Case Study Analysis Research Articles

The (re)production of ‘normal’ sexuality: a study of sexuality education for students with psychological and behavioural challenges in the Netherlands

ABSTRACT Dutch school-based sexuality education, renowned for its progressiveness and positive impact on sexual health, has been criticised for advancing a limited, yet dominant discourse on sexuality shaped by societal and political factors. Critics have argued that it perpetuates a narrow conception of ‘normal’ sexuality tied to neoliberal, secular, able-bodied, white, heteronormative norms. This inadvertently excludes certain social groups, such as people with disabilities. While the exclusion of people with disabilities has been critiqued by crip theory, an unexplored area remains: how does ‘normal’ sexuality manifest itself in tailored sexuality education for students with disabilities? This study focused specifically on children who faced psychological and behavioural challenges. By means of a case study, interviews, observations, and discourse analysis, the research revealed that, despite flexibility, the curriculum and implementation of sexuality education for the members of this group still retains aspects of ‘normal’ sexuality. Based on our findings, we advocate for further exploration of sexuality education for students with special educational needs, incorporating perspectives from individuals with disabilities, teachers and experts. To promote a more inclusive approach to sexuality education, we recommend providing formal training to educators to guide them in navigating these issues in the classroom implementation of sexuality education.

Adaptive business policies for the energy transition: Balancing short-term profitability with long-term sustainability in oil and gas companies

This review examines the challenges and opportunities faced by oil and gas companies as they navigate the global energy transition, focusing on the delicate balance between maintaining short-term profitability and ensuring long-term sustainability. As the world shifts towards cleaner energy sources, traditional fossil fuel companies are under increasing pressure to adapt their business models and strategies. This study synthesizes current literature on adaptive business policies, sustainability initiatives, and their impacts on the oil and gas industry's future. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies and empirical research, we identify several key mechanisms through which companies can effectively balance short-term financial objectives with long-term sustainability goals. These include diversification into renewable energy, investment in carbon capture and storage technologies, and the adoption of circular economy principles. Our findings suggest that successful adaptation requires a nuanced understanding of market trends, strong leadership commitment, and strategic use of technology and innovation. The review also highlights the potential of partnerships and collaborations in accelerating the transition process. By identifying key factors contributing to successful adaptive strategies and their subsequent impacts on both profitability and sustainability, this study provides valuable insights for industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers working towards a more sustainable energy future. Future research directions are proposed to further explore the long-term viability and scalability of these adaptive business policies across different market contexts.

Competitive advantages of transparency: How anti-corruption initiatives can drive innovation and growth in the energy sector

This review examines the role of anti-corruption initiatives in driving innovation and growth within the energy sector, with a particular focus on emerging markets. As global demand for energy continues to rise, the imperative for ethical and transparent business practices grows stronger. This study synthesizes current literature on anti-corruption measures, transparency initiatives, and their impacts on competitive advantage in the energy industry. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies and empirical research, we identify several key mechanisms through which transparency can foster innovation and drive growth. These include enhanced stakeholder trust, improved access to capital, attraction of top talent, and the creation of an ethical corporate culture that encourages innovation. Our findings suggest that successful anti-corruption initiatives in the energy sector require a nuanced understanding of local contexts, strong leadership commitment, and the strategic use of technology. The review also highlights the potential of open data platforms and blockchain technology in facilitating transparency and compliance. By identifying key factors contributing to successful anti-corruption efforts and their subsequent impacts on innovation and growth, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers working towards a more transparent and innovative energy sector. Future research directions are proposed to further explore the long-term impacts and scalability of these initiatives across different market contexts.

Alternative forms of housing for longevity based on case studies of multigenerational houses in Poland

The subject of the article is a case study analysis of three experimental projects of multigenerational houses that emerged after 2019 in Polish cities. The author hypothesizes that multigenerational houses represent an alternative form of housing to nursing homes, creating an environment that supports the health and independence of residents of different ages for as long as possible. The purpose of the research conducted is to answer the question of what components of the support system for the elderly are important in the choice and intentional transition to alternative living arrangements and how this relates to multigenerational homes in the cases studied. The research in this article consists of four phases. The first phase examined the institutional and informal approach to organizing care for the elderly in Poland and outlined the components of the support system for the elderly that are necessary for the choice and conscious transition to alternative forms of housing in the aging process. In the second phase, the experience with the governmental program "Multigenerational House" in Germany was analyzed and a multigenerational house was defined. In the third phase, the case study method was used to examine the experience of multigenerational houses built and functioning in Polish cities in recent years: Multigenerational House in Łódź (2019), Multigenerational Housing in Warsaw (2019-2021), Multigenerational House in Wrocław (2020). In the fourth phase, based on the literature review and the analysis of functioning multigenerational houses, a comparative analysis was made and conclusions for further research were drawn.

Lessons from a participatory community cricket breeding project in Vientiane Province, Lao PDR

Abstract Edible insect production is a key tool for sustainable development and global food security, but its social dimensions and the organisation of farming operations remain understudied. Crickets are among the most recognised edible insects for farming and offer appealing development opportunities for Lao PDR – a Southeast Asian country whose cricket farming sector has lagged behind neighbouring Thailand and which continues to experience challenging economic and food security conditions. Concerning these sustainable development and research priorities, this paper presents the case study analysis of a service evaluation of Cricket Lao Farm, which implemented a project on the distributed (off-site) production of crickets among local community members. Data collection took place from September to November 2023 and included a survey with 30 participants complemented by qualitative information from discussion groups, home visits, informal conversations, and project documentation. While small-scale farming operations ended within a year due to widespread cricket mortality of unknown cause, community-based cricket farming was in principle profitable and demonstrated strong development potential and local relevance. Furthermore, most of the community-based farmers were motivated and interested in resuming operations in the future. The analysis of this case offers important lessons for further development of the cricket farming sector in Lao PDR, highlighting the challenges of the Western social enterprise model in a development setting, the need to actively manage participation, and to develop an understanding of local community structures before commencing operations. To ensure future success, projects should include robust monitoring and evaluation plans; regular and bidirectional communication between community members and the central farm; co-development of breeding strategies, response plans, and good animal husbandry practices; and community engagement activities involving local schools.

Role of epidemiology in the EU policy formulation of chemicals

Abstract Over the past 50 years, the European Union has built a robust legal framework for managing chemicals. This framework balances the benefits of using chemicals for societal well-being and economic prosperity with the need to protect human health and the environment from potential risks. As part of the EU’s Zero Pollution ambition in the context of the Green Deal, the European Commission adopted in 2020 the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, with the aim to better protect human health and the environment from harmful chemicals, while boosting innovation by promoting the use of safer and more sustainable chemicals. Assessing quantitative health impacts within the EC Better Regulation guidance typically involves indicators measuring the environmental burden of disease (EBD), providing a useful mean for legislators to evaluate the benefits of policy actions both in terms of health gains and cost. While such analyses are common in air pollution studies, challenges arise in the chemical legislation area, particularly in non-occupational settings, where the population is exposed to low concentrations of many chemicals through multiple exposure routes. In such contexts, the intrinsic complexities linked to exposure characterization and to the assessment of causality between the exposure and the health outcome may hinder the estimation of benefits of legislative actions. Debates may arise regarding the reliability of the underlying epidemiological studies, making challenging for policymakers to ascertain the robustness and generalizability of the findings of such analyses. Our work provides a summary and analysis of recent case studies in the context of chemicals. We focus on how epidemiological evidence was used in conducting EBD analyses in supporting better formulation of EU polices of chemicals. Speakers/Panelists Marleen Bekker Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands

BATERIAS DE CARROS ELÉTRICOS: MANUTENÇÕES E DESCARTES

The rapid growth in the adoption of electric vehicles brings to light challenges related to the maintenance and disposal of batteries, which are essential components for the operation of these vehicles. The central issue addressed is the sustainability of the battery life cycle, considering both the efficiency of their maintenance and the environmental impacts resulting from inadequate disposal. The context involves the transition to a greener economy and the demands for clean technologies, which makes it essential to discuss appropriate practices to extend the useful life of batteries and ensure their safe disposal. The main objective of this study is to analyze the maintenance practices of electric car batteries and disposal strategies, focusing on minimizing environmental impacts and optimizing the life cycle of components. The research seeks to identify effective methods to extend the useful life of batteries, in addition to evaluating existing recycling policies and processes. The methodology used includes a literature review of current battery maintenance and disposal practices, in addition to the analysis of case studies that exemplify different approaches and results in international contexts. The research also incorporates interviews with industry experts, aiming to obtain a comprehensive and updated view of best practices and challenges faced. This work contributes to the discussion on sustainability in the automotive sector and to the formulation of more efficient policies for the management of technological waste.

Environmental therapy: interface design strategies for color graphics to assist navigational tasks in patients with visuospatial disorders through an analytic hierarchy process based on CIE color perception.

Environmental therapy theory has been applied in the research of disease prevention, and the effectiveness of using color and graphic designs to assist patients with spatial orientation has been confirmed. Visual-spatial impairments are common symptoms associated with cognitive decline. However, the interaction and driving factors between these impairments and spatial color and graphic designs remain unclear. This paper first discusses the correlation between the characteristics of visual-spatial impairments and environmental factors and then investigates the color preferences of such patients based on the CIE 1976 color system and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Subsequently, the paper explores spatial design strategies conducive to spatial orientation from the perspective of adaptability to pathological characteristics, utilizing case study analysis. (1) Pathological characteristics of visual-spatial impairments (such as difficulties in spatial orientation and spatial neglect) are related to environmental factors; (2) Emotional attachment factors play a key role in patients' perception of satisfaction with environmental colors; (3) Color associations have the potential to strengthen spatial memory. Additionally, interface designs with high luminance, low saturation, and clear color differentiation facilitate patients' recognition of space. This paper posits that spatial interface design is a feasible approach to assist with spatial orientation, and it achieves this through a mediating process that progresses from influencing visual stimuli to cognitive memory and then to behavioral orientation. The article provides insights into the operational feasibility of this method.

Innovative housing models to support shared use of space: the case study of Sonnwendviertel Ost in Vienna

Amidst the persistent urban expansion in European cities, the need for high-quality housing for growing populations remains a challenge. Integrating newly developed housing areas into the urban fabric and fostering a distinct local identity pose additional challenges. Despite extensive research in this realm, there exists a gap in the examination of the extent of shared space utilization in new housing developments. This study fills that gap by analyzing the quantity, quality, and diversity of space utilization in new housing projects, focusing on the development processes and maintenance methods. The research, conducted through site and case study analyses of Sonnwendviertel Ost development area in Vienna, underscores that the shared utilization of spaces is closely tied to distinct housing models with varied levels of financing and involvement of diverse actors. Consequently, it provides insights into the housing models and their configurations that best facilitate the development of shared use of spaces in housing construction. This, in turn, is perceived as instrumental in cultivating a more robust neighborhood identity and enhancing the livability of communities, thereby contributing to sustainable urban development.

Anonymity Unmasked The Role of Cryptocurrencies in Global Money Laundering

This research paper examines the intersection of cryptocurrencies and financial crime, particularly focusing on money laundering. It examines how these digital assets are employed in illicit financial activities, investigates the methodologies used to obscure transaction trails, evaluates regulatory responses to these risks, and presents practical case studies highlighting the real-world criminal use of cryptocurrency. The study, covering data from 2020 to 2024, combines a thorough review of existing literature with empirical analysis of blockchain transactions and case studies. The novelty of this study is the use of blockchain analysis methods for monitoring cryptocurrency transactions in the blockchain and detecting criminal money laundering techniques. It also examines how the criminals use mixers to exponentially expand the transaction trail and hide the money flow. Our analysis reveals that cryptocurrencies are often viewed as tools for anonymity but the underlying technology provides tracking of transactions, albeit with challenges, particularly when advanced techniques such as coin mixers, privacy coins, and decentralized exchanges are used. Case studies, including high-profile hacks, highlight the complexities of tracing illicit funds and challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. Despite efforts by global regulatory bodies, regulations on digital assets vary significantly around the world, allowing criminals to exploit jurisdictions with lax regulations for their illicit activities. The study concludes that cryptocurrencies pose notable risks of money laundering, advancement in digital forensic tools, enhanced regulatory measures, and greater international cooperation are essential to address these risks. This research contributes to the understanding of money laundering through cryptocurrencies and underscores the need for continuous improvement of regulation and technology to ensure finance remains safe in the age of innovation.

A Global Snapshot of 3D-Printed Buildings: Uncovering Robotic-Oriented Fabrication Strategies

This paper aims to provide a global snapshot of concrete 3D-printed buildings and to uncover robotic-oriented large-scale fabrication strategies. Therefore, an extensive internet search and literature review was carried out to investigate 3D-printed buildings. In this study, 154 construction projects with 204 buildings were systematically recorded and evaluated from 2013 up to 2023. Using an exploratory mixed-methods approach and a comparative case study analysis, a total of 88 3D-printed buildings were first evaluated descriptively. Thereafter, different existing printing strategies for in situ, on-site, and off-site production were identified, using an iterative approach. In addition to the geographical distribution, the descriptive evaluation also showed the key players as drivers for the spread of the 3D-printing technology and the correlations between printer type, fabrication strategy, and the building size. With regard to the printing strategy, three different approaches for in situ and off-site fabrication can be defined, depending on the printer types and their characteristics (work size and mobility): print-in-one-go, horizontal or vertical segmentation, and the multi-element vs. full-scaled wall strategy. However, the study showed that the data quality was sometimes difficult due to a lack of information and essential details of the printing process and segmentation.

An Analysis Examining the Way Supply Chain Management-Focused Third-Party Environmental Audits Contributed to Business Sustainability Efforts

A crucial instrument for improving openness and responsibility, third-party environmental audits have become more popular as the focus on corporate sustainability has grown. The role of these audits in propelling sustainability efforts within corporations is the subject of this study. To make sure a business is in line with regulations and finds ways to improve, it can get an impartial opinion by having a third party conduct an environmental audit. The impact of these audits on business practices and sustainability is investigated in this paper through an analysis of case studies and empirical data. Based on the results, it seems that third-party audits help improve environmental performance by encouraging responsibility and constant development. Better resource efficiency, less waste, and reduced emissions are common outcomes of audited companies' adoption of more stringent environmental management systems. In addition, third-party audits boost stakeholder trust—an essential quality for a company's public image and the faith of its investors—due to the audits' impartiality and reliability. The thoroughness of the audit, the auditors' knowledge and experience, and the firm's resolve to follow audit recommendations are the three most important variables that determine how useful these audits will be. Concerns raised by the research include the possibility of superficial compliance and the necessity for uniform audit frameworks to permit comparison and uniformity throughout businesses. Because they offer an impartial assessment of environmental performance and advocate for best practices, third-party environmental audits are crucial in propelling corporate sustainability efforts. It is critical to resolve the highlighted issues and continually improve audit procedures to enhance their efficacy. Policymakers, corporations, and stakeholders can use this research to better understand the value of third-party audits in reaching sustainable development goals and how to improve corporate sustainability initiatives.

Research on Marketing Strategies for Optimizing Entertainment Products Using the Internet

Abstract: The rapid development of science and technology has profoundly altered the way people live and consume. As a significant aspect of cultural consumption, the marketing approach to entertainment products has undergone a profound transformation in response to the Internet. The traditional marketing of entertainment products is mainly reliant on the use of television advertisements, newspaper publicity, and other offline activities. Though these methods have achieved notable results over time, their reach and marketing power are constrained, making it challenging to meet the diverse and personalized needs of todays consumers. The paper aims to explore the potential of the Internet and online media to enhance product marketing strategies in the entertainment industry in the digital age. Through a comprehensive analysis of literature reviews, case studies and data studies, this paper explores the concept and current status of online marketing, as well as the application of online marketing in entertainment industries such as movies, music and games, and how existing data analysis can be used to help the modern entertainment industry optimize its existing online marketing strategies. The results show that by rationally applying online marketing strategies and adapting them to local conditions, not only can audience and user engagement be increased, but sales performance and brand image can also be significantly improved.

How do museums and galleries help academics create societal impact? An analysis of the UK REF2021 impact case studies

How do museums and galleries help academics create societal impact? An analysis of the UK REF2021 impact case studies

Analysis of Gender-bias in the Current State of American Education

Abstract: In today's society, educational equity has become the focus of global attention, and gender bias, as an important form of educational injustice, poses a significant obstacle to the growth of individuals and the ovall progress of society. This paper aims to explore the issue of gender bias in the current situation of American education, focusing on its manifestations, impact mechanisms, and potential improvement strategies. The study uses literature analysis, case study and data analysis to explore the gender bias in education in the United States. The subjects range from primary school to higher education, with data derived from government reports, academic research results, and social surveys. This study found that gender bias exists widespread in American education, not only in curriculum, textbook content, and teacher-student interaction but also profoundly affects students' learning motivation, self-perception and future career development. Therefore, eliminating gender bias and promoting educational equity are of great significance for the long-term development and prosperity of American society.

The Impact of ESG on Corporate Performance: A Case Study of Yunnan Baiyao

Abstract: With the deepening integration of the global economy and the widespread acceptance of sustainable development principles, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors have become critical elements influencing long-term value and financial performance of enterprises. Globally, an increasing number of companies are paying attention to ESG factors and integrating them into their strategic planning and operational management. This paper employs case study analysis and accounting-related indicators analysis to evaluate the ESG practices of selected enterprises from the dimensions of environment, society, and governance. It then combines financial indicators to analyze the impact of ESG on their financial performance and the reasons behind it. Finally, suggestions are made on how to achieve sustainable development through improved ESG management.

Aerosol Vertical Turbulent Mass Flux Retrievals Through Novel Remote Sensing Algorithm

AbstractIntegrated measurements of aerosol, radiation, cloud, and turbulent transport in the planetary boundary layer (PBL) are essential for understanding and modeling climate and air quality. Here, we developed a new technique for the identification of convective turbulent regions and deriving the vertical distribution of aerosol turbulent mass fluxes within PBL. The algorithm uses retrievals from coherent Doppler lidars and a high spectral resolution lidar. The technique was applied to study particle mass fluxes over 2 months (November–December 2020) during the campaign conducted at the DOE Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Southern Great Plains (SGP) site in Lamont, Oklahoma. The algorithm developed here is capable of continuously deriving vertically resolved (curtains) aerosol mass fluxes. Our data analysis shows that at the site, the 30‐min averaged fluxes at 135 m above the surface were mainly positive (upward) at ∼1 μg m−2 s−1, suggesting that the surface is the primary source of the particle mass supplied to the boundary layer at the SGP site. Analyses of the individual case studies have revealed that not all the derived fluxes can be linked to surface emissions. Both positive and negative values in a range of ±5 μg m−2 s−1 can be caused by convective thermals interacting between the residual layer and the mixed layer and by rotation of the horizontal wind with the height. Large erroneous negative fluxes can also be caused by drizzling/precipitating clouds. We anticipate that the application of the current technique will lead to a more realistic representation of aerosol mass budgets and bidirectional mixing rates.

Promoting Responsible Tourism: Assessing Sustainable Practices, Community Engagement, and Environmental Conservation for Balancing Economic Growth and Ecological Preservation in Global Travel Destinations

This study explores the concept of responsible tourism and its role in balancing economic growth with ecological preservation in global travel destinations. By assessing sustainable practices, community engagement, and environmental conservation, the research aims to highlight the importance of a holistic approach to tourism development. Sustainable tourism practices, such as energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly infrastructure, are essential for minimizing the environmental impact of tourism activities. Moreover, community engagement is a critical aspect, as it ensures that local populations are actively involved in tourism decision-making and benefit from economic opportunities while preserving their cultural heritage. Environmental conservation efforts, including biodiversity protection, the establishment of protected areas, and eco-tourism initiatives, are crucial for maintaining the ecological integrity of destinations. This study employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating a comprehensive literature review, case study analysis, and expert interviews to gather insights into the challenges and successes of implementing responsible tourism. Case studies of destinations such as Costa Rica, Bhutan, and Kerala illustrate how these regions have integrated sustainable tourism practices while fostering community participation and environmental protection. The findings suggest that while responsible tourism presents numerous opportunities for long-term economic and ecological sustainability, challenges such as over tourism, resource constraints, and conflicting stakeholder interests remain. The study concludes that effective collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities, supported by clear policies and tourist education, is essential for promoting responsible tourism. This approach ensures that tourism not only contributes to economic growth but also safeguards the natural and cultural assets that make destinations attractive to visitors.

Bitcoin: an alternative to fiat money? A post-Keynesian perspective

Motivation: This paper addresses the ongoing debate surrounding Bitcoin’s potential to function as an alternative to state-issued fiat currencies. With the advent of Bitcoin and its increasing global prominence, it is essential to explore its viability, particularly in light of its formal adoption in El Salvador as legal tender. The limited supply and decentralized nature of Bitcoin present a significant departure from traditional monetary systems, which raises questions regarding its capacity to fulfill the roles of money under Modern Monetary Theory (MMT).Aim: The primary goal of this paper is to critically examine whether Bitcoin can serve as a functional replacement for fiat money. Using a post-Keynesian analytical framework, this study investigates Bitcoin’s ability to meet the requirements of sovereign money, particularly within the theoretical framework of MMT. The analysis focuses on Bitcoin’s decentralized issuance, limited supply, and its role in fiscal policy and credit creation.Materials and methods: This research employs a critical literature review and a case study analysis, using the framework of MMT and post-Keynesian endogenous money theory to assess Bitcoin’s economic implications and its real-world application in El Salvador’s Bitcoin Law. The study analyzes Bitcoin’s economic implications based on the endogenous money supply model and evaluates its impact on government fiscal policy, credit markets, and economic stability in both theoretical and practical contexts, with a special focus on El Salvador’s Bitcoin Law.Results: The analysis reveals significant limitations in Bitcoin’s ability to function as a fiat currency. Its rigid supply and speculative nature hinder its capacity to serve as a medium of exchange, store of value, and unit of account, as envisaged by MMT. The study concludes that Bitcoin’s decentralized nature and deflationary design pose challenges for its broader adoption as state money, particularly in managing aggregate demand and economic crises.

ESG risk management in banks – towards its measurement

The concept of sustainable development has been gaining importance and increasing society's awareness of the need to stop climate change, inequality, social exclusion, and inappropriate corporate practices. Banks increasingly integrate ESG objectives into their business activity. However, it is associated with their exposure to a new type of risk – the ESG risk. ESG risk management for banking institutions has now become not only a fashion and trend but an obligation that they have to fulfil. The main aim of the article is to identify ESG risk and methods of quantification, as well as to assess the exposure to ESG risk of commercial banks in Poland. That’s why the paper presents an in-depth literature review in the field of ESG concept and ESG risk in banks. Then, it describes the adopted methodology of the empirical research. The third section covers a presentation of the obtained results, which include the analysis of ESG risk exposure of the largest banks in the world and selected commercial banks in Poland, mainly based on the volume of the carbon footprint they generate and finally, ESG risk ratings for Polish banks. The following research methods were used in the article: literature studies, case study analysis, observation methods and synthesis methods. The empirical research that was conducted allowed the verification of the research hypothesis, stating that commercial banks in Poland are aware of the need to measure and monitor ESG risk increases. The research indicated that some of the banks in Poland are at an advanced stage of ESG risk management, while the rest of them are just starting their activities in this area. Currently, banks' involvement in ESG issues globally is one of the leading market trends. It becomes not only an option but an imperative for institutions wishing to maintain their market position. Therefore, commercial banks in Poland can and should participate in the implementation of sustainable development assumptions in the coming years.