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We survey the literature on the use of Benford's distribution digit analysis applied to COVID-19 case data reporting. We combine a bibliometric analysis of 32 articles with a survey of their content and findings. In spite of combined efforts from teams of researchers across multiple countries and universities, using large data samples from a multitude of sources, there is no emerging consensus on data misreporting. We believe we are nevertheless able to discern a faint pattern in the segregation of findings. The evidence suggests that studies using very large, aggregate samples and a methodology based on hypothesis testing are marginally more likely to identify significant deviations from Benford's distribution and to attribute this deviation to data tampering. Our results are far from conclusive and should be taken with a very healthy dose of skepticism. Academics and policymakers alike should remain mindful that the misreporting controversy is still far from being settled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates Romanian physicians' acceptance of telemedicine using the Technology Acceptance Model. We analyzed 1093 responses to an online survey distributed nationwide to physicians via email by the National Authority of Quality Management in Health, employing the partial least squares algorithm to estimate the relationship between the behavioral intention to adopt telemedicine and its potential determinants. Our findings reveal that the model accounts for 84.6% of the variance in behavioral intention to use telemedicine. Among the two constructs of the TAM model, perceived usefulness is a stronger predictor of behavioral intention than perceived ease of use. Additionally, subjective norms positively and significantly influence physicians' intention to use telemedicine and their perception of its usefulness. Furthermore, perceived incentives and accessibility to medical records also positively impact the behavioral intention to use telemedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use an extended framework of the technology acceptance model (TAM) to identify the most significant drivers behind the intention to buy clothes produced with nano fabrics (nano clothing). Based on survey data, we estimate an integrated model that explains this intention as being driven by attitudes, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use. The influences of social innovativeness, relative advantage, compatibility, and ecologic concern on perceived usefulness are tested using perceived ease of use as a mediator. We employ a partial least squares path model in WarpPLS 7.0., a predictive technique that informs policies. The results show positive effects for all the studied relationships, with effect sizes underscoring perceived usefulness, attitude, and compatibility as the most suitable targets for practical interventions. Our study expands the TAM framework into the field of nano fashion consumption, shedding light on the potential drivers of the adoption process. Explorations of the topic hold the potential to make a substantial contribution to the promotion of sustainable fashion practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the broad impact of applied research on the economy, RDI funding evaluations are required both in terms of the number of allocated resources and the management of these resources. RDI efficacy depends on human resources productivity and the financing instruments established through national priorities. This paper offers an analysis of the RDI investments in Romania allocated through the Competitiveness Operational Programme 2014-2020, covering the European Structural and Investment Funds, namely the European regional development fund. The analysis of the funded projects highlighted the common trends among the beneficiaries of RDI projects, their options in managing resources in relation to the eligibility of costs, and their national distribution between the seven development regions of Romania. The amount of funding was discussed in terms of the smart specialization domains established by the national strategy. The conclusions of the study, correlated with the objectives set by the SNCDI 2014-2020, are relevant for the management of the future funding instruments allocated to RDI by the ERDF in the period 2021-2027. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are currently observing an increased interest in studying the factors of influence that may cause changes in the family structures and may contribute to the emergence of divorce in our contemporary society. According to the data provided by the National Institute of Statistics, Romania does not represent an exception in this respect and research aimed to distinguish the most important factors that contribute to the expansion of this phenomenon, identifies economic causes as an essential factor in settling such a decision. In this paper it is intended to establish a possible link between the number of divorces in Romania and socio-economic predictors such as, the age at the first marriage for men and women, the monthly average nominal salary, the unemployment rate, the number of graduates in the pre-university education, the percentage of the urban population in the total population and the number of dwellings newly built and received by beneficiaries. Research within the counties, between 1996 and 2014, through a panel data analysis. Also, the present paper is proposing to study the actual differences between rural and urban areas, in order to have a reliable delimitation of the environmental determinants that may lead to this family degradation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]