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Research has revealed the existence of an energy-efficiency gap – the difference between optimal and actual energy end-use, suggesting that energy efficiency can be improved. Energy management (EnM) is a means for improving industrial energy efficiency. However, due to various barriers, the full potential of EnM is not realised. Several studies have addressed drivers and barriers to energy efficiency but few to EnM. This study aims to identify EnM practices, the most important perceived drivers and barriers for EnM, and relations among them in the energy-intensive Swedish pulp and paper industry (PPI), which has the longest experience internationally of practising EnM systems, and has worked according to the standards since 2004. Our results show that, altogether, the PPI works regularly and continuously with EnM, with a clear division of responsibilities. The highest maturity for EnM practices was for energy policy, followed by organization, investments, and performance measurement. The study also shows that communication between middle management and operations personnel has potential for improvement. The most important categories of drivers were economic, whereas for barriers they were organizational. Nevertheless, knowledge-related barriers and drivers were amongst the most important, suggesting that the absorptive capacity for energy issues could be improved. Image 1029 • Energy is managed continuously, with clear policies and responsibilities. • The main drivers are economical while main barriers are organizational. • Knowledge related barriers and drivers are amongst the next most important. • Employees' absorptive capacity for energy issues could be improved. • Link between energy policy and performance measurement could be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The adoption and use of health information technology (IT) continues to grow around the globe. In Switzerland, the government nor professional associations have to this day provided incentives for health IT adoption.Objective: We aim to assess the proportion of physicians who are routinely working with electronic health data and describe to what extent physicians exchange electronic health data with peers and other health care providers. Additionally, we aim to estimate the effect of physicians' attitude towards health IT on the adoption of electronic workflows.Methods: Between May and July 2013, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of 1200 practice based physicians in Switzerland. Respondents were asked to report on their technical means and where applicable their paper-based workarounds to process laboratory data, examination results, referral letters and physician's letters. Physicians' view of barriers and facilitators towards health IT use was determined by a composite score.Results: A response rate of 57.1% (n=685) was reached. The sample was considered to be representative for physicians in Swiss ambulatory care. 35.2% of the respondents documented patients' health status with the help of a longitudinal semi-structured electronic text record generated by one or more encounters in the practice. Depending on the task within a workflow, around 11-46% of the respondents stated to rely on electronic workflow practices to process laboratory and examination data and dispatch referral notes and physician's letters. The permanent use of electronic workflow processes was infrequent. Instead, respondents reported paper-based workarounds affecting specific tasks within a workflow. Physicians' attitude towards health IT was significantly associated with the adoption of electronic workflows (OR 1.04-1.31, p<0.05), but the effect sizes of factors related to the working environment (e.g., regional factors, medical specialty, type of practice) were larger.Conclusion: At present, only a few physicians in Swiss ambulatory care routinely work with electronic health data. Until more of their peers participate in electronic exchange of structured clinical information, most physicians will continue to stay in paper-based systems and workarounds. The survey found that physicians with a positive attitude towards health IT were more likely to adopt electronic workflows, but the impact is minor. It will likely be necessary to introduce financial incentives and develop national standards in order to promote the adoption by a critical mass of practicing clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Only a fifth of older people undertake a level of physical activity sufficient to lead to health benefit. Misconceptions about the ageing process and beliefs about the costs and benefits of exercise in late life may result in unnecessary self-imposed activity restriction. Thus, adhering to a physical activity can be difficult particularly when the benefits of exercise are often not immediate. Many of the barriers to engaging in physical activity among older people are attitudinal. It is therefore important to take account of the non-physical aspects of physical activity intervention programmes, such as increasing confidence. Self-efficacy is a widely applied theory used to understand health behaviour and facilitate behavioural modification, such as the increase of physical activity. Aim: This paper aims to examine the ways in which self-efficacy theory might be used in intervention programmes designed to overcome psychological barriers for increasing physical activity among older people. Conclusion: A number of studies have demonstrated that exercise self-efficacy is strongly associated with the amount of physical activity undertaken. Evidence from some trials supports the view that incorporating the theory of self-efficacy into the design of a physical activity intervention is beneficial. Physical activity interventions aimed at improving the self perception of exercise self-efficacy can have positive effects on confidence and the ability to initiate and maintain physical activity behaviour. There are a number of ways for nurses to facilitate older people to draw on the four information sources of self-efficacy: performance accomplishments, vicarious learning, verbal encouragement, and physiological and affective states. Research challenges that future studies need to address include the generalisability of exercise setting, the role of age as an effect modifier, and the need for more explicit reporting of how self-efficacy is operationalised in interventions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Rural hospices face many obstacles in delivering palliative and end-of-life care in the United States. We aimed to identify these barriers and their potential solutions. Following a systematic approach, a comprehensive literature search using relevant keywords was conducted on online databases. Additionally, we conducted a manual search to include policy documents and white papers. Key challenges reported in the literature included limited geographic barriers and access issues, limited economic support, regulatory hindrances, and difficulty training and retaining palliative care staff. This contributes to inequitable access to hospice care in rural settings. We propose several potential solutions to overcome these hurdles and improve access. Advanced practice providers should be considered to serve as physician heads in rural hospices, which would expand resources in areas with physician shortages. A single per diem payment model should be implemented for rural hospices, regardless of the level of care provided, to help offset the higher cost of care. The Critical Access Hospital program and offering cost-based reimbursement for swing-bed stays could improve access to postacute care, including hospice services. Telehealth can improve the timeliness of care and reduce travel costs for patients and providers. Another solution to consider is simulation-based training to enhance the education of healthcare providers. In conclusion, there is a critical gap in end-of-life care access in rural communities. A multifaceted approach including policy changes, financial support, and technological innovations is essential to improve hospice care access in rural populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy demand has increased rapidly worldwide due to the depletion of fossil fuels. Recently, the rate of energy consumption has become unsustainable, providing a strong incentive for many countries to pursue renewable energy sources. By 2030, Oman's national energy strategy aims to generate 20% of its electricity from renewable sources. In the same context, Oman has the target to join the front rank of countries that aim to capitalize on their renewable resources to produce green hydrogen for export to the global market and domestic utilization. This study investigates the prospects for creating green hydrogen using solar energy in Oman's Dhofar region. The key obstacles to solar-to-hydrogen generation are discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper systematically reviews publications for the period 2002–2020 addressing the barriers to climate adaptation of cultural and natural heritage in the Northern and Southern poles. Climate change and its socio-economic implications deteriorate different forms of cultural and natural heritage, including archaeological sites, historic buildings, and indigenous heritage in the polar regions. Climate adaptation of cultural and natural heritage of polar regions is challenged due to the barriers, constraints, and limitations of various factors such as lack of awareness of polar heritage, remoteness of the sites, and lack of tools and facilities. This paper first presents the general characteristics of 76 documents out of 218. It then analyzes the barriers derived from the content analysis of the publications. Despite growing interest in polar studies, incomplete and inaccurate data and inventories and facilities and tools as technological constraints negatively affect building climate adaptation of polar heritage. Following that, existing regulations and organizations are found to be ineffective and slow to address the issues of communication and collaboration for building climate adaptation of polar heritage. The findings will discuss the policy implications of understanding barriers and tackling them to facilitate the climate adaptation of polar heritage. • Systematic analysis of the barriers to building climate adaptation of polar heritage yielded 218 documents. • Technological barriers are mentioned the most among all barriers. • Lack of data and inventories along with tools and facilities are the key barriers to building climate adaptation of polar heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to shed light on the main barriers to caring pedagogical relationships within simulation centers from the perspective of nursing students and offer targeted strategies to reduce these barriers. A caring pedagogical relationship is a powerful strategy to foster students' learning within simulation settings. However, the development of this relationship could be hindered if nurse educators are not aware of its barriers. Hence, this could affect students' learning and well-being within this academic context. According to our knowledge, no previous research has addressed the question of the barriers to caring pedagogical relationships within the context of simulation. This study employed a descriptive phenomenological method, entitled Relational Caring Inquiry, to collect and analyze data gathered from 19 students enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program. This paper focuses on one eidos-theme that emerged from our data analysis and interpretation entitled "Educator's conscientization regarding barriers to the development of a caring pedagogical relationship". According to data analysis and interpretation, this eidos-theme was the most emphasized by research participants. It emerged from the following themes: (a) educators' dehumanizing practices, (b) disruptive and stressful academic context, (c) lack of educators' experiences and (d) educators' disinterest in students' learning. Leaving caring pedagogical relationships' barriers unaddressed has shown adverse impacts on students' learning process and their mental and physical well-being. This paper brings to light the main barriers to caring pedagogical relationships and invites educators, managers and nurse leaders to be aware of these obstacles and collectively engage in humanizing nursing education. In other words, we emphasize the impact of these barriers on students' apprenticeship and suggest political actions to build caring and inclusive simulation environments. CERSES-19–050-D. [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]

Integrating smart industrial products (SIPs) into production processes introduces new dynamics of capabilities and challenges within organisations. However, a prevalent issue is the ad hoc adoption of SIPs without a cohesive strategy, resulting in isolated solutions that do not effectively enhance core organisational functions. Our research fills this critical gap by identifying and combining the capabilities and barriers posed by SIPs. Our findings allow us to propose a framework comprising the stages each main organisational function needs to develop to move from a traditional to a completely autonomous decision-making function. This evolutional path requires that each organisational function acquires selected capabilities and overcomes specific barriers. Our approach encompasses a multi-method methodology, commencing with a systematic literature review (SLR) encompassing 44 papers, leading to the identification of 20 capabilities and 23 barriers. Subsequently, through rigorous content analyses and expert interviews, we formulate the framework. This paper contributes to academia by providing a framework with an evolutional path that main organisational functions may follow according to the capability they acquire from the SIP and which barriers should be surpassed at each level. For managers in practice, the proposed framework enables a better understanding of the stage of their operations and which capabilities will take their main organisational function from traditional (level 0) to autonomous (level 3) stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of large-scale photovoltaic module decommissioning, China's photovoltaic recycling industry is confronted with numerous challenges. This paper examines the barriers to the recycling of waste photovoltaic modules. First, 11 Barriers affecting the recycling of waste photovoltaic modules were identified through sorting; second, the Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) method was improved by incorporating the Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Term Set (HFLTS) and the time factor, and an obstacle analysis framework based on this method was built; finally, the interaction relationship between the obstacles to recycling was investigated. According to the study's findings, the difficulty to do recycling operations in batches for an extended period of time , costly initial investment , lack of incentives and small market size are the major constraints affecting the recycling of waste PV modules. After 10 years, the impact of costly initial investment and small market size will diminish, while the impact of inadequate infrastructure will increase. To eliminate critical impediments and encourage the healthy development of the photovoltaic recycling industry, the government should carry out work in four areas: recycling standards, incentive policies, technology research and development, and demonstration site construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gender equality is critical to achieving transformative action, policies and change towards sustainable ocean management. However, historically women have been largely excluded from ocean science and management programmes, including education. Recent commitment to promoting gender equality in ocean science, notably in the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, aims to ensure women have equal opportunity to engage in ocean science education, research, management and decision-making. This paper investigates the roles of women in ocean science education, the challenges they face, the root causes of these inequalities, and the existing interventions to advance gender equality in ocean science. Focusing on Kenya as a case study, the paper uses a feminist political ecology lens to explore staff experiences and perceptions of gender (in)equality in public universities. The data gathered through in-depth interviews revealed that women's participation in ocean science were limited by perceptions of their male colleagues who did not believe that women can do certain technical jobs. In addition, career progression of women was found to be slower than men's, women were more likely to be discriminated against during promotions and denied opportunities to develop their careers, faced sexual harassment and bullying, and experienced work-family conflicts. These factors adversely impacted women's participation and career advancement and thus their potential contribution to a sustainable ocean. This research also revealed some good practices that the universities had in place to tackle gender inequalities such as gender equality policies and staff given a specific gender equality role (gender focal points). In conclusion, we stress the importance of having gender-transformative policies, an effective implementation process, having women-specific support structures and having women in leadership positions as crucial for promoting gender equality and ocean sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an opportunity to reduce methane emissions from Australian, open pit, metallurgical coal (MC) mines and substantially reduce the carbon intensity of a high-value Australian export industry. MC is critical to the production of steel products and is essential to meet international urbanisation and energy system transformation goals. Initial research on this topic, outlined the application of subterranean barriers in coal mining towards the reduction of gas influx and whole-of-life coal mine methane (CMM) emissions in underground applications. Initially, the technology lacked economic viability for a majority of cases and especially after carbon pricing was eliminated in 2014. Today, with the imperative for the industry to reduce emissions, the technology becomes significant in its potential for emissions reduction for both underground and open-cut coal mines. The basis of barriers is similar to naturally occurring barriers (i.e., igneous intrusions or dikes) that have shown effective separation of drained and undrained mine works (as observed in adjoining mines in Central Queensland). Barriers have also been applied in the environmental, civil engineering and oil and gas industries, to manage or restrict subterranean flow patterns or contain contaminants. In this case, subterranean barriers are being implemented in conjunction with mine pre-drainage to reduce methane emissions from an open pit, MC mine. In addition, barriers can be used in underground mining operations.to improve mine pre-drainage and safety as well as reduce methane emissions. This paper describes the design, execution, and evaluation workflows and the relative importance of variables required for a barrier implementation in subterranean applications for open-cut and underground mining applications. This paper details the results of ongoing planning and modelling to implement and assess a barrier application for reducing gas migration from unmined in-seam or underground mine sections into open-cut MC mining operations. Finally, this paper builds on previous research and available technologies and is complementary to current pre-drainage for surface or underground mining operations. Barrier implementation in conjunction with the beneficial use of gas provides a working framework to reduce mine emissions toward necessary methane reductions by 2030. • Reducing methane emissions from open pit and underground metallurgical coal mines is required to reduce the carbon intensity of the industry. • The design, execution, evaluation, and verification steps for subterranean barrier placements in coal mines are presented. • Example models show the benefits of barrier placements in reducing overall emissions from open-cut and underground coal mines. • The technology is dependent on the permeability and anisotropy of the coals, and the process improves with additional and external drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our paper explores how IT security issues affect the implementation of Industry 4.0 in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector. To develop this research question, we carry out an empirical study, with a survey of 3184 manufacturing SMEs, using the "Flash Eurobarometer No. 486" database from Eurostat (European Union). Using machine-learning methodology (ML), our contribution extends previous literature on the barriers to the digital transformation of SMEs, showing the role that IT security issues play in this process. Firstly, our findings indicate a positive association between IT security issues and the process of digitalisation within companies. These IT security challenges are perceived as catalysts for digital transformation, particularly in the context of SMEs. Secondly, our research reveals a significant degree of heterogeneity in the levels of digitalisation across companies. This spectrum ranges from firms at the forefront of digital technology integration, incorporating advanced elements like robotics, cloud computing, and smart devices, to another group of companies in the early stages of adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. Lastly, our study underscores the existence of a parallel relationship between IT security issues and the extent of digitalisation within SMEs. This connection highlights the intricate interplay between cybersecurity concerns and the level of digital maturity achieved by these businesses. • IT security issues affect the implementation of Industry 4.0 in SMEs. • We carry out an empirical study with a survey of 3184 SMEs. • The results show that IT security issues positively affect the digitalization of companies. • The paper contributes that exist a parallelism between the degree of digitization and IT security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AI is transforming healthcare system with many innovations in diagnosis, drug research and advancement in medical treatments. But there are several concerns and dilemmas related to data misuse, AI efficiency for critical diagnostic services, users' resistance, investment costs, funding issues, and so on that have been raised by many previous studies on the effective integration of AI in clinical settings. Using paradox theory in the organisational settings, the present study discusses several technological paradoxes associated with the adoption of AI in healthcare. In this regard, the study examines the views of diverse medical practitioners about using AI services for several medical needs. The study analyses the efficacy and limitations of AI services which develop several ethical dilemmas in the mind of medical practitioners and also suggest a few strategies for the adoption. Using grounded theory approach, the study collected views of 62 medical practitioners on these dimensions. The primary drivers to the adoption identified in the present study are: ease of use, automation efficacy, diagnostic accuracy, and cost efficiency. A lack of training and education, cultural and religious considerations, privacy issues and work insecurity are some of the concerns highlighted by the medical staffs. The study inferred a few paradoxes or ethical dilemmas of practitioners which need attentions. The study contributes to the existing literature on paradox theory and AI, and identifies a few under-discussed areas, drivers, and barriers of AI services are highlighted in the paper, which may lead to ethical concerns and steer AI adoption in healthcare. • This paper explores several technological paradoxes related to AI deployment in healthcare using paradox theory. • The paper examines several drivers and barriers associated with AI services, which create ethical dilemma. • The study also suggests a few strategies for the smooth adoption of AI services in healthcare. • The study surveyed 62 medical practitioners using grounded theory. • The study examines the diverse views of medical practitioners about using AI services for several medical needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Poor digital literacy was the most frequently reported patient-level barrier. • The most frequent patient-level facilitator was improved disease management. • Increased workload was the most frequently reported healthcare provider -level barrier. • The most frequent healthcare provider-level facilitator was improved efficiency of care delivery. Knowledge of the barriers and facilitators in the adoption of digital health interventions (DHI) is sparse yet crucial to facilitate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management. This scoping review aimed to summarize patient- and healthcare provider-level barriers and facilitators in the adoption of DHIs for COPD management. Nine electronic databases were searched from inception up till October 2022 for English language evidence. Inductive content analysis was used. This review included 27 papers. Frequent patient-level barriers were poor digital literacy (n = 6), impersonal care delivery (n = 4), and fear of being controlled by telemonitoring data (n = 4). Frequent patient-level facilitators were improved disease understanding and management (n = 17), bi-directional communication and contact with healthcare providers (n = 15), and remote monitoring and feedback (n = 14). Frequent healthcare provider-level barriers were increased workload (n = 5), lack of technology interoperability with existing health systems (n = 4), lack of funding (n = 4), and lack of dedicated and trained manpower (n = 4). Frequent healthcare provider-level facilitators were improved efficiency of care delivery (n = 6) and DHI training programmes (n = 5). DHIs have the potential to facilitate COPD self-management and improve efficiency of care delivery. However, several barriers challenge its successful adoption. Attaining organizational support in developing user centric DHIs that can be integrated and are interoperable with existing health systems is crucial if we are to witness tangible return on investments at the patient-, healthcare provider- and healthcare system-level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban mobility infrastructures are crucial in connecting people to a city and the prospects it provides. Through a critical review of literature on growth of cities in South Asia, transport initiatives and policies, and the existing transport situation, this paper highlights barriers which impact accessibility to transport and thus, ridership. As Delhi gears up to become the world's most populated city, how does its transport infrastructure fare in enabling users' ease of movement and providing opportunities to access work, education, healthcare, and social life? The paper explores how challenges to access transport are a result of interactions between several inter-sectional factors. These include an individual's social and spatial position in the city, role of transport policies in shaping road-based transport, and Delhi's growth in the form of urban sprawls which has resulted in uneven distribution of and access to services. At the core of these inter-linked factors lie the users through whom the challenges or opportunities to access transport become operationalised. By highlighting transport-related constraints, including who is considered a user and who is not, this paper pushes for more inclusive discussions on the future of transport planning, and interventions for improving accessibility. Identifying opportunities for actions and addressing gaps is imperative as Delhi witness's continuous growth and migration. This review of existing transport literature is beneficial for policy recommendations and strategies for meaningful change. • Transport policies focus on physical infrastructure over intersectional differences. • Timelines of transport use in Delhi since 20th century and transport policies since the 1950s. • 'User' is perceived as pre-dominantly male, able -bodied and adult. • Private vehicles dominate roads although higher dependence on public transport. • Transport planning focuses on physical infrastructure to combat pollution and traffic congestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The paper describes a study of enablers and barriers to the development of MaaS. • The study involves informants with actual experience of MaaS developments. • A number of formal but also equally important informal factors have been identified. Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) has been argued as part of the solution to prevalent transport problems. However, progress from pilots to large-scale implementation has hitherto been slow. The aim of the research reported in this paper was to empirically and in-depth investigate how, and to what extent, different factors affect the development and implementation of MaaS. A framework was developed, with a basis in institutional theory and the postulation that formal as well informal factors on different analytical levels (macro, meso and micro) must be considered. The research was organised as a multiple case study in Finland and Sweden and a qualitative approach was chosen for data collection and analysis. A number of factors with a claimed impact on the development and implementation of MaaS was revealed. At the macro level, these factors included legislation concerning transport, innovation and public administration, and the presence (or not) of a shared vision for MaaS. At the meso level, (the lack of) appropriate business models, cultures of collaboration, and assumed roles and responsibilities within the MaaS ecosystem were identified as significant factors. At the micro level, people's attitudes and habits were recognised as important factors to be considered. However, how the 'S' in MaaS fits (or not) the transport needs of the individual/household appears to play a more important role in adoption or rejection of MaaS than what has often been acknowledged in previous papers on MaaS. The findings presented in this paper provide several implications for public and private sector actors. Law-making authorities can facilitate MaaS developments by adjusting relevant regulations and policies such as transport-related subsidies, taxation policies and the definition of public transport. Regional and local authorities could additionally contribute to creating conducive conditions for MaaS by, for example, planning urban designs and transport infrastructures to support service-based travelling. Moreover, private actors have key roles to play in future MaaS developments, as both public and private transport services are needed if MaaS is to become a viable alternative to privately owned cars. Thus, the advance of MaaS business models that benefit all involved actors is vital for the prosperity of the emerging MaaS ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the obstacles that impede the implementation of cloud computing (CC) in small-scale building projects. Based on a comprehensive analysis of relevant scholarly sources, this research paper aims to delineate the many obstacles that are often encountered during the implementation of CC. A comprehensive analysis is conducted based on the replies obtained from a survey of 217 stakeholders in the building sector. Using an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) methodology, this research assesses the interrelated obstacles associated with technological and operational restrictions, risk and privacy considerations, cultural dynamics, behavioural variables, unpredictability, and resource barriers. Furthermore, a model is developed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) in order to get a deeper comprehension of these hindrances. The results of the EFA emphasize the significant impact of risk and privacy barriers in impeding the adoption of CC. The present study offers valuable insights that may inform policymakers in their efforts to enhance the effectiveness of construction projects by addressing the issue of data fragmentation. Through the identification and addressing of these limitations, the research study makes a valuable contribution to the optimization of data fragmentation procedures. Furthermore, it promotes the sustainability of existing building projects by facilitating the more effective exploitation of cloud computing. This paper presents a novel methodology that establishes a foundation for identifying and tackling the many barriers that impede the broad adoption of cloud computing in the construction sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We analyze how drivers and barriers to sharing have been studied to date. • Bibliometric, epistemological and substantive data from 175 papers is analyzed. • 3191 driving factors are categorized across a comprehensive typology. • Attention paid to environmental factors clearly varies across activity sectors. • Environmental factors are predominantly found to influence the intention to share. The sharing economy (SE) has gained attention in recent years in both academia and practice. This derives from the economic and social benefits that are often attributed to it, but also from its limited anticipated environmental impacts. However, its role as a sustainability enabler will largely depend on the extent to which consumers change the criteria they consider. If consumers engage in sharing motivated by the same drivers as usual, rebound effects can significantly reduce the sustainability potential of the SE. This paper contributes to this debate by illuminating on the existing SE literature and consumer behavior. The research team systematically scrutinized 175 scientific papers through a novel approach that combines bibliometric, epistemological and substantive meta-analysis. 3,191 influential construct-item combinations were collected from the sample and categorised according to a comprehensive typology. The findings highlight the diversity of drivers/barriers studied so far regarding the SE, as well as the limited attention paid to environmental factors. Despite this, environmental factors are often found to significantly influence the willingness to share, particularly in sectors such as mobility, clothing and household goods. Results demonstrate that environmental factors have been analysed at a broad level and almost exclusively as potential motivations (rebounds never being considered). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conventional model of energy production and consumption has come under severe scrutiny. Concerns related to climate change, increased energy needs and issues surrounding conventional sources of energy generation have highlighted a need to adopt sustainable means of energy generation. Renewable energy sources are believed to have the potential to meet rising energy needs in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Solar energy is particularly interesting in this respect as it has the potential to be used at commercial as well as household level; however, to this end, its contribution to global energy supply has remained limited. A number of studies have explored factors influencing the adoption of solar photovoltaics (PV) at the household level and proposed measures to foster its development. This paper aims to systematically review and analyse the state of solar PV adoption by exploring "W hat are the key factors influencing the adoption of solar PV at household level? ". From 146 studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, the study identifies 127 unique factors influencing adoption behaviour, and groups these into eight categories, namely economic, environmental, social, personal, demographic, technical, regulatory and market-related factors. Based on the findings, this paper proposes guidelines for practitioners, identifies knowledge gaps and suggests directions for future research to strengthen the scholarship in this domain. • The widespread adoption and use of solar PV at the household level are influenced by a number of factors. • Scholars have explored factors influencing its adoption and proposed measures to foster its development. • This paper systematically reviews the literature on factors influencing the adoption of solar PV. • The review identifies 127 unique factors published in 146 scientific studies. • The identified factors are grouped into eight categories, namely economic, environmental, social, personal, demographic, technical, regulatory and market-related considerations. • The paper proposes guidelines for practitioners, identifies knowledge gaps and suggests directions for future research to strengthen the scholarship in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shifting from a traditional linear to an alternative circular paradigm can foster economic growth and support sustainable capital renewal in the European Union. This topic has attracted growing academic interest in recent years. However, the evaluation of case studies regarding Circular Economy implementation, strategies, and practices (at all levels) is still in its infancy. With the aim of bridging this gap, this paper analyses, through a systematic review of case studies, the implementation of circular practices in all economic sectors and industries of the European Union (from 2015 until April 2023). To this end, this research uses a framework of circular strategies built considering the European Union political framework. Based on this analysis, it can be deduced that recycling was the most used circular strategy (24.2%) to reintegrate materials into the economic system and reduce the use of raw materials (18.9%), demonstrating the existence of virtuous circles in the European Union's economic sectors. The results show that the best performing industry, in terms of circular strategies, is Food and Beverage (17.92%), within the Agri-food economic sector. While the economic sector with the least number of circular strategies (7.86%) is Capital Equipment. This paper proposes several tools for Circular Economy implementation that could lead to future research and support business, policymakers, and the scientific community. [Display omitted] • Circularity implementation in the European Union's economic sectors is evaluated. • The most important barriers and challenges are outlined and discussed. • Circular strategies are obtained from the European Union political framework. • The main performing economic sectors and industries are listed. • Food and Beverage was found to be the most circular industry in the European Union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on Circuit VRC, a ventilation corridor model that integrates circuit theory and ventilation resistance coefficient (VRC) to address urban heat island mitigation. Taking Wuhan's main urban area as an example, the Circuit VRC model was employed to identify the paths and barriers of the urban ventilation corridors and simulate the airflow at a macro scale. Combined with land surface temperature (LST) maps, the accuracy of the Circuit VRC model was evaluated. This paper further proposes an optimization strategy for ventilation corridors based on this model. The results indicated that (1) The proposed Circuit VRC model exhibited high reliability. Under the prevailing wind direction, the mitigation effect of Circuit VRC-based ventilation corridor areas on urban heat islands is on average 46.3% higher than that of non-corridor areas. (2) The airflow values in Circuit VRC-based ventilation corridors showed a non-linear correlation with LST. As the airflow value increases from 0 to 0.5, the LST reduces significantly. (3) The constructed ventilation corridors can be greatly optimized by using the floor area ratio (FAR)-controlled method in the Circuit VRC model. The maximum increase in airflow value in the ventilation corridor caused by a 0.1 FAR decrease within the barriers is 17.8%. The model proposed in this study provides crucial technical support for mitigating urban heat islands. • Circuit VRC exhibits an urban heat island mitigation efficiency. • Circuit VRC-based ventilated corridor has a nonlinear effect on urban heat islands. • Airflow values increase from 0 to 0.5 with the most significant decrease in LST. • A FAR-controlled method of barrier repair can optimize ventilation corridors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Special health care needs (SHCNs) individuals experience higher levels of dental problems including accessing oral health (OH) facilities. Improving standard of OH care in SHCNs requires identifying barriers and enablers. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of prior researches to identify OH care barriers and enablers for SHCN individuals. Electronic searching was conducted systematically in PubMed and Cochrane databases. The PICOS parameters were formulated for the inclusion of studies, and the PRISMA method was used to select the articles. Two reviewers independently screened the articles for eligibility and to minimise the risk of bias in the studies and also searched the contents of key articles, quality of methodology, outcomes and reference lists of all the studies included. A total of 1316 (PubMed 956, Cochrane 360) studies were found initially and after title and abstract screening and also removal of duplication, reviewers selected 53 papers from PubMED and 19 articles from Cochrane to go through full articles and led to the final confirmation of 21 studies. Common challenges included lack of OH knowledge and awareness, difficulty in accessing treatment, transportation problem, treatment cost, and lack of inter-professional collaboration for specialized services. Potential solutions included OHE training and services for patients and caregivers, easy access to dental services, specialized dental practitioners and use of a combination of expertise to meet the demands of SHCN individuals. This brief analysis will establish dental obstacles to the provision of information to policymakers for SHCN population at organizational, individuals and policy levels. It will help in effective planning for providing and improving OH care quality in caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building operations use 45% of the total energy in Australia, and Net-Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) are instrumental in achieving net zero emissions by 2050. However, research reveals that various factors hinder NZEB adoption in Australia, and it is imperative to contextualise the barriers, thereby highlighting clear gaps that can be addressed to enhance the implementation of NZEB in Australia. This study presents a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis to examine the barriers that hinder the implementation of NZEB contextualised within the Australian building industry. The paper's novelty resides in its contextualisation of barriers to NZEB thereby highlighting clear gaps that can be addressed to enhance the implementation of NZEB in Australia. Emergent results reveal the most impactful barriers experienced and the inter-relatedness between barriers and their effects on each other. These identified barriers are also compared with comparable countries, including the UK, China, Italy and the US. New insight and knowledge acquired provide a basis for assessing potential solutions to the main barriers. Findings show that a lack of knowledge, climate issues, and cost issues, in addition to government policy factors, are considered primary barriers encountered by the industry, hindering the achievement of NZEBs. It is imperative that future studies and initiatives counteract these impacts to realise a better implementation of NZEB in the Australian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates stakeholder's perspectives about freight congestion in Canada's major metropolitan regions. Interviews with 28 Canadian stakeholders from different sectors are analyzed using Strauss/Corbin extended approach of symbolic interactionism with the objective of producing an explanatory theory to identify barriers to freight in Canada. By integrating emergent categories with a structured framework of theoretical propositions, we are able to offer insights to understand the perceived barriers to goods movement in the Canadian landscape, as well as to detail a framework of interventions to improve freight mobility. In total, 50 themes emerged as barriers to the movement of goods, which were grouped into nine subcategories, and four overarching categories which broadly frame the issues of goods movements as relating to high infrastructure utilization (Infrastructure Demand Outstripping Supply), the cost impacts of diminishing reliability of distribution (Physical Distribution Headwinds Impeding Commerce), rapidly growing regions and ineffective or absent policy support (Urgent Regulatory Encumbrances), and a lack of a robust data collection, analysis, and information sharing framework (Information and Data Management Complexities). These categories were considered in the frame of addressing goods movement barriers and were argued to be influenced by factors of cost, political risk, implement-ability, and maintainability. A framework was developed identifying four high-level interventions: data and knowledge mobilization; public-private collaborative freight evaluations; government funding and political support; and, capacity alterations: improvements and expansions. The key concepts of the framework are to collect and analyze data to inform public-private stakeholder evaluations of policy interventions, with government funding to support both knowledge generation efforts, policy actions and capacity investments. There is a significant need to expand data collection and information sharing, focus infrastructure investments on public transit and intermodal accessibility, and integrated policy development towards transportation and land use planning to address the physical and policy barriers affecting freight mobility and congestion. The emergent theory is contrasted with selected global regions to assess generalizability and the relevance of international perspectives to the Canadian environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refused derived fuel (RDF) is one of the products of the MSWs that is effectively used as an energy source, especially in the cement industry. This work discusses the role of the RDF in the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the circular economy. Moreover, the barriers that challenge the widespread of the RDF are indicated. The RDF positively contributes to the most SDGs. However, the main contribution would be in SDG l: no poverty, SDG 3: good health and well-being, SDG 6: SDG 6: clean water and sanitation, SDG 7: affordable and clean Energy, SDG 8 decent work and economic growth, SDG 9: industry, innovation and infrastructure, SDG 11: sustainable cities and communities, SDG 12: responsible consumption and production, SDG 14: life below water and SDG 15: life on land. While in the main contribution of the circular economy comes from its ability to reuse municipal solid wastes, industrial solid waste, non-recyclable plastics, waste tires, biomass, paper/card, waste oils, and waste textiles. In addition, RDF will reduce the CO 2 by up to 2155.3 106 Kt CO 2 /year and recover heat content from 2 to 5.5 Gcal/t. Moreover, the RDF will save up to 15% of the fuel that equals 4.92 tons/h. Such fuel reduction will save 486 USD/h in petcoke costs, with 2.27 tons/h of CO 2 being emitted into the atmosphere at a net saving of 389 USD/h. The results guide academic researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders worldwide to evaluate solid wastes as alternative fuels concerning their overall sustainability and cheapness. Moreover, this work introduces some future research directions to involve solid wastes in circular economy and SDGs. Furthermore, a set of indicators are proposed to guide the stakeholder to increase the RDF contribution to SDGs and lower the possible trade-off. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a framework to prioritize locally suitable climate-smart agricultural (CSA) interventions and implementation suitability assessments with key stakeholders: state and district agriculture departments, extension offices, agriculture research institutions, NGOs and donor agencies, private sector and farmers. Prioritization of appropriate interventions for given contexts is needed to assist relevant stakeholders to make strategic decisions and improve adaptability and efficiency of agriculture production system in the face of climate change and variability. First step includes participatory identification and evaluation of location specific CSA interventions suitable for different crop and cropping system with potential to reduce climatic risks in agriculture. All CSA interventions were evaluated based on their contribution to increase farm productivity and income, building resilience to changing climate and reduction of agricultural emissions. Second step includes evaluation of overall implementation feasibility of selected CSA interventions based on their technical feasibility, cost of implementation, inclusivity and synergy with current government programs. In the third step, potential barriers of CSA technology adoption were assessed linking with availability of resources, farmers' knowledge and acceptability, access to agriculture extensions service, market and government support. In the fourth step, incentive mechanisms to promote CSA interventions such as government subsidy, market linkage, provision of loan and capacity building were evaluated with farmers and key stakeholders. Finally, this prioritization framework assessed the role of different organizations such as the government, private sector, non-government organizations, custom hiring centers and community based organizations in promoting CSA interventions at the local level. Results show that this framework provides ample space for local stakeholders to integrate their knowledge and experience on CSA interventions in prioritization and investment planning. Stakeholders prioritized mainly water and nutrient management technologies, agriculture insurance against climatic risks and ICT based weather and agro-advisory services. This framework provides a decision support tool for policy-making in adaptation and mitigation activities in agriculture sector at the local level. This framework can be used by governments, development organizations and the private sector for investment decision-making. • This paper presents a stakeholders' prioritization method for investment decision making on climate smart agriculture at the sub-national level • Methodology ensures coherent linkage of climate smart agriculture (CSA) process with stakeholders needs and challenges • This approach is successful to identify CSA implementation feasibility, barriers and incentive mechanisms that play a major role in guiding investment decisions by governments, private sector and farming communities on CSA [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of youth with mental health problems do not receive treatment, highlighting the critical need to transport evidence-based interventions into community settings, such as schools. Despite being able to reach a large number of adolescents and minority youth, the process of implementing evidence-based interventions to schools is challenging. This paper discusses some expected and unexpected challenges experienced during the implementation of an open trial and a pilot randomized controlled trial examining the acceptability and effectiveness of a school-based preventive intervention for adolescents at risk for internalizing disorders. First, we highlight key programs and findings on preventive interventions for adolescents at risk for depression and anxiety. Next, we provide a brief overview of the preventive intervention we implemented in schools. This provides a context for the section that describes implementation issues and highlights specific challenges and potential solutions for intervention implementation. Finally, the paper offers recommendations for researchers and clinicians interested in implementing school-based mental health services for adolescents. • School-based, preventive intervention for adolescents at risk for depression and anxiety • School-based prevention intervention processes involved in implementation • Specific challenges and potential solutions given for issues involved in implementation • Recommendations for implementing school-based mental health services for adolescents [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to summarise the qualitative findings from systematic reviews to identify what pregnant women perceive as barriers and enablers to smoking cessation during pregnancy. Smoking during pregnancy is a predictor of adverse maternal and infant outcomes. Despite known health risks, less than half of pregnant smokers quit during pregnancy. An umbrella review using the Johanna Briggs Institute methodology was conducted. A comprehensive literature review was completed in July 2017. All included papers were subject to an eligibility criterion and checked for quality by at least two reviewers. A total of n = 529 papers were identified and screened. Of these, only two met all inclusion and quality criteria and were included for review. More barriers than facilitators were identified from the available literature. An enabler or barrier to smoking cessation for pregnant women is not a fixed entity but dependent on the context of an individual's life. What is an enabler for one woman may be considered a barrier for another, and these are dependent on support provided by family and friends. Further research is needed to optimise ways of addressing these barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Increasing cooling demands in the built environment call for innovative technical solutions and systems for application in buildings. Cooling loads represent an important share of the total energy consumption in warm climates, especially in commercial and office buildings. Moreover, mechanical systems will still be needed in most cases to cope with cooling loads, even after considering passive cooling strategies in the design of the building and its façade. Solar cooling technologies present interesting assets, being based on environmentally friendly cooling processes, driven by solar and thus renewable energy. However, their application in the built environment remains greatly limited. This paper assesses several solar cooling technologies in terms of their potential for façade integration; aiming to promote widespread application in buildings throughout the development of integrated architectural façade products. The assessment is based on a state-of-the-art review and discussion of key attributes for façade integration of selected technologies; and a qualitative evaluation of their suitability to respond to main product related barriers for the integration of building services identified in an earlier work by the authors. The cooling principles behind the operation of the assessed technologies have been extensively presented in the literature, so this paper focuses exclusively on key aspects to overcome barriers related to the technical feasibility, physical integration, durability, performance, and aesthetics of future integrated concepts. Results show that the suitability of the assessed technologies varies according to each particular barrier. Hence, no technology currently fits all required aspects. Nonetheless, the use of thermoelectric modules and compact units based on absorption technologies are regarded as the most promising for the development of either integral building components, or modular plug & play systems for façade integration. In any case, this is heavily conditioned to further efforts and explorations in the field to overcome identified challenges and knowledge gaps. Highlights • No assessed technology currently fits all required aspects for façade integration. • Technologies' suitability varies according to each façade integration barrier. • Current potential was mapped identifying bottlenecks and drafting recommendations. • Thermoelectrics and compact units based on absorption technologies are promising. • Adsorption/solid desiccant developments should aim to partial façade integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper analyses the barriers to the adoption of the triple-bottom line of sustainability of the construction sector within the developing country of Malaysia. Barriers pertaining to sustainable construction (SC) were identified through a thorough review of the literature on the process of SC, which were then contextually customized via a pilot study and presented in the form of a hypothesized model. Primary data was collected via administration of questionnaire surveys to 122 construction stakeholders in Malaysia. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was utilized to statistically validate the final model of the barriers to SC. This paper fills the gap in the knowledge by focusing on the quantified contribution of the most significant barriers to the adoption of SC principles throughout the process of SC in the context of Malaysia. Findings of this paper uncover the most significant factors constraining the SC in Malaysia related to government, cost, knowledge and information, workforce, and client and market. The findings revealed that clear and effective legislative process is crucial for the enforcement of the integration of SC materials and practices as well as economics incentives which will ultimately lead to effective implementation of SC initiatives; hence, sustainable economic growth and efficient resource (energy, water and material) utilization. It is hoped that the findings provide guidelines for the government authorities so that they invest their efforts and allocate resources in more efficient way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small island developing states of the Pacific suffer from both the high cost of fossil fuel imports and from numerous climate-related disasters. These vulnerabilities will worsen unless there is a substantial global shift away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy (RE) sources, coupled with significant improvements in energy efficiency. Apart from traditional biomass-fuelled cooking, the most substantial uses of RE in the Pacific in 2016 were hydropower in some of the hillier island countries and the thousands of household photovoltaic (PV) systems in the remoter parts of island countries. This paper considers also the prospects for grid PV, geothermal, and biofuels – all of which have good technical potential in at least some islands. Barriers to wider use of RE in the region are mostly institutional and financial, but also include opportunity costs, environmental factors, and the limited skills base in small island states. The paper examines the mixed progress since the 1990s towards overcoming these barriers. The Fiji Electricity Authority has a reasonably realistic plan to have 81% of its supply from RE by 2020, drawing on hydropower (~ 50% in 2015), biomass (including bagasse), and some solar and wind. Tonga has its Renewable Energy Roadmap with clear milestones. Several other Pacific Island countries have ambitious RE targets but some are rather vague about how they are to be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Widespread deployment of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) could potentially lead to a multiplication of the area available for harvesting solar energy in densely populated countries. Despite its advantages to contribute to meeting renewable energy targets and substitute conventional building materials, the diffusion of BIPV has so far remained well below expectations. This paper investigates barriers to and facilitators of adoption based on 43 qualitative interviews with stakeholders across the BIPV value chain. It conceptualizes a framework that classifies the determinants of the adoption processes of renewable energy technologies and of BIPV in particular. Product-specific, stakeholder-specific and institutional barriers are identified. Central product-specific barriers include high initial costs and high complexity. The main stakeholder-specific barriers are low awareness of BIPV, and the reluctance of many architects to adopt BIPV. Institutional barriers refer to political risks. The paper derives recommendations for policy makers and marketers. Successful BIPV policies should create clear incentives for BIPV adopters, either in the form of financial support or inclusion of BIPV in building codes or labels. As for marketing, BIPV suppliers should develop targeted communication strategies towards building owners and architects and offer turn-key solar roofs in order to overcome concerns about the complexity of BIPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green Buildings Labels (GBL) are indicated as one of the means with the potential to contribute to sustainable development. Worldwide, more than 850,000 green buildings have already had their project and development helped by just three of the GBLs (LEED, BREEAM, and BASIX). Brazil, however, has only 874 LEED-certified projects. Aiming to propose strategies to foster the adoption of GBL in the country, this paper developed an interpretative model involving barriers to them in Brazil. For this, the technique of Validated Interpretative Structural Modeling (VISM) was developed aiming to add statistical validity to interpretative models even in situations of research with small sample sizes. VISM is a modeling technique that incorporates the simplicity of Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) with the significance testing procedures of Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Adopting the VISM, the barriers model was then developed in five steps: (1) identification of indicators; (2) definition of constructs; (3) identification of relations between constructs; (4) validation of relations between constructs; and (5) creation of the conceptual model. As a result, VISM proved to be an effective innovative modeling technique in the development of models for exploratory research and presents results consistent with the reality studied. Regarding the model developed, the main barriers identified by the study to the adoption of GBL in Brazil are: "environmental protection mechanisms"; "costs and return on investment"; "mistrust of the benefits from GBL"; "corporate and public awareness"; "maturity and market economics"; and the "project, construction, and operation of green buildings". • The paper develop a model of barriers to adoption of green buildings labels in Brazil. • The paper present the technique of Validated Interpretative Structural Modeling. • The technique can help exploratory research with small sample sizes. • ISM models with circular and cross relationships can be validated. • Environmental protection mechanisms and costs hinder green buildings labels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The path to implementing successful, productive, and sustainable off-site 3D concrete printing building systems is unclear. To provide clarity, this paper aims to determine targeted actions for stakeholders in the construction industry. A systematic literature review and a bibliometric analysis are conducted to identify driver-barriers of Off-site Construction (OSC) and 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP). Thirty-four stakeholder-linked targeted actions are determined and divided into industry, organisational, project, and system levels. The findings indicate the success of off-site 3DCP building systems is not exclusively dependent on the system performance and a variety of actions are required from multiple stakeholders. This paper provides a theoretical foundation for practical actions and further research to implement off-site 3DCP building systems in local construction industries. • Drivers and barriers are identified with a systematic literature review on off-site construction and 3D concrete printing. • A bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software is performed. • Stakeholders in off-site 3DCP are identified. • Stakeholder-linked targeted actions which aim to enable the development of off-site 3DCP building systems are derived [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the barriers that inhibit the deployment of renewable energy technologies to achieve long-term reductions in carbon emissions from the use of fossil fuels is paramount to Barbados. Although there are targets towards renewable energy (solar, wind, biomass, geothermal) uptake, the share of these technologies in the energy mix does not exist in Barbados due to the total dependence on fossil fuels. In this paper, a review of potential challenges and the main problems for deployment of alternative energy sources is presented. Through interviews, questionnaires with a focus group of key personnel's, the paper documents the lack of renewable energy sources (with emphasis on solar energy) as one of the main alternatives to meet the carbon emission targets set by the country. The barriers and challenges facing the implementation of solar energy deployment have been clarified. From the results, it is evident that significant policy barriers still exist at the country level, which has reduced the effectiveness of a concerted national effort to deploy renewables. The current policy landscape which benefits from fossil fuel imports, the lack of technical know-how and the lack of research and development in the renewable energy space are amongst the key barriers identified. The paper also outlines the key policy's frameworks, regulatory environment and the lack of incentives, which encompasses the renewable energy sector, and presents a critical analysis of the barriers faced by the industry. A mitigation framework is proposed to bridge the gap of solar energy (renewable energy) deployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stream of announcements in 2017, effectively banning the production and sales of internal combustion engine vehicles within the next fifteen-twenty years, indicate how governments are seeking to regulate a mass market transition to electric vehicles. Yet despite significant policy initiatives to stimulate their uptake, EV market share remains far short of the level required to push them into the mainstream. This paper identifies a multitude of potential barriers to uptake and investigates these from the largely ignored perspective of mass market drivers of ICE vehicles in a European context. In addition it assesses the extent to which barriers are inter-related, and can be reduced down to larger explanatory ‘factors’. Findings, drawn from an original survey of 26,000 motorists suggest that resistance to EV adoption is characterised by twelve barriers that can be reduced and conceptualised as ‘economic uncertainty’ and ‘socio-technical’ factors. In turn, economic uncertainty was found to be significantly associated with age and geography, whilst socio-technical issues are related to gender. Problems of EV adoption are shown to be complex and multi-faceted, not easily solved by tackling individual issues, but requiring a more holistic ecosystem approach, the key policy components of which are posited in this paper. Such analysis is significant in enriching academic discourse and informing effective strategy and policy that will facilitate the transition to EVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of stricter environmental regulations and the growing environmental consciousness of customers have forced industries to start thinking about environmental operations management with the help of reverse logistics application. In this process, influential factors such as drivers and barriers have to be examined, and stakeholders' different perspectives on RL implementation and development should also be considered. This paper presents a multi-perspective framework for reverse logistics implementation using the lens of stakeholder theory. The multiple stakeholders' perspective framework was developed based upon a structured literature review process. Fifty-four papers concerning these topical areas were thoroughly assessed and classified according to their structural dimensions and analytical categories. Two extensive lists of 37 drivers and 36 barriers, categorized and analyzed against the dimensions and categories, served as a basis for the development of the referred framework. Thereby, the overall contribution of this work proposes an understanding of the factors required for employing reverse logistics from multiple perspectives, including those of the company, society, government, and customer. Additionally, each perspective is discussed separately with the aid of previous works developed in the field. Most of the encountered barriers are placed in the firm's perspective; however, these barriers may be an effect from outside impediments. On the drivers' side, the factors must be acknowledged so managers can prepare for changes by exploring these positive influential factors. A consideration of the influential factors from multiple perspectives is critical for creating a comprehensive industry strategy to successfully implement product return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding which drivers and barriers exist in the development of a circular economy (CE) is a relevant and timely endeavour. The aim of this paper is to contribute to this debate by analysing evidence regarding the different factors helping and hampering the development of a CE. Specifically, this paper focuses on the eco-innovation (EI) pathway towards a CE, and tries to coordinate available but fragmented findings regarding how “transformative innovation” can foster this transition while removing obstacles to sustainability. Drawing upon a new corpus of both academic and non-academic literature, this work offers a framework for analysis, as well as an evidence-based survey of the challenges, for a green structural change of the economy. We argue that the combination of the innovation systems' view with the more recent “transformation turn” in innovation studies may provide an appropriate perspective for understanding the transition to a CE. Ultimately, the paper aims to capitalise on these insights to contribute to the design of policy guidelines and organisational strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From an environmental point of view, reduced use of energy remains a cornerstone in global greenhouse gas mitigation. However, without full internalization of external costs, greenhouse gas mitigation as such may not be highly prioritized among business leaders. Rather, it is the magnitude of production costs and ultimately the size of market revenue that articulates success or failure for business leaders. Nevertheless, reduced energy use or improved energy efficiency can have a vast impact on profitability even for companies with low energy costs, as the reduced energy costs directly lead to increased profits. In this paper, a review of ten years of empirical research in the field of industrial energy management in Swedish industry is presented. Based on the review, the paper proposes success factors for efficient energy management, factors which could help guide individual energy managers as well as policy makers in order to close the energy efficiency and management gaps. The paper also presents an overview of important industrial energy management tools, which would facilitate in-house energy management in industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International collaborations in the context of Disaster Resilience (DR) is pivotal due to several reasons. It helps to propose ways to create more coherent international approaches on disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation and resilience strengthening; it helps to enhance risk management capabilities by bridging the gap between science and legal/policy issues; it helps to address the issue of efficient management of trans-boundary crises. The need to optimise international cooperation in relation to resourcing research, capacity building to undertake research and facilitating its uptake is mentioned throughout the Sendai Framework for disaster risk reduction 2015-2030 (SFDRR). Given their different capacities, as well as the linkage between the level of support provided to them and the extent to which they will be able to implement the SFDRR, developing countries require an enhanced provision of means of implementation, including adequate, sustainable and timely resources, through international cooperation and global partnerships for development, and continued international support, so as to strengthen their efforts to reduce disaster risk. The purpose of this paper is to examine the level of engagement of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in developing countries in Asia in international collaborations to improve their Research and Innovation (R&I) capacities in DR. Based on a project entitled ASCENT (Advancing Skills Creation and Enhancement), the findings of the paper focuses on three Asian countries, i.e. Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Other than an extant literature review, the paper findings are drawn from a questionnaire survey carried out in eight HEIs from the said countries. There are already several regional initiatives that promote collaboration among HEIs towards building resilience. These networks should be supported and encouraged to grow. These global networks should collaborate with existing bodies to ensure that the role of higher education is understood and can be made use of. Findings of this paper supports the need for an enhanced international partnership to improve the science-policy interface in DR and to achieve the objectives of the SFDRR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a strategic approach to strengthening research methods skills in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to improve disaster resilience (DR). The findings are based on an initial assessment of the nature, scale and beneficiaries of the research methods training program developed as a part of an ERAMUS+ project called ASCENT (Advancing Skill Creation to ENhance Transformation). This project aims at addressing Research and Innovation (R&I) capacity strengthening for the societal DR. The paper examines what research methods skills are needed to be improved in HEIs in three countries, i.e. Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Thailand. This was examined mainly with the use of an online survey questionnaire that was sent to 08 HEIs from these three countries. Altogether 530 responses were received from both the academic and research staff in these institutions. The responses were analysed using version SPSS 23.0 with several analysis techniques such as Mann-Witney U-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Principal Component Analysis. The research findings revealed that both academic and research staff lack capacity in research methods such as elite interviews, observations, document studies (e.g. secondary data analysis), probabilistic method, interdisciplinary thinking, field experiments, sampling techniques and Delphi studies. The strategic approach to strengthening research methods skills, therefore, focuses on developing a comprehensive and structured research methods training programme encompassing the aforementioned research methods. In addition, several modes of training such as face-to-face, and online training were incorporated in this strategic approach to suit the nature, scale and beneficiaries of the research method training program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pedestrian permeability is a key aspect of the accessibility of urban environments. In particular, high permeability increases the walkability of cities, which is advocated by sustainable urban design practices. Previous research on pedestrian permeability has predominantly focused only on single and very specific, characteristic, and homogenous urban morphologies but investigations at a broader scale have not been conducted up to now. In this paper, we apply the concept of Individual Walkable Neighbourhoods (IWN) to measure local urban pedestrian permeability for all large cities in Germany with more than 100,000 inhabitants. Our results reveal great differences in intra- and inter-urban pedestrian permeability, and based on examples, we explore various factors that influence local permeability, such as topography or structural types. Furthermore, the large-scale analysis is used to identify characteristic patterns of high (e.g., urban centers) or low (e.g., neighbourhoods of single-family detached houses) permeability for German cities. • Permeability is dependent on morphological urban patterns. • There is a strong permeability-gradient between urban centers and the periphery. • Topography has a strong influence on permeability. • Barriers such as railways can half the range of movement without connections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital transformation has been regarded as a primary styrategy to promote transitions in diverse fields, but industry pioneers believe that the existing barriers may hamper the speed of digital transformation. Hence, this paper presents a synthetical decision model integrating the weighted Heronian mean aggregation (WHMA) operator, the Level-Based Weight Assessment (LBWA) model, the CRITIC (criteria importance through intercriteria correlation) method, and the Ranking of Alternatives through Functional mapping of criterion sub-intervals into a Single Interval (RAFSI) model with Fermatean cubic fuzzy sets to evaluate the barriers to digital transformation implementation in energy transitions with unknown weights of experts and criteria. In this framework, an extended WHMA operator with the deviation-based method is established to fuse experts' preference information. The LBWA model and CRITIC method with FCF setting are combined to derive the weights of barriers. Next, these methods are incorporated into the RAFSI model to analyze these barriers. A numerical example of evaluating barriers to digital transformation implementation in the power sector displays the application of the RAFSI model-based decision method. The result reveals that a 3 "Equipment manufacturer" (0.7063) has the highest barrier level, and a 4 "Consumers of smart power electronic" (0.4391) have the lowest barrier level. After that, sensitivity and comparative explorations are applied to examine the feasibility and reliability of the synthetical model. The results show that the proposed model can provide a more practical and stable evaluation result for supporting the decision of stakeholders associated with ET. • This study identifies a structure of barriers to the implication of the digital economy in achieving energy transition. • A synthetical decision model integrating the weighted Heronian mean aggregation operator is presented. • The RAFSI model with FCF is proposed to evaluate the barriers of digital transformation implementation in energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a domestic and non-intermittent resource, geothermal energy offers countries a clean and sustainable energy option while setting their energy mix strategies. Turkiye, endowed with rich energy fields, stands out as one of the fastest-growing countries in geothermal energy. The dramatic installed power capacity increase and significant expansion in the geothermal energy market, particularly after 2010 following the initiation of the incentive scheme, are pretty remarkable. Nonetheless, it is also evident that geothermal energy investments in the country have shown a decreasing trend in recent years. At this point, this paper aims to reveal the opportunities and challenges in the development of geothermal energy as the first comprehensive qualitative analysis for Turkiye. Furthermore, it evaluates the diffusion of geothermal energy in Turkiye based on the Technological Innovation Systems (TIS) framework to gain insight into the Turkish geothermal sector. According to the interviewees, financial and political barriers such as high investor costs, insufficient incentives for power generation, and the lack of incentives for direct utilization, along with lengthy and exhausting permitting processes, still hinder the prevalence of geothermal energy utilization in the country. Respondents find that Geothermal suggests a huge opportunity for the Green Energy transition in Turkiye and aids economic development through increases in employment opportunities and household welfare using combined uses in district heating, electricity, and greenhouse usage. • Geothermal energy is essential in Turkiye's' green transition to net zero. • Semi-structured interviews are conducted to identify opportunities and challenges of geothermal energy in Turkiye. • The main challenges are financial and political barriers along with lengthy and exhausting permitting processes. • Geothermal energy suggests a considerable opportunity aiding economic development through increases in employment opportunities and household welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health Information Systems (HIS) helps in coordinating various activities within hospital through effective and efficient services. Malaysian Government began to introduce HIS in 1999 to cover both clinical and non-clinical information systems. Since then hospitals have been facing challenges to achieve the objectives of its introduction. Thus, it is important to understand determinants for successful implementation in order to ensure sustainable HIS. Various determinants render successful implementation, such as human factors, technology factors as well as organizational factors. However, understanding organizational factors becomes important, since the systems runs within the organization itself. The other two factors; human and technology factors have been discussed elsewhere by the authors. Any issues pertaining to the organization if identified earlier will prevent implementation failure. Hence, this paper aims to provide a review of barriers associated with organization factors hindering the sustainability of HIS, and propose strategies required to minimize the issues discussed. Based on our review, this paper highlighted four main challenges from an organization perspective; high adoption cost, top management support, adequate infrastructure and security and privacy issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although nearly all Australian children are vaccinated against pneumococcal disease, pneumococcal vaccine uptake is low among high-risk adults. This study aimed to identify perceived barriers to pneumococcal vaccination among high-risk adults. This paper reports combined data on pneumococcal vaccination collected from three different online, cross-sectional surveys that were administered in Australia between August 2019 and September 2020. Using Poisson regression, we identified characteristics and beliefs associated with self-reported pneumococcal vaccination among adults aged 65 and over or with chronic health conditions. The weighted estimate for pneumococcal vaccine coverage was 24% for high-risk adults under 65 and 53% for adults aged 65 and over. Nearly half of those under 65 reported they had never heard of the pneumococcal vaccine, while 26% of those aged 65 and over had never heard of the vaccine. Among those under 65, pneumococcal vaccination was associated with high perceived disease susceptibility (PR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.23, 3.18), not having heard of the pneumococcal vaccine (PR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.28–0.69), awareness that their chronic health condition puts them at increased risk of pneumonia (PR = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.51–3.98), and having a doctor recommend the vaccine (PR = 3.02, 95% CI: 2.05–4.44). Among adults aged 65 and over, self-reported pneumococcal vaccination was associated with influenza vaccination in the previous 12 months (PR = 4.28, 95% CI: 2.85–6.44) and awareness that they are eligible for free pneumococcal vaccination (PR = 5.02, 95% CI: 2.34–10.77). Awareness of pneumococcal vaccines was low among adults at high risk of pneumococcal disease, which appears to be contributing to low vaccine uptake. A doctor's recommendation was associated with increased uptake of pneumococcal vaccine, so interventions should be developed to promote pneumococcal vaccine uptake in GP practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities (built environments) produce a significant proportion of global greenhouse gas emissions, making a significant contribution to climate change. They are home to the majority of the world's population and economic activity yet face increasing risks from climate change impacts. Thus, it is critical that those involved in producing and managing built environments are prepared for climate change. This paper presents a review of literature focused on two key components of professions and professional practice across the built environment sectors urban planning, construction, property, and design (architecture, landscape architecture, urban design): 1) barriers to and facilitators of climate change action (mitigation and adaptation); and 2) climate change preparedness. Barriers to and facilitators of climate change action were found to vary across sectors, with some overlap. A limited understanding of preparedness to address climate change action was found across the sectors reviewed. These findings are important. A limited understanding of climate change preparedness across these sectors may limit capacity to achieve global goals such as the Paris Agreement which seeks to limit global warming to 1.5 oC, and to be well adapted to the changes that will occur. Significant social and economic impacts could result from a lack of preparedness. The published research reviewed lacked a holistic and integrated view of: the built environment; and of climate change action within it. It is recommended that these gaps in research and practice are addressed to facilitate effective climate change action in cities, to avoid further economic, social and environmental impacts of climate change. • Lit. review of built environment sectors planning, construction, property, design. • Reviewed climate change preparedness and barriers to and facilitators of action. • Barriers, facilitators and preparedness vary across sectors and their professions. • A holistic integrated view of built environment and climate change action is lacking. • identifies research and practice needs for climate change preparedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is the first of a four-part series that details the current barriers to diversity in the field of adult cardiothoracic anesthesiology and outlines actionable programs that can be implemented to create change. Part I and Part II address the training experience of women and underrepresented minorities (URMs) in adult cardiothoracic anesthesiology (ACTA), respectively, and explore concrete opportunities to promote positive change. Part III and Part IV examine the professional experience of URMs and women in ACTA, respectively, and discuss interventions that can facilitate a more equitable and inclusive environment for both groups. Although these problems are complex, the authors here offer a detailed analysis of the challenges faced by each group both in the training phase and the professional practice phase of their careers. The authors also present meaningful and concrete actions that can be implemented to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive professional environment in cardiovascular and thoracic anesthesiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many industrial companies face demands for increases in product variety in order to accommodate customers' requirements for additional individual products. With this increasing product variety come increasing costs, poor delivery performance and quality problems. Thus, many companies attempt to reduce their product variety but often fail to do so. To understand the causes of this problem, we identify the most important barriers companies face when trying to reduce their product variety. We review the existing literature and highlight the identified barriers. Then, we carry out a single case study, which identifies a type of barrier not previously described, namely a barrier related to the culture and the personality of the people involved. The paper adds to the literature by extending the perspective on barriers to product variety reduction. The overview of barriers to product variety reduction may help managers focus their attention and resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]