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57 pages, 647 KiB  
Article
A Unified Perspective on Poincaré and Galilei Relativity: II. General Relativity: A. Kinematics
by Christian Y. Cardall
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081245 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Building on the first paper in this series (Paper I), a unified perspective on Poincaré and Galilei physics in a 5-dimensional spacetime setting is further pursued through a consideration of the kinematics of general relativity, with the gravitational dynamics to be addressed separately. [...] Read more.
Building on the first paper in this series (Paper I), a unified perspective on Poincaré and Galilei physics in a 5-dimensional spacetime setting is further pursued through a consideration of the kinematics of general relativity, with the gravitational dynamics to be addressed separately. The metric of the 5-dimensional affine spacetimes governed by the Bargmann groups considered in Paper I (central extensions of the Poincaré and Galilei groups) is generalized to curved spacetime by extending the usual 1 + 3 (traditionally `3 + 1’) formalism of general relativity on 4-dimensional spacetime to a 1 + 3 + 1 formalism, whose spacetime kinematics is shown to be consistent with that of the usual 1 + 3 formalism. Spacetime tensor laws governing the motion of an elementary classical material particle and the dynamics of a simple fluid are presented, along with their 1 + 3 + 1 decompositions; these reference the foliation of spacetime in a manner that partially reverts the Einstein perspective (accelerated fiducial observers, and geodesic material particles and fluid elements) to a Newton-like perspective (geodesic fiducial observers, and accelerated material particles and fluid elements subject to a gravitational force). These spacetime laws of motion for particles and fluids also suggest that a strong-field Galilei general relativity would involve a limit in which not only c but also G, such that G/c2 remains constant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advance in Mathematical Physics II)
19 pages, 2998 KiB  
Article
Coordination Polymers Bearing Angular 4,4′-Oxybis[N-(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)benzamide] and Isomeric Dicarboxylate Ligands: Synthesis, Structures and Properties
by Yung-Hao Huang, Yi-Ju Hsieh, Yen-Hsin Chen, Shih-Miao Liu and Jhy-Der Chen
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3283; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153283 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Reactions of the angular 4,4′-oxybis[N-(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)benzamide] (L) with dicarboxylic acids and transition metal salts afforded non-entangled {[Cd(L)(1,3-BDC)(H2O)]∙2H2O}n (1,3-BDC = 1,3-benzenedicarboxylic acid), 1; {[Cd(L)(1,4-HBDC)(1,4-BDC)0.5]∙2H2O}n (1,4-BDC = [...] Read more.
Reactions of the angular 4,4′-oxybis[N-(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)benzamide] (L) with dicarboxylic acids and transition metal salts afforded non-entangled {[Cd(L)(1,3-BDC)(H2O)]∙2H2O}n (1,3-BDC = 1,3-benzenedicarboxylic acid), 1; {[Cd(L)(1,4-HBDC)(1,4-BDC)0.5]∙2H2O}n (1,4-BDC = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid), 2; {[Cu2(L)2(1,3-BDC)2]∙1.5H2O}n, 3; {[Ni(L)(1,3-BDC)(H2O)]∙2H2O}n, 4; {[Zn(L)(1,3-BDC)]∙4H2O}n, 5; {[Zn(L)(1,4-BDC)]∙2H2O}n, 6; and [Cd3(L)2(1,4-BDC)3]n, 7, which have been structurally characterized by using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Complexes 15 and 7 are 2D layers, giving (64·8·10)(6)-2,4L3, (42·82·102)(42·84)2(4)2, (4·5·6)(4·55·63·7)-3,5L66, (64·8·10)(6)-2,4L3, interdigitated (84·122)(8)2-2,4L2 and (36·46·53)-hxl topologies, respectively, and 6 is a 1D chain with the (43·62·8)(4)-2,4C3 topology. The factors that govern the structures of 17 are discussed and the thermal properties of 17 and the luminescent properties of complexes 1, 2, 5 and 6 are investigated. The stabilities of complexes 1 and 5 toward the detection of Fe3+ ions are also evaluated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Functional Polymers and Their Applications)
19 pages, 470 KiB  
Article
Differential and Integral Equations Involving Multivariate Special Polynomials with Applications in Computer Modeling
by Mohra Zayed, Taghreed Alqurashi, Shahid Ahmad Wani, Dixon Salcedo and Mohammad Esmael Samei
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(8), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9080512 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This work introduces a new family of multivariate hybrid special polynomials, motivated by their growing relevance in mathematical modeling, physics, and engineering. We explore their core properties, including recurrence relations and shift operators, within a unified structural framework. By employing the factorization method, [...] Read more.
This work introduces a new family of multivariate hybrid special polynomials, motivated by their growing relevance in mathematical modeling, physics, and engineering. We explore their core properties, including recurrence relations and shift operators, within a unified structural framework. By employing the factorization method, we derive various governing equations such as differential, partial differential, and integrodifferential equations. Additionally, we establish a related fractional Volterra integral equation, which broadens the theoretical foundation and potential applications of these polynomials. To support the theoretical development, we carry out computational simulations to approximate their roots and visualize the distribution of their zeros, offering practical insights into their analytical behavior. Full article
24 pages, 337 KiB  
Article
State-by-State Review: The Spread of Law Enforcement Accountability Policies
by Hossein Zare, Danielle R. Gilmore, Khushbu Balsara, Celina Renee Pargas, Rebecca Valek, Andrea N. Ponce, Niloufar Masoudi, Michelle Spencer, Tatiana Y. Warren and Cassandra Crifasi
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080483 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Purpose: Following George Floyd’s death, the push for law enforcement accountability policies has intensified. Despite robust legislative action, challenges in enacting and implementing meaningful reforms persist. This study analyzes police accountability policies (PAP) in the U.S. from 2020 to 2022, identifying barriers and [...] Read more.
Purpose: Following George Floyd’s death, the push for law enforcement accountability policies has intensified. Despite robust legislative action, challenges in enacting and implementing meaningful reforms persist. This study analyzes police accountability policies (PAP) in the U.S. from 2020 to 2022, identifying barriers and facilitators through expert perspectives in enforcement oversight, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Methods: The study used a dual approach: analyzing 226 police accountability bills from all 50 U.S. states, D.C., and Puerto Rico via the National Conference of State Legislatures database, and categorizing them into six key areas such as training, technology use, and certification. Additionally, a survey was conducted among experts to identify the challenges and drivers in passing police accountability legislation. Findings: A legislative analysis showed that although 48 states passed police accountability laws, California, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Colorado have made significant strides by passing multiple pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing law enforcement accountability and ensuring better policing practices. The most common policies focused on training and technology, enacted by 16 and 12 states, respectively. However, crucial certification and decertification policies were adopted in just 13 states, highlighting the inconsistent implementation of measures critical for police accountability and transparency. The survey identified several barriers to passing PAP, including inadequate support from local governments (72.7%). Structural exclusion of poor and minority communities from policing resources was also a significant barrier (54.5%). Facilitators included community support (81.8%) and a cultural shift in policing towards viewing officers as “guardians” rather than “warriors” (63.6%). Conclusions: While some progress has been made in passing PAP, considerable gaps remain, particularly in enforcement and comprehensive reform. Resistance from law enforcement institutions, lack of community support, and structural inequalities continue to impede the adoption of effective PAP. Full article
21 pages, 1946 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Modelling for Interfacial Behavior of a Thin Penny-Shaped Piezo-Thermo-Diffusive Actuator
by Hui Zhang, Lan Zhang and Hua-Yang Dang
Modelling 2025, 6(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/modelling6030078 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper presents a theoretical model of a thin, penny-shaped piezoelectric actuator bonded to an isotropic thermo-elastic substrate under coupled electrical-thermal-diffusive loading. The problem is assumed to be axisymmetric, and the peeling stress of the film is neglected in accordance with membrane theory, [...] Read more.
This paper presents a theoretical model of a thin, penny-shaped piezoelectric actuator bonded to an isotropic thermo-elastic substrate under coupled electrical-thermal-diffusive loading. The problem is assumed to be axisymmetric, and the peeling stress of the film is neglected in accordance with membrane theory, yielding a simplified equilibrium equation for the piezoelectric film. By employing potential theory and the Hankel transform technique, the surface strain of the substrate is analytically derived. Under the assumption of perfect bonding, a governing integral equation is established in terms of interfacial shear stress. The solution to this integral equation is obtained numerically using orthotropic Chebyshev polynomials. The derived results include the interfacial shear stress, stress intensity factors, as well as the radial and hoop stresses within the system. Finite element analysis is conducted to validate the theoretical predictions. Furthermore, parametric studies elucidate the influence of material mismatch and actuator geometry on the mechanical response. The findings demonstrate that, the performance of the piezoelectric actuator can be optimized through judicious control of the applied electrical-thermal-diffusive loads and careful selection of material and geometric parameters. This work provides valuable insights for the design and optimization of piezoelectric actuator structures in practical engineering applications. Full article
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25 pages, 1150 KiB  
Article
Comparative Assessment of Health Systems Resilience: A Cross-Country Analysis Using Key Performance Indicators
by Yu-Hsiu Chuang and Jin-Li Hu
Systems 2025, 13(8), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13080663 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Although organizational resilience is well established, refining the systematic quantitative evaluation of health systems resilience (HSR) remains an ongoing opportunity for advancement. Research either focuses on individual HSR indicators, such as social welfare policy, public expenditure, health insurance, healthcare quality, and technology, or [...] Read more.
Although organizational resilience is well established, refining the systematic quantitative evaluation of health systems resilience (HSR) remains an ongoing opportunity for advancement. Research either focuses on individual HSR indicators, such as social welfare policy, public expenditure, health insurance, healthcare quality, and technology, or broadly examines socio-economic factors, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive methodological approach. This study employed the Slacks-Based Measure (SBM) within Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to analyze efficiency by maximizing outputs. It systematically examined key HSR factors across countries, providing insights for improved policymaking and resource allocation. Taking a five-year (2016–2020) dataset that covered 55 to 56 countries and evaluating 17 indicators across governance, health systems, and economic aspects, the paper presents that all sixteen top-ranked countries with a perfect efficiency score of 1 belonged to the high-income group, with ten in Europe, highlighting regional HSR differences. This paper concludes that adequate economic resources form the foundation of HSR and ensure stability and sustained progress. A properly supported healthcare workforce is essential for significantly enhancing health systems and delivering quality care. Last, effective governance and the equitable allocation of resources are crucial for fostering sustainable development and strengthening HSR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Systems Practice in Social Science)
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31 pages, 1732 KiB  
Review
GLUT4 Trafficking and Storage Vesicles: Molecular Architecture, Regulatory Networks, and Their Disruption in Insulin Resistance
by Hana Drobiova, Ghadeer Alhamar, Rasheed Ahmad, Fahd Al-Mulla and Ashraf Al Madhoun
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7568; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157568 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Insulin-regulated glucose uptake is a central mechanism in maintaining systemic glucose homeostasis, primarily occurring in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. This process relies on the insulin-stimulated translocation of the glucose transporter, GLUT4, from specialized intracellular compartments, known as GLUT4 storage vesicles (GSVs), to [...] Read more.
Insulin-regulated glucose uptake is a central mechanism in maintaining systemic glucose homeostasis, primarily occurring in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. This process relies on the insulin-stimulated translocation of the glucose transporter, GLUT4, from specialized intracellular compartments, known as GLUT4 storage vesicles (GSVs), to the plasma membrane. Disruption of this pathway is a hallmark of insulin resistance and a key contributor to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Recent advances have provided critical insights into both the insulin signalling cascades and the complex biogenesis, as well as the trafficking and fusion dynamics of GSVs. This review synthesizes the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing GSV mobilization and membrane fusion, highlighting key regulatory nodes that may become dysfunctional in metabolic disease. By elucidating these pathways, we propose new therapeutic avenues targeting GSV trafficking to improve insulin sensitivity and combat type 2 diabetes. Full article
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28 pages, 10144 KiB  
Article
Decoding the Spatial–Temporal Coupling Dynamics of Land Use Intensity and Balance in China’s Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle: A 1 km Grid-Based Analysis
by Zijia Yan, Chenxi Zhou, Ziyi Tang, Hanfei Wang and Hao Li
Land 2025, 14(8), 1597; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081597 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Amid China’s national strategic prioritization of the Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle and accelerated territorial spatial planning, this study deciphered the synergistic evolution of Land Use Intensity (LUI) and Balance Degree of Land Use Structure (BDLUS) during rapid urbanization. Leveraging 1 km grid units and [...] Read more.
Amid China’s national strategic prioritization of the Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle and accelerated territorial spatial planning, this study deciphered the synergistic evolution of Land Use Intensity (LUI) and Balance Degree of Land Use Structure (BDLUS) during rapid urbanization. Leveraging 1 km grid units and integrating emerging spatiotemporal hotspot analysis, BFAST, and geographic detectors, we systematically analyzed spatiotemporal patterns and drivers of LUI, BDLUS, and their Coupling Coordination Degree (CCD) from 2000 to 2022. Key findings: (1) LUI strongly correlated with economic growth, with core areas reaching high-intensity development (average > 2.96) versus ecologically constrained marginal zones (<2.42), marked by abrupt changes during 2011–2014; (2) BDLUS improvements covered 82.22% of the study area, driven by the Yangtze River Economic Belt strategy (21.96% hotspot concentration), yet structural imbalance persisted in transitional zones (18.81% cold spots); (3) CCD exhibited center-edge dichotomy, contrasting high-value cores (CCD > 0.68) with ecologically sensitive edges (9.80% cold spots), peaking in regulatory shifts around 2010; (4) terrain constraints and intensified human activities (the interaction effect between nighttime lighting and population density increased by 219.49% after 2020) jointly governed coupling mechanisms, with urbanization and industrial transition becoming dominant drivers. This research advances an “intensity–structure–coordination” framework and elucidates “dual-core resonance” dynamics, offering theoretical foundations for spatial optimization and ecological civilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integration of Remote Sensing and GIS for Land Use Change Assessment)
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35 pages, 3601 KiB  
Article
Carbon Emissions and Influencing Factors in the Areas Along the Belt and Road Initiative in Africa: A Spatial Spillover Perspective
by Suxin Yang and Miguel Ángel Benedicto Solsona
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7098; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157098 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The carbon dioxide spillover effects and influencing factors of the “Belt and Road Initiative” (BRI) in African countries must be assessed to evaluate the effectiveness, promote low-carbon transmissions in African countries, and provide recommendations for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This novel [...] Read more.
The carbon dioxide spillover effects and influencing factors of the “Belt and Road Initiative” (BRI) in African countries must be assessed to evaluate the effectiveness, promote low-carbon transmissions in African countries, and provide recommendations for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This novel study employs carbon dioxide emission intensity (CEI) and per capita carbon dioxide emissions (PCE) as dual indicators to evaluate the spatial spillover effects of 54 BRI African countries on their neighboring countries’ carbon emissions from 2007 to 2023. It identifies the key factors and mechanisms affecting these spillover effects using the spatial differences-in-differences (SDID) model. Results indicate that since the launch of the BRI, the CEI and PCE of BRI African countries have significantly increased, largely due to trade patterns and industrialization structures. Greater trade openness has further boosted local economic development, thereby increasing carbon dioxide’s spatial spillover. Government management and corruption control levels show some heterogeneity in the spillover effects, which may be attributed to long-standing issues of weak institutional enforcement in Africa. Overall, this study reveals the complex relationship between BRI African economic development and environmental outcomes, highlighting the importance of developing sustainable development strategies and establishing strong differentiated regulatory regimes to effectively address environmental challenges. Full article
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38 pages, 1997 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Evolutionary Mechanism of Multi-Stakeholder Decision-Making in the Green Renovation of Existing Residential Buildings in China
by Yuan Gao, Jinjian Liu, Jiashu Zhang and Hong Xie
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2758; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152758 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The green renovation of existing residential buildings is a key way for the construction industry to achieve sustainable development and the dual carbon goals of China, which makes it urgent to make collaborative decisions among multiple stakeholders. However, because of divergent interests and [...] Read more.
The green renovation of existing residential buildings is a key way for the construction industry to achieve sustainable development and the dual carbon goals of China, which makes it urgent to make collaborative decisions among multiple stakeholders. However, because of divergent interests and risk perceptions among governments, energy service companies (ESCOs), and owners, the implementation of green renovation is hindered by numerous obstacles. In this study, we integrated prospect theory and evolutionary game theory by incorporating core prospect-theory parameters such as loss aversion and perceived value sensitivity, and developed a psychologically informed tripartite evolutionary game model. The objective was to provide a theoretical foundation and analytical framework for collaborative governance among stakeholders. Numerical simulations were conducted to validate the model’s effectiveness and explore how government regulation intensity, subsidy policies, market competition, and individual psychological factors influence the system’s evolutionary dynamics. The findings indicate that (1) government regulation and subsidy policies play central guiding roles in the early stages of green renovation, but the effectiveness has clear limitations; (2) ESCOs are most sensitive to policy incentives and market competition, and moderately increasing their risk costs can effectively deter opportunistic behavior associated with low-quality renovation; (3) owners’ willingness to participate is primarily influenced by expected returns and perceived renovation risks, while economic incentives alone have limited impact; and (4) the evolutionary outcomes are highly sensitive to parameters from prospect theory, The system’s evolutionary outcomes are highly sensitive to prospect theory parameters. High levels of loss aversion (λ) and loss sensitivity (β) tend to drive the system into a suboptimal equilibrium characterized by insufficient demand, while high gain sensitivity (α) serves as a key driving force for the system’s evolution toward the ideal equilibrium. This study offers theoretical support for optimizing green renovation policies for existing residential buildings in China and provides practical recommendations for improving market competition mechanisms, thereby promoting the healthy development of the green renovation market. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
20 pages, 1083 KiB  
Article
The Risk of Global Environmental Change to Economic Sustainability and Law: Help from Digital Technology and Governance Regulation
by Zhen Cao, Zhuiwen Lai, Muhammad Bilawal Khaskheli and Lin Wang
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7094; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157094 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This research examines the compounding risks of global environmental change, including climate change, environmental law, biodiversity loss, and pollution, which threaten the stability of economic systems worldwide. While digital technology and global governance regulation are increasingly being proposed as solutions, their synergistic potential [...] Read more.
This research examines the compounding risks of global environmental change, including climate change, environmental law, biodiversity loss, and pollution, which threaten the stability of economic systems worldwide. While digital technology and global governance regulation are increasingly being proposed as solutions, their synergistic potential in advancing economic sustainability has been less explored. How can these technologies mitigate environmental risks while promoting sustainable and equitable development, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals? We analyze policy global environmental data from the World Bank and the United Nations, as well as literature reviews on digital interventions, artificial intelligence, and smart databases. Global environmental change presents economic stability and rule of law threats, and innovative governance responses are needed. This study evaluates the potential for digital technology to be leveraged to enhance climate resilience and regulatory systems and address key implementation, equity, and policy coherence deficits. Policy recommendations for aligning economic development trajectories with planetary boundaries emphasize that proactive digital governance integration is indispensable for decoupling growth from environmental degradation. However, fragmented governance and unequal access to technologies undermine scalability. Successful experiences demonstrate that integrated policies, combining incentives, data transparency, and multilateral coordination, deliver maximum economic and environmental co-benefits, matching digital innovation with good governance. We provide policymakers with an action plan to leverage technology as a multiplier of sustainability, prioritizing inclusive governance structures to address implementation gaps and inform legislation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Environment Protection and Sustainable Development)
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24 pages, 1464 KiB  
Review
An Overview of the Italian Roadmap for the Implementation of Circular Economy in the Energy Transition of Buildings
by Marilena De Simone and Daniele Campagna
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2755; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152755 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
An important task for the European Union is to transpose agreements and international standards in regulation and directives that are binding on member states. The resultant European action plans and directives identify priority areas in the building and energy sectors where circular economy [...] Read more.
An important task for the European Union is to transpose agreements and international standards in regulation and directives that are binding on member states. The resultant European action plans and directives identify priority areas in the building and energy sectors where circular economy principles can be applied. Italy records a general circular materials rate of 20.8%, surpassing the mean European value. But low recycling rates are still registered in the construction sector. This paper aims to assess the position of Italy with respect to the European regulatory framework on circularity in the energy transition of buildings. Firstly, the government’s initiatives and technical standards are introduced and commented upon. Secondly, the study illustrates the current Italian platforms, networks, and public and private initiatives highlighting opportunities and obstacles that the energy sector has to overcome in the area of circularity. It emerges that Italian policies still use voluntary tools that are not sufficiently in line with an effective circular economy model. Moreover, data collection plays a crucial role in accelerating the implementation of future actions. Italy should consider the foundation of a National Observatory for the Circular Economy to elaborate European directives, harmonize regional policies, and promote the implementation of effective practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Energy Performance of Green Buildings)
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20 pages, 2243 KiB  
Article
Increasing Access and Availability of Nutrient-Dense Foods at United States Marine Corps Food Venues Is Feasible and Profitable
by Katie M. Kirkpatrick, Zina N. Abourjeily, Melissa A. Rittenhouse, Maureen W. Purcell, Rory G. McCarthy and Jonathan M. Scott
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2556; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152556 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Military Service Members (SMs) require optimal nutrition to support health, readiness, and job performance. However, they often fall short of meeting nutrition guidelines. This study aimed to determine the impact and feasibility of implementing the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) “Fueled to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Military Service Members (SMs) require optimal nutrition to support health, readiness, and job performance. However, they often fall short of meeting nutrition guidelines. This study aimed to determine the impact and feasibility of implementing the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) “Fueled to Fight®” (F2F) nutrition program in non-appropriated fund (NAF) food venues. Objectives included evaluating changes in Military Nutrition Environment Assessment Tool (mNEAT) scores, feasibility of implementing and maintaining F2F strategies, and influence on customer purchasing patterns. Methods: Researchers conducted a pre-post interventional study from January to December 2024 at three NAF food venues across two USMC bases. F2F strategies, including identifying items using a stoplight color coding system (Green = healthy, Yellow = less healthy, Red = least healthy), menu revisions, food placement, promotion, and marketing, were implemented. Data included mNEAT assessments, sales reports, and stakeholder focus groups. Generalized Estimating Equations models were used to analyze sales data. Results: mNEAT scores increased across all venues post-intervention. Availability and sales of Green items increased, while sales of Red items decreased in some venues. Profit increased at all three food venues. Focus groups revealed feasibility and provided insights for future interventions. Conclusions: F2F interventions in NAF food venues are feasible and can positively impact the food environment and customer purchasing patterns without negatively affecting profit. This study highlights the importance of integrating nutrition programs into all military food venues, not just government-funded dining facilities, to support the nutritional fitness and readiness of SMs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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19 pages, 4451 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Payments for Watershed Services Policy from a Perspective of Ecosystem Services: A Case Study of the Liaohe River Basin, China
by Manman Guo, Xu Lu and Qing Ma
Water 2025, 17(15), 2328; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152328 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Payments for Watershed services (PWSs) have been emerging as a critical tool for environmental governance in watershed, yet their comparative effectiveness across implementation models has remained poorly understood. Based on a comparative analysis of Eco-Compensation (EC) and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PESs) frameworks, [...] Read more.
Payments for Watershed services (PWSs) have been emerging as a critical tool for environmental governance in watershed, yet their comparative effectiveness across implementation models has remained poorly understood. Based on a comparative analysis of Eco-Compensation (EC) and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PESs) frameworks, examining both theoretical foundations and implementation practices, this study aims to quantitatively assess and compare the effectiveness of two dominant PWSs models—the EC-like model (Phase I: October 2008–April 2017) and the PESs-like model (Phase II: 2017–December 2021). Using the Liaohe River in China as a case study, utilizing ecosystem service value (ESV) as an indicator and employing the corrected unit-value transfer method, we compare the effectiveness of different PWSs models from October 2008 to December 2021. The results reveal the following: (1) Policy Efficiency: The PESs-like model demonstrated significantly greater effectiveness than the EC-like model, with annual average increases in ESV of 3.23 billion CNY (491 million USD) and 1.79 billion CNY (272 million USD). (2) Functional Drivers: Water regulation (45.1% of total ESV growth) and climate regulation (24.3%) were dominant services, with PESs-like interventions enhancing multifunctionality. (3) Stakeholder Impact: In the PESs-like model, the cities implementing inter-county direct payment showed higher growth efficiency than those without it. The operational efficiency of PWSs increases with the number of participating stakeholders, which explains why the PESs-like model demonstrates higher effectiveness than the EC-like model. Our findings offer empirical evidence and actionable policy implications for designing effective PWSs models across global watershed ecosystems. Full article
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19 pages, 457 KiB  
Article
Can FinTech Close the VAT Gap? An Entrepreneurial, Behavioral, and Technological Analysis of Tourism SMEs
by Konstantinos S. Skandalis and Dimitra Skandali
FinTech 2025, 4(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/fintech4030038 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Governments worldwide are mandating e-invoicing and real-time VAT reporting, yet many cash-intensive service SMEs continue to under-report VAT, eroding fiscal revenues. This study investigates whether financial technology (FinTech) adoption can reduce this under-reporting among tourism SMEs in Greece—an economy with high seasonal spending [...] Read more.
Governments worldwide are mandating e-invoicing and real-time VAT reporting, yet many cash-intensive service SMEs continue to under-report VAT, eroding fiscal revenues. This study investigates whether financial technology (FinTech) adoption can reduce this under-reporting among tourism SMEs in Greece—an economy with high seasonal spending and a persistent shadow economy. This is the first micro-level empirical study to examine how FinTech tools affect VAT compliance in this sector, offering novel insights into how technology interacts with behavioral factors to influence fiscal behavior. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model, deterrence theory, and behavioral tax compliance frameworks, we surveyed 214 hotels, guesthouses, and tour operators across Greece’s main tourism regions. A structured questionnaire measured five constructs: FinTech adoption, VAT compliance behavior, tax morale, perceived audit probability, and financial performance. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling and bootstrapped moderation–mediation analysis, we find that FinTech adoption significantly improves declared VAT, with compliance fully mediating its impact on financial outcomes. The effect is especially strong among businesses led by owners with high tax morale or strong perceptions of audit risk. These findings suggest that FinTech tools function both as efficiency enablers and behavioral nudges. The results support targeted policy actions such as subsidies for e-invoicing, tax compliance training, and transparent audit communication. By integrating technological and psychological dimensions, the study contributes new evidence to the digital fiscal governance literature and offers a practical framework for narrowing the VAT gap in tourism-driven economies. Full article
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