantly influenced by factors such as the type of hospital and prior exposure to physiotherapy education. Conclusions: A striking disparity was found between high general awareness (94.1%) and significantly lower perceived competence (67.1%) and knowledge of its role in specific conditions. This gap between general approval and specific understanding directly creates the critical barrier to referral. To improve interdisciplinary collaboration and patient access to care, enhanced educational initiatives for physicians, the development of clear clinical guidelines, and the establishment of dedicated women’s health physiotherapy clinics are strongly recommended. Full article

The main aim of this study is to propose a series of recommendations to public administrations for the development of economic policies that promote the contribution of the construction and civil engineering sectors to the design and implementation of sustainable cities. The study was conducted on the island of Tenerife. Documentary research and in-depth interviews with key agents were used as qualitative techniques. The recommendations are described in a portfolio of action policies grouped into three action areas: macroeconomic demand policies, regulation and reform policies, promotion and support policies, and governance and collaboration policies. Among other results, it is worth mentioning that there is a European support framework for economic policies to promote this transformation, but it is necessary to apply them whilst taking into account the environment where they are applied. Existing measures need to be evaluated to improve them and/or replace them with those mentioned by the key agents, all within an action plan that facilitates their implementation. Building sustainable cities requires public–private collaboration, institutional efficiency, and the socio-environmentally responsible performance of companies in the sector. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated both the transformative capacity of vaccine innovation and the persistent inequities that accompany emergency access, underscoring the critical need for stronger collaboration between global health governance and the vaccine industry. Influenza pandemics remain inevitable threats. The continued emergence of avian influenza strains such as H5N1 reinforces the necessity of robust preparedness. This perspective examines the underutilization of private sector vaccine manufacturers in current pandemic influenza frameworks and identifies three central areas where industry participation is indispensable: predictable vaccine demand through robust seasonal influenza programs, economic incentives that de-risk investments in research and development, and diversification of vaccine platforms to expand response capacity. In addition, regionalizing manufacturing, advancing collaborative regulatory models, and negotiating export waivers are presented as potential mechanisms to strengthen equity and supply security. The review highlights demand-based tiered pricing and Advance Purchase Agreements as practical tools to align commercial incentives with public health priorities. Furthermore, it makes the case for embedding private sector representation and knowledge into top-level decision-making and preparedness planning, ensuring investment in innovation is aligned with global health objectives. Ultimately, true pandemic influenza readiness depends on building a sustained seasonal influenza market, embedding private sector engagement into governance structures, and fostering mutual trust to ensure timely access and equitable protection for populations worldwide. Full article

The Blockchain-Based Medical Insurance Transaction System (BMIT) developed in this study addresses key issues in traditional medical insurance—information silos, data tampering, and privacy breaches—through innovative blockchain architectural design and technical infrastructure reconstruction. Built on a consortium blockchain architecture with FISCO BCOS (Financial Blockchain Shenzhen Consortium Blockchain Open Source Platform) as the underlying platform, the system leverages FISCO BCOS’s distributed ledger, granular access control, and efficient consensus algorithms to enable multi-stakeholder on-chain collaboration. Four node roles and data protocols are defined: hospitals (on-chain data providers) generate 3D coordinate hashes of medical data via an algorithmically enhanced Bloom Filter for on-chain certification; patients control data access via blockchain private keys and unique parameters; insurance companies verify eligibility/claims using on-chain Bloom filters; the blockchain network stores encrypted key data (public keys, Bloom filter coordinates, and timestamps) to ensure immutability and traceability. A 3D-enhanced Bloom filter—tailored for on-chain use with user-specific hash functions and key control—stores only 3D coordinates (not raw data), cutting storage costs for 100 records to 1.27 KB and reducing the error rate to near zero ($1.77\%$ lower than traditional schemes for 10,000 entries). Three core smart contracts (identity registration, medical information certification, and automated verification) enable the automation of on-chain processes. Performance tests conducted on a 4-node consortium chain indicate a transaction throughput of 736 TPS (Transactions Per Second) and a per-operation latency of 181.7 ms, which meets the requirements of large-scale commercial applications. BMIT’s three-layer design (“underlying blockchain + enhanced Bloom filter + smart contracts”) delivers a balanced, efficient blockchain medical insurance prototype, offering a reusable technical framework for industry digital transformation. Full article

Boyacá, a department in the Colombian Andes, is recognized for its rich natural, cultural, and historical heritage, positioning it as an emerging tourism destination with strong potential for sustainable development. Its portfolio encompasses ecological, cultural, adventure, and rural modalities that contribute to local economies and community well-being. This study employs a mixed-methods design combining documentary analysis with fifty semi-structured interviews conducted across five provinces, engaging stakeholders such as hotel managers, travel agencies, restaurateurs, agroecological farmers, museum directors, café entrepreneurs, and ecotourism operators. The findings reveal that innovation, particularly through infrastructure, modernization, digital adoption, and service professionalization—is critical to strengthening competitiveness. However, persistent challenges include stakeholder fragmentation and the absence of a coordinated promotional strategy, both of which limit visibility and shared value generation. To address these challenges, the study proposes integrated innovation pathways, including thematic circuits (heritage, independence, and coffee routes), personalized tourism experiences, and the use of digital and experiential marketing tools. These approaches highlight the need for collaborative governance involving public, private, and community actors. The article contributes empirical evidence to the debate on tourism innovation and sustainability in emerging regions, underscoring Boyacá’s paradox: global recognition coexists with fragmented governance. It argues that innovation-driven strategies, aligned with sustainability principles, are essential for consolidating Boyacá as a competitive and regenerative tourism destination. Full article

The agri-food sector plays a pivotal role in the global economy, requiring innovative and efficient practices to ensure long-term sustainability. The paper aims to identify and analyse circular economy strategies applicable to the agri-food sector through Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. The analysis considers the legislative context at European, Spanish, and regional levels, specifically focusing on the Valencian Community. The study underscores the need for collaborative action involving public and private entities, technological advancements, and substantial investments in human and economic capital. The paper concludes by summarising the main findings and emphasising the importance of implementing circular economy strategies to simultaneously achieve economic development, environmental conservation, and food demand fulfilment in the agri-food sector. Full article

The arts sector—museums, theaters, and orchestras—in the United States and Europe faces increasing financial and operational challenges, from declining attendance to reduced public and private funding. While these organizations have historically pursued their goals independently, their future may depend on fostering collaboration across these traditionally siloed institutions. By pooling resources, expertise, and, most importantly, audiences, cross-disciplinary partnerships can amplify the impact of cultural institutions while addressing shared challenges. For instance, museums and performing arts organizations could collaborate on immersive experiences that integrate visual and performing arts, attracting a broader and more diverse audience base. Similarly, joint programming and shared digital platforms could reduce overhead costs and expand outreach. These partnerships also enable the arts to present a unified case for public and philanthropic support, leading to greater collective societal impact. Drawing on successful examples of cross-sector collaboration, this paper explores practical strategies for fostering synergies among arts institutions. By working together, the arts can not only enhance their resilience in a challenging environment but also redefine how cultural experiences are created and consumed, ensuring their relevance and vibrancy for future generations. Full article

This research examines the ongoing challenge of depopulation in rural areas, focusing on the municipality of Buenavista del Norte in the Canary Islands. The objective is to analyse how governance and local community participation can contribute to reversing rural decline and to identify concrete strategies for sustainable development. Depopulation significantly impacts the social and economic viability of small rural municipalities, exacerbating marginalisation and isolation. The study applies a qualitative methodology, including interviews with public representatives, key strategic sector informants, and participatory group dynamics, to identify projects and resources that could foster local development. A core focus is placed on the integration of tourism, particularly wine tourism, as a tool for economic diversification and combating rural decline. Despite the Canary Islands’ status as a mature tourist destination, rural areas have not equally benefited, with some experiencing stagnation. Results point to the relevance of public–private collaboration, community-based innovation, and participatory approaches that engage key actors from various sectors. These processes facilitate the identification of viable projects and reveal the potential of tourism and sustainable community initiatives to reduce regional disparities. The implications of this research highlight the need for integrated local development strategies, improved infrastructure, and quality public services as essential measures to confront demographic challenges in remote areas. The inclusive governance, combined with strategic planning and tourism-based innovation, offers a viable roadmap for revitalising rural municipalities and ensuring their long-term resilience. Full article

Given the tourism industry’s pivotal role in the global economy and its substantial environmental and socio-cultural impacts, advancing sustainable tourism development has become imperative. While existing research has largely focused on theoretical perspectives and sectoral organizations have issued best-practice guidelines, few studies have examined how industry professionals actively influence and implement sustainability measures. Consequently, research that bridges theoretical analysis with practical application remains scarce. This research addresses this gap by proposing a strategic action plan to guide Spain’s tourism sector toward a more sustainable model. Using a mixed-methods approach, it combines insights from a Delphi panel of experts with an in-depth review of scholarly and professional literature. The findings lead to a set of targeted initiatives aligned with the eight axes of Spain’s Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2030, aimed at strengthening the social, economic, environmental, and institutional dimensions of national tourism development. The expert panel emphasized the need for stronger regulatory standards and improved public–private collaboration as critical enablers of sustainability. This study also identifies key structural shortcomings within the sector and provides actionable policy recommendations to support stakeholders and policymakers in advancing sustainable tourism practices in Spain. Full article

Infectious diseases remain a global threat, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected due to socio-economic and demographic vulnerabilities. Robust laboratory systems are critical for early detection, outbreak containment, and guiding effective interventions. This study aimed to map and evaluate Jordan’s laboratory diagnostic network for communicable diseases, identify gaps, and recommend strategies to strengthen capacity, harmonization, and alignment with international standards. A multi-method approach was employed in 2023 through collaboration between the Jordan Center for Disease Control and the Health Care Accreditation Council. Data were collected via (i) a desktop review of 226 national and international documents; (ii) 20 key informant interviews with stakeholders from the public, private, military, veterinary, and academic sectors; and (iii) 23 field visits across 27 laboratories in four Jordanian governorates. Data were analyzed thematically and synthesized using the LABNET framework, which outlined ten core laboratory capacities. Findings were validated through a multi-sectoral national workshop with 90 participants. The mapping revealed the absence of a unified national laboratory strategic plan, with governance dispersed across multiple authorities and limited inter-sectoral coordination. Standard operating protocols (SOPs) existed for high-priority diseases such as T.B, HIV, influenza, and COVID-19 but were lacking or outdated for other notifiable diseases, particularly zoonoses. Quality management was inconsistent, with limited participation in external quality assurance programs and minimal accreditation uptake. Biosafety and biosecurity frameworks were fragmented and insufficiently enforced, while workforce shortages, high turnover, and limited specialized training constrained laboratory performance. Despite these challenges, Jordan demonstrated strengths including skilled laboratory staff, established reference centers, and international collaborations, which provide a platform for improvement. Jordan’s laboratory network has foundational strengths but faces systemic challenges in policy coherence, standardization, quality assurance, and workforce capacity. Addressing these gaps requires the development of a national laboratory strategic plan, strengthened legal and regulatory frameworks, enhanced quality management and accreditation, and integrated One Health coordination across human, animal, and environmental health sectors. These measures will improve diagnostic reliability, preparedness, and alignment with the global health security agenda. Full article

The Metaverse, an immersive virtual ecosystem powered by Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI), presents a transformative opportunity for education. In India, digital education has grown significantly, yet challenges like accessibility, engagement, and personalization persist. This paper explores the architectural design, tools, and practical implementation of Metaverse-based education in India. A key focus of this study is on the integration of technologies such as VR, AI, and blockchain within the education sector, ensuring secure credentialing, real-time collaboration, and adaptive learning environments. Additionally, this paper examines infrastructural requirements, including affordable VR headsets and high-speed internet connectivity, and highlights the importance of initiatives such as BharatNet in reducing the digital divide. Public–private partnerships are explored as a viable method to fund and scale the Metaverse’s adoption in education. The challenges of cybersecurity risks, content development, and educator training are also discussed, along with mitigation strategies. This study concludes with recommendations for equitable access to Metaverse-based learning environments in India. Full article

In the current soil erosion control efforts, the lack of collaboration among multiple stakeholders is a major problem that restricts governance performance. Based on carbon trading and the Public–Private Partnership model, this paper constructs a tripartite differential game model involving the government, enterprises, and farmers, focusing on the government subsidy and the enterprise–farmer benefit-sharing mechanism. It systematically analyzes the dynamic evolution process of multi-stakeholder collaborative governance behavior under the collaborative mechanism. Through numerical simulation, the impacts of key variables such as benefit-sharing ratio, synergy effect of measures, and unit carbon sequestration on the optimization of enterprise governance measures, effort level, government fiscal expenditure, and tripartite benefits were analyzed. The results indicate that (1) the benefit-sharing ratio has a significant bidirectional regulatory effect on the system, with both excessively high and excessively low ratios weakening the collaborative governance effect; (2) the synergistic effect between governance measures significantly enhances the enthusiasm of enterprise governance and promotes the allocation of resources towards measure with better carbon sequestration benefits; and (3) the unit carbon sequestration significantly affects governance structure and government subsidy strategies, with the government being more sensitive to carbon sink responses of afforestation measures. The research results provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the ecological governance system under the “dual carbon” goal and also provide policy references for promoting the transformation of governance model from “government-led” to “multi-stakeholder collaboration”. Full article

This paper explores the potential of Electric Vehicle (EV) Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology to enhance household resilience during extreme weather events, integrating socio-economic, technical, and human rights perspectives. V2H technology enables EVs to provide backup power during outages, offering a promising solution for disaster preparedness and response. However, widespread adoption of this technology faces barriers shaped by socio-economic disparities, including income, housing, education, and access to infrastructure, as well as human decisions related to EV ownership, V2H utilization, and evacuation behaviors. To investigate these challenges, this study adopts a qualitative review of existing literature and policy frameworks, critically analyzing how social vulnerabilities and adoption barriers influence the effectiveness of V2H in improving household-level disaster resilience. The findings indicate that while V2H technology can significantly support disaster resilience, its benefits are contingent on equitable access, affordability, and public awareness. To maximize its potential, various public and private stakeholders must adopt equity-driven strategies that align technological innovation with socio-economic inclusion. This paper highlights the need for cross-sector collaboration to ensure V2H systems reach underserved and marginalized communities, advocating for policies that prioritize both technological advancement and distributive justice. Full article