Comprehensive Review Research Articles

Real-time data analytics in retail: A review of USA and global practices

Real-time data analytics has emerged as a pivotal tool in the retail sector, revolutionizing decision-making processes and operational strategies. This study delves into the extensive landscape of real-time data analytics in retail, offering a comprehensive review of practices both in the USA and on a global scale. In the United States, retail giants have harnessed real-time data analytics to gain unprecedented insights into consumer behavior, preferences, and market trends. From personalized marketing campaigns to dynamic pricing strategies, retailers leverage real-time analytics to optimize inventory management and enhance the overall customer experience. The integration of technologies like RFID, IoT devices, and advanced analytics platforms has facilitated the seamless flow of data, enabling retailers to respond swiftly to changing market dynamics. On a global scale, diverse retail markets have embraced real-time data analytics to stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. Cross-border e-commerce and the proliferation of online marketplaces have intensified the need for real-time insights into global consumer trends. Retailers worldwide are adopting predictive analytics to forecast demand, reduce stockouts, and streamline supply chain operations. Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms enhances the ability to analyze vast datasets, uncovering hidden patterns and predicting future market trends. Challenges such as data privacy concerns, integration complexities, and the need for skilled professionals are acknowledged in this review. Despite these challenges, the transformative impact of real-time data analytics on the retail sector is undeniable. As technology continues to advance, the synergy between real-time data analytics and retail practices is expected to deepen, fostering innovation and reshaping the industry's landscape. This study provides a glimpse into the dynamic and evolving realm of real-time data analytics in retail, offering insights into the strategies employed by both the USA and global players to thrive in an era of rapid technological change.

Environmental stewardship and corporate social responsibility: A review of case studies from the oil and gas sector

This review presents a comprehensive review of case studies focusing on environmental stewardship and corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the oil and gas sector. The oil and gas industry plays a pivotal role in global energy production, yet its operations often pose significant environmental and social challenges. In response, companies in this sector are increasingly embracing environmental stewardship and CSR principles to mitigate negative impacts and foster sustainable practices. The review examines a diverse range of case studies from various regions and contexts, highlighting both successful initiatives and notable challenges faced by oil and gas companies in integrating environmental stewardship and CSR into their operations. Key themes explored include environmental conservation efforts, community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, regulatory compliance, and technological innovation. Several case studies demonstrate innovative approaches adopted by oil and gas companies to minimize environmental degradation, such as implementing advanced technologies for emission reduction, investing in renewable energy projects, and restoring ecosystems affected by exploration and extraction activities. Moreover, successful CSR programs are showcased, emphasizing community development initiatives, education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvement projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for local populations impacted by oil and gas operations. However, challenges persist, including balancing economic interests with environmental and social responsibilities, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and addressing stakeholder concerns effectively. Despite these challenges, the case studies underscore the importance of proactive engagement, transparent communication, and continuous improvement in fostering environmental stewardship and CSR within the oil and gas sector. The review offers insights into best practices, lessons learned, and future directions for promoting sustainability and responsible business practices in the oil and gas industry, thereby contributing to the broader discourse on corporate environmental responsibility and societal impact mitigation.

Automating financial reporting with natural language processing: A review and case analysis

In the evolving landscape of financial reporting, the integration of Natural Language Processing (NLP) emerges as a beacon of innovation, promising to redefine the paradigms of accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. This paper embarks on a scholarly expedition to explore the transformative potential of NLP within the realm of financial disclosures, navigating through the intricate interplay of technological advancements and regulatory frameworks. The study meticulously analyzes the application of NLP techniques in automating financial reporting, unraveling the complexities of implementation and the multifaceted challenges therein through a qualitative research design. Through a comprehensive review of the literature and empirical data, the paper illuminates the efficacy of NLP in enhancing the precision and reliability of financial reports while also delving into stakeholders' perceptions regarding its adoption. The findings reveal a significant improvement in reporting efficiency and accuracy, underscored by the strategic importance of addressing implementation hurdles and regulatory considerations. The study culminates in a set of cogent recommendations, advocating for the development of a robust framework for NLP applications in financial reporting, alongside a clarion call for ongoing research into sophisticated NLP models and scalable solutions. In essence, this paper not only charts a course for the future integration of NLP in financial reporting but also stands as a testament to the indelible impact of technological innovation on the financial industry. It beckons the academic and professional communities to forge a collaborative path towards realizing the full potential of NLP, thereby ushering in a new era of transparency and insight in financial disclosures.

Strategic human resource management for sustainability in creative industries: A review and framework proposal

Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) has emerged as a critical approach for fostering sustainability within the dynamic landscape of creative industries. This review presents a comprehensive review of existing literature on SHRM in the context of creative industries, culminating in a proposed framework aimed at enhancing sustainability in these sectors. The review begins by examining the unique challenges faced by creative industries, characterized by rapid technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and intense competition. In this context, traditional HRM approaches are often insufficient, necessitating a strategic alignment between HR practices and organizational objectives to ensure long-term viability. Key themes identified in the literature review include talent management, organizational culture, employee engagement, and leadership development. Effective talent management strategies are crucial for attracting, retaining, and developing skilled individuals who drive innovation and creativity within creative firms. Furthermore, fostering a supportive organizational culture that values diversity, collaboration, and experimentation is vital for promoting sustainability in these industries. Employee engagement emerges as a critical factor influencing organizational performance and resilience, particularly in creative environments where intrinsic motivation plays a significant role. Moreover, leadership development programs tailored to the unique needs of creative professionals can empower individuals to navigate uncertainty and drive strategic initiatives that contribute to organizational sustainability. Building upon these insights, this review proposes a framework for SHRM in creative industries, integrating strategic planning, talent management, culture development, and leadership practices. The framework emphasizes the alignment between HR strategies and business goals, emphasizing the importance of agility, innovation, and adaptability in response to dynamic market conditions. Strategic Human Resource Management plays a pivotal role in enhancing sustainability within creative industries by fostering a culture of innovation, empowering employees, and cultivating leadership capabilities. The proposed framework provides a roadmap for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of the creative landscape while maximizing long-term success and resilience.

A review of sustainable project management practices in modern LNG industry initiatives

This paper presents a comprehensive review of sustainable project management practices within the modern LNG industry, aiming to analyze the strategies, challenges, and opportunities associated with sustainable development in LNG initiatives. The literature review encompasses an examination of sustainable project management principles, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability in LNG projects. Case studies from various LNG initiatives worldwide are analyzed to identify best practices and frameworks for integrating sustainability into project management methodologies. These studies highlight innovative approaches such as carbon footprint reduction, community engagement programs, and economic diversification strategies, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of sustainable project management in the LNG sector. Methodologically, this review adopts a systematic approach, utilizing established criteria for selecting and analyzing relevant literature and case studies. Data collection methods include extensive literature searches and case study analysis to gather insights into the implementation and effectiveness of sustainable project management practices in the LNG industry. The findings reveal a growing trend towards the adoption of sustainable practices in LNG projects, driven by regulatory requirements, investor preferences, and stakeholder expectations. However, several challenges persist, including technological limitations, regulatory complexities, and cost implications. Nonetheless, these challenges present opportunities for innovation and collaboration, fostering the development of new technologies and strategies to enhance sustainability in LNG project management. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of sustainable project management in the modern LNG industry, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address environmental, social, and economic concerns while meeting energy demands. The insights provided offer valuable guidance for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers seeking to advance sustainability objectives in LNG initiatives.

A comprehensive review of Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) for Improved Efficiency

Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) play a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings. This abstract provides a comprehensive review of BEMS, focusing on its components, benefits, challenges, and future trends. BEMS is a centralized system that monitors and controls building services, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and other systems, to improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort. The key components of BEMS include sensors, controllers, communication networks, and user interfaces. These components work together to collect data on building performance, analyze energy consumption patterns, and optimize system operation. One of the primary benefits of BEMS is its ability to reduce energy consumption and costs. By monitoring and controlling building systems based on occupancy schedules and environmental conditions, BEMS can significantly reduce energy waste. Additionally, BEMS can improve occupant comfort and productivity by maintaining optimal indoor environmental conditions. Despite its benefits, BEMS faces several challenges, including high upfront costs, complexity of installation, and integration issues with existing building systems. However, advancements in technology, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing, are addressing these challenges and making BEMS more accessible and cost-effective. Looking ahead, the future of BEMS is promising, with continued advancements in technology driving its adoption and integration into smart building systems. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms into BEMS is expected to further improve its energy-saving capabilities and enhance building performance. In conclusion, BEMS is a key technology for improving energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings. By leveraging its components and capabilities, BEMS can help reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and create healthier and more comfortable indoor environments.

Reviewing predictive analytics in supply chain management: Applications and benefits

Supply chain management (SCM) is a critical component of modern business operations, and the integration of predictive analytics has emerged as a transformative force in enhancing efficiency, decision-making, and overall performance. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the applications and benefits of predictive analytics in supply chain management, exploring its role in demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and supply chain visibility. The literature review provides a historical perspective on the evolution of predictive analytics in SCM, delving into key concepts and definitions. Drawing upon existing research, the paper analyzes real-world applications, case studies, and successful implementations in areas such as demand forecasting, inventory management, and supply chain visibility. Methodologically, the paper outlines the criteria for selecting relevant studies, details the search strategies employed, and highlights the sources contributing to the comprehensive understanding of predictive analytics in SCM. The exploration of applications focuses on how predictive analytics is revolutionizing demand forecasting, optimizing inventory levels, and enhancing supply chain visibility. Through case studies and examples, the paper illustrates the practical implications of implementing predictive analytics in these key areas. Real-world examples and data-driven insights underscore the transformative impact of predictive analytics on SCM processes. Despite its numerous advantages, challenges and limitations exist in the implementation of predictive analytics. This paper examines common hurdles and proposes strategies to overcome these challenges, offering a balanced perspective on the practical implications of integrating predictive analytics into supply chain management. Looking towards the future, the paper discusses emerging trends and technologies in predictive analytics, anticipating advancements that will further shape the landscape of SCM analytics. It summarizes key findings, outlines implications for practitioners and researchers, and suggests avenues for future research in the dynamic field of predictive analytics in supply chain management.

A comprehensive review of strategic management practices in satellite telecommunications, highlighting the role of data analytics in driving operational efficiency and competitive advantage

Satellite telecommunications play a crucial role in modern connectivity, enabling global communication, broadcasting, and internet access. This paper presents a comprehensive review of strategic management practices in the satellite telecommunications industry, with a particular focus on the role of data analytics in enhancing operational efficiency and achieving competitive advantage. The satellite telecommunications sector is characterized by rapid technological advancements, evolving market dynamics, and increasing demand for bandwidth-intensive services. To thrive in this competitive landscape, companies in the industry must adopt strategic management practices that enable them to effectively leverage their resources, capabilities, and market opportunities. One of the key strategic management practices in satellite telecommunications is the integration of data analytics into business operations. Data analytics encompasses the collection, analysis, and interpretation of large volumes of data to extract valuable insights and inform decision-making. By harnessing the power of data analytics, satellite telecommunications companies can optimize their network performance, enhance customer experience, and drive innovation. Data analytics can also help companies in the satellite telecommunications industry to identify new market trends, customer preferences, and competitive threats. By analyzing data from various sources, including satellite sensors, customer feedback, and market research, companies can gain a deeper understanding of their operating environment and make informed strategic decisions. Furthermore, data analytics can enable satellite telecommunications companies to enhance their operational efficiency by optimizing resource allocation, minimizing downtime, and improving network reliability. By using predictive analytics, companies can anticipate equipment failures and proactively address potential issues, thereby reducing maintenance costs and improving service quality. In conclusion, this paper highlights the importance of strategic management practices in the satellite telecommunications industry, with a focus on the role of data analytics in driving operational efficiency and competitive advantage. By adopting data-driven decision-making processes, satellite telecommunications companies can position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.

Eco-sustainable practices through strategic HRM: A review and framework for SMEs in the creative industries

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of eco-sustainable practices in the business world, particularly within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the creative industries. This review presents a comprehensive review and framework for integrating eco-sustainability into the strategic human resource management (HRM) practices of SMEs in the creative industries. The creative industries, encompassing sectors such as design, advertising, fashion, and media, play a significant role in shaping cultural trends and consumer behavior. However, these industries also have a substantial environmental footprint, stemming from resource-intensive production processes, waste generation, and high energy consumption. Recognizing these challenges, there is a growing imperative for SMEs in the creative industries to adopt eco-sustainable practices. Strategic HRM offers a promising approach for integrating eco-sustainability into the core operations of SMEs. By aligning HRM practices with the organization's sustainability goals, SMEs can foster a culture of environmental responsibility and innovation among employees. This review presents a framework that outlines the key dimensions of eco-sustainable HRM, including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, and employee engagement. Effective recruitment and selection processes are crucial for attracting individuals who align with the organization's sustainability values. Training and development initiatives can equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to implement eco-friendly practices in their roles. Performance management systems should include sustainability metrics to evaluate employee contributions to eco-sustainable goals. Additionally, fostering employee engagement through communication, participation, and recognition can enhance commitment to eco-sustainability initiatives. Through the integration of eco-sustainable practices into strategic HRM, SMEs in the creative industries can not only reduce their environmental impact but also gain a competitive edge by appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and investors. This review provides a roadmap for SMEs seeking to navigate the intersection of sustainability and human resource management, ultimately contributing to a more environmentally sustainable future for the creative industries.

A Survey on Evaluation of Large Language Models

Large language models (LLMs) are gaining increasing popularity in both academia and industry, owing to their unprecedented performance in various applications. As LLMs continue to play a vital role in both research and daily use, their evaluation becomes increasingly critical, not only at the task level, but also at the society level for better understanding of their potential risks. Over the past years, significant efforts have been made to examine LLMs from various perspectives. This paper presents a comprehensive review of these evaluation methods for LLMs, focusing on three key dimensions: what to evaluate , where to evaluate , and how to evaluate . Firstly, we provide an overview from the perspective of evaluation tasks, encompassing general natural language processing tasks, reasoning, medical usage, ethics, education, natural and social sciences, agent applications, and other areas. Secondly, we answer the ‘where’ and ‘how’ questions by diving into the evaluation methods and benchmarks, which serve as crucial components in assessing the performance of LLMs. Then, we summarize the success and failure cases of LLMs in different tasks. Finally, we shed light on several future challenges that lie ahead in LLMs evaluation. Our aim is to offer invaluable insights to researchers in the realm of LLMs evaluation, thereby aiding the development of more proficient LLMs. Our key point is that evaluation should be treated as an essential discipline to better assist the development of LLMs. We consistently maintain the related open-source materials at: https://github.com/MLGroupJLU/LLM-eval-survey

Emotion malleability beliefs matter in emotion regulation: a comprehensive review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Individuals’ beliefs about the malleability of emotions have been theorised to play a role in their psychological distress by influencing emotion regulation processes, such as the use of emotion regulation strategies. We conducted a meta-analysis to test this idea across studies with a focus on the relationships between emotion malleability beliefs and five distinct emotion regulation strategies: cognitive reappraisal, suppression, avoidance, rumination, and acceptance. Further, using two-stage meta-analytic structural equation modelling (TSSEM), we examined whether the emotion regulation strategies mediate the cross-sectional relationship between emotion malleability beliefs and psychological distress across studies. Thirty-seven studies were included in the meta-analyses and 55 cross-sectional studies were included in the TSSEM. Results demonstrated that, across studies, emotion malleability beliefs were significantly associated with greater use of putatively helpful strategies (particularly with cognitive reappraisal) and less use of putatively unhelpful strategies (particularly with avoidance). The use of cognitive reappraisal and avoidance partially mediated the relationship between emotion malleability beliefs and psychological distress. These results highlight the importance of considering beliefs about the malleability of emotions in the context of emotion regulation. These findings suggest the potential role of emotion malleability beliefs in interventions for individuals with emotion regulation-related difficulties and psychological distress.

Criminal responsibility and profile of Turkish firesetters with schizophrenia

This study aimed to examine a subgroup of Turkish firesetters diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) for their motives, individual and offense-related characteristics and courses of action, and their association with expert assessment of criminal responsibility. A cohort of 50 arsonists with SSD, who underwent assessment for criminal responsibility by the Council of Forensic Medicine in Turkiye between 2009 and 2022, was analyzed using a comprehensive retrospective file review. Multivariate analyses indicated that being female, older, experiencing hallucinations at the time of the offense, having a primary diagnosis of SSD other than psychotic disorder not otherwise specified, and no prior convictions were associated with a higher likelihood of being found not criminally responsible. Singling out a definitive profile of SSD arsonists without criminal responsibility is challenging. Our findings, based on forensic expert assessments, suggest that positive psychotic symptoms and criminal history play crucial roles in determining criminal responsibility in this group.

Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Advanced Materials and Structures for Functional Applications.

4D printing has attracted tremendous worldwide attention during the past decade. This technology enables the shape, property, or functionality of printed structures to change with time in response to diverse external stimuli, making the original static structures alive. The revolutionary 4D-printing technology offers remarkable benefits in controlling geometric and functional reconfiguration, thereby showcasing immense potential across diverse fields, including biomedical engineering, electronics, robotics, and photonics. Here, a comprehensive review of the latest achievements in 4D printing using various types of materials and different additive manufacturing techniques is presented. The state-of-the-art strategies implemented in harnessing various 4D-printed structures are highlighted, which involve materials design, stimuli, functionalities, and applications. The machine learning approach explored for 4D printing is also discussed. Finally, the perspectives on the current challenges and future trends toward further development in 4D printing are summarized.

ORAL OPIOID ANALGESICS VS SPINAL STEROID INJECTIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN: A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) affects a significant portion of the population worldwide, with distinct treatment needs for acute and chronic cases. Despite widespread opioid use, evidence for their efficacy in LBP remains uncertain, highlighting the need for alternative interventions. Minimally invasive procedures like epidural steroid injections offer potential relief for conditions like lumbar disc herniation, but their effectiveness is debated. To address these complexities, we conducted a comprehensive review encompassing various treatment modalities beyond medication, aiming to optimize outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals with LBP. Method: The researchers in this study followed the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure that their work met the required standards. This was done to ensure the precision and reliability of the conclusions derived from the research. Result: Our search produced 13 results. After looking at the titles and summaries, we found 8 papers that fit our criteria. At first, we excluded several articles because they were written in review style and case reports. But after reading the full papers carefully, we included four papers in our final analysis. These papers included retrospective analysis, a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled cross-over study, noninterventional, retrospective 12-week study using anonymized clinical practice data from the German Pain eRegistry, and a retrospective analysis of anonymized, propensity score–matched data. Conclusion: Favorable post-injection outcomes suggest the blind method for caudal epidural injections is safe and effective, suitable for patients not eligible for surgery or unresponsive to conservative treatments. Interlaminar epidural steroid injections effectively reduce VAS and ODI scores in patients with chronic low back pain and multi-level disc disease, but further research is needed to standardize administration protocols and optimize treatment outcomes, including addressing BMI's impact. The analgesic efficacy of periradicular meloxicam injections for acute/subacute low back pain, indicating a potential new treatment option, while real-world data suggest NBX oromucosal spray may be superior to typical oral LAO analgesics for severe peripheral NBP, pending confirmation in large RCTs.

Building sustainable capacity for better access to diabetes care in low‐resource settings: A critical review of global efforts and integrated strategies

AbstractThe alarming state of global insulin access in low‐resource settings presents a major barrier to diabetes care. A comprehensive review of these challenges is lacking at the global level. To address this weakness, enhance affordability and build capacity for a more sustainable approach to scaling up access. This review analyzes the specific issue of inconsistent access to insulin in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Using this analysis, we mapped the scope and intensity of issues such as the unaffordability and unavailability of insulin. We also identified six innovative and integrative strategies for increasing and securing accessibility in the areas of policy making, marketing, clinical practice, health education, domestication, and multisectoral approaches.

Annotated checklist of the megachilid bees of Corsica (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)

Corsica stands as one of the largest Mediterranean Islands and has been the exploration ground for renowned entomologists like Charles Ferton. However, no synthesis on Corsican bees has been published so far. To fill this gap in knowledge, we propose an overview of the megachilid bee fauna of the island based on fieldwork, a thorough examination of material housed at the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle (MNHN, Paris), data compilation from various collections and a comprehensive review of existing literature. We reviewed 5,886 specimens and we extracted 279 additional data from literature sources. These data confirm the presence in Corsica of 91 species of which two are endemic, including Hoplitis corsaria (Warncke, 1991) which is elevated to species rank stat. nov. One new synonymy is established: Megachile lucidifrons Ferton, syn. nov. of Megachile albocristata Smith, 1853. The presence in Corsica of 19 species is regarded as dubious or erroneous. Finally, the types of Megachilid bees housed at MNHN and described based on Corsican material are illustrated. Lectotypes are designated for Megachile sicula var. corsica Benoist, 1935, Osmia corsica Ferton, 1901, Osmia erythrogastra Ferton, 1905, Osmia lanosa Pérez, 1879, and Osmia lineola Pérez, 1895.

Photoinduced Generation of Active Intermediates from Unmodified 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds for Organic Transformations

AbstractPhotocatalysis utilizes light as the initial driving force for chemical reactions, enabling reactions with high energy barriers in traditionally thermal chemistry to proceed under mild conditions. 1,3‐Dicarbonyl compounds occur as important active molecules in nature and are intermediates in pharmaceutical syntheses. In recent years, there have been numerous studies of these compounds, and it is common practice to pre‐modify them before the reaction, which is, however, unfavorable for the atom economy of the process. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the latest advancements in the site‐specific activation of unmodified 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds by photoinduction. The focus is on elucidating the mechanisms of these reactions to provide insights and directions for future research in designing novel reactions.

CHALLENGES AND SUCCESSES IN RURAL ELECTRIFICATION: A REVIEW OF GLOBAL POLICIES AND CASE STUDIES

Rural electrification is a critical aspect of sustainable development, aiming to bridge the energy gap in remote and underserved areas. This paper provides a comprehensive review of global policies and case studies related to challenges and successes in rural electrification. The challenges in rural electrification are multifaceted and often rooted in economic, geographic, and social factors. Limited financial resources, vast and difficult terrains, and sparse population density pose significant hurdles. Additionally, socio-cultural aspects and community dynamics influence the acceptance and sustainability of electrification projects. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for the success of rural electrification initiatives. On the policy front, various nations and international organizations have implemented diverse approaches to tackle these challenges. This review examines the effectiveness of different policy frameworks, exploring their impact on the speed and sustainability of rural electrification. Policies encompass financial incentives, regulatory frameworks, and technology deployment strategies, with an emphasis on fostering public-private partnerships. The paper also delves into case studies from different regions, providing insights into both successful and unsuccessful attempts at rural electrification. Examining these cases helps identify common patterns, lessons learned, and best practices that can inform future initiatives. Successful projects often involve a combination of innovative financing models, community engagement, and the integration of renewable energy sources tailored to local conditions. This paper underscores the importance of a holistic and context-specific approach to rural electrification. Global policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders can draw valuable lessons from both challenges and successes to refine strategies and enhance the impact of rural electrification initiatives worldwide. As the world continues to strive for universal energy access, this review contributes to the ongoing dialogue on shaping effective policies and practices in the realm of rural electrification.
 Keywords: Rural Electrification, Global Policies, Renewable Energy, Energy Financing, Review.

CARBON CAPTURE AND UTILIZATION (CCU): A REVIEW OF EMERGING APPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES

As the global community grapples with the urgent need to mitigate the impacts of climate change, Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) has emerged as a promising and multifaceted strategy to address carbon emissions. This review paper provides a comprehensive examination of the current state of CCU technologies, focusing on both the emerging applications and the challenges inherent in their implementation. The first section offers an overview of diverse carbon capture methods, ranging from pre-combustion to direct air capture, highlighting key advancements in technologies such as chemical absorption, membrane separation, and adsorption. Subsequently, the paper delves into the various pathways of carbon utilization, exploring applications in the production of fuels, carbon-based materials, and chemical synthesis. Notable breakthroughs in power-to-gas technologies, utilization in construction materials, and industrial applications are discussed in detail. The core of the review is dedicated to unveiling the emerging applications of CCU, with a specific emphasis on its role in agriculture and soil enhancement, integration with renewable energy systems, and collaboration with other industries. The potential economic and environmental benefits of these applications are explored to underscore the transformative impact of CCU on sustainable development. However, the journey towards widespread CCU adoption is not without challenges. This paper identifies and analyzes technical hurdles related to efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, it examines the regulatory, policy, and societal challenges that may hinder the seamless integration of CCU technologies. Case studies of successful CCU projects provide practical insights, emphasizing lessons learned and best practices. The paper concludes by outlining future prospects and opportunities in the field of CCU, emphasizing the need for continued research, development, and international collaboration. It calls for a concerted effort to overcome challenges and harness the full potential of CCU in contributing to global carbon reduction goals. This comprehensive review aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals involved in climate change mitigation, providing a nuanced understanding of the current landscape, opportunities, and challenges associated with Carbon Capture and Utilization.
 Keywords: Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU), Applications, Challenges.

Energy‐saving technologies and energy efficiency in the post‐COVID era

AbstractThe COVID‐19 pandemic made people reevaluate their energy consumption and energy efficiency. It held up a mirror to humanity's opportunistic and ruthless deployment of energy sources. As the city streets went empty and the international air traffic stopped altogether, people witnessed the significant drop in CO2 emissions, realized their dependence upon energy sources, and became aware of global climate change. In addition, with lockdowns and home offices, the demand for energy and the usual peak hours shifted offering a new perspective in energy consumption. The pandemic delivered a devastating blow to the human belief in having the constant and everlasting supply of energy that can be relied upon in everything. All these attracted the attention of researchers focusing on energy consumption and efficiency during the COVID‐19 pandemic. As a result, the vast body of academic literature on the topic burgeoned in the past four years yielding many exciting perspectives and viewpoints. Our paper conducts a comprehensive review of this body of literature employing the bibliometric network analysis of 12960 publications indexed in Web of Science database. It demonstrates the potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing energy‐saving technologies, altering energy consumption behavior, and implementing novel ICT solutions in a post‐COVID world. In addition, it highlights the importance of energy efficiency measures and examines novel technologies that can contribute to a sustainable and resilient energy future. Our findings emphasize the need for robust policies, technological advancements, and public engagement for fostering energy efficiency and mitigating environmental impacts of post‐pandemic energy consumption.