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Social life cycle assessment (S-LCA) is a tool to address social impacts from a life cycle perspective. This work presents the first S-LCA of the Portuguese pulp and paper sector. It presents the social risks and the positive social impacts of the sector, which have not been extensively covered in the scientific literature. Two different approaches were used to compile the social life cycle inventory based on input-output analysis. Approach 1 was based on impact analysis of changes in added value. Approach 2 was based on structural path analysis, supporting the disaggregation by production levels (or tiers). The functional unit was the production of 1 United States Dollar in the Portuguese pulp and paper sector. In the social life cycle impact assessment, the social risk assessment was conducted using the Social Hotspots Database. The positive impacts were addressed considering indicators of employment and remuneration, namely total employment, number of employees, labor compensation, and compensation of employees. Based on Approach 1, the results of the social risks showed the Portuguese pulp and paper industry, commerce and forestry sectors, and the Spanish forestry sector as the critical sectors. Based on Approach 2, Portugal and Spain continued to be the countries having the greatest social risks. Other contributions of countries were identified at different production levels, particularly China in tier 3. In both approaches, the stakeholder category 'worker' was the most critical. Regarding the positive social impacts, Approach 1 showed that Portugal and Spain contribute to the highest employment level linked to the pulp and paper, commerce, and forestry sectors. Approach 2 supported the differentiation of employment and remuneration at different production levels. Tier 2 (direct suppliers) presented the highest employment level and persons engaged and the lowest remuneration level. The results showed that Approach 1 provides a faster and more aggregated assessment of social risks and positive social impacts. Furthermore, Approach 2 allowed a more detailed evaluation, providing a better understanding of the social risks and positive social impacts on the supply chain. Thus, Approach 2 is encouraged for different applications since it produces a better understanding of where social risks and positive social impacts occur, providing better guidance for corrective measures and decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to perform dimensional, morpho-structural, mechanical and chemical characterization of four materials based on paper currently in use in Romania (RO), Italy (IT), Spain (SP) and Slovenia (SLO) designed for the temporarily wrapping of meat. SEM-EDXS, FTIR and DSC showed that RO is laminated on one side with polyethylene, SP is waxed, IT is modified with a multilayered polyethylene film and SLO is coated with hydrophobized starch. RO, IT and SLO comply with the standards of determination of density, roughness, breaking length and bending resistance. The highest content of metals found in the SP explains the highest electrical conductivity and the poor quality of the recycled material used for manufacturing. The highest values of total dissolved solids (TDS) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) resulted for SP sample expressed its water solubility and availability of migration into foodstuff. RO, IT and SLO are suitable for food packaging. In contrast, SP do not meet the requirements for safety and mechanical resistance. [Display omitted] • Characterization of four types of materials based on paper. • RO, IT-single-face coated with PE, SP-double-side waxed, SLO-coated with starch. • RO, IT, SLO comply the standards of mechanical resistance and are suitable for food packaging. • SP do not meet the requirements for safety and mechanical resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) in circulation has undergone a significant increase in recent years. This trend is foreseen to be stronger in the near future. In correlation with the FCEVs market increase, the hydrogen delivery infrastructure must be developed. With this aim, many countries have announced ambitious projects. For example, Spain has the objective of increasing the number of Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) with public access from three units in operation currently to about 150 by 2030. HRSs are complex systems with high variability in terms of layout design, size of components, operational strategy, hydrogen generation method or hydrogen generation location. This paper is focused on on-site HRS with electrolysis-based hydrogen production, which provides interesting advantages when renewable energy is utilized compared to off-site hydrogen production despite their complexity. To optimize HRS design and operation, a simulation model must be implemented. This paper describes a generic on-site HRS with electrolysis-based hydrogen production, a cascaded multi-tank storage system with multiple compressors, renewable energy sources, and multiple types of dispensing formats. A modelling approach of the layout is presented and tested with real-based parameters of an HRS currently under development, which is capable of producing 11.34 kg/h of green H 2 with irradiation at 1000 W/m2. For the operation, an operational strategy is proposed. The modelled system is tested through several simulations. A sensitivity analysis of the effects of hydrogen demand and day-ahead hydrogen production objective on emissions, demand satisfaction and variable costs is performed. Simulation results show how the operational strategy has achieved service up to 310 FCEVs refuelling events of heavy duty and light duty FCEVs, bringing the total H 2 sold up to almost 7200 H2kg in one month of winter. Additionally, considering variable costs of the energy from the utility grid, the model shows a profit in the range of 21–50 k€ for a daily demand of 60 H2kg/day and 100 H2kg/day, respectively. In terms of emissions, a year simulation with 60 H2kg/day of demand shows specific emissions in the production of H 2 in Spain of 6.26 kgCO2eq/H2kg, which represents a greenhouse gas emission intensity of 52.26 gCO2eq/H2MJ. • Modelling approach of hydrogen refuelling station with on-site hydrogen production. • Operational strategy with day-ahead scheduled grid-connected hydrogen production. • Finite-state machine online control of a multi-tank and multi-compressor plant. • Sensitivity analysis of hydrogen demand magnitude and frequency. • A trade-off between demand satisfaction, profits and emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deploying renewable hydrogen presents a significant challenge in accessing off-takers who are willing to make long-term investments. To address this challenge, current projects focus on large-scale deployment to replace the demand for non-renewable hydrogen, particularly in ammonia synthesis for fertiliser production plants. The traditional process, involving Steam Methane Reformers (SMR) connected to Haber-Bosch synthesis, could potentially transition towards decarbonisation by gradually integrating water electrolysis. However, the coexistence of these processes poses limitations in accommodating the integration of renewable hydrogen, thereby creating operational challenges for industrial hubs. To tackle this issue, this paper proposes an optimal dispatch model for producing green hydrogen and ammonia while considering the coexistence of different processes. Furthermore, the objective is to analyse external factors that could determine the appropriate regulatory and pricing framework to facilitate the phase-out of SMR in favour of renewable hydrogen production. The paper presents a case study based in Spain, utilising data from 2018, 2022 and 2030 perspectives on the country's renewable resources, gas and electricity wholesale markets, pricing ranges, and regulatory constraints to validate the model. The findings indicate that carbon emissions taxation and the availability and pricing of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) will play crucial roles in this transition - the carbon emission price required for total phasing out SMR with water electrolysis would be around 550 EUR/ton CO 2. • Addressing the co-existence of steam methane reformers and electrolysers. • Novel power dispatch model addressing the flexibility of co-existential pathways. • PPA availability and pricing and ETS taxation as key enablers of renewable hydrogen. • Carbon intensity constraints heavily impact the project's sizing and feasibility. • Techno-environmental study of the carbon intensity of ammonia production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Significant reduction (18.44%) in overall Spanish GHG emissions from 2008 to 2018, highlighting some differences depending on the considered phase of the crisis. • The total intensity effect has been noticeable negative, especially in Agriculture, Transport, and Other Services. • The total carbonization effect has contributed to increase GHG emissions by 5.86%, being particularly negative in the case of Industry. • Per capita production effect was strongly negative in Industry and slightly positive in the rest of the economic sectors. • R&D, more eco-friendly technologies, green energies, circular economy and consumer green attitudes: the best strategies to reduce GHG emissions. The reduction of GHG emissions to reverse the greenhouse effect is one of the main challenges in this century. In this paper we pursue two objectives. First, we analyze the evolution of GHG emissions in Spain in 2008–2018, at both the global and sectoral levels, with the variation in emissions decomposed into a set of determining factors. Second, we propose several actions specifically oriented to more tightly controlling the level of emissions. Our results showed a remarkable reduction (18.44%) in GHG emissions, mainly due to the intensity effect, but also to the production-per-capita effect. We detected somewhat different patterns among the various sectors analyzed. While the intensity effect was the most influential one in the agricultural, transport, and others sectors, the production-per-capita effect was predominant in the case of industry. The carbonization effect was revealed as crucial in the commerce sector. The above findings highlight the importance of the energy efficiency measures taken in recent years in the Spanish economy, also pointing to the need to deepen those strategies and to propose new measures that entail greater efficiency in emissions. Additional efforts in areas like innovation, R&D, diffusion of more eco-friendly technologies, and a greater use of greener energies all prove to be essential reduction actions to fight the greenhouse effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social innovation (SI) has been championed as an integral feature of community-led rural development. However, the choice of the term "innovation" prompts a number of questions about the intensity and novelty of SI initiatives. In this paper, these issues are examined through the lens of radical and incremental innovation theory. By analysing features of radical and incremental SI, we can better understand the different social reconfigurations that can respond effectively to a range of rural needs and opportunities. The article aims at explaining the meaning and operationalisation of radical and incremental SI in rural areas. A multiple case study method was adopted for the research. Empirical data was gathered from two initiatives located in rural areas of Spain and Scotland and the main methods used were semi-structured interviews and qualitative content analysis. The findings illustrate how radical and incremental SIs can lead to sustainable development and social change. However, they imply social reconfigurations of different intensity that respond to the different attitudes and aspirations of the actors involved. The paper shows three diverging development trajectories for SI initiatives and discusses the role of conflict, skills and planning in these processes. Further, the more fluid nature of SI compared to technological innovation is clarified. In the conclusion we argue that public actors should identify the different aspirations of local actors and set the stage for the activation of the local society. In radical SI processes, conflict management mechanisms and new skills need to be promoted. • The intensity of social innovation (SI) in rural areas is examined through the lens of radical and incremental innovation. • Actors' attitudes and aspirations in relation to community needs influence the degree of radicalism of SI. • The way SIs challenge the status quo of local communities is key in distinguishing radical and incremental processes. • Radical SI usually requires longer adoption periods and can bring about conflicts. • The emergence of conflicts depends on the temporal context and the specific nature of the actors involved. • SI initiatives are fluid and can evolve into different radical and incremental processes over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the institutions, journals of choice and topics of investigation of the most prolific and highly cited Spanish optometrist researchers. As a primary search strategy, the Scopus database (Elsevier) was queried with the terms (optometr* OR "contact lens*" OR refracti* OR *ocular) and the affiliation country filter "Spain". The list of authors returned by the primary search was used in a secondary manual search based on co-authors and institutions. Authors were included in the analysis if they had an h-index > 10, were of Spanish nationality, were affiliated to Spanish institutions, and possessed an optometry degree. Authors were ranked by h-index, number of publications and number of citations. Topics of research interest and target journals were determined by analyzing the 10 most highly cited papers of each author. A total of 32 authors with an h-index > 10 were identified, of whom 14 (43.7%) were female. Only one author had an h-index > 40, and 7 (21.9%) authors had an h-index over 20. The Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery was the first journal of choice (19.1% of highest cited papers), followed by Optometry and Vision Science (10.3%). The Universidad Complutense de Madrid hosted the largest percentage of authors (18.7%), followed by the Universitat de València (15.6%). Main topics of research interest were topography (6.5% of papers), cornea (6.2%) and contact lens (5.0%). Optometry in Spain is a fertile field of research, with an increasing number of highly cited authors publishing in high impact journals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electricity production from Renewable Energy (RE) in isolated locations requires long-term energy storage systems. To that end, Hybrid Energy Storage Systems (HESS), through a combination of hydrogen and batteries, can benefit from the different advantages of both technologies. This paper presents a hybrid Power-to-Power (PtP) Optimal Power Dispatch (OPD) model for isolated systems with no electric grid access. Currently, the electricity supply in such cases is usually based on a mix of RE as the primary energy source sustained by a diesel genset acting as a backup generator. In this context, the model delivers the hourly energy flows between renewable production sources, energy storage devices and the electrical load, which minimises costs and Green House Gases (GHG) emissions. For validation purposes, the model was tested through its application to a case study in an isolated area in the Canary Islands, Spain. The results show that the algorithm calculates the hourly OPD successfully for a given plant sizing, considering the defined operational states of the different assets. These operational constraints showed a decrease in the PtP round-trip efficiency of 5.4% and a reduction of the hydrogen production of 9.7%. Finally, the techno-economic analysis of the results proves that the combination of hydrogen and batteries with RE production is a feasible alternative to phasing out fossil fuels for the selected case study – reducing the diesel generator usage down to 1.2% of the yearly energy supply. • Novel multi-state optimal power dispatch model for power-to-power energy systems. • Multi-year techno-economic evaluation of an off-grid case study. • Phasing out fossil fuels with renewable energy-based hybrid energy storage systems. • Hydrogen technology contributes to a lower levelized cost of energy. • High initial investment cost was a significant entry barrier to deploying hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

So far in the literature, the two-parameter Weibull distribution and its other extensions are frequently implemented to analyze the wind speed energy data sets. However, based on our study of the literature, there is no published work about analyzing the wind speed energy data sets using new probability distributions that are developed via trigonometric functions. In this paper, I attempt to cover this amazing and interesting research gap. Therefore, I incorporate a trigonometric function, especially, the sine function to introduce a new statistical distributional method. The proposed method is called a new modified sine- G family of distributions. Some distributional properties of the new modified sine- G method are obtained. Using the new modified sine- G method, a new extension of the Weibull distribution called a new modified sine-Weibull distribution is studied. The new modified sine-Weibull distribution is applied to analyze four wind speed energy data sets. All three data sets are taken from the weather station at Sotavento Galicia in the Canary Islands, Spain, located at 43.3544 North and 7.8812 West. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the selection mechanism underlying the association between overweight/obesity and educational aspirations of adolescents. This is a cross-sectional study based on a survey conducted in secondary schools in Spain in 2016. We estimate linear probability models to determine the association between adolescents' body mass index (BMI) and their expectations to obtain a university degree, as well as their school choices representing the most usual path towards higher studies. To address the potential endogeneity of BMI, we use the instrumental variables (IV) method. Additionally, we account for potential unobserved heterogeneity by including school fixed-effects and a wide set of individual and family characteristics in our analysis. Our results indicate that adolescents with a higher BMI have lower expectations to obtain a university degree and are less likely to enrol in high school with the intention to pursue higher education in the future. The estimated effect is quite sizable and statistically significant only for girls. We estimate that a five-unit increase in BMI (e.g., the change between healthy weight and overweight) reduces girls' expectations to complete higher education by 19 percentage points and odds of enrolling in high school (vs. vocational training) by 21 percentage points. We provide empirical evidence supporting the selection hypothesis behind the relationship between BMI and adolescents' educational aspirations. That is, unhealthy weight in adolescence is associated with poorer aspirations for further education. Lower educational aspirations during adolescence can lead to lower academic achievement, which in turn, may result in poorer health, labour market outcomes, and well-being during adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article reviews the Spanish history of the art therapy profession and research. In addition, a contemporary view of current art therapy research is described through a bibliometric analysis of 160 art therapy articles published in the Spanish Journal of Art Therapy. Papers on Art Therapy and art Education for Social Inclusion from 2011 to 2021. The following research indicators were analyzed: authorship, participants, population, artistic discipline, theoretical models of art therapy intervention, nature of the studies, and assessments. Outcomes revealed that Spanish art therapy researchers are mostly women who usually publish on their own. Additionally, many ages, populations and topics are treated. Visual art is the discipline most used in the analyzed research. Gestalt, community-based art programs, and the eclectic approach are the most selected theoretical models. Most of the studies are qualitative and theory building with no assessment. However, when assessment is included, the type most used is the tools made by the researcher. Implications, limitations, and further lines of research are discussed. • Art therapy research in Spain is a young discipline conducted in the last ten years. • The profile of Spanish researchers on art-therapy corresponds to dedicated females. • The use of art therapy in Spain has extended to vulnerable and minority groups. • There is a shift from psychoanalysis to other theoretical models for intervention. • Most of the studies published in Spain are qualitative or theory building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• GNSS-PWV time series are computed using 44 GNSS stations in Andalucía and ERA5 temperature and pressure data. • GNSS-PWV and ERA5-PWV are used to compute SPCI time series. • The SPCI generally shows high correlation with the SPEI, with better results for ERA5-SPCI than GNSS-SPCI. • The SPCI outperforms SPI for a limited geographical region and 24-month timescale. In this paper the Standardized Precipitation Conversion Index (SPCI), a PWV-based drought index, has been computed using GNSS and ERA5 PWV and its performance has been tested with respect to the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) in Southern Spain. One of the climatic features of this area is the low correlation level between PWV and precipitation, in contrast with other areas in which SPCI has been previously tested. The GNSS-SPCI has been derived from validated ZTD time series estimated from local GNSS permanent stations' data. All the needed meteorological values were derived from ERA5, excepting precipitation values and SPEI-SPI values which were extracted from a national high-resolution dataset. The resulting SPCI time series have shown high correlation coefficients with respect to the SPEI. The use of longer SPCI time series allowed by ERA5 model has provided the most coherent results, suggesting that the ERA5-PWV data can be interesting to overcome problems caused by the short timespan of GNSS time series in SPCI computation. In general, high correlation coefficients have been obtained compared to global results from previous studies. This shows that, even for regions with low correlation levels between PWV and precipitation, the SPCI can have an interesting potential for drought monitoring. The SPCI was found to perform better on higher timescales (12 and 24 months). The performance of SPCI has also been compared that of the SPI: SPCI is able to outperform SPI for the 24-month timescale for a limited geographical region. This supports that the inclusion of PWV data in drought monitoring indices could be promising and is worth keeping to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the impact of photovoltaic installations and the fact that their performance depends on the type of day, this paper presents a classifier that makes use of fuzzy logic to classify daily irradiance profiles as a human would do. To do this, the system must be linguistically interpretable, so the classifier must be simple enough, but without losing accuracy. This is why the article combines the use of data mining and supervised learning algorithms to obtain an initial system and then exploits simplification techniques such as the concept of fuzzy classifiers with incomplete rule bases, as well as fuzzy tabular simplification of rules to obtain a compact and simple final system. The classifier obtained handles the ambiguity presented by the daily irradiance profiles with precision. Once the system has been obtained, a large number of days in southern Spain are classified, analysing the performances of a photovoltaic plant obtained in each of the classes. Then, a neuro-fuzzy system is designed to predict the performance of the photovoltaic installation, considering the type of day, the maximum ambient temperature reached during the day, and the degradation of the installation over time, proving its usefulness in alerting about anomalous behaviour of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analysis of several factors that may be behind an undue extension of the injured worker's recovery time. • Comprehensive empirical analysis of more than 400,000 non-fatal work accidents in manufacturing industries. • Women, workers with more seniority, higher wages, and those employed in larger companies take longer to return to work after an occupational injury. • The duration of sick leave for immigrant workers is lower than for native-born workers. • Improving working conditions and supervision mechanisms during the recovery process is recommended to increase attendance motivation and reduce moral hazard exposure. Introduction : Despite the significant economic impact of occupational injuries on companies and society, studies focused on analyzing the determinants of workdays lost due to sick leave remain scarce and incomplete. This paper contributes to this issue by (a) analyzing the drivers of sick leave duration, distinguishing factors that explain the health recovery time from those that could lead workers to a voluntary extension of the absence period, and (b) formulating and empirically testing the effect of gender, citizenship, temporary work, job tenure, amount of disability benefit, and size of the injured worker's firm on the number of days the employee is off work after the injury. Method: Hypotheses are tested on a comprehensive dataset that includes all nonfatal occupational injuries causing sick leave that occurred in the manufacturing sector in Spain during 2015–2019, with more than 400,000 injuries. We conduct ordinary least squares and count data regression models in which the number of days off work is regressed on employees and work characteristics while accounting for a set of variables to control the injury's nature and severity. Results: The results show that after considering the intrinsic characteristics of the injury and the severity of the worker's injuries, women, native workers, workers with more seniority, workers with higher salaries, and those working in larger companies have longer periods of sick leave. The results suggest that moral hazard considerations significantly impact the time to return to work after an occupational injury. Practical applications: Based on the findings, several insights for company managers and public decision-makers are discussed. Specifically, interventions aimed at improving the organization of work and the working conditions of workers in manufacturing industries are highlighted, as well as the need to improve control and supervision mechanisms during the recovery process of injured workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mining has a high level of serious accidents compared to all other sectors. The analysis is based on 15,032 accidents. • 12 variables are studied and the influence of each variable on the severity, which is divided into three types (light, serious and fatal). • The results make it possible to design prevention measures for the situations that have led to the most serious accidents. Introduction: The aim of this paper is to understand the causes of occupational accidents in Spain's mining sector in order to propose action plans and improve future accident rates. Method: This research analyzed a pool of data on 15,032 accidents occurring in the mining sector and reported to authorities between 2013 and 2018. Accidents are divided into three levels of severity: light, serious, and fatal. We study the influence of 12 variables on the accident severity rate in our sample. Results: The results show that accident severity is related to age, gender, nationality, length of service, economic activity, company size, accident location, days of injury leave, day of the week, deviation, injury, and specific Spanish region. This sector produces a high rate of serious accidents compared to all other sectors; has a male-dominated, older and experienced workforce; and employs mainly Spanish workers. Its activity is concentrated in larger companies and the work involves the use of heavy machinery and dangerous materials. We offer conclusions and future lines of research to help regulators, companies and workers to improve worker safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU has set itself demanding objectives to achieve complete decarbonisation by 2050. The building sector plays an important role for this purpose, hence monitoring its progress towards decarbonisation is essential to identify measures that work and to readjust policies when necessary. However, collecting information to monitor the building sector is a complex task due to the scarcity and low quality of available data. The European digital building logbook (DBL) has great potential in this regard because it allows the collection of data at the building scale, which could be combined at a national level. Thus, this paper proposes a new functionality for the DBL -as an enabler for the collection of data for the assessment of the progress of the main EU policy objectives related to the building sector decarbonisation-, and it evaluates the potential of the DBL for it. To do so, the main policy objectives were associated to a set of progress indicators –mandatory and optional- and matched to DBL indicators. Mandatory indicators are for all Member States and they have been included in the 2023 amended version of the proposal for the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive recast. Optional indicators are considered country-specific in this paper and are sourced from various literature references. Here we have studied the optional progress indicators for the case of Spain. Results show that the DBL has great potential to contribute to the collection of more than half of the mandatory indicators and a very high share of the optional ones for Spain. • Monitoring the decarbonisation progress of national building sectors is crucial. • Mandatory and optional indicators are needed to monitor buildings decarbonisation. • The DBL has great potential for monitoring national building stocks decarbonisation. • The DBL will provide the majority of the decarbonisation progress indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates Spanish drivers' perceptions of the main barriers existing in Spain to the purchase of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). Following a comprehensive literature review in this field, this paper quantifies, by means of a survey conducted in Spain of 1474 Spanish drivers, the drivers' desired levels for each barrier to consider ZEVs in their next purchase decision to replace their current usually-used car. The analysis of these reported levels with latent class cluster models revealed the existence, in the sample, of groups of consumers with homogeneous preferences regarding the barriers. These groups differ in terms of individuals' characteristics, the car to be replaced, and journeys made with it. The most flexible groups comprise individuals with a significant knowledge of ZEVs, which underscores the importance of educational policies for the promotion of the use of ZEVs. The desired levels of the barriers for each group are confronted with the current status of the barriers for certain ZEVs. This comparison reveals that Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) would have great potential if they received government support, because their only barriers are economic (purchase price and fuel availability). This paper also quantifies the effects that purchase incentives and infrastructure investment policies could have in terms of higher FCEV penetration rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contribution of this paper is twofold: 1) it develops a replicable socio-hydrology-inspired model that elicits agents' preferences while accounting for the two-way feedbacks between complex human and water systems; and 2) it integrates the resultant socio-hydrology model into robustness-based frameworks to inform the adoption of policies that show a satisfactory performance under most plausible futures. The socio-hydrology model is used to produce a database representing multiple plausible futures that quantifies uncertainty regarding scenario assumptions under alternative adaptation strategies. Using a robust decision-making framework, the mechanistic outputs from the database of plausible futures are combined with heuristic methods through experts' knowledge and opinion to co-design scenarios, identify vulnerabilities and quantify tradeoffs of proposed strategies, and subjectively propose new scenarios and choose the preferred adaptation strategy. Methods are illustrated with an application to the Cega Catchment in central Spain, one of the few major catchments in central Spain that remains non-regulated, and where the construction of a major dam has been projected. Following a robust decision-making process informed by our socio-hydrology model and involving all key parties to the decision, the status quo strategy (no dam construction) was revealed preferred. • We mainstream socio-hydrology modeling into robustness-based decision-making frameworks. • Socio-hydrology modeling quantifies impacts and uncertainties for selected strategies. • Models are combined with experts' knowledge and opinion to identify robust strategies. • Methods are illustrated with an application to dam construction in the Cega Catchment (Spain). • The status quo strategy (no dam construction) was revealed preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-holder agriculture and rural societies are often presented as declining and deteriorating contexts in media as well as national and international policies. The solutions aimed at addressing this decline often is framed in terms of external (market and policy) interventions while simultaneously presenting agrarian-rural societies as static and impoverished. This essentialist view of agrarian-rural societies is based on a modernist knowledge politics that functions by creating asymmetries of power through the practices of definitions and categorizations of understanding and engaging with the world. Binary oppositional categories, such as the rural and the urban, knowledge and experience, and nature and culture, is one route through which this knowledge politics unfolds. Rather than providing sustainable solutions, approaches based on these binaries have often exacerbated the vulnerabilities and challenges of agrarian-rural societies in terms of resource depletion, loss of biodiversity and livelihoods, deterioration of social ties, and challenges to food, nutrition, and health. In this paper, we present a comparative study of two Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from India and Spain, which are engaged in the constructive practices of building relational connections across these binaries in order to re-envision agrarian-rural societies beyond modernist knowledge politics. Additionally, the paper brings together the cases from India and Spain to reflect on the binary of global south and north to build relationality and solidarity. • Agrarian-rural societies are often presented as declining and deteriorating in media and policies. • This is based on a modernist knowledge politics that functions by creating power asymmetries through binaries (such as urban and rural). • We study two CSOs engaged in practices that build relationality, interdependence, and care across modernist binaries. • The cases from India and Spain enable reflection on the political South-North binary and the possibility of building global solidarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per-poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of synthetic fluorine compounds used in food packaging materials to repel water and fats. This study assessed the chemical migration of PFAS from different food contact materials, including cardboard, recycled cardboard, biopolymer, paper and Teflon trays, from various markets. Migration assays were conducted using Tenax® as a food simulant, which was optimized by subjecting it to three consecutive extractions with 3 mL of ethanol within an hour. The resulting extractions were combined and concentrated to 0.5 mL using a nitrogen stream. The analysis was performed using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with ion-mobility (IMS) quadrupole-time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectrometry, which provided a powerful and novel tool for identifying a library of targets containing collision cross section values (CCS) and increasing confidence in subsequent identifications. Eleven PFAS compounds belonging to the family of perfluorocarboxylic acid, perfluorosulfonic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonamidoacetic acid substances (PFCAs, PFSAs and FOSAAs) were found in packaging samples obtained from China, with migrant concentrations ranging 3.2 and 22.3 μg/kg. In contrast, no detectable levels of PFAS were observed in packaging samples obtained in Spain. All trays tested were deemed to be suitable for use as food contact materials due to the fact that their migrant values were lower than 0.025 mg/kg for PFOA and its salts, and lower than a maximum concentration of 1 mg/kg for PFOA-related compounds. [Display omitted] • A novel Ion-mobility QTOF mass spectrometry technique applied to migration of per and poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). • Enabling a library of (PFAS) with their CCS values and characteristics fragments. • Migration study of thirteen food contact materials such as cardboard, recycled cardboard, biopolymer, paper and Teflon trays. • Eleven PFAS compounds were found in packaging samples obtained from China. • Migration values concentrations between 3.2 and 22.3 μg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of civil engineering, specifically within railway projects, the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become imperative. However, the sector's adherence to traditional methods for infrastructure design and management has delayed the widespread adoption of BIM. This paper describes a BIM-centered methodology applied to a real-world High-Speed Railway Line (HSRL) project. Through an extensive examination of HSRL design parameters and the integration of various BIM-based tools, a 3D parametric design model is generated. This model serves as the foundation for evaluating up to five design alternatives, considering technical and economic aspects. Furthermore, a degradation model is proposed to assess alternative performance over the infrastructure's full lifecycle under specific rail traffic assumptions. This facilitates a rapid evaluation of alignment design's impact on maintenance costs. The paper draws two main conclusions with potential benefits for both private companies and railway administrations: Firstly, BIM proves feasible and advantageous despite some interoperability challenges, highlighting the need for continued advancements in BIM software compatibility. Secondly, the proposed approach can potentially lead to up to 40% cost savings in maintenance for railway administrations. [Display omitted] • The influence of the horizontal alignment design of a High-Speed Railway Line (HSRL) on its maintenance period is analyzed. • A BIM-centered method has been proposed to evaluate both construction and tamping costs. • The importance of considering the maintenance costs during the design phase has been demonstrated. • The interoperation between an alignment design tool and a budget management software has been tested. • The method is applied to a real HSRL project in Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper contributes to the literature that looks at decentralisation as an institutional solution to curb instability and secessionist pressures.· The ability of decentralisation to deter secessionism depends on the institutional form it can take. • A bottom-up reform may be more successful in avoiding a secessionist conflict than a more standard top-down decentralisation. • The theoretical framework of this paper can shed light on the decentralisation reforms recently adopted by different countries. This paper looks at decentralisation as an institutional solution for curbing secessionist pressures by making potentially seceding regions strictly better off by staying in the union. We show that a bottom-up decentralisation reform, where single regions that can opt to assume or not stronger fiscal responsibilities on the basis of bilateral negotiations with the central government, may be more successful in avoiding instability and a secessionist conflict than more standard top-down decentralisation, where the central government assigns identical fiscal powers to all regions. The example of the decentralisation process in Spain over the last 40 years illustrates the relevance of the institutional pattern we analyse in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decreasing greenhouse gas emissions plays a crucial role in the Europe energy transition and the production of hydrogen using electricity from renewable sources (green H 2) contributes significantly to this objective. As the renewable energy production capacity grows, the impact of green H 2 is likely to increase. In the case of the Iberian Electricity Market (MIBEL), no quantitative studies have so far tested the viability of the H 2 growth plans. This paper fills this gap through a novel mathematical programming model, which integrates H2 generation into the MIBEL. The model reveals a mismatch between the sustainability goals and the expansion plans of renewable and green H 2 for Spain and Portugal. [Display omitted] • Mathematical Programming to analyse green hydrogen production in the MIBEL. • Influence of the electricity market on hydrogen production and prices. • Generating green hydrogen is preferable to hydro pumping. • Green hydrogen integration might entail additional emissions. • MIBEL hydrogen strategy must be revised to achieve sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar cells lose efficiency as the operating temperature increases under normal operating conditions, resulting in a very significant power output reduction. This issue is most relevant in areas with the highest photovoltaic energy harvesting potential, where irradiance and ambient temperature are particularly high. A novel cooling system for commercial photovoltaic modules based on low-enthalpy geothermal cooling is proposed in this paper. Excess heat is evacuated from the solar module in a clean and efficient manner by a single-phase and close-loop cooling circuit that uses the underground as a natural heatsink. In addition, a thermoelectrical theoretical model is presented, that allows the optimization of the flowrate and the maximization of the extra power generation of the cooled module. A prototype was manufactured and tested in outdoor conditions in September 2021 in Spain. Test results are in good agreement with the theoretical model, which has been used for prediction of the performance of the system for a typical meteorological year in the region. A peak efficiency improvement of 10.7% is calculated for the month of July, with an optimal flowrate of 1.8 l/min per square meter of solar module. A yearly weighted average power gain of up to 4.9% is also calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alternation between cloudy and clear skies alters the photovoltaic production. This makes it necessary to anticipate these disturbances hours in advance for the correct operation of the electricity distribution plants and networks. In this paper, two short-term forecasting models (3 h) are developed to forecast the photovoltaic production in an integrated plant in the CIESOL building of the University of Almería. The methodology used is based on sky camera images and Artificial Intelligence techniques. Two models have been developed and compared applying artificial neural network (ANN) and support vector machine (SVM) techniques. The global irradiance predicted using sky camera images is used as an input variable in both models. In addition, the operational status of the plants has been included as an input parameter through the performance ratio. The results have shown that the errors made by ANN and SVM are very similar. For all sky conditions, the uncertainty of the production forecast differs by less than 2% from the uncertainty of the solar resource, which is the main source of error in the production models developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shared electric kick scooters (SEKS) have become widespread in many cities worldwide with great expectations from both users and municipalities. Most cities have not yet passed specific legislation to regulate this new phenomenon, thereby increasing uncertainties across different players such as users, operators, etc. This research provides guidelines for regulating SEKS in urban areas for their successful implementation, taking advantage of a collaborative approach with expert stakeholders that look at the regulation problem from different perspectives. The study focuses on the case of Spain where SEKS have been booming over the last few years. The methodology applied follows a three-step process consisting of the identification of crucial issues and key expert stakeholders, a general survey to them, and a final focus group intended to reach consensus. The paper provides regulatory recommendations in four main areas: market access, technical requirements, traffic and safety, and supervision. It finds large agreement on key aspects such as promoting a homogeneous regulation across the municipalities within the same metropolitan area; establishing fixed bases for parking in the city centre while allowing free floating in low density areas located in the outskirts; and promoting an integration with the public transportation system. • Identification of key regulatory aspects for shared electric kick scooters services. • Collaborative approach with key expert stakeholders: survey and focus group. • Regulatory recommendations for shared electric kick scooters in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2020, the Conference of Chemical Engineering Directors and Deans (CODDIQ) proposed the creation of an observatory to monitor chemical engineering degrees in Spain. This representative radiography of Chemical Engineering studies offers an initial point to observe the future changes when Royal Decree 822/2021 and proposed challenges in the last Ministerial Conference on the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) will be implanted. The survey data from CODDIQ partners allow us to know important data such as (i) the 24 international quality accreditations at Spanish universities, (ii) the high demand and the required marks, an average of 7.25, for the Chemical Engineering Bachelor's degree, (iii) 9560 undergraduate students in this degree in Spain and their gender profile which is around 43% of women, similar than women lectures, (iv) the difficulty of this Bachelor's degree through some indicators like duration of studies (5.25 years), graduation rate (41%) and drop-out rate (26%), (v) the employability after obtaining the Bachelor's degree is very high (>70%). In addition, Chemical engineering undergraduate and graduate students indicate their expectations are covered. In this paper, some consequences of the pandemic on students' performance (lower than before COVID-19) are analyzed, despite lectures tried to innovate in their classes and the university provided adequate tools for online teaching. • Chemical Engineering Bachelor's degree in Spain is in high demand. • Quality indicators show the current situation of chemical engineering degree. • Chemical Engineering students are satisfied with their degree and their employability. • The gender profile is adequate because woman students and lecturers are around 43%. • The pandemic affected students' performance despite university efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes impoliteness-related language in response to a season's greeting posted by the Prime Ministers of Spain and the UK on December 2022 to wish Twitter users a Felices Fiestas/Merry Christmas. A corpus made up of the first 500 tweet events mentioning Sánchez and Johnson with the @ feature was analyzed through the combination of qualitative and quantitative tools and an impoliteness2 approach to compare the most commonly deployed impoliteness strategies in response to what is felt as an offense by respondents from the two cultures. Previous impoliteness taxonomies inform the analysis (Culpeper, 1996 , 2011). Findings reveal a preference for on-record strategies vs. off-record ones in both corpora. Whereas the English respondents oriented themselves towards attacking the negative face of the Prime Minister and that of other participants with sarcasm and implicated impoliteness, the Spanish group deployed impoliteness-related language to disparage the Prime Minister's positive face through insults and the rectification of his words. The hostile acts and explicit metalanguage about emotional states in the replies to the expressive speech act corroborate the perceived breach of some aspects of the moral order on the part of the Twitter users in the out-group, hence aiding the already observed polarization of political discussions. • Impoliteness is analyzed in replies to the season's greetings of Pedro Sánchez and Boris Johnson on Twitter. • Findings indicate that on-record impoliteness strategies are more frequent than off-record ones in both groups. • English respondents use negative-face attacking strategies, sarcasm, and implicated impoliteness in their replies. • Spanish respondents deploy insults and attacks on the positive public face of the Prime Minister as favored strategies. • Impoliteness-related discourse is multifunctional and aims to restore the moral order that is perceived as altered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tourism has become a very active ecosystem to deploy solutions based on Information and Communication Technologies. Indeed, it is now possible to analyse the mobility behaviour of tourists in great detail. However, current solutions aimed at anticipating tourist flows usually follow a limited approach based on the local (e.g., to predict the next landmark to visit) or regional (e.g., to predict the incoming number of tourists in a city) level. This paper states a novel approach to solve the problem of tourist inflow forecasting on a broader nationwide scale by defining it as an edge prediction task. To do so, we model the tourist mobility of a country as a graph which fuses heterogeneous tourism data obtained from multiple sources related to the country's mobility and infrastructure features. Then, as a major contribution, an ensemble of Graph Neural Networks are fed with the graph models to provide the final prediction. The proposed solution has been tested in Spain showing a F1 score higher than 0.7. • A mechanism to anticipate the flows of tourists in Spain is proposed. • The prediction is solved as an edge prediction between Spanish regions. • A Graph Neural Network has been used as underlying model. • The model is fed with touristic infrastructure data of Spain. • The human mobility is extracted from Call Detail Records and geo-tagged Twitter posts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new approach based on the combination of machine learning techniques, in particular, sentiment analysis using lexicons, and multivariate statistical methods to assess the evolution of social mood through the COVID-19 vaccination process in Spain. Analysing 41,669 Spanish tweets posted between 27 February 2020 and 31 December 2021, different sentiments were assessed using a list of Spanish words and their associations with eight basic emotions (anger, fear, anticipation, trust, surprise, sadness, joy and disgust) and three valences (neutral, negative and positive). How the different subjective emotions were distributed across the tweets was determined using several descriptive statistics; a trajectory plot representing the emotional valence vs narrative time was also included. The results achieved are highly illustrative of the social mood of citizens, registering the different emerging opinion clusters, gauging public states of mind via the collective valence, and detecting the prevalence of different emotions in the successive phases of the vaccination process. The present combination in formal models of objective and subjective information would therefore provide a more accurate vision of social reality, in this case regarding the COVID-19 vaccination process in Spain, which will enable a more effective resolution of problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the search for solutions for Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), decision-makers frequently face governance-related challenges such as the fragmentation of institutions, the interconnection with other essential services and overlapping competences. In many cases, solutions to these challenges involve strengthening coordination between different actors and sectors. Today different digital tools and resources are available to support related decision-making processes. These tools can (1) offer a context-specific assessment of the water governance system ("Diagnosis") and (2) provide, in some cases, context-specific recommendations to tackle identified deficits ("Therapy"). In this paper, we aim to advance the understanding of the potential of digital tools for water governance and management assessments. After reviewing relevant tools, we introduce the Diagnostic Water Governance Tool (DWGT) that builds on a clear diagnosis-therapy-logic. After presenting the empirical basis and functional logic of the DWGT, we test the DWGT in two case studies: the Guadalquivir river basin in Spain and the Emscher river basin in Germany. We find that the DWGT provides context-specific, evidence-based instrument recommendations that can enhance water governance and management, albeit accompanying suitability evaluations by governance experts remain critical. We conclude by discussing the limitations of digital tools for water governance and management assessments and sketch out fields of future research. • Most water governance online tools do not allow for case-specific assessments. • Diagnostic Water Governance Tool identifies context-specific coordination deficits. • The Tool gives case-sensitive recommendations for governance instruments. • Fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis provides sound methodological framework. • The Tool's analysis can supplement but not replace expert evaluations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analizar el papel de enfermería en el abordaje de la espondiloartritis axial (EspAax) y plantear propuestas que permitan incluir el rol de las consultas de enfermería en reumatología (CER) en la certificación de calidad de las unidades especializadas. Revisión sistemática del rol de enfermería en los sistemas de certificación de calidad en el abordaje de la EspAax, seguida de conferencia de consenso con participación de 3 enfermeras especializadas en reumatología para determinar elementos que considerar en futuras revisiones de las normas de certificación. La revisión sistemática arrojó 5 documentos relevantes. Ninguna de las publicaciones revisadas proponía estándares aplicables a la labor asistencial de enfermería en el manejo de pacientes con EspAax, aunque contemplaban actividades propias de este colectivo. Las propuestas consensuadas para incorporar el rol de las CER en las normas de certificación de las unidades monográficas de EspAax incluyeron: equipamientos y recursos básicos, organización, administración de tratamientos farmacológicos y promoción de la adherencia, programas estandarizados para EspAax, consulta telemática para control del paciente estable y promoción de la continuidad asistencial y registro de medidas de resultados informados por los pacientes. La literatura sobre estándares de calidad y normas de certificación de las unidades monográficas de EspAax es escasa y apenas refleja el papel de las CER en la provisión de una atención de calidad. Las propuestas consensuadas en este trabajo incorporarían las CER en las normas de certificación de calidad. En el futuro, la mayor presencia de CER en España debiera ir acompañada de la actualización de los estándares. To analyse the role of nursing in the approach to axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and to make proposals to include the role of rheumatology nursing consultations (RECs) in the quality certification of these specialized units. A systematic review of the nursing role in quality certification systems in the management of axSpA was conducted. Subsequently a consensus conference was held with the participation of 3 rheumatology nurses to determine elements that should be considered in future revisions of certification standards. The systematic review yielded 5 papers as relevant. None of the publications reviewed explicitly proposed standards applicable to nursing care in the management of patients with axSpA, although they contemplated the activities of this professional group. The proposals agreed upon to incorporate the role of RECs in the certification standards for axSpA monographic units included the following: basic equipment and resources, organization, administration of pharmacological treatments and promotion of adherence, standardized programmes for axSpA, telematic consultation (e-consultation) for monitoring the stable patient and promoting continuity of care and registry of patient-reported outcome measures. The literature on quality standards and certification standards for axSpA monographic units is scarce and hardly reflects the role of RECs in providing quality care. The consensus proposals in this study would incorporate RECs into quality certification standards. In the future, the increased presence of RECs in Spain should be accompanied by a review of the indicators regarding their role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electricity markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, in part, to deal with unpredictability and imbalances in electricity prices. This paper assesses how electricity flows and generation from wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) power impact the volatility and mean of day-ahead electricity prices in Spain. It finds there is a merit order effect from wind and solar PV power at most times of the day, which varies in magnitude for each of the 24 h. Electricity production from wind power is also found to play a clear role in increasing price volatility at all hours. Electricity inflow is shown to decrease both the mean and volatility of the electricity prices. The volatility of electricity prices is revealed to be highly persistent, and thus prone to large transmission shocks. This volatility is also susceptible to new shocks, which may indicate a tendency by market participants to overreact to unexpected shocks in electricity prices, possibly due to the relatively small size of the Iberian electricity market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To establish contact lens wear and care practices during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain.Method: A 58-item anonymous online survey was distributed during the period 30th April to 10th May via Qualtrics. The survey explored: a) demographic characteristics (age, sex, general health and where they were living during lockdown), b) changes in their contact lens use during lockdown, c) hygiene and contact lens compliance and d) concerns associated with contact lens wear and ways to support wearers during the pandemic.Results: Two hundred and sixty responses were analysed (38.8 ± 11.4 years old, 75% female). Three-quarters of participants reported that they were self-isolating or rigorously following social distancing advice. Sixty-seven percent of participants reported using their contact lenses less during the pandemic. Respondents were found to be compliant with handwashing prior to inserting and removing contact lenses (in both cases 97% doing this 'most times' or 'every time'). However, only 44 % complied with the '20 s rule' and 48 % used a shared towel to dry their hands. A higher proportion of hydrogen peroxide users replaced the lens case monthly compared to multi-purpose users (64% vs.49%; p < 0.001). Twenty-four percent admitted wearing lenses whilst showering and 16% did not consider ceasing lens wear if feeling unwell with flu/cold symptoms.Conclusion: Eye care practitioners should continue to educate contact lens wearers to ensure safe contact lens wear to minimise the chance of developing contact lens related complications during the pandemic. Modifiable factors that need particular attention in Spain include: handwashing for at least 20s before lens handling, drying hands with single use paper towels, including a rub-and-rinse step for reusable lenses, lens case cleaning and renewal, avoidance of water exposure and when to cease lens wear during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluctuations of the incoming solar irradiance impact the power generation from photovoltaic and concentrating solar thermal power plants. Accurate solar nowcasting becomes necessary to detect these sudden changes of generated power and to provide the desired information for optimal exploitation of solar systems. In the framework of the International Energy Agency's Photovoltaic Power Systems Program Task 16, a benchmarking exercise has been conducted relying on a bouquet of solar nowcasting methodologies by all-sky imagers (ASI). In this paper, four ASI systems nowcast the Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) with a time forecast ranging from 1 to 20 min during 28 days with variable cloud conditions spanning from September to November 2019 in southern Spain. All ASIs demonstrated their ability to accurately nowcast GHI, with RMSE ranging from 6.9% to 18.1%. Under cloudy conditions, all ASIs' nowcasts outperform the persistence models. Under clear skies, three ASIs are better than persistence. Discrepancies in the observed nowcasting performance become larger at increasing forecast horizons. The findings of this study highlight the feasibility of ASIs to reliably nowcast GHI at different sky conditions, time intervals and horizons. Such nowcasts can be used either to estimate solar power at distant times or detect sudden GHI fluctuations. • ASI-based GHI nowcasts outperform persistence model under cloudy conditions. • Under clear skies, three ASIs reveal more accurate nowcasts than persistence. • ASIs forecasts are more accurate from persistence at increasing forecast horizons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We test for Granger causality in mean and quantiles between wage share and capacity utilization in developed countries. • We employ confidence intervals generated by bootstrap and the Wald test for joint significance. • Capacity utilization positively Granger causes the wage share in eight countries at the center, lower and upper tails. • The positive Granger causal effect of capacity utilization is strong, heterogeneous, and larger for extreme quantiles. • The wage share negatively Granger causes capacity utilization in all quantiles in Spain and above the median in Italy. This paper tests for Granger causality in quantiles between the wage share and capacity utilization in twelve developed countries using annual data ranging from 1960 to 2019. Instead of focusing only on the conditional mean, we test for Granger causality in the entire conditional distribution of the variables of interest. This method detects Granger causal dynamic relations in both the mean and the whole conditional distribution using bootstrap confidence intervals and the Wald test. Our results indicate that capacity utilization positively affects the wage share in eight out of the twelve sample countries. This Granger causal effect is strong and heterogeneous across quantiles, being larger for more extreme quantiles. Capacity utilization positively Granger causes the wage share in all conditional quantiles in the U.S., Sweden, and Italy. Meanwhile, the wage share negatively Granger causes capacity utilization in all conditional quantiles in Spain and in some quantiles above the median in Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sponsoring culture is a long-term profit-generating investment that public policy makers can achieve by means of Pigouvian subsidy or tax schemes. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of the three VAT reforms implemented between 2012 and 2018 (one tax raise reform and two tax cut reforms) in the cultural sector in Spain. We first provide visual evidence and empirical estimates of the tax shifting and the distribution of the VAT burden between consumers and producers. We then use a regression discontinuity design to assess the causal effects of these VAT reforms on performing acts and cinema consumption (both in the extensive and the intensive margin). Several interesting findings arise from our results. First, we find that producers only passed through 45% of the VAT cut to consumer prices. Second, the effect of the 2017 VAT reduction on performing arts slightly increased the number of households consuming these cultural services, whereas the 2018 tax cut on cinema had no significant effect in the number of moviegoers (extensive margin). Third, the cultural spending per household conditional on participation (intensive margin) increased after the two VAT rate reductions. Finally, we test for asymmetries in pass-through with respect to the 2012 tax raise and we find (i) no evidence of prices responding more strongly to increases than to decreases in VAT, (ii) a symmetric response of the number of households consuming these cultural services, and (iii) an asymmetric response of the average cultural spending conditional on participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural forest regrowth on abandoned land represents a major land use change in some regions of Europe. This is driven by various factors related to land abandonment, particularly changing socioeconomic conditions for agriculture and rural depopulation. Little research exists about how the issue is addressed at the policy level. This paper looks into the policymaking related to natural forest regrowth in France and Spain, two countries where land abandonment and natural forest regrowth occur at significant scales. We conduct a policy discourse analysis building upon 27 interviews carried out between 2018 and 2020 with policy actors from various fields that connect with these topics. We find four competing storylines in both countries: extensive agriculture, forestry, landscape conservation, and wilderness. These storylines differ regarding the framing of natural forest regrowth as a problem or an opportunity, and the preferred policy solutions. While storylines rooted in extensive agriculture, landscape conservation and forestry tend to problematize the phenomenon, a wilderness storyline voices an opportunity perspective. In France, a few actors voice elements of an insignificance storyline. Given its spatial importance, natural forest regrowth will likely become more important for future policymaking in the EU. Engaging in further research across disciplines and policy fields is necessary to study the phenomenon and its possible management and governance options. • Policy actors narrate natural forest regrowth on abandoned land through storylines. • Interview results distinguish four storylines on natural forest regrowth. • Three storylines tend to highlight the threat of natural forest regrowth. • Natural forest regrowth has not yet received much political attention. • Shifts towards a rewilding perspective may strengthen an opportunity framing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coordination in the public sector among interdependent policies is considered crucial for their effectiveness. However, while coordination has been studied for decades, conceptual approaches to understand the functional and temporal dimensions of policy coordination are lacking. This paper attempts to address these gaps by integrating governance functions and action situations into the analysis of the policy cycle, thereby introducing the notion of holistic coordination. We argue that this approach is useful to get a more differentiated understanding of where and why coordination across the policy cycle breaks down, and to capture the political economy of policy-making. Empirically, we undertake an illustrative case study of the European Union (EU) Water Framework Directive (WFD) implementation in the Guadalquivir river basin, Spain, focusing on measures to reduce agricultural water consumption. We find that the failure to reach agreed policy objectives of reduction of water consumption can be traced back to the way governance functions were addressed and coordinated within action situations and across the overall policy cycle. Furthermore, the analysis shows that the lack of holistic coordination can be seen as an outcome of deliberate decisions by public actors involved in the policy, taken already at the beginning of the policy cycle. Thereby, expected benefits that agricultural water users associated with the policy have been deliberately increased, while their related expected costs have been decreased. Ultimately, this made the policy objective to reduce agricultural water consumption less credible and the policy more acceptable to water users and a powerful agricultural lobby. • Analysis of coordination of governance functions across the policy cycle. • Exploring holistic coordination to understand temporal and functional dimensions of policy coordination. • Approach uncovers coordination failures and the political economy of policy-making. • Illustrative case study of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) implementation in the Guadalquivir river basin, Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The paper reviews the challenges and needs for Regulatory Bodies and TSOs concerning the licensing process of thermohydraulic system codes, and the methodologies and calculations where they are used. • One important way for assessing the validity, quality, consistency, and conclusions of licensee assessments is for regulators and Technical Support Organizations (TSO) alike to resort to independent analysis. • BEPU methodologies, scaling methods, and tools for quantitative V&V of TH codes and application models are important topics in the field. • Additionally, the paper reviews new and advanced methodologies mainly related to Risk-Informed Regulations, where simulation codes must be used. • Integrated Safety Margin Assessment within RIR, RI Tech Specs, Extended BEPU, Verification of Accident Management Guidelines (AMGs), and Incident Analyses are some possible applications. • Some recommendations are made, outlining possible future R&D directions for new advanced methods and tools. • Another recommendation of the paper is to explore the application of proposed risk-informed advanced methods to new designs currently under development (e.g., small modular reactors). Simulation codes are essential tools in Nuclear Safety. Calculations are needed to assess the safety of nuclear power plants and to verify compliance with safety requirements. Nuclear regulatory bodies must assess the codes, the methodologies for their use, and the calculations performed with them by licensees in support of their safety analyses. One important way for assessing the validity, quality, consistency, and conclusions of licensee assessments is for regulators and Technical Support Organizations (TSO) alike to resort to independent analysis, including detailed TH calculations. This regulatory task requires high technical expertise and capabilities, such as the ones needed for the development of simulation codes and computerized diagnostic tools specific for regulatory assessment. These tools are not to have the same focus and scope as their industry counterparts, since the objective is shifted from design (for the licensees) to verification of safety requirements. (for regulators/TSOs). This paper has been written by members of the technical staff of Spain's Nuclear Safety Council, with a double purpose: - To review challenges and needs for Regulatory Bodies concerning the licensing processes where thermohydraulic system codes and related methodologies and calculations are involved. - To review new and advanced methodologies, mainly related to Risk-Informed Regulations, where TH simulation codes are used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The thematic have been studied by increasing the extension and occurrence of fires. • A total of 530 papers related to fire are published from 1984 to 2020. • Publication rates have particularly increased since 2007. • Scientists from USA and Spain have made the most significant contributions. • More specific research needs to be done on how fires affect soil mineralogy and microbiology. As wildfires have increased and become more frequent in recent years, researchers area focusing on how wildfires affect ecosystem resilience, which has serious implications for the recovery and protection of native forests and plantations. Most physicochemical and biological soil properties, including soil surface mineralogical composition, can be severely impacted by fires. However, no attempt has been made from a bibliometric point of view to provide a comprehensive picture of the research status on fire effects in mineralogy and nutrient stocks. Using the VOSviewer software, this study aims to evaluate fire effects on mineralogy and nutrients (FMN), the thematic evolution and determine the most relevant trends based on the intellectual structure of the knowledge built up in this research field. The methodology is divided into two stages: (i) Data Collection, and (ii) Bibliometric Analysis and Data Mining (Performance Analysis and Science Mapping). A detailed bibliometric analysis was performed on 530 Web of Science (WOS) articles indexes from1984 to 2020. Overall, the results show that Forest Ecology and Management is the leading journal in the field. The top three countries hosting core research centers for this topic are the United States, Spain, and France. Certini G. was the author with more citations (1395) in one paper and Johnson, D. had the most published papers (19) with a total of 549 citations. Currently, the hotspots of fire issues mainly include soil nutrients (e.g. nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, and calcium); in addition to the selected keywords, wildfires co-occur more frequently with disturbances and terms such as soils, water quality, boreal forests , and stream. In conclusion, 530 articles written by 1822 authors and their research displayed in 211 journals from universities and research centers in 60 countries demonstrate the growing interest in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the link between outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) and exports using Spain's flows to the top-50 recipient countries over the period 1995–2019. Methodologically, it addresses two often forgotten features of spatial data (heterogeneity and cross-sectional dependence) by combining a heterogeneous panel approach with the treatment of cross-sectional dependence. Indeed, when addressing cross-sectional dependence, it removes one of its two components (spatial dependence) so that comparing raw and spatially filtered data yields relevant conclusions. Findings show that OFDI has a significant positive effect on exports in the long term, but it is exclusively due to spatial dependence. • The link between Spanish outward FDI and exports is analyzed. • A heterogeneous panel approach dealing with cross-sectional dependence is estimated. • A spatial filtering procedure is used to get rid of spatial dependence. • Complementarity between OFDI and exports, due to spatial effects, is revealed. • Results are robust to the inclusion of several control variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lockdown of March and April 2020 declared by Spanish authorities in the Valencian Region to bending the Covid-19 curve, caused a drastic reduction of the economic activity and a severe limitation of mobility. People were asked to stay at home as much as possible. Education and administrative centers, as well as restaurants, theaters, sport arenas, etc., were closed. Work at conventional workplaces was prohibited for people who could tele-work, and students were compelled to attend classes on-line. Such limitation of mobility and spending so many time at home, could affect the wellbeing of people. The objective of the present paper is to present a study on the differences on wellbeing according to the mobility of respondents during the lockdown. Information from 1,827 individuals regarding the satisfaction of the basic psychological needs (Autonomy, Competence and Relatedness) and Positive and Negative affect were collected through and web-survey during the first lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic, together with mobility data and sociodemographic characteristics. Mann-Whitney U tests, Confirmatory Factor Analyses and Structural Equation models are used to find out differences in the wellbeing of people according to their mobility characteristics during the first lockdown, and how these mobility characteristics are associated to the psychological variables studied. Mobility of people during the first lockdown reduced drastically, especially the youngest ones, and the main travel mode was walking. In general, the youngest participants in this research and females present lower values of the psychological wellbeing variables during the lockdown. A very low or very high degree of mobility is also associated to discomfort, although the more time spent traveling the better people feel. Those who walked more are related to lower values of wellbeing. Some lessons are learned to improve transport and mobility planning during a pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research into migration and social networks has suggested that migrants are relationally more vulnerable than non-migrants, especially those in endogamous couples. However, non-probability samples and lack of data about partners' networks have often impeded rigorous testing. This paper analyses the influence of migration and mixedness (unions between two persons from different geographical origins) on some compositional and structural measures of the core discussion networks of the adult population in Spain, paying special attention to the partner's role. Data from the 2013 Spanish General Social Survey (SGSS) were used. A graph census shows the predominance of complete graphs both for endogamous and exogamous couples, but more clearly in the case of natives. Multivariate models prove that, in general, Spaniards in mixed unions seem less partner-dependent, whereas endogamous immigrants seem the most affected by the effects of the geographical mobility on relational vulnerability. • Core networks tend to be complete graphs, especially for native population. • Endogamous immigrants have greater partner's exclusive multiplexity than natives. • Core discussion networks of the endogamous native couples are denser. • The partner in the endogamous natives' core networks has the highest centrality. • Spaniards in mixed couples have the largest proportion of independent confidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes the first application of a split-range control technique on a concentrating solar collector to improve an absorption plant production. Solar absorption plants have solar power availability in phase with cooling demand under design conditions. Thus, it is a powerful cooling technology in the context of renewable energy and energy efficiency. These plants need control systems to cope with solar irradiance intermittency, reject irradiation disturbances, manage fossil fuels backup systems and dump closed-loop thermal-hydraulic oscillations. In this work, control techniques are proposed and simulated in an absorption plant in Spain. The plant consists of a concentrating Fresnel solar collector connected to an absorption chiller. The objectives are to operate with 100% renewable solar energy and avoid safety defocus events while reducing temperature oscillations and control actuators effort. Firstly, the current available plant controllers are defined, then two modifications are proposed. The first modification is a split-range controller capable of manipulating both flow and defocus of the Fresnel collector, the second modification is a PI controller to substitute the original chiller on-off controller. The results compare, through validated models, the different control systems and indicate that using both proposed controllers reduces 94% of the sum of actuators effort and 43% of the integral of absolute set-point tracking error compared to the plant's factory pre-set controllers. The suggested controllers increase 66% of energy production and 63% of exergy production. Besides, the split-range technique can be extended to any concentrating solar collector control. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Changes in productivity of small and large firms of automotive industry are analyzed. • The 2008-09 crisis impacted on productivity by reducing technological progress. • The consequences of the crisis were more severe for SMEs. • Suitable policies may be based on environmental regulation, incentive schemes and support to R&D investments. This paper analyzes the changes in productivity of small and large firms operating in the automotive industry in France, Italy and Spain, occurred during the pre-crisis (2001-2008) and post-crisis (2009-2014) periods. To this aim, the Malmquist index as a measure of total factor productivity (TFP) variation is computed, by using the non-parametric technique DEA, integrated by a bootstrap technique proposed by Simar and Wilson (1999). The analysis allows distinguishing among different possible sources of TFP changes, i.e. pure technical efficiency change, scale efficiency change and technological change. The latter comes up to be the main channel through which the global crisis negatively impacted on productivity, presumably by hampering the primary engines of technological change, i.e. research, innovation and investment through reduced availability of financial resources for SMEs, worsened perspectives for firm growth and greater concentration in selected geographical areas of investments by parent companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) as an effective mechanism to reduce carbon emissions leads to an increased weather dependency for power and energy systems. This has created dynamic operation and degradation phenomena, which affect the lifetime estimation of the assets operated with RESs. For the reliable and efficient operation of RES it is crucial to monitor the health of its constituent components and feature selection is a crucial step for building robust and accurate health monitoring approaches. In this context, this paper presents a probabilistic feature selection approach, which probabilistically weights and selects features through a heuristic and iterative process for an improved asset lifetime estimation. Power transformers are key power grid assets and they are used to demonstrate the validity and impact of the proposed approach. The approach is tested on two different photovoltaic power plants operated in Spain and Australia. Results consistently show that the proposed feature-selection approach reduces the prediction error and consistently selects relevant features. The approach has been applied to transformer lifetime estimation, but it can be generally applied to assist in the lifetime estimation of other components operated in RESs. Part of the studies presented here as well as source codes are all open-source under the GitHub repository https://github.com/iramirezg/FeatureSelection. • Probabilistic feature selection approach for improved asset lifetime estimation. • Integration of environmental features for improved renewable-operated asset lifetime. • Systematic and robust feature weighting methodology. • Improved transformer lifetime estimation including sensor and environmental data. • Validated on two real photovoltaic power plant case studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of the explorations carried out in the western sector of the Iberian Central System (western Gredos, Béjar, Gata and Estrela mountain ranges). The macroremains found allow detailing the model of the landscape transformation, the composition and extension of their vegetal formations throughout the Holocene. Ninety-nine woody macroremains, 3 bark remains and 8 pinecones were located from eight sites between 875 and 1860 m above sea level, among which 15 radiocarbon dates were made. The taxonomic identification of two trunks found in Estrela allows us to document the local presence of Pinus cf. sylvestris ca. 6600 cal BP in this site. The same taxon also appears at the western end of Gredos between ca. 1700–2800 cal BP at approximately 1300 m. These remains expand the Holocene distribution of P. cf. sylvestris in the Central System known to date, both temporally and geographically. In parallel, the macroremains analysed document the composition of high mountain scrub (Cytisus type, Erica cf. arborea) in Béjar (ca. 1860 m), as well as mixed scrub-woodland formations in Gata (975–1180 m), which included deciduous Quercus , Betulaceae and Ericaceae. The presence of P. pinaster at ca. 6200 cal BP and 1180 m in this mountain range constitutes the earliest palaeobotanical evidence of this species recorded in Gata. The main results support the continuous persistence of plant formations in which P. sylvestris , P. nigra , and P. pinaster would have formed part throughout the Iberian Central System during the Holocene in a wide altitudinal range (1100–1840 m). • Above one hundred Holocene macrofossils from eight different sites were analysed. • Pinus sylvestris recently disappeared from the western Central System. • P. gr. sylvestris remained in Serra da Estrela until ˜6650 years ago. • First evidence of Pinus pinaster has been found in Gata ˜6200 years ago. • Betula , Quercus , Alnus and Ericaceae Holocene macroremains were found in Gata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]