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19 pages, 424 KiB  
Article
Board Size and Financial Performance as a Driver for Social Innovation: Evidence from Italian Local State-Owned Enterprises
by Cristina Cersosimo and Nathalie Colasanti
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15070247 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 561
Abstract
This article investigates the effects of board size on financial performance and the indirect effects of this relationship on social innovation (SI). An Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) model was run on a stratified random sample of 111 Italian local state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Data [...] Read more.
This article investigates the effects of board size on financial performance and the indirect effects of this relationship on social innovation (SI). An Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) model was run on a stratified random sample of 111 Italian local state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Data refer to the year 2018. Many other prior studies have provided empirical evidence on the connection between board size and financial performance, with controversial results. In addition, none of them have investigated the context of local Italian SOEs, and none have linked this relationship with SI. This gap is significant given the growing role of Italian local SOEs in addressing public needs and promoting SI. We discovered that a larger board enhances financial performance in the sample analysed. This result finds its foundations in resource dependence theory, independence theory, and in the work of some agency theorists, and it also supports these theoretical lenses. In addition, in line with arguments on the theory of shared value, we support the view that the positive relationship between board size and financial performance incentivises SI. Full article
28 pages, 9967 KiB  
Article
Eco-Scheme—Carbon Farming and Nutrient Management—A New Tool to Support Sustainable Agriculture in Poland
by Anna Rosa, Aleksandra Pawłowska and Michał Dudek
Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 5067; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17115067 - 1 Jun 2025
Viewed by 901
Abstract
This study investigates the spatial dynamics of participation in the carbon farming eco-scheme in Poland under the EU CAP for 2023–2027. Addressing the broader context of sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation, this research explores how farm size and structural characteristics influence the [...] Read more.
This study investigates the spatial dynamics of participation in the carbon farming eco-scheme in Poland under the EU CAP for 2023–2027. Addressing the broader context of sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation, this research explores how farm size and structural characteristics influence the adoption of regenerative practices incentivised through this eco-scheme. Using spatial statistical methods, including the global Moran’s I test and the global spatial cross-correlation index, this study analyses county-level data from 2023 to 2024 on farm size, the number of beneficiaries, and payment levels. The findings reveal distinct spatial clusters in eco-scheme participation, with larger farms showing greater regional concentration and smaller farms displaying stronger local clustering in payment distribution. The findings highlight varied spatial mechanisms that influence adoption and financial support patterns, indicating that both farm size and regional context play a significant role in shaping the uptake of eco-schemes. This study emphasises the significance of comprehensive spatial and socio-economic data in the formulation of effective, evidence-based policies pertaining to sustainable agriculture. It establishes a basis for more precisely targeted interventions and optimal resource allocation, thereby supporting both national and EU climate objectives while simultaneously enhancing the resilience and sustainability of rural regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
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16 pages, 605 KiB  
Article
Kriging-Variance-Informed Multi-Robot Path Planning and Task Allocation for Efficient Mapping of Soil Properties
by Laurence Roberts-Elliott, Gautham P. Das and Grzegorz Cielniak
Robotics 2025, 14(6), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/robotics14060077 - 31 May 2025
Viewed by 769
Abstract
One of the most commonly performed environmental explorations is soil sampling to identify soil properties of agricultural fields, which can inform the farmer about the variable rate treatment of fertilisers in precision agriculture. However, traditional manual methods are slow, costly, and yield low [...] Read more.
One of the most commonly performed environmental explorations is soil sampling to identify soil properties of agricultural fields, which can inform the farmer about the variable rate treatment of fertilisers in precision agriculture. However, traditional manual methods are slow, costly, and yield low spatial resolution. Deploying multiple robots with proximal sensors can address this challenge by parallelising the sampling process. Yet, multi-robot soil sampling is under-explored in the literature. This paper proposes an auction-based multi-robot task allocation that efficiently coordinates the sampling, coupled with a dynamic sampling strategy informed by Kriging variance from interpolation. This strategy aims to reduce the number of samples needed for accurate mapping by exploring and sampling areas that maximise information gained per sample. The key innovative contributions include (1) a novel Distance Over Variance (DOV) bid calculation for auction-based multi-robot task allocation, which incentivises sampling in high-uncertainty, nearby areas; (2) integration of the DOV bid calculation into the cheapest insertion heuristic for task queuing; and (3) thresholding of newly created tasks at locations with low Kriging variance to drop those unlikely to offer significant information gain. The proposed methods were evaluated through comparative simulated experiments using historical soil compaction data. Evaluation trials demonstrate the suitability of the DOV bid calculation combined with task dropping, resulting in substantial improvements in key performance metrics, including mapping accuracy. While the experiments were conducted in simulation, the system is compatible with ROS and the ‘move_base’ action client to allow real-world deployment. The results from these simulations indicate that the Kriging-variance-informed approach can be applied to the exploration and mapping of other soil properties (e.g., pH, soil organic carbon, etc.) and environmental data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous Robotics for Exploration)
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23 pages, 36340 KiB  
Article
Understanding Unsustainable Irrigation Practices in a Regionally Contested Large River Basin in Peninsular India Through the Lens of the Water–Energy–Food–Environment (WEFE) Nexus
by Bhawana Gupta and John S. Rowan
Water 2025, 17(11), 1644; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17111644 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 804
Abstract
Water management is a long-standing source of dispute between the riparian states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Recently, these disputes have intensified due to impacts from climate change and Bangalore’s rapid growth to megacity status. Despite well-defined national water governance instruments, competition between [...] Read more.
Water management is a long-standing source of dispute between the riparian states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Recently, these disputes have intensified due to impacts from climate change and Bangalore’s rapid growth to megacity status. Despite well-defined national water governance instruments, competition between state actors and limited access to reliable hydrometric data have led to a fragmented regulatory regime, allowing unchecked exploitation of surface and groundwater resources. Meanwhile, subsidised energy for groundwater pumping incentivises the unsustainable irrigation of high-value, water-intensive crops, resulting in overextraction and harm to aquatic ecosystems. Here, we employ a water–energy–food–environment (WEFE) nexus approach to examine the socio-political, economic, and environmental factors driving unsustainable irrigation practices in the Cauvery River Basin (CRB) of Southern India. Our methodology integrates spatially explicit analysis using digitised irrigation census data, theoretical energy modelling, and crop water demand simulations to assess groundwater use patterns and energy consumption for irrigation and their links with governance and economic growth. We analyse spatio-temporal irrigation patterns across the whole basin (about 85,000 km2) and reveal the correlation between energy access and groundwater extraction. Our study highlights four key findings. First, groundwater pumping during the Rabi (short-rain) season consumes 24 times more energy than during the Kharif (long-rain) season, despite irrigating 40% less land. Second, the increasing depth of borewells, driven by falling water table levels, is a major factor in rising energy consumption. Third, energy input is highest in regions dominated by paddy cultivation. Fourth, water pumping in the Cauvery region accounts for about 16% of India’s agricultural energy use, despite covering only 4% of the country’s net irrigated area. Our study reinforces the existing literature advocating for holistic, catchment-wide planning, aligned with all UN Sustainable Development Goals. Full article
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16 pages, 1324 KiB  
Article
Efficacy of a Low-Cost Weight-Bearing Sensitivity Incentivator After Lower Limb Surgery: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial
by Alessandro Manelli, Isella Carola, Fabrizio Mancini, Schiavone Nicola, Rathlef Daniel, Marina Protasoni, Andrea Brambilla and Piero Antonio Zecca
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 5784; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105784 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 418
Abstract
Background: Accurate partial weight-bearing (PWB) is essential for postoperative recovery after lower limb surgery, yet patients often fail to maintain load within clinically meaningful thresholds. Methods: In this pilot randomised controlled trial with 1:1 concealed allocation, 34 inpatients aged 18–85 who underwent femoral [...] Read more.
Background: Accurate partial weight-bearing (PWB) is essential for postoperative recovery after lower limb surgery, yet patients often fail to maintain load within clinically meaningful thresholds. Methods: In this pilot randomised controlled trial with 1:1 concealed allocation, 34 inpatients aged 18–85 who underwent femoral fracture fixation, hip arthroplasty, or knee arthroplasty were enrolled and followed for 14 days. Participants were randomly assigned to either standard physiotherapy or the same protocol with a low-cost tactile insole (“incentiviser”) that provides mechanical feedback when the prescribed 20% body weight (BW) load is exceeded. The primary outcome was absolute deviation from target load, with a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of ±2 kg. Results: In total, 88% of the intervention group achieved the MCID at discharge versus 24% of controls. The between-group difference in final load error was 10.8 kg (95% CI: −15.2 to −6.4), with a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 1.71). No significant differences were found in pain (NRS) or walking distance (6MWT) between groups. Conclusions: The tactile incentiviser significantly improved PWB accuracy within 14 days, meeting MCID thresholds in most cases. Its low cost and simplicity make it promising for routine or home-based use. Limitations include the small sample, diagnosis heterogeneity, and absence of a sham control. Larger multicentre trials are needed to confirm generalisability and long-term clinical impact. Full article
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13 pages, 1471 KiB  
Article
From Inefficient to Efficient Renewable Heating: A Critical Assessment of the EU Renewable Energy Directive
by Jan Rosenow, Duncan Gibb and Samuel Thomas
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 4164; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17094164 - 5 May 2025
Viewed by 1406
Abstract
The accounting methodology for renewable energy in the European Union’s (EU) renewable heating and cooling targets is often treated as a mere technical detail, yet it has profound implications for the effectiveness of climate policies. This paper highlights a critical misalignment within the [...] Read more.
The accounting methodology for renewable energy in the European Union’s (EU) renewable heating and cooling targets is often treated as a mere technical detail, yet it has profound implications for the effectiveness of climate policies. This paper highlights a critical misalignment within the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), which inadvertently disincentivises the deployment of more efficient heating technologies. By accounting for the energy harnessed to produce the useful heat, rather than the useful heat itself, the current metrics disproportionately credit the least efficient heating systems with generating the most renewable heat. An electric heat pump with a seasonal performance factor of 3 producing 100 units of renewable heat gets credited with 100 units of heat, despite using only 33 units of input energy, whereas a wood fireplace with an efficiency of 50% gets credited with 200 units of heat. The less efficient the device, the more renewable credits it receives for producing the same amount of useful heat. This misalignment undermines decarbonisation efforts by over-crediting inefficient technologies while failing to fully recognise high-efficiency solutions like heat pumps. This paper proposes revising the RED to account for useful energy output, ensuring a more accurate reflection of technology contributions. We also propose increasing the binding heating and cooling targets of 0.8 pp/year and 1.1 pp/year so that they reflect the needed contribution of the heating and cooling sector to reach the binding headline target of 42.5% by 2030. This shift would incentivise efficiency, better align with EU climate goals, and support the transition to a low-carbon heating and cooling sector in line with the 2030 emissions reduction target. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Energy Systems from the Perspective of Sustainability)
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13 pages, 220 KiB  
Review
Decarbonisation of Road Transportation in India—A Round-Robin Review on Low-Carbon Strategies and Financial Policies
by Shohel Amin
Future Transp. 2025, 5(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/futuretransp5020036 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1314
Abstract
India is committed to becoming a net-zero emitter by 2070 to fight climate change; however, road transportation causes a major challenge for decarbonising transport in India. This paper investigates the low-carbon strategy and implementation of fiscal and financial policies in India. The research [...] Read more.
India is committed to becoming a net-zero emitter by 2070 to fight climate change; however, road transportation causes a major challenge for decarbonising transport in India. This paper investigates the low-carbon strategy and implementation of fiscal and financial policies in India. The research delves into the innovative strategies to address unique regional hurdles and transportation demands. These strategies include customised policies to incentivise EVs, creating charging infrastructure networks, the integration of renewable energy sources in public transport systems, and the formulation of specific regulations to curb emissions from high-traffic areas. Findings from the review of low-carbon strategies and financial policies in road transportation advocate for penalising high-emitters, subsidising clean technology, and reorienting government expenditure towards sustainable infrastructure for combating climate change and adhering to India’s commitment announced at COP26. This paper suggests the efficacy and replicability of these new strategies, thus, providing valuable insights to policymakers and stakeholders for creating a more sustainable and efficient road transportation network in India. Full article
22 pages, 2026 KiB  
Article
Addressing the Demand for Green Skills: Bridging the Gap Between University Outcomes and Industry Requirements
by Tamíris da Costa, Lorena Irazu Aranda Lopez, Camila Perussello, Fiona Quinn, Quentin G. Crowley, Helena McMahon and Nicholas M. Holden
Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2732; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062732 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1700
Abstract
The transition to a green economy requires a workforce equipped with green skills to meet the demands of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This study investigates the alignment between university educational outcomes and industry requirements in Ireland, addressing the persistent gap in green [...] Read more.
The transition to a green economy requires a workforce equipped with green skills to meet the demands of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This study investigates the alignment between university educational outcomes and industry requirements in Ireland, addressing the persistent gap in green skills. Using a mixed-methods approach, surveys were conducted with students from three Irish universities and companies across diverse sectors. The findings reveal a strong recognition of the importance of green skills among students and companies, yet significant barriers remain. Students report challenges in accessing practical learning experiences, balancing education with personal commitments, and navigating the costs of green certifications. Companies acknowledge the growing need for sustainability expertise but often fail to integrate green skills into recruitment and training strategies, citing high competition for talent and limited awareness of emerging green roles. This study highlights the need for systemic changes in both education and industry. Universities should adopt experiential learning approaches, expand industry collaborations, and ensure flexible access to green education. Companies must prioritise upskilling programmes and align hiring practices with sustainability goals. Policymakers are encouraged to foster public–private partnerships and incentivise investments in green skills development. Addressing these challenges can strengthen the country’s position as a leader in the global green transition, fostering innovation and inclusivity in its workforce. Full article
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14 pages, 277 KiB  
Viewpoint
Advancing District Nursing Care Through a Learning Healthcare System: A Viewpoint on Key Requirements
by Jessica Veldhuizen, Marieke Schuurmans, Misja Mikkers and Nienke Bleijenberg
Healthcare 2024, 12(24), 2576; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12242576 - 21 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1222
Abstract
The increasing complexity of healthcare needs driven by an ageing population places pressure on district nursing care. Many vulnerable older adults prefer to remain at home, requiring care coordinated with general practitioners and other professionals. This demand for integrated care is further challenged [...] Read more.
The increasing complexity of healthcare needs driven by an ageing population places pressure on district nursing care. Many vulnerable older adults prefer to remain at home, requiring care coordinated with general practitioners and other professionals. This demand for integrated care is further challenged by a shortage of nursing professionals and the lack of standardised approaches to measure care quality. This article identifies the key requirements for implementing a learning healthcare system in district nursing care, using patient outcome data to foster continuous improvement and create a more adaptive, evidence-based, and patient-centred approach. This paper synthesises findings from multiple studies conducted as part of a PhD thesis, utilising a multi-method approach. These methods include examining patient outcomes in district nursing care and evaluating necessary cultural, organisational, and financial changes. Four key requirements were identified: (1) standardising patient outcome measures; (2) fostering a data-driven culture and strengthening professional autonomy; (3) enhancing organisational support and integrated care; and (4) adopting financing models that incentivise continuous learning and quality improvement. Implementing a learning healthcare system with patient outcome data in district nursing care requires a transformative shift. Standardising outcome measures, investing in information systems, and promoting continuous learning are crucial. Aligning financial incentives with patient outcomes, strengthening professional autonomy, and enhancing organisational support can make district nursing more responsive and capable of meeting complex needs. The described requirements are essential for advancing district nursing care through a more adaptive, evidence-based, and patient-centred approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Primary and Community Care: Opportunities and Challenges)
29 pages, 393 KiB  
Article
Addressing Trauma in Early Childhood—Shaping Education, Policy, and Actionable Strategies in Ireland: A Qualitative Study
by Catherine Sheehan, Judith Butler and Cian O’Neill
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14121385 - 17 Dec 2024
Viewed by 2445
Abstract
The breadth and volume of research exploring the complexities of childhood trauma in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) environments has grown significantly in recent years, yet, little is known about this trajectory in an Irish context. Consequently, the purpose of the current [...] Read more.
The breadth and volume of research exploring the complexities of childhood trauma in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) environments has grown significantly in recent years, yet, little is known about this trajectory in an Irish context. Consequently, the purpose of the current study was twofold: (i) consult with influential figures in the wider ECEC domain to access expert knowledge on the provision of trauma awareness education in Ireland and to (ii) gain invaluable insights into the trauma awareness knowledge, training, and experiences of ECEC professionals working in Irish ECEC settings. Utilising a qualitative methodological approach, eight semi-structured interviews with ECEC sector representatives (i.e., IV Group) and six focus groups with managers (n = 8), room leaders (n = 8), and practitioners (n = 8) (i.e., FG Group) were conducted as explorative processes to investigate the presence of trauma awareness in ECEC, if any, and the factors supporting/hindering this discourse from the perspectives of diverse stakeholders and professionals in Ireland. Results revealed that the provision of trauma awareness is challenged by the dearth of relevant educational opportunities during both Initial Practitioner Education (IPE) and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) pathways, with an absence of neuro-informed practice among the FG Group. Contrastingly, while sector representatives in the IV Group demonstrated an awareness of childhood trauma, these participants identified the need for (i) government investment, (ii) training reform, and (iii) professional practice considerations. Based on the cumulative findings, this research recommends that policymakers in Ireland prioritise the provision of funded and/or incentivised professional development opportunities for the ECEC profession to enhance the knowledge and skills associated with trauma-informed practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Early Childhood Education)
9 pages, 347 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Time-Series Modelling and Granger Causality Analysis of GDP and Energy Consumption: The Case of Ecuador 1965–2022
by Fausto Valencia
Eng. Proc. 2024, 77(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024077006 - 18 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 987
Abstract
Knowledge of the causality between Energy Consumption and GDP is important because it leads to the future actions of policymakers, such as developing infrastructure in case GDP growth depends on Energy Consumption. Hence, the Granger Causality between the Gross Domestic Product and Energy [...] Read more.
Knowledge of the causality between Energy Consumption and GDP is important because it leads to the future actions of policymakers, such as developing infrastructure in case GDP growth depends on Energy Consumption. Hence, the Granger Causality between the Gross Domestic Product and Energy Consumption of Ecuador is analysed in this research. For this purpose, a VAR model was developed with data from 1965 to 2022. Before including the time series inside the VAR model, ARIMA models were evaluated so that the need for differentiation and the use of dummy variables was detected. To ensure that the models include all possible information from the available data, the residuals were diagnosed until they did not have any autocorrelation between each other, there was no evidence of heteroskedasticity, and the residuals had a normal distribution. The Akaike Information Criteria and the Schwarz criteria indexes were compared to detect causality. The Granger p-value was also used to detect the probability of having null coefficients in the added time series. In the end, it was shown that Energy Consumption Granger causes Gross Domestic Product growth, but the same does not happen in the reverse direction. As a consequence, the government could support the development of energy infrastructure to incentivise economic growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The XXXII Conference on Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
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13 pages, 419 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Adoption and Impact of Climate-Smart Water Management Technologies in Smallholder Farming Systems of Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Literature Review
by Welcome Ntokozo Sifisosami Zondo, Jorine Tafadzwa Ndoro and Victor Mlambo
Water 2024, 16(19), 2787; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16192787 - 1 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3185
Abstract
Agriculture plays a significant role in global water consumption, accounting for approximately 70% of the world’s freshwater usage. This makes this sector a critical factor in the depletion of water resources. Accordingly, this paper explores potential mitigatory impacts of climate-smart water management (CSWM) [...] Read more.
Agriculture plays a significant role in global water consumption, accounting for approximately 70% of the world’s freshwater usage. This makes this sector a critical factor in the depletion of water resources. Accordingly, this paper explores potential mitigatory impacts of climate-smart water management (CSWM) technologies in sub-Saharan Africa. About 70% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa is dependent on agriculture for sustaining their livelihoods. This is despite the low agricultural output in smallholder farming systems (SFS) due to water scarcity. This has spurred several attempts to promote the adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) to raise agricultural outputs and improve smallholder farmers’ livelihoods. However, there has not been a comprehensive analysis of data categorised by various aspects of climate-smart water management technologies. In this systematic literature review, climate-smart water management technologies in sub-Saharan Africa’s agricultural sector were identified and analysed to determine strategies that could enhance their adoption and impact. To this end, academic articles reporting on the adoption of climate-smart water management technologies in databases were reviewed. Four significant literature databases were used. These were limited to Springer Link, ScienceDirect, MDPI, Wiley Online, and Google Scholar. The findings demonstrate that rainwater harvesting and micro-irrigation are the primary climate-smart water management technologies used by smallholder farmers. The literature review shows that adoption of CSWM practices is constrained by inadequate technological infrastructure, financial implications, unsuitable policies, and low user skills, particularly. It is therefore recommended that government agricultural departments and relevant advocates of CSA should incentivise and subsidise smallholder farmers to encourage CSWM technology adoption. This can be achieved through the implementation of suitable policies directed at technological infrastructure development, financial support for adoption, and technical skills training. Full article
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18 pages, 1339 KiB  
Article
BESS Reserve Optimisation in Energy Communities
by Wolfram Rozas-Rodriguez, Rafael Pastor-Vargas, Andrew D. Peacock, David Kane and José Carpio-Ibañez
Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8017; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188017 - 13 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1737
Abstract
This paper investigates optimising battery energy storage systems (BESSs) to enhance the business models of Local Energy Markets (LEMs). LEMs are decentralised energy ecosystems facilitating peer-to-peer energy trading among consumers, producers, and prosumers. By incentivising local energy exchange and balancing supply and demand, [...] Read more.
This paper investigates optimising battery energy storage systems (BESSs) to enhance the business models of Local Energy Markets (LEMs). LEMs are decentralised energy ecosystems facilitating peer-to-peer energy trading among consumers, producers, and prosumers. By incentivising local energy exchange and balancing supply and demand, LEMs contribute to grid resilience and sustainability. This study proposes a novel approach to BESS optimisation, utilising advanced artificial intelligence techniques, such as multilayer perceptron neural networks and extreme gradient boosting regressors. These models accurately forecast energy consumption and optimise BESS reserve allocation within the LEM framework. The findings demonstrate the potential of these AI-driven strategies to improve the BESS reserve capacity setting. This optimal setting will target meeting Energy Community site owners’ needs and avoiding fines from the distribution system operator for not meeting contract conditions. Full article
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16 pages, 1968 KiB  
Article
Influences on Perceived Feasibility of Animal-Based Measures in a Producer-Driven Welfare Benchmarking System
by Hannah Salvin, Jessica E. Monk, Linda M. Cafe, Steven Harden and Caroline Lee
Animals 2024, 14(18), 2666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14182666 - 13 Sep 2024
Viewed by 791
Abstract
A voluntary, producer-driven welfare benchmarking system has been explored as a way of incentivising welfare improvement in pasture-based beef cattle and providing transparency and accountability to the industry. This study aimed to determine the acceptability and feasibility of measures for inclusion in a [...] Read more.
A voluntary, producer-driven welfare benchmarking system has been explored as a way of incentivising welfare improvement in pasture-based beef cattle and providing transparency and accountability to the industry. This study aimed to determine the acceptability and feasibility of measures for inclusion in a welfare benchmarking system and how this is influenced by respondents’ attitudes and beliefs. A survey was disseminated online to Australian producers in July 2020. Producers were asked to indicate the welfare measures (n = 59) they thought most important to check to determine if cattle on pasture-based farms have a good quality of life (QOL) and the feasibility of collecting animal-based welfare data and completing a stockperson attitudes questionnaire. Basic demographic and attitude data were also collected. Responses from 274 producers were included (52% male) with median land size 340 Ha (range 4–500,000) and herd size 200 head (2–200,000). Feasibility was related to QOL attitudes for 11 of the 17 animal-based measures (p < 0.01–0.02). Feasibility was also related to land or herd size but was not affected by other demographics, such as gender. In all significant dependencies, feasibility was reported as greater in those who thought it important to check the corresponding welfare measure. Producers who rated QOL as very important were also more likely to perceive the collection of animal-based data as feasible. A well-designed and targeted programme to educate producers on why certain welfare measures are important will be crucial to increase uptake and retention in a voluntary producer-driven welfare benchmarking scheme. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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15 pages, 455 KiB  
Article
An Evaluation of Oral Anticoagulant Safety Indicators by England’s Community Pharmacies
by Sejal Parekh, Lingqian Xu and Carina Livingstone
Pharmacy 2024, 12(5), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy12050134 - 29 Aug 2024
Viewed by 3721
Abstract
Background: Anticoagulants are life-saving medicines that can prevent strokes for patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF) as well as treating patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE), but when used incorrectly, they are frequently associated with patient harm. Aim: To evaluate the impact of community [...] Read more.
Background: Anticoagulants are life-saving medicines that can prevent strokes for patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF) as well as treating patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE), but when used incorrectly, they are frequently associated with patient harm. Aim: To evaluate the impact of community pharmacy teams on optimising patient knowledge and awareness and improving medication safety from the use of anticoagulants. Methods: Two national audits, consisting of 17 questions assessing and improving patients’ understanding of anticoagulant therapy, identifying high-risk patients, and contacting prescribers when clinically appropriate were incentivised for England’s community pharmacies in 2021–2022 and 2023–2024 using the Pharmacy Quality Scheme (PQS) commissioned by NHS England. Results: Approximately 11,000 community pharmacies audited just under a quarter of a million patients in total, whilst making almost 150,000 interventions for patients taking oral anticoagulants, i.e., identifying and addressing medication issues which could increase the risk of bleeding/harm. Out of the 111,195 patients audited in 2021–2022, only 24,545 (23%) patients were prescribed vitamin K antagonists. The remaining patients were prescribed direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). By 2023–2024, this decreased to 17,043 (16%) patients. Most patients knew that they were prescribed an anticoagulant (95.6%, 106,255 in 2021–2022 and 96.5%, 101,006 in 2023–2024, p < 0.001). Discussion: The audits resulted in a statistically significant increase in patients with a standard yellow anticoagulant alert card, as identified in audit 2 (73,901 66.5% in 2021–2022 to 76,735, 73.3% in 2023–2024, p < 0.001). Furthermore, fewer patients were prescribed concurrent antiplatelets with an anticoagulant (6021; 4.6% in 2021–2022 to 4975; 4% in 2023–2024, p < 0.001). Although there was an increase in the number of patients prescribed NSAIDs with anticoagulants, more of these patients were also prescribed gastroprotection concurrently (927 77.2% in 2021–2022 to 1457 84.1% in 2023–2024, p < 0.05). The majority of patients on warfarin had their blood checked within 12 weeks. Further there was an increase for these patients in the percentage of people prescribed VKAs who knew dietary changes can affect their anticoagulant medicine (16,764 67.4% in 2021–2022 to 12,594 73.9% in 2023–2024 p < 0.001). Conclusions: Community pharmacy teams are well placed in educating and counselling patients on the safe use of anticoagulants and ensuring that all patients are correctly monitored. Full article
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