Search Results (5,562)

Electricity tariffs in emerging economies are often influenced by macroeconomic volatility and regulatory design, affecting both affordability and system stability. Understanding these interactions is crucial for anticipating price fluctuations and ensuring sustainable energy policy. This paper examines the influence of macroeconomic conditions on electricity tariff dynamics in Colombia by integrating econometric and machine learning approaches. Using monthly data from 2009 to 2024 and a set of 153 macroeconomic indicators condensed via principal component analysis (PCA), we assess the predictive performance of vector autoregressive (VAR), SARIMAX, and XGBoost models, as well as a hybrid VAR–XGBoost specification. Impulse-response analysis reveals that tariff components exhibit limited sensitivity to macroeconomic shocks, underscoring the buffering role of regulation and sector-specific drivers. However, forecasting exercises demonstrate that accuracy is highly component-specific: SARIMAX performs best for transmission and restrictions, and VAR dominates for distribution and losses, while the hybrid model outperforms for generation and commercialization. These findings highlight that although macroeconomic pass-through into tariffs is weak, hybrid approaches that combine structural econometric dynamics with nonlinear learning can deliver tangible forecasting gains. The study contributes to the literature on electricity pricing in emerging economies and offers practical insights for regulators and policymakers concerned with tariff predictability and energy affordability. Full article

Background and Objectives: Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a leading cause of disability in older adults, but the role of cigarette smoking in its development remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the association between smoking and the incidence of LSS, with a focus on dose–response relationships and subgroup variations by age and sex. Methods: We conducted a nationwide, population-based cohort study using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database. A total of 2,123,268 adults aged ≥ 40 years who underwent health screening in 2009 were followed until LSS diagnosis, death, or 2020. Smoking status, duration, daily consumption, and pack-years were assessed. Cox proportional hazards models with progressive adjustment for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors were applied. Results: Over a mean follow-up of 8.2 years (17.5 million person-years), 721,909 new cases of LSS were identified. Fully adjusted models showed higher risk in former (HR 1.047; 95% CI, 1.039–1.056) and current smokers (HR 1.052; 95% CI, 1.044–1.060) compared with never smokers. A clear dose–response pattern was observed, with the greatest risk in heavy smokers (≥40 pack-years; HR 1.207; 95% CI, 1.191–1.222). Subgroup analyses indicated stronger associations among adults aged ≥ 65 years and in women. Conclusions: Cigarette smoking was independently associated with an increased risk of LSS, with risk increasing according to lifetime exposure. The findings underscore the importance of smoking cessation strategies to reduce the burden of spinal degeneration, especially in older adults and women. Full article

A previous study demonstrated that spontaneous forest recovery can result in the development of functional mixed forests in post-mining areas. A critical step in this process is the establishment of climax woody species in the understory of pioneer trees. In this case study, we utilise repeated sampling to evaluate the establishment, initial survival, and growth of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) and European beech (Fagus sylvatica) seedlings, and to newly assess Norway spruce (Picea abies) during unassisted forest recovery on a post-mining site after coal mining near Sokolov in North Bohemia. Detailed mapping of beech and oak seedlings was conducted in 2009 and 2012 (i.e., 14 and 11 years after the site was reclaimed). Now, we have resurveyed these seedlings, which has allowed us to evaluate their survival and growth. We have also mapped spruce seedlings and estimated their age from annual branch whorls. In the original study, most seedlings were found on the northern site near the edge of the post-mining area and the surrounding landscape, which serve as seed sources. Beech shows the best survival and growth on the northern site, where the greatest number of new seedlings also appear. In contrast, oaks demonstrate much higher mortality than beech overall, with the highest mortality observed on the northern site and the highest survival on the southern site, where most of the new seedlings also appeared. Interestingly, however, surviving oaks grew faster on the northern site. Across microtopography, seedlings of all three tree species were most frequent on the slopes of micro-undulations. Beech individuals were taller in depressions, whereas oaks did not consistently demonstrate a size advantage across microhabitats. Spruce colonised vigorously and was the most abundant of the three species across microhabitats. Age-frequency analyses suggest an annual mortality rate of 3%–9%. Browsing damage was observed on 19% of beech seedlings and 9% of oak seedlings. The study shows that pioneer tree stands are suitable nursing sites for studied climax tree species, which can colonise these sites several kilometres away from mature trees, and their establishment involves a complex interplay between distance to seed source and local microclimatic conditions. Our resurvey indicates that later successional stages may increasingly be shaped by shade-tolerant beech and spruce under the developing canopy. Full article

This study examines the impact of macroeconomic and energy factors on the sustainable development of the logistics sector in eight Baltic Sea Region (BSR) countries from 2008 to 2023. A synthetic logistics sustainability index (SD), ranging from 0.54 (Lithuania, 2009) to 0.93 (Germany, 2023), was constructed to capture economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The analysis employed country-level regressions, fixed-effects panel models, and a one-step dynamic GMM estimator. Results show that higher GDP per capita (β ≈ +0.35, p < 0.05) significantly supports sustainable logistics, while higher energy intensity (β ≈ −0.41, p < 0.01) constrains it. Across the region, GDP per capita increased by 45% on average, and energy intensity (EI) declined by 18%, contributing to a steady rise in SDI, particularly in Finland, Germany, and Denmark. Renewable energy (RES) has heterogeneous effects: it promotes sustainability in Germany, Finland, and Latvia, but negatively affects Sweden, where rapid energy transition and high electricity costs temporarily reduce logistics efficiency. Electrification rate (RE) also shows a short-term adverse effect in Sweden and Finland, where investment speed exceeds infrastructure adaptability. Labour productivity (LP) and unemployment (UR) exhibit inconsistent effects. Overall, the findings confirm GDP per capita and energy efficiency as dominant drivers of sustainable logistics, while structural and policy differences explain cross-country heterogeneity in sustainability outcomes. These insights provide practical guidance for policymakers by emphasising the need to balance energy transition speed with infrastructure readiness and to tailor sustainability strategies to national economic and energy profiles. Full article

Background: The increasing incidence of spondylodiscitis and its potentially severe consequences when not promptly diagnosed highlight the need for further research to improve treatment guidelines, reduce mortality and morbidity and improve the quality of life in patients who suffer from persistent physical limitations. Methods: We collected data from 103 patients, with 8 patients lost to follow-up, who were diagnosed with vertebral osteomyelitis, disk infection or discitis between 2009 and 2018. The primary outcome was the 1-year mortality rate in patients treated with either conservative or surgical intervention, with both groups receiving antibiotic treatment. A standardized questionnaire was used to assess health-related quality of life after treatment by evaluating the European Quality of Life 5 Dimension 5 Level version (EQ-5D-5L) and the European Quality of Life Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS). In addition, we used the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the Parker Mobility Score to identify backpain-related limitations after treatment. Results: The group receiving surgical treatment had a significantly lower 1-year mortality rate (22%) than did those who were treated conservatively, who had a 4-fold greater risk for death after a year following first diagnosis of SD and treatment. With respect to quality of life, 39 patients answered the standardized questionnaires during follow-up, and the questionnaire results revealed no significant difference in limitations in daily life or in health-related quality of life, with a median Parker Mobility Score of 9 for the conservatively treated patients compared with 7.5 for the surgically treated patients. This difference between the groups was not statistically significant, with a p value of 0.216 > α. A similar result was obtained in the evaluation of the ODI, with a medial index of 30% in the conservatively treated group compared with 24% in the surgical group, which was not statistically significant as indicated by a p value of 0.360 > α. Conclusions: The early surgical approach when treating spondylodiscitis is advantageous for identifying the underlying infection and initiating appropriate antibiotic therapy, therefore reducing mortality and resulting in a greater likelihood of full recovery than the conservative treatment does. Full article

To advance breakthroughs in core technologies and foster the growth of technology-based enterprises, China has introduced the Sci-Tech Finance Pilot Policy with the aim of promoting sci-tech enterprise development through optimized financial resource allocation. Based on a sample of technology-based firms listed on China’s SME Board and ChiNext Board from 2009 to 2023, this study empirically examines the relationships between the Sci-Tech Finance Pilot Policy, scale expansion, and technological innovation using a multi-period Difference-in-Differences (DID) model. The key findings reveal that, first, the Sci-Tech Finance Pilot Policy simultaneously promotes corporate scale expansion and technological innovation, generating both scale and innovation effects; second, it generates scale and innovation effects by optimizing financial resource allocation, while scale expansion further induces additional innovation effects. Third, heterogeneity analysis reveals that the innovation effect of the Sci-Tech Finance Pilot Policy is stronger, and the scale effect is weaker when the technology-based enterprise is privately owned, possesses a solid R&D foundation, or operates in a favorable external innovation environment. The findings of this study demonstrate that technology finance policy promotes high-quality development through the synergy between scale and innovation, providing policy implications for developing countries in implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

Background/Objectives: To evaluate the long-term outcomes of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in patients with glaucoma and to investigate if the usage of the prostaglandin analog latanoprost increases the risk of graft rejection. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed 65 eyes of 61 patients with glaucoma who underwent DSAEK at King Abdulaziz University Hospital between 2009 and 2024. The risk factors for graft rejection were identified using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. Results: The graft survival rates among patients with glaucoma at 1, 3, and 5 years were 72.4%, 23.1%, and 11.5%, respectively. Latanoprost use was significantly associated with graft failure (71.4% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.024). The graft failure was mostly secondary failure (80%, p = 0.015) and was often linked to endothelial rejection episodes (62.5%). Other antiglaucoma medications were not associated with graft failure. Conclusions: Glaucoma decreases graft longevity after DSAEK. Latanoprost use may further increase the risk of graft rejection by enhancing inflammatory or immune responses. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings. Full article

Are environmental regulations the primary driver of rising electricity prices? Evidence from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) suggests a more nuanced reality. This paper examines the impact of RGGI on wholesale and retail electricity prices using a difference-in-differences framework. We analyze three key policy events—the 2005 announcement, the 2009 implementation, and the 2014 adjustment of the emissions cap—drawing on detailed panel data from power plants in both RGGI and non-RGGI states. Our results indicate that wholesale electricity prices in RGGI states did not increase following the 2005 announcement relative to non-RGGI states. By contrast, retail electricity prices rose by about 11% in the short run, coinciding with electricity market restructuring, though this retail price gap declined over time. Over the subsequent decade, RGGI states achieved substantial reductions in CO₂ emissions alongside a transition to cleaner generation technologies. Importantly, the industry’s response to environmental regulation did not immediately affect electricity prices. However, as the emissions cap tightened, price effects became more pronounced: following the 2014 adjustment that reduced the cap to roughly 50% of its 2008 level, wholesale prices increased by 0.68 to 5.57 cents/kWh. These findings suggest that while the short-run effects of environmental regulation on electricity prices are limited, more stringent caps over time can lead to measurable price impacts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Severe dengue infection remains a major public health burden in Thailand, where timely identification of high-risk patients is essential for effective clinical management. Existing predictive models are often complex and less feasible in routine practice. This study aimed to develop a simple risk scoring system to predict dengue severity based on patient characteristics and routine clinical data. Methods: Retrospective data of adult dengue patients from nine general hospitals in Thailand from 2019 to 2022 were reviewed. Dengue infection was classified into two groups using the WHO 2009 modified criteria: non-severe (n = 577) and severe (n = 107). Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and laboratory findings were analyzed using logistic regression. Regression coefficients of significant predictors of severe dengue were converted into weighted item scores. Total scores were categorized into three risk levels based on probability distribution cut-off points. Results: The severity score stratified patients into three risk groups with significantly different prognoses: ≤2.0 points (low risk), 2.5–5.0 points (moderate risk), and ≥5.5 points (high risk). The positive likelihood ratios for low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups were 0.12, 1.05, and 28.76, respectively. The distribution of severity scores differed significantly between non-severe and severe cases. The scoring system discriminated between non-severe and severe dengue with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 88.04% (95% CI, 83.99–92.08). Conclusions: The derived dengue severity scoring system classified patients into low, moderate, and high risk with excellent discriminatory performance, effectively distinguishing non-severe from severe dengue infection. Full article

The increase in the world population and consequent rise in food demand have led to the extensive use of chemical pesticides, causing environmental and health concerns. In response, biological control methods, particularly those involving microbial agents, have emerged as sustainable alternatives within integrated pest management. This study highlights the potential of Lysinibacillus fusiformis as a biocontrol agent against the dipteran Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), a pest responsible for damaging soft-skinned fruits. Experimental treatments using vegetative cells, spores, and secondary metabolites of L. fusiformis on D. suzukii larvae demonstrated significant larvicidal effects, accompanied by observable changes in gut morphology under microscopy. Moreover, preliminary immunological assays showed the interference of this bacterium with the host immune system. All the results indicate the suitability of L. fusiformis for its possible integration into sustainable agricultural practices, although additional research is required to understand its applicability in the field. Full article

The paper undertakes considerations and research into the implementation of mass timber tall buildings in shaping sustainable built environments. The investigated issues arise from contemporary challenges in shaping sustainable built environments, including the implementation of selected aspects of Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 13 relating to the need to meet the needs of an increasing urban population while limiting urban sprawl; the use of nature-based development solutions regarding materials and access to green spaces to ensure a high quality of life for residents, as well as the need to reduce the negative environmental impact of development. The aim of this article is to present building construction that is at the forefront of implementing pro-environmental solutions and contributing to sustainable urban development. Using a research method based on a case study with an analysis of the available literature, the study covered 109 tall mass timber buildings erected worldwide since 2009. General analyses of the urban context of the buildings in question were carried out in terms of accessibility to leisure and recreation areas and to urban greenery, public transport, as well as functional and material solutions for the structure and interior and facade design. Full article

This study investigates flood risk trends using rainfall data collected from 13 districts of Diyarbakır Province, Turkey, with a focus on supporting sustainability-oriented climate adaptation. Both annual and seasonal precipitation variations were examined, with particular emphasis on the role of maximum daily rainfall in driving flood potential. In addition, the analysis integrates extreme precipitation patterns with regional hazard characteristics to provide a more comprehensive flood risk assessment framework. Non-parametric statistical methods, including the Mann–Kendall trend test and Spearman’s Rho correlation, were applied to detect trends in annual and seasonal datasets. Flood magnitudes were estimated using the Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) and Peaks Over Threshold (POT) approaches. The dataset covers varying periods between 2009 and 2023, depending on station availability. The results show a statistically significant increase in both annual and winter precipitation at Bismil, and a significant winter increase at Çermik. Other stations displayed upward trends that were not statistically significant. Çüngüş, Lice, and Kulp were identified as particularly susceptible to extreme rainfall. Although the relatively short observation period poses a limitation, consistent patterns of intensified precipitation were detected. Previous studies in Turkey have demonstrated that such events often cause severe infrastructure damage and displacement of vulnerable communities. The findings of this study provide practical insights for national and regional authorities, including the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the General Directorate of State Hydraulic Works (DSİ), and the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, to strengthen sustainable climate adaptation planning and disaster risk reduction strategies. Overall, this research highlights the importance of integrating extreme precipitation analysis into sustainable flood management, resilient infrastructure development, and long-term sustainability policies, thereby reinforcing the connection between hydrological risk assessment and sustainability science. Full article

Background/Objectives: Endometrial carcinoma is an emerging challenge for public health systems globally, especially in countries with a high development index. Traditionally, histopathological staging and grading have been the main criteria informing treatment modalities. More recently, clinically actionable molecular targets have been developed, following observations from the TCGA project and the ProMisE cohort. Although promising, the cost of these methods is an obstacle for some countries that lack well developed theranostics infrastructure in their public systems. This study aimed to contextualize our center’s diagnostic experience from the perspective of histopathological diagnosis. Methods: This is a retrospective study that selected 109 cases of already diagnosed endometrial carcinoma from the interval of 2017–2023. We analyzed traditional parameters related to staging and grading, using the FIGO 2009 system as well as basic histological parameters (lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, necrosis). Excel and SPSS 26 were used for database management and correlations. Findings were contextualized using the more recent studies that reported on similar parameters. Results: Higher-grade tumors were associated with lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.04) and lymph node involvement (p = 0.0006), as well as deeper myoinvasion (p = 0.0018). Myoinvasion (p = 0.013) and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.0001) were associated with advanced disease (FIGO III and IV). Our cohort showed a relative paucity (6.5%) of non-endometrioid endometrial carcinoma and presence of lymphovascular invasion (9.2%). Perineural invasion was found in 3 cases with extrauterine involvement. Conclusions: Histopathological diagnosis represents an integral component in informing clinical management for endometrial carcinoma and should serve as a means of triage for more expensive molecular techniques. It nevertheless presents reproducibility issues. Further efforts should focus on resolving such issues or possibly introducing less-researched parameters like perineural invasion. Full article

Background/Objectives: Osteoporosis is considered a surgical indication in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), regardless of menopausal status. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the impact of menopause and PHPT on bone mineral density (BMD) and to explore additional clinical factors that may influence bone health. Methods: We conducted an observational pilot study including 204 postmenopausal women with osteopenia or osteoporosis who underwent surgery for sporadic PHPT between 2009 and 2021 at Cruces University Hospital (Spain). Demographic data, anthropometric data, date of last menstrual period, years since menopause (YSM), and the clinical history of bone fragility were collected prior to parathyroidectomy. Biochemical parameters and months with hypercalcemia (MHCa)—as a surrogate for PHPT exposure—were analyzed. BMD results were expressed as a densitometric index, the T-Score. Results: Higher age (p = 0.043), greater body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.039), more YSM (p = 0.027), lower serum calcium levels (s-Ca) (p = 0.04), and glucocorticoid treatment antecedents (GcT) (p = 0.029) were all significantly associated with femoral osteoporosis. Similarly, higher weight (p = 0.004), greater MHCa (p = 0.01), lower height (p = 0.01) and s-Ca levels (p = 0.002) were significantly associated with spinal osteoporosis. Furthermore, logistic regression multivariate analysis determined that femur density was independently influenced by YSM (p < 0.001), s-Ca (p = 0.018), BMI (p = 0.002) and GcT (p = 0.006). Osteoporosis of the spine was also independently associated with YSM (p = 0.036), s-Ca (p = 0.031) and also with body weight (p = 0.003). Conclusions: The duration of menopause (YSM), rather than PHPT severity, is an independent predictor of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Full article

In response to escalating global ecological and environmental challenges, this study examines the impact of carbon information disclosure on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance to encourage corporate transition toward pollution reduction and carbon mitigation, thereby contributing to the practical advancement of the “dual carbon” strategy. Based on a hierarchical regression analysis of manufacturing listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share markets from 2009 to 2023, the findings reveal that carbon information disclosure significantly enhances corporate ESG performance. Mechanism tests reveal that green technology innovation partially mediates the relationship between carbon information disclosure and ESG performance, while environmental regulations, media attention, and market competition exert positive moderating effects on this relationship. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that carbon information disclosure exerts a pronounced positive effect on ESG performance for high-tech, heavily polluting, and eastern enterprises. This research expands the understanding of the value of carbon information disclosure and provides theoretical foundations and practical insights for enterprises pursuing sustainable development. Full article