Funding Source Research Articles

How far has diabetes-related foot disease research progressed in Australia? A bibliometric review (1970-2023).

Diabetes-related foot disease (DFD) is a leading cause of the Australian and global disease burdens and requires proportionate volumes of research to address. Bibliometric analyses are rigorous methods for exploring total research publications in a field to help identify volume trends, gaps and emerging areas of need. This bibliometric review aimed to explore the volume, authors, institutions, journals, collaborating countries, research types and funding sources of Australian publications investigating DFD over 50years. A systematic search of the Scopus® database was conducted by two independent authors to identify all Australian DFD literature published between 1970 and 2023. Bibliometric meta-data were extracted from Scopus®, analyzed in Biblioshiny, an R Statistical Software interface, and publication volumes, authors, institutions, journals and collaborative countries were described. Publications were also categorised for research type and funding source. Overall, 332 eligible publications were included. Publication volume increased steadily over time, with largest volumes (78%) and a 7-fold increase over the last decade. Mean co-authors per publication was 5.6, mean journal impact factor was 2.9 and median citation was 9 (IQR2-24). Most frequent authors were Peter Lazzarini (14%), Vivienne Chuter (8%) and Jonathon Golledge (7%). Most frequent institutions affiliated were Queensland University Technology (33%), University Sydney (30%) and James Cook University (25%). Most frequent journals published in were Journal Foot and Ankle Research (17%), Diabetic Medicine (7%), Journal Diabetes and its Complications (4%) and International Wound Journal (4%). Most frequent collaborating countries were the United Kingdom (9%), the Netherlands (6%) and the United States (5%). Leading research types were etiology (38%), treatment evaluation (25%) and health services research (13%). Leading funding sources were no funding (60%), internal institution (16%) and industry/philanthropic/international (10%). Australian DFD research increased steadily until more dramatic increases were seen over the past decade. Most research received no funding and mainly investigated etiology, existing treatments or health services. Australian DFD researchers appear to be very productive, particularly in recent times, despite minimal funding indicating their resilience. However, if the field is to continue to rapidly grow and address the very large national DFD burden, much more research funding is needed in Australia, especially targeting prevention and clinical trials of new treatments in DFD.

Horizontal ecological compensation standards based on ecosystem services flow

The determination of compensation standards is the core of horizontal ecological compensation (HEC). However, existing studies focused on the ecological value stocks of ecosystem services (ESs) within an administrative area but ignored their spatial mobility when determining standards, so the HEC policies had difficulty in achieving the desired goals. This study takes the upper-middle reaches of the Yangtze River as the study area, adopts the gravity model to calculate the ecosystem services flow (ESF) in the eight provinces of the area, and formulates a HEC standard accounting model to determine the compensation standards. The results show that there are inhomogeneous distributions of ESs supply and demand from 2005 to 2020. The ESs supply tends to decline, then increase, whereas the demand continuously increases. The total ESF volume from the ESs-providing areas (ESPAs) to the ESs-benefiting areas (ESBAs) first increases and then decreases. In 2020, Tibet, Qinghai, Chongqing, and Hunan are the ESPAs, with Qinghai obtaining the highest compensation standard of 308.56 million CNY and accounting for more than 50% of the total. The ESBAs include Sichuan, Yunnan, Hubei, and Jiangxi, among which Sichuan is the main source of HEC funds with payments of 375.79 million CNY. This study can provide theoretical references for improving HEC rationality, as well as resolving the contradictions between environmental protection costs and benefits externalities for large-scale regions

Characteristics and quality of clinical practice guidelines for diabetic kidney disease: a systematic review.

To assess the quality of Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in the context of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and determine whether any factors affect the quality. We searched eight databases along with five international and national organizations to develop or archive guidelines from their inception to July 2023, with an additional search of medlive.cn. And the authoritative organizations related to nephrology. CPGs and consensus statements created using direct differential diagnosis or therapy for DKD were included without language restrictions. Their quality was evaluated by four reviewers using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation Ⅱ (AGREE Ⅱ) instrument. Along with the item and domain scores, the guideline was also allocated an overall quality score, which ranged from 1 (lowest possible quality) to 7 (highest possible quality). Moreover, an overall recommendation for use was also assigned ("recommended", "recommended with modifications" or "not recommended"). A total of 16 CPGs were included, of which 14 were from Asia and the remaining two from Europe. These two CPGs were updated in the third version. Six CPGs were recommended for use because their primary domains scored in the medium or high category. Furthermore, five CPGs were recommended with modifications as the stakeholder involvement, applicability, and editorial independence domains were evaluated as low categories. In all domains, the lowest average score was for rigour of development (33%), followed by application (36%), and stakeholder involvement (51%). The highest average score was for scope and purpose (79%), followed by clarity of presentation (75%). None of the CPGs considered the patient's viewpoint, and six of 16 CPGs did not use any grading system to translate the evidence into recommendations. Additionally, only three of 16 CPGs shared search strategy, and eight of 16 CPGs did not declare a funding source. According to the AGREE II evaluation, more than one in four CPGs for DKD had poor methodological quality. Enhanced efforts are needed to advance the rigour of development, application, and editorial independence of DKD guideline panels for most guidelines. Stakeholders, CPG developers, and CPG users should consider methodological quality while choosing CPGs, and interpret and implement their issued suggestions.

Utilization of colorectal cancer screening tests across European countries: a cross-sectional analysis of the European health interview survey 2018–2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening has been shown to reduce CRC incidence and mortality, and most European countries have started to implement CRC screening programs in the past 20 years. Consequently, this study aimed to estimate the utilization of fecal tests and colonoscopy, as well as investigate factors associated with their utilization based on specific screening program characteristics in European countries. We analyzed data from the European Health Interview Survey 2018-2020 to determine the utilization of fecal tests [guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT)] within the preceding 2 years or colonoscopy within the preceding 10 years among people aged 50-74 years, based on the type of screening offered in each country. Using multivariable logistic regression and sub-group meta-analysis, factors associated with screening use were determined. The analyses included data from 129,750 respondents across 29 European countries, with participant counts ranging from 1511 individuals in Iceland to 11,755 individuals in Germany. Unit response rates ranged from 22% to 88%. The use of either test was highest among countries with fully rolled-out programs with fecal tests [from 37.7% (867/2379) in Croatia to 74.9% (2321/3085) in Denmark] and in countries offering colonoscopy as an alternative screening method [from 26.2% (854/3329) in Greece to 75.4% (1192/1760) in Luxembourg]. We observed the lowest utilization of either test in countries with no program or small-scale programs [6.3% (195/3179) in Bulgaria to 34.2% (722/2144) in Latvia]. Across all types of screening offers, younger age, being without a partner, low education, rural residence, and living in large households were associated with lower utilization, as were poor lifestyle scores and prolonged periods without physician consultation. Our findings point to large disparities and much room for improvement in CRC screening offers and utilization across Europe. There was no funding source for this study.

STARTUPS -Requirement Factor in Finance

This abstract examines critical factors influencing startup success in securing financial resources. It explores the multifaceted dynamics encompassing funding sources, investor preferences, and regulatory frameworks. Key determinants such as business model viability, market potential, and founder credibility are scrutinized for their impact on attracting investment. Additionally, the study delves into emerging trends like crowdfunding and venture capital trends shaping the financing landscape. By synthesizing empirical evidence and industry insights, this abstract sheds light on the imperative considerations for startups navigating the complex terrain of finance, offering valuable guidance for entrepreneurial endeavors. Key Words: optics, photonics, light, lasers, templates, journals

E-learning in transfusion medicine: An exploratory qualitative assessment.

E-learning programmes are increasingly offered in transfusion medicine (TM) education. The aim of this study was to explore facilitators and barriers to TM e-learning programmes, including assessment of learning outcomes and measures of effectiveness. Participants selected from a prior survey and representing a diverse number of international e-learning programmes were invited to participate. A mixed methodology was employed, combining a survey and individual semi-structured one-on-one interviews. Interview data were analysed inductively to explore programme development, evaluation, and facilitators and barriers to implementation. Fourteen participants representing 13 institutions participated in the survey and 10 were interviewed. The e-learning programmes have been in use for a variable duration between 5 and 16 years. Funding sources varied, including government and institutional support. Learner assessment methods varied and encompassed multiple-choice-questions (n = 12), direct observation (n = 4) and competency assessment (n = 4). Most regional and national blood collection agencies rely on user feedback and short-term learning assessments to evaluate their programmes. Only one respondent indicated an attempt to correlate e-learning with clinical practices. Factors that facilitated programme implementation included support from management and external audits to ensure compliance with regulatory educational and training requirements. Barriers to programme implementation included the allocation of staff time for in-house development, enforcing compliance, keeping educational content up-to-date and gaining access to outcome data for educational providers. There is evidence of considerable diversity in the evaluation of e-learning programmes. Further work is needed to understand the ultimate impact of TM e-learning on transfusion practices and patient outcomes.

Problems and Prospects of Social Insurance in India

The fair transfer of the risk of loss from one entity to another in exchange for a payment, known as a premium, is what is meant by insurance (NCAER). A type of risk management called insurance is used to protect or hedge against the possibility of an unforeseen and contingent loss. In the economy, the insurance industry serves as a risk manager, investment activity booster, financial market stabilizer, mobilizer of funds, and financial middleman. According to the Financial Stability Forum, insurance services are categorized into three major categories: social insurance, non-social insurance and reinsurance. The social insurance sector helps in providing risk cover, investment and tax planning for individuals; the non-social insurance industry provides a risk cover for assets. Under reinsurance, developing countries often find themselves in the position of being buyers of reinsurance (UNCTAD 2007). The development of the social insurance market is playing an increasingly substantial role within the insurance industry due to the existence of insurance-growth relationship with the increased share of the insurance sector in the financial sector (Beck and Webb, 2003). Social insurance is civilization’s partial solution to the problems that caused by death; which eliminates 'risk', substituting certainty for uncertainty and comes to the timely aid of the family in the unfortunate event of death of breadwinner. In short, social insurance is concerned with two hazards that stand across the life-path of every person: firstly, that of dying prematurely is leaving a dependent family to fend for itself, and secondly, that of living till old age without visible means of supports (LIC, website). A well-developed social insurance sector is a boon for economic development as it provides long term funds for infrastructure development at the same time strengthening the risk taking ability of a country. Social insurers are custodians and managers of substantial investments of individuals; and policy holders need to be confident that their insurer will be able to meet its promised liabilities in the event that claims are made under a policy Regulatory authorities therefore seek to ensure that the financial soundness and performance of social insurance companies is in sound condition. Insurance is a big opportunity in a country like India with a large population and 2 untapped potential. In this current scenario of growing customer base, one of the principal concerns underlying the regulation of the insurance companies is the need to protect the interest of and secure fair treatment to policyholders (Charumathi, 2011) The risk absorption role of insurers promotes financial stability in the financial markets and provides a “sense of peace” to economic entities. The business world without insurance is unsustainable since risky business may not have the capacity to retain all kinds of risks in this ever changing and uncertain global economy (Ahmed et al., 2010). Insurance companies’ ability to continue to cover risk in the economy hinges on their capacity to create profit or value for their shareholders. The economic significance and recently increasing importance of the insurance industry for financial stability requires for adoption of risk-based supervisions of its undertakings. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), the regulatory body of the Indian insurance industry, has therefore intensified its supervision, on-site examinations and off-site surveillances. All of these regulatory measures are to ensure that the financial performance of insurance companies is in sound condition. Insurers’ financial performance is influenced by both internal and external factors. Whereas internal factors focus on an insurer’s-specific characteristics, the external factors concern both industry features and macroeconomic variables. The performance of insurance companies can also be appraised at the micro, meso and macro levels of the economy. The micro level refers to how firm-specific factors such as size, capital, efficiency, age, and ownership structure affect financial performance. The meso and macro levels refer to the influence of support-institutions and macroeconomic factors respectively. At the micro level, profit is the essential pre-requisite for the survival, growth and competitiveness of insurance firms and the cheapest source of funds (Buyinza et al., 2010). Without profits no insurer can attract outside capital to meet its set objectives in this ever changing and competitive globalized environment.

ANALISIS PENGANGGARAN DANA BANTUAN OPERASIONAL SEKOLAH DALAM MENINGKATKAN SARANA DAN PRASARANA PERPUSTAKAAN DI SMK AL-JAUHARIYAH

This study aims to analyze the utilization of School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds in the context of library improvement. School libraries have an important role in improving the quality of education and BOS funds are a source of funding that can be used for it, This research was conducted using descriptive-analytical methods. Data were obtained through surveys, interviews, and documentation studies on schools receiving BOS funding. Research respondents included school principals, library managers, and related teachers. The results showed that the utilization of BOS funds for library improvement is still not optimal. Most schools use the funds to purchase new reference books, update library collections, improve library accessibility, and provide facilities that support learning in the library. There are still several obstacles that hinder the effective use of funds, such as lack of awareness of the importance of library development, knowledge and skills of library managers, and limited budget allocated.

УДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ КОНЦЕПТУАЛЬНИХ ЗАСАД ЄВРОІНТЕГРАЦІЇ ТА ФІНАНСОВО-ПРАВОВІ МЕХАНІЗМИ ПРИСКОРЕННЯ ВСТУПУ УКРАЇНИ В ЄС

Introduction. Since 2022, Ukraine has been following the path of “classical accession” to the EU, which involves the compliance with the Copenhagen criteria and adoption of the common EU legislation (acquis) in 33 policy areas/ chapters. But advancement withing this scenario is a long and resource-intensive process. Problem Statement. The urgent task is to find an optimal model of joining the EU with coherence to a reasonable time frame of this course, achieving high results of European integration and identification of the sources of funding for carrying out reforms and overcoming the consequences of the war after reducing the potential of the Ukraine Facility. Purpose - identification of the current financial and legal problems of the European integration process for Ukraine, generalization of the methodological pillars of the concept of staged accession to the EU as a more progressive version over the classic accession model, design of the policy proposals for updating monitoring tools and financial incentives for progressing across the subsequent stages towards the EU membership. Methods. General scientific and special methods are applied: reviews of theoretical sources, advisory and research papers, analysis of statistical data and legal documents, historical method, logical method, methods of comparison and synthesis. Results. The article summarizes the methodological pillars of the concept of staged accession to the EU, systematizes the legal mechanisms of negotiations and obtaining EU membership, shows the financial aspects of the European integration process, including access to the EU cohesion funds, and elaborates practically important proposals for the activity of the EU institutions and national bodies as to the operationalization of the model of staged accession. Conclusions. The staged accession model is the most holistic and logically structured concept that can evolve a predictable progress towards the EU membership. The model should be based on the European Commission's quantitative assessments of countries' preparedness for the membership within the framework of negotiating clusters and chapters. A system of performance indicators is also required that will record progress of the candidate countries across stages and will set the ground for disbursements from the EU funds in line with specified ratios. Since 2028, the new EU medium-term fiscal framework should provide for the formation of new funds to finance the recovery of Ukraine's economy and the application of the EU's cohesion policy towards Ukraine.

A systematic review of the extent of the Taliban and FARC’s involvement and profit from drug trade and methods of estimating income from the drug trade

ABSTRACT The drug trade has garnered significant attention as a critical funding source for various terrorist organisations. This systematic review summarises the existing empirical knowledge about the Taliban and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia’s (FARC) involvement, and profit from the drug trade, and methods of estimating drug trade revenue. Thirty-one studies were identified. Twenty-three about the Taliban, seven about the FARC, and one about both groups. Estimates of annual profit varied from US$19 to US$500 million for the Taliban and US$140 to US$3.5 billion for the FARC. Fourteen of the twenty-four studies about the Taliban provided an estimate and merely six studies discussed the methods used to generate those estimates. Among the eight studies about the FARC, four provided an estimate but one described the method employed. Studies used a variety of information sources. The review shows the need for caution regarding existing estimates and a more methodologically rigorous analysis of linkages.

Survey of general practitioners’ awareness, practice and perception of social prescribing across Europe

Background Social prescribing (SP) is a patient pathway by which healthcare professionals connect patients with other sources of support, groups, or activities within their community. The awareness, practice, and perception of SP among GPs across Europe remains unclear. Objectives To explore the awareness, practice, and perception of GPs on SP in the WONCA Europe region. Methods An anonymous, cross-sectional online survey was distributed through a snowballing system, mailing lists, and at three international conferences in 2022/2023 to explore GPs’ awareness, practice, and perception of SP. The questionnaire in English contained 21 open and closed questions. Results Of the 208 participating GPs from 33 countries, 116 (56%) previously heard of ‘social prescribing’ and 66 (32%) regularly referred patients to community activities through a formal system. These 66 GPs reported different funding sources and varied activities, with an average of four activities and physical exercise being the most prevalent. Among them, 25 (38%) knew about national or local SP awareness campaigns. Of these 25, 17 (68%) agreed that SP increases their job satisfaction and 21 (84%) agreed that it has a positive impact on their patients. Variations in SP awareness and referral practice were evident across and within countries. Conclusion Despite disparities in awareness and referral practice as well as a diversity of activities and funding sources, most GPs who actively referred patients and were informed about SP campaigns agreed that SP positively impacts them and their patients.

Bibliometric analysis of most cited Peyronie's disease and its management publications

IntroductionPeyronie's disease (PD) is a common urologic illness, motivating numerous scientific investigations and publications. Scientific publications have more authors each year. A bibliometric review of the PD literature might help urologists and sexual medicine professionals comprehend publication tendencies in this subject. The current study was aimed at presenting a bibliometric analysis of PD, which is one of the important and trending subjects of andrology.MethodsOn January 5, 2023, Web of Science scanned documents with the terms Peyronie's disease” “Peyronie's disease treatment”, “Peyronie's disease management”, “Peyronie's disease surgery” and “Peyronie's disease injection” from 1975 through 2023. Titles, years, authors, citations, citation indices, journal names, authors' countries of origin, article categories, and funding sources were recorded.Results“Clinical Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum for the Treatment of Peyronie Disease in 2 Large Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Phase 3 Studies” has the most citations and citation index. Most of the T100 articles were published in 2020, primarily in the Journal of Urology. These articles mainly focused on treatment, especially surgeries. All of these articles were in English, and the vast majority of them were by authors from the US who were most frequently collaborated with by other authors.ConclusionThis research analyzed the top 100 PD studies. This research focused on pathophysiology, innovative surgical procedures, and new approaches of PD. It also recommended bigger databases and more financing for research.

A Roadmap for the Implementation of Building Energy Efficiency Codes Compliance in Tripoli-Lebanon: Key Actions in the Familiarity Stage

Objective: The objective of this study is to provide policy recommendations for strengthening governance and institutional capabilities to ensure effective climate action and sustainable development in Tripoli-Lebanon and to propose a multi-staged implementation framework for T-BEEC, focusing on familiarity, with the aim o To facilitate Lebanon's transition towards sustainable energy sources by implementing an effective Building Energy Efficiency Code (T-BEEC) in Tripoli. Theoretical Framework: The study employs environmental science, urban planning, and socio-economic theories, focusing on policy adoption and the diffusion of technological innovations to enhance urban energy efficiency and sustainability. Method: A mixed-methods approach is adopted, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with key personnel at the Tripoli Municipality Permit Office and thematic analysis of the barriers and facilitators to BEEC implementation. Comparative case studies from different geopolitical regions provide a broader perspective on the challenges and strategies of energy code compliance. Results and Discussion: Findings emphasize the critical need for infrastructure and resource optimization, including vehicle maintenance and replacements, spatial layout reorganization, and the prompt repair of computers and printers, to ensure operational efficiency. Additionally, the pursuit of diverse financial support sources highlights the reliance on municipal fees, international aid, NGO contributions, and educational partnerships to overcome financial and resource constraints Research Implications: This study impacts urban energy management theory and practice, providing key insights for policymakers and planners in similar settings. Originality/Value: This study outlines a unique approach to implementing energy codes during Tripoli's familiarity period, enhancing urban sustainability and policy effectiveness.

Technology and communal culture of sharing and giving: implications on household savings behavior in Fiji

PurposeThis study examines how the introduction of mobile money transfers, while making it efficient and convenient to access funds, has affected rural households’ savings behavior and the banking sector.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilizes Fiji’s most recent agricultural census data to model the agricultural household’s saving decision. The study estimates an probit model to examine rural households' savings behavior. Furthermore, it utilizes time series secondary data to examine how funds transfer has been channeled to rural households in Fiji.FindingsFirstly, the results demonstrate that with the mobile money transfer platform launch, the banking sector has lost substantial money previously used to pass through its system, thus losing service fees and interest income. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that those using mobile wallet platforms to receive money are more likely not to have a savings account with the bank. Noting the cultural systems and social settings of the native households and the ease of payments via the mobile platform, they tend to spend more on consumption rather than saving, thus making these households more vulnerable during shocks such as natural disasters.Originality/valueWhile mobile money transfer is hailed as a revolution, no research has yet picked up the downside to it, that of undermining the very effort by policymakers to get low-income rural households to save. Secondly, this study also highlights how mobile money transfer deprives the banking system of a significant transfer fee income and a source of funds to pool and lend to earn interest income. Furthermore, this study brings to the forefront a dichotomy about how a rural indigenous community sees the welfare and prosperity of their community much differently than what economics textbooks portray.

Deep geological disposal of plastic waste: Pros and cons

Plastic production is growing, plastic waste is accumulating, and current waste management methods (recycling, incineration, etc.) are not yet able to solve this waste problem. Proposals and projects aimed at solving or facilitating the problem of plastic waste are therefore relevant. This article proposes a deep geological disposal method for plastic waste projects. The prototype for this project was the deep geological disposal of nuclear waste. Although plastic waste and nuclear waste are fundamentally different, the adequacy of this approach is justified by the fact that plastic waste, such as nuclear waste, has a a long degradation period and poses great danger to the environment, animals, and humans. The article is conceptual and examines the aspects necessary for the implementation of the project, such as the establishment of a special international UN agency for plastic waste management, specific sources of funding, giving plastic waste a monetary value, applying free market principles, and using existing potential opportunities for deep geological disposal of plastic waste. This article also discusses the proposed concept for finding more optimal options.

Green Sukuk: Tantangan dan Strategi Pengembangan Untuk Pembangunan Berkelanjutan Serta Menuju Ekonomi Hijau

Green Sukuk is a financial instrument that combines the principles of Islamic finance with sustainable development goals. This article discusses the role, practices, mechanisms, as well as challenges and efforts of the government in developing Green Sukuk in Indonesia. Green Sukuk have great potential in supporting the transition to a sustainable economy by providing a source of funding for environmentally friendly projects. However, challenges such as lack of awareness and capacity of financial institutions need to be overcome to optimize the contribution of Green Sukuk. Through strengthening regulations, outreach, product innovation and international cooperation, it is hoped that the Green Sukuk market can continue to develop and support the achievement of sustainable development goals in Indonesia.

SWOT Analysis and QSPM as a Strategy for Developing Village Owned Business Units (BUMDes) Tanjung Beringin Village

SWOT Analysis and QSPM as a Strategy for Developing Village Owned Business Units (BUMDes) Tanjung Beringin Village

Identifying minibonds issued level’s determinants to empower companies’ funding managerial strategies

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the determinants of the level of minibonds issued by companies. In doing so, it discusses the importance of minibonds in providing a market-based funding source. In the empirical analysis, special attention is paid to the study of the recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis is carried out through an econometric approach, on the basis of a high-quality empirical dataset related to the Italian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The reference period covers the recent pandemic. From a theoretical point of view, a regression model is implemented, including a multicollinearity analysis and an outlier detection procedure.FindingsThe results of the study indicate that factors such as leverage, cash flow, firm collaterals and seniority can explain the amount of minibonds issued. These findings provide valuable insights into the drivers of minibond issuance and highlight the potential benefits of minibonds as a funding option for Italian SMEs.Practical implicationsImportantly, results highlight relevant managerial implications at two levels. On one side, we carry on a managerial discussion about the worthiness of accessing the minibonds market; on the other side, we give insights on the managerial implications related to the features of the companies issuing minibonds.Originality/valueThe paper investigates an innovative financial instrument that has been introduced recently and has not yet been studied in depth. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first contribution assessing the main drivers for minibonds issuance level, which is a timely and relevant managerial research topic. In addition, this study also takes into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on minibond issuance, making the analysis appropriate for explaining the current economic context.

Globalisation of Professional Sport Finance

The objective of the present paper is to put a milestone on the roadmap toward a global economic system of professional sport, at least as regards its financial dimension, i.e., its model of finance, its ownership, and some new trends in global sport finance. Professional sport went through a radical change during the 1990s when switching from gate receipts to TV rights revenues as its major source of finance and from local/domestic to internationalised/globalised sources of revenue. This change was more marked in European soccer (football) before spreading throughout other professional sport disciplines. In fact, the whole distribution of sport financing was restructured as shown in this paper. Starting from this evidence of the first stage of sport finance globalisation, it appears that new transformations have been at work in sport finance more recently. In particular, soccer moved from globalisation of flows (revenues, finance) to asset globalisation in terms of club ownership. At last, this paper discusses the emergence of new trends in global sport finance such as treating professional (soccer) players as financial assets and crypto-assets penetrating the sports business.

SMEs, Trade Finance Markets and Instruments: A Review of the Issues with Reference to Asia

Abstract Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are an important source of employment and economic activity, but their expansion and growth may be limited by the existence of trade finance constraints due mainly to a lack of access to external sources of finance. We present a conceptual framework for understanding trade finance transactions, instruments, and participants; and map this framework to the available data used to measure trade finance. Finally, we present some stylized facts on the relationship between various trade finance instruments, and their possible links to SME outcomes with reference to ASEAN countries. We find that there are many (though imperfect) proxies for trade finance activities; and that improving trade finance is associated with more desirable SME outcomes.