Today it is obvious that corporate social responsibility (CSR) is more than just a volunteer activity, it is also related to the operation of the firms and to competitive advantages. Many factors influence CSR and CSR-competitiveness relations; firm size could be the most crucial one. Originally CSR is related to large companies, although smaller firms can be active in CSR mainly in different ways with different background. Based on this idea the paper aims to explore the correlation between small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs) corporate social responsibility (CSR) and competitive advantages. An interview research was conducted among thirty SMEs in a Hungarian city of Győr in 2021/22 to reveal how owner-managers interpret CSR, competitiveness and their relations. As SMEs cannot provide exact data on this topic the personal perception method was used to explore the CSR-competitiveness relation. A moderate relation was observed between CSR and competitiveness and the research revealed that different methodologies have to be applied for SMEs than large companies which results from the fact that SMEs’ CSR is less formal and lacks exact data.
In Costa Rica, there is no explicit recommendation from the competent authorities for the use of a specific phantom, so experts must explore what suppliers offer, among which the Normi Mam Digital phantom from PTW stands out. This article presents the results of the dosimetry and image quality control applied to the Normi Mam Digital phantom to validate it as equipment that complies with the recommendations of the Human Health Series No. 17. The results obtained were satisfactory, proving that the equipment complies with the tolerances recommended by international health bodies.
This paper proposes a floating-interest-rate infrastructure bond, where the interest of a government bond is paid to investors during the period of construction and the early period of operation. Unlike the usual government bond, which provides a fixed interest rate, the proposed floating-interest-rate infrastructure bond pays a floating interest, the rate of which depends on spillover tax revenues. Effective infrastructure projects have a positive effect on the economic growth of a region, known as the spillover effect. When user charges and the return from spillover tax revenues are below the fixed rate of the government bond, the interest rate will equal to the fixed rate of the government bond. In this case, investors in the infrastructure will receive interest on the government bond at the minimum rate. As the spillover effect of the infrastructure increases, the rate of return for infrastructure investment will become greater than the fixed rate of the government bond. The success of the floating-interest-rate infrastructure bond depends on the spillover effect and on transparency and accountability. Policy recommendations are provided in this paper on how to increase the spillover effect and improve transparency and accountability.
This study used quantitative methods to examine the correlation between adaptive learning technology and cognitive flexibility in kids receiving special education. The study included a cohort of 120 kids, ages 8–12, who were diagnosed with particular learning difficulties, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorder. Cognitive flexibility was evaluated using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), while the utilization of adaptive learning technologies was quantified using self–report questionnaires. The data was analyzed using several statistical methods, such as independent samples t-tests, regression, Pearson correlation coefficients, ANOVA, and ANCOVA. The findings revealed a noteworthy and favorable correlation between the utilization of adaptive technology and the scores of cognitive flexibilities. This correlation remained significant even after accounting for demographic characteristics. Moreover, it was shown that the diagnostic status had a moderating effect on the correlation between the utilization of adaptive technology and cognitive flexibility. The results emphasize the capacity of adaptive learning technologies to improve cognitive flexibility abilities in kids with special needs, offering significant knowledge for educators, legislators, and technology developers.
Introduction: New energy vehicles (NEVs) refer to automobiles powered by alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impacts. They represent a sustainable transportation solution, aligning with global efforts to promote energy efficiency in the automotive sector. Aim: The purpose of this research is to investigate the influence of social demand on the business model of NEVs. Through a comprehensive analysis of consumer preferences and market dynamics, the research aims to identify strategies for driving the sustainable growth of the NEV industry in respond to societal demands. Research methodology: We conduct a questionnaire survey on 2415 individuals and evaluated that questionnaire data by multifactor analysis of variance to examine individual consumer characteristics. We employed NOVA to evaluate the differences in market penetration factors. Additionally, a regression analysis model is utilized to examine accessibility element’s effects on the consumer’s intensions to buy, addressing categorical and ordered data requirements effectively. Research findings: This research demonstrates that middle-aged and adolescent demographics show the highest willingness to purchase NEV’s, particularly emphasizing technological advancements. Consumer preferences vary based on focus like NEV type, model and brand, necessitating tailored marketing strategies. Conclusion: Improving perception levels and addressing charging convenience and innovative features are vital for enhancing market penetration and sustainable business growth in the NEV industry.
The transition to sustainable agricultural practices is critical in the face of escalating climate challenges. Despite significant advances, the integration of green technologies within agribusiness remains underexplored. This study undertakes a comprehensive bibliometric analysis, utilizing data from the Web of Science Core Collection (1990–2023), to elucidate the integration of green technologies within agribusiness strategies. The research highlights key trends, influential authors, prominent journals, and significant thematic clusters, including biogas, biochar, biotech remediation, sustainable agriculture transition, low-carbon agriculture, and green strategies. By employing R, Bibliometrix, and VOSviewer, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the research landscape, emphasizing the critical role of strategic planning, policy frameworks, technological innovation, and interdisciplinary approaches in promoting sustainable agricultural development. The findings underscore the growing scholarly interest in sustainable practices, driven by global initiatives such as the UN’s 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement. This study contributes to the literature by offering qualitative insights and policy implications, highlighting the necessity for a holistic integration of green technologies to enhance the environmental and economic viability of agribusinesses.
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