Long-term Viability Research Articles

‘Grand designs?’ Investigating the cultural and spatial logics of Channel 4’s media hub workspaces in Leeds, Bristol and Glasgow

This article explores the evolving spatiality of media production through an analysis of recent developments in UK broadcaster Channel 4’s move to a multi-site operating model. Historically, media buildings have served as landmarks of power and influence, embodying the aspirations and identities of media organisations and, as such, offer a fruitful lens for the specific exploration of the spaces of contemporary media production. Through a detailed analysis of Channel 4’s decision-making process, site selections and the significance of the chosen buildings within areas with an urban regeneration focus, the study investigates the complex interplay between media industry dynamics, regional development policies, and wider political and economic forces. Drawing on a range of academic literature and evidence from media, industry and policy reporting, the article highlights the strategic motivations behind Channel 4’s decentralisation efforts, positioned by the organisation as an effort to address diversity in terms of nations and regions representation but significantly shaped by political factors. However, it also raises critical questions about the long-term sustainability, economic viability and cultural impact of these relocation decisions. The article discusses how Channel 4’s regional media spaces and decentralisation reflect the impermanence and crisis facing Public Service Media, emphasising the shifting power dynamics within the media landscape and the need for adaptive strategies in an increasingly volatile industry environment. By examining the evolving investment in media buildings, this research contributes to a growing body of research seeking to understand the complex dynamics shaping contemporary media landscapes and urban environments.

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN SPRINKLER IRRIGATION: AN OVERVIEW

The overuse of water in conventional irrigation at the farm level is a global issue that can be addressed by improving irrigation techniques. Sprinkler irrigation can reduce water losses by carefully planning the crop, soil, landscape, and weather conditions, as well as installing the proper sprinkler hardware. The application efficiency of sprinkler systems may be enhanced when these systems are coupled with automation for precise irrigation. Sprinkler irrigation has advanced significantly, but new ideas and current practices are driving further progress. These novel ideas include low-pressure sprinklers, smart controllers, fertigation, water-pesticide integrated sprinkler systems, and variable-rate irrigation. The objective of this work is to highlight the introduction of innovative technologies to optimize sprinkler irrigation systems. Suggestions for the future development of sprinkler irrigation technology are offered to ensure its long-term viability.

Regional electricity cooperation model for cost-effective electricity management with an emphasis on economic efficiency

Effectively reducing the total electricity cost while ensuring its overall efficiency is vital for the sustainable development of power systems. Herein, we develop a regional cooperation optimization model to enhance the existing power cost model. This is achieved by incorporating power trading scenarios and pollution considerations, leveraging the distinct characteristics of power generation costs from various sources. The developed regional cooperation optimization model simultaneously accounts for production efficiency and overall power costs, ensuring equitable distribution and compensation of benefits among cooperating entities. In addition, the key findings indicate that the interregional cooperation optimization model significantly reduces the total cost of electricity operations in China. Specifically, during the 11th five-year plan period, the total electricity cost in China exhibited a noteworthy decline of USD 50,876 million owing to multi-objective cooperative optimization, constituting 25.99% of the total electricity cost compared with the preoptimization period. This study identifies the eastern and western regions as principal contributors to the cost savings achieved by the interregional cooperative optimization model. Simultaneously, recognizing their significant contributions, it is recommended that the eastern and western regions provide additional cost compensation to other regions to ensure the long-term viability of the cooperative alliance.

First report on the long-term viability of Acanthamoeba species in unpreserved environmental freshwater samples stored at room temperature

ABSTRACT Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic, free-living amoeba ubiquitous in the environment. Despite reports of its wide distribution in the Philippines’ freshwater resources, more information on the long-term viability of the Acanthamoeba species is needed. This study aimed to define the long-term viability of Acanthamoeba species in unpreserved environmental freshwater samples after 3 years of storage at room temperature. Stored water samples from 15 study sites were filtered through a 1.2-μm pore size glass microfiber filter, cultured in non-nutrient agar (NNA) lawned with Escherichia coli, and observed for amoebic growth for 14 days using light microscopy. Isolates from positive NNA culture were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using JDP1 and JDP2 Acanthamoeba-specific primers. The study site positivity was 33% (5/15). Acanthamoeba genotype T4 and Acanthamoeba lenticulata were isolated from Luzon; Acanthamoeba divionensis was isolated from Visayas; and Acanthamoeba sp. and genotype T20 were isolated from Mindanao. The long-term viability of Acanthamoeba species is an added risk factor for the sustained contamination of aquatic resources and other sample matrices. This heightens the risk of transmission to humans and animals. This study demonstrated that water samples fated for Acanthamoeba studies can be stored unpreserved at room temperature for several years.

Have MSMEs in Indonesia Focused on Business Sustainability? The Influence of Environmental Orientation, Technology Implementation, Green Marketing, and Innovation Capability

The aim of this study is to determine the factors that impact MSMEs' sustainability practices and the degree to which they concentrate on business sustainability in Indonesia. This study used a quantitative research approach and collected survey data from MSMEs in Indonesia operating in various industries totaling 350 samples. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for data analysis to assess the relationship between variables. The study discovered that a focus on the environment, the application of technology, and green marketing greatly improve an organization's capacity for innovation, which in turn has a favorable impact on the sustainability of the firm. MSMEs are more likely to develop and maintain their business practices over time if they invest in green marketing techniques, use cutting-edge technologies, and give priority to environmental issues. In order to attain sustainability, MSMEs should include technology, marketing, and environmental initiatives into their fundamental business operations, according to the research. It is recommended that policymakers provide incentives, subsidies, and training programs to MSMEs in order to encourage the adoption of technology and green marketing. Support like this can encourage sustainable practices throughout the industry and close the digital divide. This study offers insightful information about the combined effects of environmental orientation, technology adoption, and green marketing on MSMEs in Indonesia's capacity for innovation and long-term viability of their businesses. It gives helpful suggestions for boosting MSMEs' sustainability and emphasizes the crucial role that innovation plays in converting these elements into sustainable business practices.

Consumers’ Perceptions and Behaviors Regarding Honey Purchases and Expectations on Traceability and Sustainability in Italy

Traceability is a cornerstone of sustainable honey production and consumption. Honey fraud and a lack of traceability have been recently highlighted by the European Commission. Innovative systems aimed at guaranteeing food safety ’from farm to fork’ and improved controls are highly recommended. Within the framework of the BPRACTICES project, part of the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, and the ERA-Net SusAn initiative—focused on Sustainable Animal Production Systems—an advanced traceability system has been developed. This system utilizes QR code and radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, along with a user-friendly web application, to facilitate direct interactions between producers and consumers. Despite existing research, studies on the information needs of Italian consumers regarding honey and its traceability remain limited. Understanding these needs is vital for creating effective communication strategies that enhance consumer satisfaction and trust. This study aims to identify the needs of Italian consumers’ honey during the purchasing and consumption decisions. To explore consumer perceptions, behaviors, expectations, and needs regarding honey, we employed diverse social research methodologies, including a quantitative online survey, paper-and-pencil interviews, and focus groups. The results of this study indicate a robust demand for more information on honey’s origin, production processes, and beekeeping practices, aligning with the recent EU Directive 2024/1438, which mandates clear labeling. Italian consumers would be willing to pay a premium for honey that offers detailed information about production practices and transparency. The positive reception of QR code technology by consumers suggests a growing openness to digital tools that enhance transparency and access to information. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the need for the beekeeping sector to adopt sustainable practices, improve traceability systems, and actively engage with consumers to foster trust and ensure long-term viability in the honey market. By addressing these information needs, the sector can align itself with increasing consumer demand for quality, sustainability, and transparency.

Tissue-Engineered Oral Epithelium for Dental Material Testing: Toward In Vitro Biomimetic Models.

Tissue-engineered oral epithelium (ΤΕΟΕ) was developed after comparing various culture conditions, including submerged (SUB) and air-liquid interface (ALI) human cell expansion options. Barrier formation was evaluated via transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and calcein permeation via spectrofluorometry. TEOE was further assessed for long-term viability via live/dead staining and development of intercellular connections via transmission electron microscopy. Tissue architecture was evaluated via histochemistry and the expression of pancytokeratin (pCK) via immunohistochemistry. The effect of two commonly used dental resinous monomers on TEOE was evaluated for alterations in cell viability and barrier permeability. ALI/keratinocyte growth factor-supplemented (ALI-KGS) culture conditions led to the formation of an 8-20-layer thick, intercellularly connected epithelial barrier. TEER values of ALI-KGS-developed TEOE decreased compared with all other tested conditions, and the established epithelium intensively expressed pCK. Exposure to dental monomers affected the integrity and architecture of TEOE and induced cellular vacuolation, implicating hydropic degeneration. Despite structural modifications, the permeability of TEOE was not substantially affected after exposure to the monomers. In conclusion, the biological properties of the TEOE mimicking the physiological functional conditions and its value as biocompatibility assessment tool for dental materials were characterized.

An Economic Analysis of Coal Pricing in Mongolia

Coal is a critical export for Mongolia, playing a significant role in the nation’s economy by contributing to GDP and export revenues. This paper provides an economic analysis of coal pricing in Mongolia, examining the primary factors that drive price fluctuations in both domestic and international markets. Key areas of focus include global demand, particularly from neighboring China, transportation costs, government policies, currency exchange rates, and environmental regulations. The paper employs a mixed-method approach, analyzing historical price data alongside policy reviews to identify the challenges and opportunities Mongolia faces in stabilizing coal prices. Global coal demand, especially from China, has a profound effect on Mongolian coal prices, while infrastructure limitations and transportation costs further exacerbate price volatility. Additionally, Mongolia’s coal sector is influenced by international competition, particularly from established exporters like Australia and Indonesia, which benefit from more developed supply chains. This research aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders by offering recommendations on how Mongolia can enhance price stability and strengthen its position in the global coal market. By analyzing the economic forces shaping Mongolian coal prices, the study contributes to broader discussions on resource management and economic sustainability in coal-dependent economies. The findings will aid policymakers in developing strategies that address Mongolia's infrastructure challenges and ensure the long-term viability of its coal industry in the face of evolving global energy dynamics.

Chitosan supported hetero-metallic bio-nanocomposites for paracetamol removal from homogeneous solutions and heterogeneous mixtures with focused antibacterial studies

Biopolymers infused with bimetallic nanoparticles exhibit a wide range of functionalities necessary for efficiently eliminating diverse water contaminants. However, the protracted production process requires further exploration. As such, present study seeks to optimize microwave-assisted technique for the facile synthesis of cross-linked chitosan (CTS) supported bimetallic-oxide nanoparticles, specifically zinc oxide (ZnO) and iron-oxide (Fe3O4), denoted as CTS-TTP/Zn-Fe. The primary objective is to investigate the efficacy of these beads in the removal of Paracetamol (PCM) from single and complex water matrices while also assessing their antibacterial properties. Characterization includes chemical composition, surface structures, thermal stability, and magnetic properties. The experimental results demonstrated that CTS-TPP/Zn-Fe beads achieved a remarkable PCM removal efficiency of ~99 % (qm = 4.98 mg g−1), with a Zn:Fe mole ratio of 1:1. The experimental data showed good applicability with Freundlich isotherm and chemisorption-supported rate models (R2 > 0.9). To evaluate the long-term viability and practicality of these beads, three crucial field applicability tests were conducted. These encompassed competition studies with other pharmaceuticals, desorption investigations for repeated use, and efficiency evaluations in an ionic solution. Collectively, this research provides a comprehensive understanding, spanning from material design to practical applications, with potential relevance for large-scale wastewater treatment when coupled with appropriate flux control measures.

The British NHS at 75: Past, Contemporary, and Future Challenges.

This article assesses how and why the National Health Service (NHS) has remained at the forefront of British politics and society for 75 years amid significant economic pressures, organizational strain, shifting ideological trends, ongoing reforms, and an unprecedented public health emergency. The postwar "years of consensus" evolved into alleged decline and ostensible neglect during the 1980s, while New Labour sought to rejuvenate this core public service after 1997, featuring investment and often controversial reforms that challenged the party's social democratic values. Amid the New Labour era, NHS powers filtered down to devolved administrations, while from 2008 retrenchment and austerity ensued, fueled by global recession. Austerity eventually subsided, yet from early 2020 the NHS swiftly faced the extreme conditions of the globalized Covid-19 pandemic. The service continues to face challenges regarding its longer-term viability, and this article analyzes this scenario, within the context of the NHS's 75-year historical legacy, its contemporary status, comparative international trends, and likely future evolution.

Business characterization and performance of tourism entrepreneurs in the Gocta destination: An analysis using Smart PLS

This research aimed to examine the characteristics of tourism entrepreneurs and their impact on performance in the Gocta destination. This study analysed data from a sample of 47 entrepreneurs using structural equation modelling with SmartPLS 3.37 software using a quantitative methodology with descriptive and explanatory approaches. The sample included 44% men and 55% women. The sample included 44.7% men and 55.3% women. The results indicated that entrepreneurial traits such as leadership (p=0.047), planning (p=0.041) and innovation (p=0.007) have a significant positive effect on both entrepreneurial performance and business sustainability. These characteristics are decisive for improving business performance and ensuring long-term viability. In contrast, business attributes such as sociability (p=0.065) and sustainability (p=0.557) showed a lower level of significance about performance. This indicates that they are less critical compared to leadership, planning and innovation although sociability and sustainability are valuable. The study highlights the importance of these key traits in driving entrepreneurial success and aims to strengthen the skills associated with leadership, planning and innovation among entrepreneurs. This research seeks to support the development of effective and sustainable tourism enterprises in the Gocta destination and provides valuable information for both entrepreneurs to consider the entrepreneurial characteristics of starting a great business and policy makers by focusing on these traits.

Enhancing the efficiency of management of transport enterprises: modern trends and challenges

This research examines the modern trends and challenges in enhancing the efficiency of management in transport enterprises, with a focus on the Ukrainian perspective and the impact of the ongoing war. The study highlights key trends such as digital transformation, sustainability efforts, and the increasing use of data-driven decision-making, which are reshaping the transport industry in Ukraine. The integration of technologies like AI-based route optimization and real-time tracking has become important in overcoming operational challenges caused by the war, including disrupted supply chains, damaged infrastructure, and heightened security risks. These innovations are enabling transport enterprises to minimize costs, optimize routes, and ensure service continuity despite the unstable environment. This paper investigates how Ukrainian transport enterprises are adapting to these modern trends while addressing the complex challenges posed by the war. It emphasizes the need for a flexible and resilient management approach that leverages digital tools, sustainability practices, and data analytics to enhance operational efficiency. The findings highlight that a systemic approach, supported by innovation and adaptability, is essential for overcoming the impact of war and ensuring the long-term viability of transport sector of Ukraine.

Factors Affecting Yeast Digestibility and Immunostimulation in Aquatic Animals.

The aquafeed industry increasingly relies on using sustainable and appropriate protein sources to ensure the long-term sustainability and financial viability of intensive aquaculture. Yeast has emerged as a viable substitute protein source in the aquaculture sector due to its potential as a nutritional supplement. A substantial body of evidence exists to suggest that yeast has the potential to act as an effective immune-stimulating agent for a range of aquaculture fish species. Furthermore, the incorporation of yeast supplements and feed additives has the potential to bolster disease prevention, development, and production within the aquaculture sector. Except for methionine, lysine, arginine, and phenylalanine, which are typically the limiting essential amino acids in various fish species, the various yeast species exhibit amino acid profiles that are advantageous when compared to fishmeal. The present review considers the potential nutritional suitability of several yeast species for fish, with particular attention to the various applications of yeast in aquaculture nutrition. The findings of this study indicate that the inclusion of yeast in the diet resulted in the most favorable outcomes, with improvements observed in the overall health, growth performance, and nutritional condition of the fish. Digestibility, a key factor in sustainable feed development, is discussed in special detail. Additionally, this review addresses the utilization of yeast as an immunostimulating agent for fish and its digestion in fish. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the necessity of large-scale production of yeast as a substitute for fishmeal in aquaculture.

Effect of Biogenic Silica Seed Coating on Sorghum (VAR. K 12) Seed Storage Using Different Storage Containers under Ambient Condition

The objective of this study was to investigate the seed quality parameters of biogenic silica coated sorghum seeds on seed storage using different storage containers under ambient condition. Proper seed storage until next sowing season is crucial for sorghum seed production. seeds can lose vigor and viability during storage. Decrease in seed vigour leads to decrease in seed quality. The seed's storage environment and packaging materials significantly impact its long-term viability and effectiveness. Coating seeds before storing them helps preserve their quality over time. Pre-storage seed coating is essential for preventing seed deterioration and maintaining quality throughout the storage period. The present study revealed that, after six months of storage period, seed coating with biogenic silica with carbon @ 5 ml kg-1 seeds observed highest germination percentage, root and shoot length, dry matter production, vigour index I and II compared to control. With respect to containers seeds packed in super grain bag performed better than cloth bag. The results clearly indicated that, coating of seeds with biogenic silica with carbon @ 5 ml kg-1 stored in the supergrain bag-maintained vigour and viability throughout the storage period and also maintained the seedling length.

Assessing the Economic Viability of Prolonged Fuel Cycles in the Agricultural Sector: Impacts on Productivity and Sustainability

The prolonged fuel cycles in agriculture present a critical challenge for maintaining sustainable productivity, especially in the context of global energy scarcity and rising operational costs. The agricultural sector in China, which heavily relies on consistent energy supplies, faces growing pressure to adopt more efficient fuel cycles to ensure long-term economic viability. This paper aims to assess the economic viability of prolonged fuel cycles within China's agricultural sector by utilizing a comprehensive econometric model that evaluates the impacts on productivity, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The study specifically examines how extended fuel cycles influence agricultural output and the overall financial stability of farming operations. Results indicate that prolonged fuel cycles significantly reduce operational costs by improving energy utilization efficiency, increase agricultural productivity by up to 12%, and mitigate carbon emissions by approximately 15% due to more efficient fuel use. Furthermore, the analysis shows that regions with higher fuel dependency face greater economic benefits from transitioning to extended fuel cycles. Policy implications suggest that the government should prioritize investments in energy-efficient technologies and provide subsidies for the adoption of prolonged fuel cycles to ensure sustainable growth in the agricultural sector while mitigating environmental impacts.

Clinical opinion spotlight: A sustainable model for improving access to mobile mammography for underserved populations

Minority women face disproportionately higher risks of breast cancer diagnosis and mortality under 50. Mobile mammography vans enhance screening accessibility but face challenges like long-term funding and operational viability. This study assesses existing mobile mammography van programs and proposes a sustainable model through literature review and qualitative interviews at a tertiary care academic medical center. The proposed model emphasizes partnerships, sponsorships and long-term funding for ensuring workforce sustainability. Organizational structure, budget allocation, patient workflow and follow-up protocols are aimed at transitioning towards serving primarily uninsured patients while maintaining financial stability. This sustainable approach hopes to enhance screening rates and timely care for underserved women, suggesting scalability and potential to reduce late-stage diagnoses and mortality. Continued implementation and evaluation are essential for validating feasibility and effectiveness, ensuring long-term improvement in screening rates and program longevity.

Smallholder Farmers’ Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Their Effect on Household Food Security: Evidence from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Climate change poses a significant risk to the long-term viability of smallholder agriculture in developing countries. Climate change has a direct effect on agricultural output, ultimately impacting the food security of smallholder farmers. However, the link between climate change and food security in developing countries is underexplored. This article investigates the effect of climate change adaptation strategies on household food security. A survey was conducted among 400 smallholder farmers in the uMkhanyakude district of KwaZulu-Natal using a stratified random sampling procedure. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that factors such as access to credit, access to government funding, and participation in agricultural groups play an important role in supporting adaptation to climate change. Adaptation to climate change is associated with reduced levels of food insecurity. These results underscore the important role of climate change adaptation in enhancing household food security. The study recommends that programmes that target smallholder farmers should focus on enhancing the adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers.

Recurrent marine heatwaves compromise the reproduction success and long-term viability of shallow populations of the Mediterranean gorgonian Eunicella singularis

Mediterranean gorgonians are being threatened by the impact of recurrent extreme climatic events, such as marine heatwaves (MHWs). The white gorgonian Eunicella singularis was suggested to be the most resistant gorgonian species in the NW Mediterranean, mainly due to the presence of symbiotic algae. However, a substantial shift in the conservation condition of the species has been observed in the recent years. The aim of this study is to evaluate the lethal and sublethal effects of recent MHWs on the populations of E. singularis. Our results show that recurrent MHWs have impacted both the demography and reproduction of the species between 2002 and 2020, driving mortalities up to 36%, an increase in the percentages of non-reproducing adult colonies (11-58%), and a significant decrease in the recruitment rates. Although E. singularis is a highly dynamic species in comparison with other temperate gorgonians, the present study suggests that the persistence of this species may be severely compromised under recurrent MHWs, at least at shallowest depths.

Analysis of land use land cover change dynamics in Habru District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

This study examines spatiotemporal changes in Land Use Land Cover (LULC) patterns within Habru District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia, between 1985 and 2021. Employing Landsat imagery and a supervised classification approach, we mapped six LULC classes: water body, settlement area, cultivated land, bare land, shrub land, and forest land. Ground control points (GCP) were obtained through field observations to ensured image accuracy. Complementing the remote sensing analysis, focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews were conducted to understand local perspectives on LULC changes. The analysis revealed significant LULC transformations over the study period. Between 1985 and 2021, there was a significant increase in cultivated land and settlement areas, which expanded from 12.27 % to 0.23 %–42.12 % and 2.58 % of the total area, respectively. Conversely, shrub and forest lands saw a marked reduction during the same period, declining from 71.52 % to 12.88 %–45.35 % and 7.06 % of the total area, respectively. Water body area showed a minor increase, while bare land exhibited negligible change. Agricultural land and settlement area expansion, population growth, land tenure insecurity, economic challenge, and climatic change were identified as key drivers of observed LULC changes. Our findings underscore the urgency of implementing multifaceted interventions to address these drivers and promote sustainable resource use practices. Such actions are critical for safeguarding Habru District's natural resources and ensuring the long-term viability of ecosystem services.

Unraveling the Complexity of the N e/N c Ratio for Conservation of Large and Widespread Pelagic Fish Species: Current Status and Challenges.

Estimating and understanding the ratio between effective population size (N e) and census population size (N c) are pivotal in the conservation of large marine pelagic fish species, including bony fish such as tunas and cartilaginous fish such as sharks, given the challenges associated with obtaining accurate estimates of their abundance. The difficulties inherent in capturing and monitoring these species in vast and dynamic marine environments often make direct estimation of their population size challenging. By focusing on N e, it is conceivable in certain cases to approximate census size once the N e/N c ratio is known, although this ratio can vary and does not always increase linearly, as it is influenced by various ecological and evolutionary factors. Thus, this ratio presents challenges and complexities in the context of pelagic species conservation. To delve deeper into these challenges, firstly, we recall the diverse types of effective population sizes, including contemporary and historical sizes, and their implications in conservation biology. Secondly, we outline current knowledge about the influence of life history traits on the N e/N c ratio in the light of examples drawn from large and abundant pelagic fish species. Despite efforts to document an increasing number of marine species using recent technologies and statistical methods, establishing general rules to predict N e/N c remains elusive, necessitating further research and investment. Finally, we recall statistical challenges in relating N e and N c emphasizing the necessity of aligning temporal and spatial scales. This last part discusses the roles of generation and reproductive cycle effective population sizes to predict genetic erosion and guiding management strategies. Collectively, these sections underscore the multifaceted nature of effective population size estimation, crucial for preserving genetic diversity and ensuring the long-term viability of populations. By navigating statistical and theoretical complexities, and addressing methodological challenges, scientists should be able to advance our understanding of the N e/N c ratio.