Future Growth Research Articles

Assessment of Tourism Development in Belarus: A Comprehensive Analysis of Infrastructure, Cultural Heritage and Natural Resources

Purpose: This study examines the development of tourism in Belarus, evaluating its infrastructure, cultural heritage potential, and natural resources. The research aims to identify key factors influencing tourism development and assess their relative impact on the sector's growth. Design/methodology/approach: The study employs a mixed-methods approach, primarily utilizing a quantitative survey (n=512) of local stakeholders across six regions of Belarus, supplemented by comprehensive statistical analysis. The research instrument included 17 structured questions measuring perceptions of tourism development across multiple dimensions. Data analysis was conducted using chi-square tests and Cramér's V coefficient to determine statistical significance and relationship strength. Findings: The results indicate moderate tourism development in Belarus (39% of respondents rated it as average, 42% as high). Infrastructure quality shows significant regional variation (χ2(4)=31.50, p<0.001, V=0.56). Cultural heritage emerged as a primary attraction (72% agreement), while natural resources received varied evaluations (57% highlighting landscape value). The study identified key development barriers: visa restrictions (74% of respondents), insufficient marketing (62%), and underdeveloped transport infrastructure (51%). Research limitations/implications: The study's cross-sectional nature and focus on domestic stakeholders may limit its generalizability. Future longitudinal studies incorporating international perspectives could provide additional insights. Conclusion: The study reveals that Belarus's tourism development exhibits a complex pattern of strengths and challenges. While the country possesses significant potential through its cultural heritage (72% positive evaluation) and natural resources (57% positive assessment), its tourism development is constrained by structural barriers. The research demonstrates that future tourism growth requires a three-pronged approach: (1) systematic infrastructure modernization, particularly in regional areas; (2) reform of visa policies to enhance accessibility; and (3) development of comprehensive marketing strategies. The statistical significance of these findings (p<0.001) supports the need for evidence-based policy interventions. This research contributes to both theoretical understanding of tourism development in transition economies and practical policy formulation, while establishing a methodological framework for future studies in similar contexts.

Population size and structure of Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu in Geralle National Park, Southeastern Ethiopia

Background Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu remain widespread within and outside protected areas. Current pressures on their populations, human encroachment and disturbance associated habitat modifications, and excessive grazing pose further threats to the species. The estimation of density and abundance of species has significant value for sustainable wildlife management in Geralle National Park (GNP) and also contributes towards a more accurate global population estimate. Result Using distance sampling methods, the lowest Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) (close to zero) and Chi-square tests (P value > 0.05) showed that the hazard rate key function with an un-equal interval group model was selected for estimation of density and abundance. The density of species was 1.7 ± 0.5, 2.07 ± 0.7, gazelle/km2 and 1.39 ± 0.3, 1.92 ± 0.42, lesser kudu/km2 during the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Population density, abundance, and structure showed habitat and seasonal differences in observation. More individuals of both species were recorded during the wet season as compared to the dry season. Grassland was favored by Grant’s gazelle, while lesser kudu preferred woodlands. Both species exhibited a female-biased sex ratio, indicating potential for future population growth prospects. Conclusion It can be concluded that GNP is home to viable populations of Grant’s gazelle and lesser kudu, and season has influenced population abundance and distribution due to resource availability variations among seasons. The female-biased sex ratio indicates the future population growth prospects for the two species.

Who is an Agile leader? Technological vs. Non-technological Mindset Employees' Views

For an agile organization to be truly agile, it must be led by agile leaders to sustain its competitiveness and continuously identify opportunities for future growth and development. Technological and non-technological mindsets can see agile leadership differently. Therefore, this study aims to explore if there is any difference in the vision of who the agile leader is in the views of knowledge workers employed in the IT and other sectors. Using a qualitative definitional/interpretive approach supported by MAXQDA software, this study revealed that from the perspective of the technological mindset, key specific to this group characteristics are diligent risk management, technology usage focus, deep understanding of needs, efficiency, and efficacy, critical thinking skills, multitasking, information and knowledge sharing, responsibility, feeling, and constant focus on improvement. Whereas from the perspective of non-technological mindsets, key specific characteristics these mindsets notice are support for employee growth, dynamism and relevance of actions taken, perfect operation on managerial paradoxes, creativity, inclusion, empathy, and self-confidence. The common characteristics that are easy to notice in both mindset types are open-minded personality, the sequential habit of revisions, reflection, and re-framing, learning from experience, wise dynamic (smooth and accurate actions), perfect change implementation skills, adaptability skills, and a positive attitude towards challenges.

Development of an approach to forecast future takeaway outlet growth around schools and population exposure to takeaways in England

BackgroundNeighbourhood exposure to takeaways can contribute negatively to diet and diet-related health outcomes. Urban planners within local authorities (LAs) in England can modify takeaway exposure through denying planning permission to new outlets in management zones around schools. LAs sometimes refer to these as takeaway “exclusion zones”. Understanding the long-term impacts of this intervention on the takeaway retail environment and health, an important policy question, requires methods to forecast future takeaway growth and subsequent population-level exposure to takeaways. In this paper we describe a novel two-stage method to achieve this.MethodsWe used historic data on locations of takeaways and a time-series auto-regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model, to forecast numbers of outlets within management zones to 2031, based on historical trends, in six LAs with different urban/rural characteristics across England. Forecast performance was evaluated based on root mean squared error (RMSE) and mean absolute scaled error (MASE) scores in time-series cross-validation. Using travel-to-work data from the 2011 UK census, we then translated these forecasts of the number of takeaways within management zones into population-level exposures across home, work and commuting domains.ResultsOur ARIMA models outperformed exponential smoothing equivalents according to RMSE and MASE. The model was able to forecast growth in the count of takeaways up to 2031 across all six LAs, with variable growth rates by RUC (min–max: 39.4-79.3%). Manchester (classified as a non-London urban with major conurbation LA) exhibited the highest forecast growth rate (79.3%, 95% CI 61.6, 96.9) and estimated population-level takeaway exposure within management zones, increasing by 65.5 outlets per capita to 148.2 (95% CI 133.6, 162.7) outlets. Overall, urban (vs. rural) LAs were forecast stronger growth and higher population exposures.ConclusionsOur two-stage forecasting approach provides a novel way to estimate long-term future takeaway growth and population-level takeaway exposure. While Manchester exhibited the strongest growth, all six LAs were forecast marked growth that might be considered a risk to public health. Our methods can be used to model future growth in other types of retail outlets and in other areas.

From Grapes to Clicks : A Cloud-Based Wine-Selling Solution for Single Vendors

This document outlines the design and creation of a robust wine vending application for a single vendor, which combines a web platform, an Android mobile app, and a cloud-based framework. This solution addresses the increasing demand for online wine sales while delivering a smooth, secure, and adaptable shopping experience. Essential features of the system include an intuitive web interface and an application focused on effective product searching, ordering, and payment processing. Cloud infrastructure is implemented to guarantee high availability, scalability, and secure data management. The paper discusses various architectural alternatives, such as utilizing cloud services for load balancing, data handling, and disaster recovery. It also emphasizes the necessity of strong security protocols, including encryption, user authentication, and adherence to industry standards for online transactions. Additionally, the document addresses challenges related to regulatory compliance, including age verification mandates and data protection laws. Lastly, it explores strategies for performance enhancement, improvements to user experience, and potential avenues for future expansion. The proposed solution aims to deliver a dependable, secure, and scalable platform tailored to the requirements of individual wine retailers while accommodating future growth.

Using Space Syntax and GIS to Determine Future Growth Routes of Cities: The Case of the Kyrenia White Zone

Using Space Syntax and GIS to Determine Future Growth Routes of Cities: The Case of the Kyrenia White Zone

A Study on the Growth Model of Natural Forests in Southern China Under Climate Change: Application of Transition Matrix Model

This study establishes a climate-sensitive transition matrix growth model and predicts forest growth under different carbon emission scenarios (representative concentration pathways RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5) over the next 40 years. Data from the Eighth (2013) and Ninth (2019) National Forest Resource Inventories in Chongqing and climate data from Climate AP are utilized. The model is used to predict forest growth and compare the number of trees, basal area, and stock volume under different climate scenarios. The results show that the climate-sensitive transition matrix growth model has high accuracy. The relationships between the variables and forest growth, mortality, and recruitment correspond to natural succession and growth. Although the number of trees, basal area, and stock volume do not differ significantly for different climate scenarios, the forest has sufficient seedling regeneration and large-diameter trees. The growth process aligns with succession, with pioneer species being replaced by climax species. The proposed climate-sensitive transition matrix growth model fills the gap in growth models for natural secondary forests in Chongqing and is an accurate method for predicting forest growth. The model can be used for long-term prediction of forest stands to understand future forest growth trends and provide reliable references for forest management. Forest growth can be predicted for different harvesting intensities to determine the optimal intensity to guide natural forest management in Chongqing City. The results of this study can help formulate targeted forest management policies to deal more effectively with climate change and promote sustainable forest health.

Immersive Learning: A Systematic Literature Review on Transforming Engineering Education Through Virtual Reality

Integrating Virtual Reality (VR) with developing technology has become crucial in today’s schools to transform in-the-moment instruction. A change in perspective has occurred because of VR, enabling teachers to create immersive learning experiences in addition to conventional classes. This paper presents a systematic literature review with an in-depth analysis of the changing environment of immersive learning. It discusses advantages and challenges, noting results from previous researchers. VR facilitates more profound knowledge and memory of complex subjects by allowing students to collaborate with digital structures, explore virtual landscapes, and participate in simulated experiments. Developing VR gear, like thin headsets and tactile feedback mechanisms, has democratised immersive engineering learning by making it more approachable and natural for a broader range of students. This study sheds light on the revolutionary potential of immersive learning via VR integration with new technologies in real-time education by examining current trends, discussing obstacles, and an outlook on future directions using the new Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). This study used four databases: Scopus, IEEE, Springer, and Google Scholar. During the selection, 24 articles were added during the review, and 53 studies were selected. It clarifies best practices for adopting VR-enhanced learning environments through empirical analysis and case studies, and it also points out directions for future innovation and growth in the field of immersive pedagogy.

Nexus among Economic Uncertainty, Geopolitical Risk, Oil Price Volatility and Economic Complexity in Saudi Arabia: Fresh Insights from Wavelet Local Multiple Correlations

Enhancing future economic growth through higher economic complexity is vital for sustainable growth strategies. Even though most studies are concerned with the key factors governing the economic complexity process, there needs to be more studies about the impact of risk factors on economic sophistication evolvement, particularly for oil-rentier economies. The present paper intends to delve into the dynamic connectedness between some risk factors, such as economic, political, and geopolitical risks and oil price volatility and the progress of economic complexity. We utilized quarterly data (1995Q1-2021Q4) for Saudi Arabia as a heavy oil-rich economy. As the first study to delve into the short-long term connections at various time scales and frequencies within a multivariable setting, we contribute to the literature by offering a spotless picture of economic complexity risk factors. In doing so, we resort to a novel wavelet local multiple correlation method, which can explore the varying patterns of time periods in the interconnections between the variables. Our findings disclose that oil volatility, geopolitical risk, and global uncertainties are positively connected to economic complexity over the long run. In contrast, their short-term effect is weak and mostly insignificant. These results indicate the resiliency of the Saudi economy to external to oil volatility shocks and intensification of global and local uncertainties. These outcomes offer policymakers new insights and prominent policy recommendations when designing economic strategies to achieve higher economic sophistication and sustainable growth.

The National Institute on Aging's Resource Centers for Minority Aging Research: Development, Evolution, and Impact.

Spanning nearly 30 of the 50 years in which the National Institute on Aging (NIA) has existed, the Resource Centers for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR) program represents one of the most successful initiatives for advancing minority aging research and diversifying the scientific workforce within the Institute and across the National Institutes of Health. This article celebrates the genesis of the RCMAR program, beginning with the need to enhance this work, ranging from theories underlying the then-nascent field of health disparities research to study design, measurement, and analytic procedures. It describes the companion focus on preparing, expanding, and diversifying generations of future scholars/scientists to carry forward these advances. RCMAR's emphasis on promoting a comprehensive approach to research career development and building supportive learning communities heralded a more holistic approach to training than was previously the case. The discussion describes the evolution of the structure and emphases of the RCMAR program as it has responded to the frequently changing political, funding, and research environments. The article concludes by highlighting the major successes of this initiative, the challenges it faces, and opportunities afforded future growth as individual centers, the program at large, and NIA as a whole continue to innovate as they collectively address the original goals which remain relevant today and in the near future.

Contrasting Future Growth of Norway Spruce and Scots Pine Forests Under Warming Climate.

Forests are essential to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration, transpiration, and turnover. However, the quantification of climate change impacts on forest growth is uncertain and even contradictory in some regions, which is the result of spatially constrained studies. Here, we use an unprecedented network of 1.5 million tree growth records from 493 Picea abies and Pinus sylvestris stands across Europe to predict species-specific tree growth variability from 1950 to 2016 (R2 > 0.82) and develop 21st-century gridded projections considering different climate change scenarios. The approach demonstrates overall positive effects of warming temperatures leading to 25% projected conifer growth increases under the SPP370 scenario, but these additional carbon gains are spatially inhomogeneous and associated with geographic climate gradients. Maximum gains are projected for pines in Scandinavia, where growth trajectories indicate 50% increases by 2071-2100. Smaller but significant growth reductions are projected in Mediterranean Europe, where conifer growth shrinks by 25% in response to warmer temperatures. Our results reveal potential mitigating effects via forest carbon sequestration increases in response to global warming and stress the importance of effective forest management.

Marketing Strategy of Ocado: A Comprehensive Review of the UK's Leading Grocery Delivery Service

This review critically examines the marketing strategy of Ocado, a leading online grocery delivery service in the UK. Despite its technological innovations, such as AI-powered customer fulfillment centers and data-driven personalization, Ocado holds a modest 1.7% market share, compared to traditional competitors like Tesco and Sainsbury's. The paper explores key factors influencing Ocado's market performance, including its premium positioning, digital-first approach, and sustainability efforts. It also analyzes the company's reliance on affluent customers and the limitations posed by high operational costs. Through a thorough evaluation of Ocado's customer engagement, environmental initiatives, and competitive landscape, this review offers insights into how the company can expand its market presence by embracing emerging technologies like blockchain and AI while adopting hybrid marketing strategies to appeal to a broader customer base. Recommendations for future growth emphasize the need for competitive pricing, a wider product offering, and enhanced personalization strategies.

Developing Marketing Strategy for User-Generated Content: Study Case for Company X

This study investigates strategies to enhance user-generated content (UGC) growth for Company X, a part of Company X, to address the declining trend in UGC contributions and increasing operational costs. The study employs a qualitative methodology, including in-depth interviews with Company X users and content creators, to identify user personas, motivations, and preferences. External analyses such as PESTEL, competitive analysis, and internal SWOT analysis are used to frame the problem. The results suggest that enhancing the reward system, aligning incentives with user expectations, and improving platform engagement can increase UGC contributions. The proposed strategies aim to leverage UGC to reduce costs and boost user engagement and retention, supporting Company X’s future growth.

ВЛИЯНИЕ ЦИФРОВЫХ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ НА ОБУЧЕНИЕ В МЕДИЦИНСКИХ ВУЗАХ: СОЦИОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ АСПЕКТЫ И ВЛИЯНИЕ НА ЗДРАВООХРАНЕНИЕ

This article is dedicated to the study of the impact of digital technologies on the educational process in medical universities, with a focus on sociological aspects and their significance for the healthcare system. It examines how the use of digital tools and platforms changes students' approaches to studying medicine and shapes their perception of the role of technology in improving the quality of medical services and ensuring public health. The informational and educational environment transforms traditional teaching methods, providing new opportunities for updating curricula and creating conditions for the rapid exchange of information between students and educators. Digitalization of the educational process implies a change in the roles of all participants in the educational process. Students become researchers actively using information and communication technologies to acquire knowledge and practical skills. At the same time, educators assume the role of mentors, supporting students in their learning and possessing the necessary competencies in digital technologies. The article analyzes the most effective tools for facilitating interaction in the educational environment, such as virtual boards like Google Jamboard, Miro, and Padlet, which contribute to the development of critical thinking and presentation skills among students. Additionally, the article addresses the challenges faced by medical universities in the process of integrating digital technologies. Effective implementation of digitalization requires strategic planning and a comprehensive approach to updating educational programs, which will create a sustainable platform for the future professional growth of students. In conclusion, the authors emphasize that digital technologies, along with innovative teaching methods, significantly enhance the quality of education in medical universities. This, in turn, contributes to the training of highly qualified specialists capable of effectively working in modern healthcare conditions, ultimately having a positive impact on public health and the organization of healthcare as a whole.

The future of tourism: interview with Ian Yeoman about the Journal of Tourism Futures

PurposeAs the Journal of Tourism Futures celebrates its 10th anniversary, Dr. Albert Postma (NHL Stenden University) interviews Professor Ian Yeoman (NHL Stenden University) as co-editor of the Journal of Tourism Futures and expert on scenario planning in tourism and hospitality.Design/methodology/approachA personal interview.FindingsYeoman shares his expertise on the establishment and evolution of the Journal of Tourism Futures, in the context of the growth of futures thinking in tourism within a science and industry context.Originality/valueThe interview provides insights in the evolution of futures thinking in tourism, reflected in the growth and growing reputation of the Journal of Tourism Futures.

Nanomedicine in Cancer Treatment: Mechanisms, Applications, and Future Directions

Nanomedicine, an emerging field at the intersection of nanotechnology and medicine, holds significant promise for revolutionizing cancer treatment. By utilizing materials at the nanoscale, ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers, nanomedicine offers a versatile platform for targeting tumors, improving drug delivery, and minimizing side effects. This paper explores the design and preparation of nanoparticles, including common materials like liposomes, polymers, metals, and quantum dots, as well as their mechanisms of targeted delivery through both passive and active methods. Key applications of nanomedicine are discussed, particularly in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and imaging. Clinical progress is highlighted through examples such as FDA-approved drugs like Onivyde for pancreatic cancer and experimental treatments like BIND-014 for metastatic prostate cancer. Despite rapid advancements, significant challenges remain, particularly in scaling up production and ensuring batch consistency. Safety concerns, such as nanoparticle toxicity and unintended accumulation in organs, must be addressed through rigorous testing and design improvements. Ethical considerations and regulatory hurdles also pose obstacles to the widespread clinical adoption of nanomedicine. Looking forward, multifunctionalization and personalized nanomedicine represent key areas of future growth, offering the potential for highly individualized treatments that combine therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities. Continued research and collaboration across scientific disciplines will be crucial in overcoming current limitations and unlocking the full potential of nanomedicine for cancer treatment.

Professional Advancement Models for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates/Assistants: A historical overview and opportunities for future growth.

Professional advancement models (PAM) are paramount in the growth of nurse practitioners (NP) and physician associates/assistants (PA) who seek professional challenges, clinical recognition, job satisfaction, upward mobility, and incentives for retention. Professional advancement models for NPs and PAs were born out of literature on clinical career ladders that date back to the 1970s for the nursing work force. Over time, PAMs have evolved to offer NPs and PAs structured pathways to guide and reward professional growth, education, advocacy, research, and quality improvement (QI). Although the first institutional account of PAM development for NPs and PAs was published in 1998, there has been a recent spike in case reports of PAMs from individual medical centers. This article (1) provides a historical timeline of published data on the development and implementation of PAMs for NPs and PAs, (2) critiques features of existing PAMs, and (3) offers recommendations regarding PAM innovation for more uniform adoption in medical institutions across the country.

Strategic Agility and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: How to Leverage Top Management Team Characteristics

Purpose: Ubiquitous disruptive innovations and technologies, frequently changing consumer behaviour, and evolving market dynamics in Kenya, have compelled television stations to constantly explore innovative ways to achieve long term business sustainability. Firms must be ambidextrous; balancing the tensions of excelling in current businesses while exploring opportunities for future growth. This requires top leadership teams that are well suited to the challenge of steering organisations in disrupted business contexts. This paper investigated the effect of top management team characteristics on the linkage of strategic agility and sustainable competitive advantage of licensed television stations in Kenya. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was employed and primary data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data from 210 licensed television stations that were operational at the time of the study was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM). Findings: The results of the study indicated that strategic agility had a positive and significant effect on sustainable competitive advantage of licensed television stations in Kenya. Further, top management team characteristics were a mediator on the nexus between strategic agility and sustainable competitive advantage, as well as a predictor variable of sustainable competitive advantage of licensed television firms in Kenya. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The research was underpinned by the dynamic capabilities, resource-based view and upper echelons theories. The implication is that, to achieve sustainable competitive advantage, it is crucial for the top management team to possess specific attributes, including a balanced mix of both young and experienced members, diversity in functional backgrounds (especially those with knowledge of disruptive technologies and innovations), varying educational levels, and a mix of long-tenured and new managers.

Community Informatics & I

In this essay, inspired by the timeliness of our chronologically shared symbolic birth (the journal’s inaugural issue and my professional career as a faculty member) I briefly discuss and critically analyze the influence of community informatics upon my professional journey, in our mutual symbiotic growth, intersections and divergences. I also share my insights and reflections of the process that might influence readers’ own thinking about the past, present, and future of community informatics and its identity, intersections, growth, and more. This opportune moment allows me to draw upon intersections with my current work in social justice and inclusion advocacy and trace my privileged positionality to the “nurturing intellectual embrace” of community informatics that opened many proverbial doors and areas of impact over the years. In the process, I use evidence chronicled in my current curriculum vita that serves as a roadmap providing documentation “on the record” of milestones and activities referenced along the journey as I also develop ponderings of the past, current, and future emergence and growth of community informatics. In tracing key directions of growth through my own lens of experience and reality with community informatics shows how broader aspects in the larger society, academic world, and information field have strongly curtailed its emergence and adoption. Considering such factors directly might be helpful to shape its positive placement and positionality moving into the future.

Multi-Objective Optimization of Urban Gas Station Site Selection Under Territorial Spatial Planning Constraints

The traditional process for selecting urban gas station sites often emphasizes economic benefits and return on investment, frequently overlooking mandatory and guiding constraints established by territorial spatial planning regulations. This neglect can compromise the effective layout and future growth of cities, potentially affecting their long-term development. To address this issue, this study develops a systematic framework for urban gas station site selection that integrates both mandatory and guiding constraints. By conducting detailed analyses of feasible construction areas and fuel demand, the framework quantifies relevant indicators and establishes a comprehensive index system for site selection. A multi-objective optimization model employing genetic algorithms was utilized to maximize fuel demand coverage, minimize inter-station redundancy, and achieve optimal site coverage. This framework was applied to the central urban area of Lishui City, China, as a case study. The site selection schemes achieved a coverage rate exceeding 90%, an inter-station redundancy rate around 30%, and a demand coverage rate surpassing 90%, optimizing the key objectives. Compared to traditional methods that often ignore territorial spatial planning constraints, this framework effectively avoids conflicts with urban planning and regulatory requirements. It enhances infrastructure coordination, supports environmental sustainability, and exhibits strong adaptability to diverse urban contexts, thus offering valuable support for practical decision-making.