Development Initiatives Research Articles

Community-Designed Park-Building and Maintenance With the Park in a Truck Initiative.

Parks and green spaces have been shown to improve human health. Yet, in cities such as Philadelphia, people with lower incomes and racially minoritized populations have less access to these health-promoting spaces. Furthermore, there are more than 42,000 lots and properties which sit vacant in Philadelphia neighborhoods. Park in a Truck (PiaT) is a green space development initiative in Philadelphia that helps communities transform available lots into neighborhood parks. PiaT works with communities to acquire neighborhood land, design and build parks, and train local youth to program and maintain the parks. In this article, we present lessons learned and best practices generated from years of working with communities to design, build, and maintain parks through the PiaT initiative. We have found that transforming lots into community parks needs to be driven by communities, and particularly, champions on the ground who work to gain access to lots and motivate resident engagement. We have also found success in training neighborhood teens to maintain the parks-to keep them clean and organize park events. Finally, PiaT works to transmit the message that open lots can be transformed into community assets that bring people together. Overall, PiaT empowers residents to design, build, and maintain parks within their neighborhoods. This process can reduce park inequities, and if scaled, improve the health of populations.

Navigating challenges in school digital transformation: insights from school leaders in the Republic of Cyprus

ABSTRACT This research study explores the challenges and barriers in school digital transformation based on the perspectives and experiences of school leaders within the Republic of Cyprus. This study employs a qualitative research approach, using interviews to collect insights from 11 purposively selected primary and secondary school leaders. The identified obstacles to digital transformation primarily center around equipment and infrastructure, professional development, digital literacy skills, cybersecurity, lack of alignment with the curricula, and lack of time and support. Given the highly bureaucratic and conservative nature of the Cypriot educational system, this research aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of these challenges, highlighting their multifaceted nature and impact on digital transformation efforts. This study contributes significantly to the educational landscape by informing policy decisions, guiding educational practices, and shaping professional development initiatives in this context.

Non-linear Relationship Between Board Gender Diversity and Research and Development Intensity: Does National Gender Inequality Matter?

This article explores the relationship between board gender diversity and research and development investments in the technology industry. The study employs a multi-theoretical framework based on the constructs of upper echelon theory, resource-dependency theory and on the literature on women’s attitude towards risk assessment. We adopt a panel data set of 390 technology firms over the study period 2009–2019. Our empirical research unveils an inverted curvilinear (U-shaped) relationship between board gender diversity and research and development investments, with national gender inequality negatively moderating this relationship. This study introduces an innovative framework that integrates considerations at both the micro level (the relationship between board gender diversity and research and development intensity) and the macro level (the moderating role of national gender inequality), offering a more comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted factors influencing firms’ investments in research and development initiatives. Our findings provide critical insights for enhancing gender diversity in corporate settings, serving both academic research and practical managerial and policymaking endeavours.

Greening performance

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Vietnamese firms are focusing on sustainable development and green initiatives on a national level. Government policies and green market orientation have the biggest impact on how successful the adoption of these initiatives are. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Pleasurable emotional states in health-care organizations: the mediation role of employee wellbeing on transformational leadership and job satisfaction.

This study aims to examine the association between transformational leadership, employee well-being and job satisfaction, focusing on the mediating role of employee well-being in the association between transformational leadership and job satisfaction. Data for this purpose were gathered by the authors through a questionnaire survey, with 180 employees at health center IV hospitals in Uganda serving as the sample. To test the theoretical model, a PROCESS Model Type 4 mediation analysis was performed. The findings demonstrate a slightly favorable association between transformational leadership and job satisfaction, transformational leadership is positively related to employee well-being as well as a positive association between employee well-being and job satisfaction. Moreover, the outcomes of the mediation analysis verify that employee well-being acts as a mediator in the association between transformational leadership and job satisfaction. Health-care organizations should invest in leadership training programs that develop transformational leadership skills. Leaders, who can inspire, intellectually stimulate and provide individualized consideration can significantly enhance employee well-being, which in turn boosts job satisfaction. Establish ongoing development initiatives to ensure that leadership skills remain sharp and evolve with changing health-care demands. This study adds to the body of knowledge in organizational behavior by examining the relationship in detail between transformational leadership, employee well-being and job satisfaction. In addition, this study was carried out in a developing nation, which might usually produce results that differ from those of studies carried out in developed nations.

The Role of HRM Practices in Shaping Employee Motivation, Satisfaction, And Retention in The Hotel Industry

This study investigates the impact of HRM practices and policies, including flexible working hours, wellness programs, training, recognition, and career development opportunities, on employee motivation, satisfaction, and retention in the hotel industry. Using a quantitative approach, data was collected from 500 hotel employees, and statistical analyses, including onesample t-tests, were conducted to assess the significance of employee perceptions regarding HR practices. The results reveal that HRM practices significantly influence key outcomes, with worklife balance, compensation, and recognition emerging as critical factors. Practices like crosstraining opportunities, skill development initiatives, and performance-based incentives also play a vital role in employee retention and motivation. The findings highlight the pressing need for enhanced HRM policies to address employee concerns and foster a supportive, engaging, and inclusive work environment in the competitive hospitality sector. This research provides actionable insights for hospitality managers to design targeted HR policies that align employee needs with organizational objectives.

Evaluating Policy Frameworks and Their Role in the Sustainable Growth of Distributed Photovoltaic Generation

In response to the growing photovoltaic distributed generation market, this study investigates the evolution of energy policies and mechanisms driving the growth of photovoltaic distributed generation (DGPV). Analyzing the top ten countries in photovoltaic installations, it examines historical trends in capacity growth, installation costs, and stakeholder engagement to evaluate policy effectiveness. Eight policy categories are identified as follows: direct financial incentives, energy market regulation, government management, production incentives, performance-based feed-in tariffs, renewable energy obligations, research and development initiatives, and agreements and commitments. The research results emphasize the crucial influence of government management policies, direct financial incentives, and energy market regulation on promoting the growth of DGPV. Political will and effective governance are identified as key drivers in advancing technology and market development. Policies reducing installation costs and encouraging investment support the transition of photovoltaic systems from early adoption to market maturity. Despite these advances, disparities in policy implementation highlight the need for adaptable frameworks tailored to local contexts. By leveraging solar energy, an abundant and universally accessible resource, nations can enhance energy equity through effective policies and accelerate the shift toward sustainable energy systems. This analysis offers valuable insights for policymakers seeking to promote DGPV as a central strategy in combating climate change.

Faculty Development Interventions in Medical Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 began a series of disruptions that rapidly impacted medical education across the globe. This review collates current literature that relates to medical education faculties’ development interventions as a result of the pandemic, with an emphasis on the effectiveness and type of strategies for intervention, such as the usefulness of hybrid and digitalised education. The study used PRISMA guidelines when conducting the literature survey with specified inclusion and exclusion criteria across numerous academic databases. From this survey, 1158 articles were found. The EndNote programme was used to identify and remove duplicate pieces. From this, 479 abstracts were reviewed. A total of 36 articles were selected for their relevance; from this, 11 were deemed to have met the inclusion criteria to warrant full-text analysis. To identify bias risk in these 11 studies, the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) was utilised. The study findings have two major themes: (1) information about faculty development interventions; and (2) the nature of articles written in the pandemic. From this, it was indicated that faculty development initiatives are useful for improving teachers’ competency and for enhancing teachers’ adoption of digitalised learning to ultimately bolster the resilience of their teaching. The findings also show that there is a strong need to have robust frameworks in place for faculty development, and that such frameworks must be followed in and beyond the pandemic period to improve the long-term incorporation of online learning into medical education.

Analysis of Critical Success Factors of Agile Software Projects based on the Fuzzy Delphi Method

Agile software development initiatives have gained widespread recognition both domestically and internationally, particularly in the Chinese software industry. However, traditional enterprises often face challenges, such as inadequate project management and lower success rates, which can be attributed to a limited understanding of agile methodologies and effective implementation of agile practices. To address these challenges and identify the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) in agile software projects, an extensive literature review was conducted. As a result, a CSFs model for agile projects in China was constructed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the CSFs model using the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM). The research involved 30 authoritative experts from the Chinese agile software development industry and academia, each with more than 10 years of relevant industry knowledge and experience. The FDM was applied to collect data through questionnaires and verify theoretical success factors and dimensions in three rounds of the survey. Finally, a total of 28 factors were analyzed and ranked to develop an optimized CSFs model that has a significant impact on agile software development in China. The research findings provide a feasible set of CSFs for the effective implementation of agile software projects in China. This CSFs model also offers valuable insights for the broader adoption of agile practices in China, with the potential to greatly improve the success rate of agile software development and implementation.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (Ml) in the Oil and Gas Industry

Purpose: This study focused on the relevance of AI and ML in revolutionizing the Oil & Gas sector by innovation and rehabilitation. It investigated the role of AI and ML technologies in improving production efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and managing costs. Several end users noted considerable advancements in operation efficiency; Predictive analytics and real-time monitoring systems assisted in enhancing the effectiveness of predictive maintenance by as much as 40% lapse time. Thus, the digital twin technologies were discussed in the context of enhancing the design of production planning, as well as promoting more effective use of resources and their recycling. Methodology: The research applied integration of systematic qualitative methodologies to collect, analyze, and synthesize data from prior investigations. This methodology was designed to encompass the alignment of results, analysis, and conclusions within the literature findings. The application of Systematic Literature Review (SLR), Content Analysis, and Meta-Analysis of Qualitative Evidence effectively grounded the study objectives Findings: The Significance of AI is captured in the environmental management aspect of this study, whereby several companies’ emission control systems recorded a 30% improvement of Green House Gas (GHG), and the accuracy of compliance. Some of those that are of more economic advantage are the reduced cost of maintenance, low energy utilization and minimal wastage of resources. However, shortcomings like high implementation cost, integration difficulties, and infrastructural limitations remain some of the biggest threats to its adoption. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: In addressing these challenges, this research suggests the promotion of partnerships, creating efficient innovations and establishing sustainable development initiatives. Thus, it offers valuable recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and other interested parties, stressing that AI and ML adoption demonstrate the potential to support operational excellence, environmentally sustainable practices, and increased profitability in the Oil and Gas industry.

Leadership development programs in healthcare organizations: What they are and how to assemble them.

In the highly competitive, perennially-changing healthcare industry, management prowess is vitally needed by those in positions of authority, but in isolation it is insufficient for delivering optimal results. Instead, management proficiencies must be complemented by leadership skills which amplify managerial efforts and outcomes. One avenue for building leadership acumen in healthcare organizations involves the establishment of leadership development programs. These programs generally assemble a range of opportunities permitting managers to learn about leadership and acquire associated proficiencies. Leadership development programs afford many benefits for healthcare providers, but in order to capitalize fully, thoughtful assembly is required. To shed light on this important topic, this article provides an overview of leadership development programs, noting a formal definition, stipulating associated benefits, and discussing options for assembly, all through the lens of Willis Knighton Health's leadership development initiatives and experiences.

The Impact of Individual Traits on Improving Job Satisfaction Among Manufacturing Workers

This research explores the influence of personal traits on enhancing workplace satisfaction among employees in the manufacturing sector. As organizations strive for increased productivity and improved employee well-being, understanding the factors contributing to job satisfaction becomes crucial. The study identifies key personal attributes such as emotional intelligence, personality type, adaptability, and work ethic, analyzing their impact on job satisfaction, engagement, and overall workplace well-being. Utilizing a combination of surveys and interviews, data was gathered from employees across various manufacturing firms. The findings indicate that personal traits play a significant role in fostering a positive work environment, with emotional intelligence and adaptability being particularly effective in reducing job-related stress and strengthening interpersonal relationships. This research underscores the importance of integrating personal development initiatives into employee training programs to enhance both individual job satisfaction and overall organizational performance. Practical recommendations are provided for managers and HR professionals in manufacturing settings to cultivate a workplace culture that supports employee well-being and long-term success.

Healthcare Workers’ Knowledge, Practice and Associated Factors Towards Prevention of Central Line-associated Blood Stream Infections in Cardiac Centres of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024

Introduction: Preventing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in healthcare settings reduces morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study aimed to assess healthcare workers’ (HCWs) knowledge, practice, and associated factors regarding CLABSIs prevention in Addis Ababa cardiac units. Methods: From January 10 to February 10, 2024, in seven cardiac centres in Addis Ababa, we employed a hospital-based cross-sectional study design and participants were chosen by simple random sampling. Data were entered using EpiData version 3.1 and exported and analysed using SPSS version 25. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and variables with p value <.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The magnitude of HCWs knowledge and practice towards the prevention of CLABSIs was 85.8% (95% CI: 82.38%, 89.22%) and 73.5% (95% CI: 69.17%, 77.83%), respectively. After adjusted analysis, a bachelor’s degree or higher (AOR: 2.086, 95% CI: 1.127, 3.860), participating in a peer education programme (AOR: 2.365, 95% CI: 1.274, 5.713), and training (AOR: 2.820, 95% CI: 1.392, 9.590) were factors associated with knowledge. Male sex (AOR: 2.059, 95% CI: 1.223, 3.467), more than five years of work experience (AOR: 2.073, 95% CI: 1.149, 3.739), and training (AOR: 3.857, 95% CI: 2.180, 6.826) were factors associated with practice. Conclusions: More than three-fourths and approximately three-fourths of healthcare workers in cardiac centres in Addis Ababa had good knowledge and good practice towards the prevention of CLABSIs. Healthcare professionals involved in patient care should receive ongoing, updated CLABSI prevention training integrated into professional development initiatives.

THE INFLUENCE OF PERCEPTION OF THE TEACHING PROFESSION ON THE INTEREST IN BECOMING A TEACHER: A CASE STUDY OF PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS

This study examines how teachers' perceptions influence individuals' interest in choosing a profession as a teacher. The aim is to uncover the impact of these perceptions on the interest in becoming a teacher, with the expectation that the findings will provide new insights for teacher recruitment strategies in the future and enhance the quality of education. The results are expected to offer recommendations for designing teacher professional development programs and serve as a reference for future researchers in exploring other factors influencing interest in becoming a teacher. The research type used is quantitative research with the dependent variable being the interest in becoming a teacher, and the independent variable being teachers' perceptions. The population in this study consists of students from the Economic Education Department, Faculty of Economics, Universitas Negeri Medan, class of 2021. The sample in this study is 70 students. Due to the relatively small population size, a saturated sampling technique was used. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire, and data analysis was performed using simple regression. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into how teachers' perceptions impact students' career choices. By understanding these perceptions, education stakeholders can develop targeted strategies to improve teacher recruitment and retention. Moreover, the results could guide the creation of policies and programs aimed at improving the image of the teaching profession, thereby attracting more individuals to consider teaching as a viable and rewarding career. The study also has the potential to influence educational institutions and policymakers in designing more effective teacher professional development initiatives.

The Effect of Product Development on Operational Performance: A Case Study of Ultimate Motors

This study entitled “The effect of Product Development on Operational Performance: A Case Study of Ultimate Motors Plc" examines the relationship between product development initiatives and operational performance at Ultimate Motors. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining a quantitative survey of 98 employees across product development, manufacturing, and operations functions at Ultimate Motors. The data was collected through an online questionnaire distributed via email and Telegrams. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, the results indicate that four key product development elements - assembly line, product design, research & development, and product innovation - collectively account for 78.3% of the variance in Ultimate Motors' manufacturing costs and production efficiency. A standout finding is the outsized influence of assembly line optimization, which alone explains 47.7% of the operational performance outcomes. Product design also emerges as a critical factor, contributing 21.6% of the variance. However, the study reveals that inadequate employee training limits the full utilization of advanced design tools. While research & development and product innovation show positive impacts, their relationships with manufacturing costs and production time are not statistically significant. In contrast, effective assembly line management proves to be a crucial lever, driving improved efficiency, reduced costs, and faster timelines. To enhance its operational competitiveness, the study recommends that Ultimate Motors should: adopt advanced CAD software, invest in design team training, leverage CASE tools for innovation, upskill the R&D function, and embrace automation and flexible production technologies.

Sox2 interacts with Atoh1 and Huwe1 Loci to regulate Atoh1 transcription and stability during hair cell differentiation.

Stem cell pluripotency gene Sox2 stimulates expression of proneural basic-helix-loop-helix transcription factor Atoh1. Sox2 is necessary for the development of cochlear hair cells and binds to the Atoh1 3' enhancer to stimulate Atoh1 expression. We show here that Sox2 deletion in late embryogenesis results in the formation of extra hair cells, in contrast to the absence of hair cell development obtained after Sox2 knockout early in gestation. Sox2 overexpression decreased the level of Atoh1 protein despite an increase in Atoh1 mRNA. Sox2 upregulated E3 ubiquitin ligase, Huwe1, by direct binding to the Huwe1 gene. By upregulating its cognate E3 ligase, Sox2 disrupts the positive feedback loop through which Atoh1 protein increases the expression of Atoh1. We conclude that Sox2 initiates expression, while also limiting continued activity of bHLH transcription factor, Atoh1, and this inhibition represents a new mechanism for regulating the activity of this powerful initiator of hair cell development.

Interactive impact of Human Resource Flexibility and Transformational Leadership on the Employee’s Assurance of Service Quality: Reinforcement Learning Perspective

Purpose: Nowadays, service area is indispensable in most of the businesses, therefore service quality assurance has become integral to generate profits. Inevitable organizational transitions and updates has made the assurance of service quality from the employee’s perspective quite challenging. The current study focuses on the influence of human resource (HR) flexibility on the employee’s service quality assurance under the buffering role of transformational leadership within the banking sector of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: This study was based on cross-sectional research design and data was collected in two-waves through structured questionnaires from 398 bank employees in Pakistan, following convenience sampling technique. Data was analyzed employing techniques such as bootstrapping, SEM, process macro in the SmartPLS4 software. Findings: The findings of the study showed evidence that the interaction of HR flexibility and transformational leadership have a significant positive influence on employee assurance of service quality within the banking sector. Further, the results indicated that autonomy and enriching employee creativity by transformational leader has actually the ability to assure the service quality in the employee’s mind by interact with HR practices flexibly. Practical implications: The study implies that HR managers/leaders should pursue actions that would enable a flexible workforce, continuity of learning and dispersion of skills to meet customers’ expectations and to invest in leadership development initiatives; such as inspiration, attention to employee growth, and support of innovation. Originality/Value: The characteristics of transformational leadership, i-e. Mentoring, autonomy and enriching employee creativity, has potential to moderate the relationship between HR flexibility and employee’s quality service assurance by adopting/adapting new skills to assure the service quality to customers.

Applying next-generation community-based environmental assessment: case studies from Kenya

ABSTRACT The Next-Generation Community-Based Environmental Assessment (NG-CBEA) advances a comprehensive framework by integrating key components of sustainability, public participation, follow-up and monitoring, and learning to support sustainable community development initiatives in low-income countries. This paper aims to demonstrate the application of the NG-CBEA framework to two proposed irrigation cases in Kenya, identifying key barriers and enablers that emerged from this application. Methodologically, the framework emphasized qualitative, participatory approaches, and the cases met Kenyan regulatory requirements, resulting in the approval of formal EA licenses. Key enablers identified through participant feedback included defining sustainability locally, early and ongoing participation, shared responsibility for follow-up and monitoring, and effective communication for learning. Barriers experienced in the NG-CBEA application included the time required to implement a comprehensive sustainability approach, limited access to information for meaningful public participation, absence of traditional knowledge in follow-up and monitoring, and logistical challenges for field visits to enable learning. Overall, the cases demonstrate the robustness of the framework for advancing next-generation components in CBEA and achieving more sustainable outcomes.

The Rise of Aging Influencers: Exploring Aging, Representation, and Agency in Social Media Spaces

Objective: This study investigates the rise of aging influencers on social media, aiming to understand their roles in reshaping societal perceptions of aging, promoting inclusivity, and bridging generational divides. Theoretical Framework: The research is grounded in theories of ageism, the social construction of aging, and the attention economy. These frameworks provide a robust foundation for analyzing how digital platforms mediate representations of aging and influence societal narratives. Method: A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as Scopus, Google Scholar, and CNKI. The review synthesizes findings from 10 studies published between 2015 and 2024. Thematic analysis identified recurring patterns in content strategies, representation, and audience engagement. Results and Discussion: Aging influencers challenge ageist stereotypes by emphasizing vitality, creativity, and resilience, while also facing pressures from commercialization and algorithm-driven visibility. Cultural variations reveal that Western influencers often highlight individuality, while those in collectivist societies emphasize family and community values. Challenges include marginalizing diverse experiences of aging and ethical concerns regarding influencer autonomy. Research Implications: The study highlights the potential for aging influencers to advocate for systemic change, promote healthy aging, and inspire intergenerational dialogue. It suggests practical applications in policy development, marketing strategies, and public health initiatives. Originality/Value: By synthesizing current research, this study contributes to the emerging discourse on aging influencers, emphasizing their unique role in fostering age inclusivity and redefining digital engagement across generations.

Borghi National Plan: From the Pivotal Role of Stakeholders to Social Reporting

The paper investigates how Sicilian municipalities and their partners plan to engage and communicate with their stakeholders in the projects funded by the Borghi National Plan, representing a key part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) under Mission 1. The study uses the lens of the Local Territorial System (LTS) model and the concept of Territorial Social Responsibility (TSR) to assess such engagement and communication strategies. Furthermore, it explores the potential for integrating social reporting tools into these projects to enhance stakeholder accountability. The research contributes to the broader understanding of effective stakeholder engagement and communication in community-led projects and the role of transparency in fostering sustainable local development. The research is based on survey data from 31 entities, including 9 Sicilian municipalities and 22 project partners, collected in 2022. The survey consists of ten questions to evaluate the communication tools employed for stakeholder engagement and communication. Due to the different categories of respondents (i.e., municipalities, associations, and other types of organisations), the answers are shown by considering this distinction to depict if each category shows preferences towards specific communication tools in the various key survey questions. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of how different types of entities may prioritise communication strategies in the context of community-led projects. The study offers new insights into applying TSR through the Borghi National Plan through the LTS model. Communication strategies for stakeholder engagement, combined with the integration of social reporting tools, further enhance the ongoing discourse on transparency and accountability in community-led projects within the framework of local development initiatives and sustainability. The research underscores that municipalities should improve their social reporting tools and adopt multi-channel communication strategies to manage their territorial responsibilities effectively. The findings drawn by the research can help enhance stakeholder engagement, accountability, and transparency by the municipalities and their project partners in supporting more sustainable territorial development.