This study examines the relationship between Russian FDI carried out by large MNCs and investment development path (IDP). Although statistical analysis does not establish a significant relationship between outward FDI and GDP, the behavior of Russian outward FDI contradicts traditional models. Two primary factors contribute to this paradox. First, the complex business environment in Russia, characterized by a combination of both improvements and contradictions, has a significant impact on outward FDI behavior. Secondly, the duality of the Russian economy and society plays a decisive role. This segment resembles a high-income country with ample resources, while most face lower income levels, raising concerns about wealth distribution. Historical factors, including Russia’s transition from a state-controlled to a market-oriented economy, contribute to the internationalization of Russian MNCs. Both state-owned enterprises and privatized firms are influenced by the state, although to varying degrees. Government involvement in international business strategies increases the knowledge and experience of Russian MNCs, but also raises concerns about political influence.

In the evolving landscape of the 21st century, universities are at the forefront of re-imagining their infrastructural identity. This conceptual paper delves into the transformative shifts witnessed within university infrastructure, focusing on the harmonisation of tangible physical assets and the expanding world of digital evolution. As brick-and-mortar structures remain pivotal, integrating digital platforms rapidly redefines the academic landscape, optimising learning and administrative experiences. The modern learning paradigm, enriched by this symbiotic relationship, offers dynamic, flexible, and comprehensive educational encounters, thereby transcending traditional spatial and temporal constraints. Therefore, this paper accentuates the broader implications of this infrastructural metamorphosis, particularly its significant role in driving economic development. The synergistic effects of physical and digital infrastructures enhance academic excellence and position universities as key players in addressing and navigating global challenges, setting forth a resilient and forward-looking educational blueprint for the future. In conclusion, integrating physical and digital infrastructures within universities heralds a transformative era, shaping a holistic, adaptable, and enriched academic environment poised to meet 21st-century challenges. This study illuminates the symbiotic relationship between tangible university assets and digital innovations, offering insights into their collective impact on modern education and broader economic trajectories.

The journey towards better healthcare sustainability in Asian nations demands a comprehensive investigation into the impact of urban governance, poverty, and female literacy on infant mortality rates. This study undertakes a rigorous exploration of these key factors to pave the way for evidence-based policy interventions, utilizing data from a panel of six selected Asian countries: Pakistan, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, spanning the years 2001 to 2020. The findings reveal that adequate sanitation facilities, higher female literacy rates, and sustained economic growth contribute to a reduction in infant mortality. Conversely, increased poverty levels and limited women’s autonomy exacerbate the infant mortality rates observed in these countries. The Granger causality analysis validates the reciprocal relationship between urban sanitation (and poverty) and infant mortality rates. Furthermore, the study establishes a causal relationship where female literacy rates Granger-cause infant mortality rates, and conversely, infant mortality rates Granger-cause women’s autonomy in these countries. The variance decomposition analysis indicates that sustained economic growth, improved female literacy rates, and enhanced women’s empowerment will likely impact infant mortality rates in the coming decade. Consequently, in low-income regions where numerous children face potentially hazardous circumstances, it is imperative to allocate resources towards establishing and maintaining accessible fundamental knowledge regarding sanitation services, as this will aid in reducing infant mortality rates.

Rapid population growth and inadequate adherence to scientific and managerial principles in urban planning have intensified numerous challenges, pushing major Iranian cities toward instability. Tehran, as the capital and one of the most urbanized regions in the country, faces significant sustainability threats that require immediate attention. These challenges are not unique to Tehran but represent a broader issue faced by rapidly urbanizing cities worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Addressing such challenges is critical to fostering sustainable development on a global scale. While urban sustainability has been extensively studied, limited research has focused on the indicators of urban instability and their tangible impacts on sustainable urban planning. This study aims to bridge this gap by identifying and analyzing key factors contributing to urban instability across economic, environmental, and social dimensions, with Tehran serving as a representative case. The findings reveal that economic instability is driven by uncertainty in economic policies, fluctuating housing prices, non-standard housing conditions, income disparity, unemployment, and cost of living pressures. Environmental instability is exacerbated by climate change, urban heat islands, floods, transportation mismanagement, energy insecurity, pollution, and insufficient green infrastructure. Social instability arises from limited social interaction, unequal access to services, weak community participation, social harms, and diminished urban safety and welfare. By framing these local challenges within a global context, the study underscores the interconnectedness of these dimensions and highlights the necessity for integrated, evidence-based approaches that combine local insights with global best practices. The findings aim to contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable urban development by offering actionable insights and strategies that can be adapted and implemented in other rapidly urbanizing cities. This research serves as a guide for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders worldwide, emphasizing the importance of holistic and resilient urban strategies to address the multifaceted challenges of sustainability and instability.

During property renovations, sustainability is increasingly playing a crucial role in reducing environmental impacts, utilizing resources efficiently, and improving the quality of living environments. In our research, we examined the environmentally conscious thinking of potential clients for sustainable renovations, including their requirements for materials, which encompass enhancing energy efficiency, the importance of waste reduction, the significance of using alternative energy, and the application of eco-friendly, durable, and local materials. According to the results of our quantitative survey, respondents recognized the importance of sustainability considerations and expressed their commitment towards energy-efficient and eco-friendly solutions, although costs and payback periods continued to be decisive factors. We found that advocates of sustainable property renovations in our sample displayed environmentally conscious characteristics, and environmentally conscious consumers are willing to spend more for significant and long-term results. As part of our research, we conducted in-depth interviews with real estate agents and general contractors to understand sustainability considerations in the decision-making process of property renovations. The key lesson from the interviews was that buyers can be segmented into different groups, with those prioritizing environmental awareness being of significant importance. Based on the findings, sustainability is increasingly coming to the forefront in property renovations. Thus, our publication offers a detailed insight into market trends and practices.