scholarly journals Households’ Electrical Energy Conservation and Management: An Ecological Break-Through, or the Same Old Consumption-Growth Path?

Energies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (20) ◽  
pp. 6829
Author(s):  
Zbigniew Bohdanowicz ◽  
Beata Łopaciuk-Gonczaryk ◽  
Jarosław Kowalski ◽  
Cezary Biele

We examine the motivations behind the electrical energy conservation and smart management at households to verify whether we are observing an ecological breakthrough, or a mere continuation of the well-trodden consumption-growth path. We conducted an online survey in France, Spain, Italy, and Denmark (n = 3200) on the subject of electricity use and generation. We utilized a generalized structural equation model to simultaneously test the direct reasons behind different energy-use behaviors and intentions, as well as their motivating factors. Measures to conserve electrical energy and install renewable energy equipment are not solely driven by ecological concerns; a crucial role is played by openness to new technologies, which correlates with high financial status. Saving electrical energy and new-tech eagerness go hand-in-hand with attachment to consumption and comfort. Social environment is relevant, as it allows users to converse about electricity saving with friends, and to observe their habits. Individuals may aim not to consume less energy, but to enhance their standards of living by economizing energy to fund other purchases, which limits the reduction in carbon footprint. Increasing the popularity of energy-saving solutions, therefore, might prove insufficient in the face of environmental threats and the challenges of transforming the energy market.

2021 ◽  
pp. 003329412110278
Author(s):  
Alessandro Ansani ◽  
Marco Marini ◽  
Christian Cecconi ◽  
Daniele Dragoni ◽  
Elena Rinallo ◽  
...  

An online survey (N = 210) is presented on how the perceived utility of correct and exaggerated countermeasures against Covid-19 is affected by different pronominalization strategies (impersonal form, you, we). In evaluating the pronominalization effect, we have statistically controlled for the roles of several personal characteristics: Moral Disengagement, Moral Foundations, Health Anxiety, and Embracing of Fake News. Results indicate that, net of personal proclivities, the you form decreases the perceived utility of exaggerated countermeasures, possibly due to simulation processes. As a second point, through a Structural Equation Model, we show that binding moral values (Authority, Ingroup, and Purity) positively predict both fake news embracing and perceived utility of exaggerated countermeasures, while individualizing moral values (Harm and Fairness) negatively predict fake news embracing and positively predict the perceived utility of correct countermeasures. Lastly, fake news embracing showed a doubly bad effect: not only does it lead people to judge exaggerated countermeasures as more useful; but, more dangerously, it brings them to consider correct countermeasures as less useful in the struggle against the pandemic.


2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Yanfang Wu

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] The debate about boundaries in journalism amid the rise of citizen journalism, the crisis of business models in the news industry and the use of social media in the news-gathering and dissemination process, has become a central focus in the media industry and academia. There is no doubt that the digital transition is a trend. Based on the Carlson's (2015) boundaries of journalism theory and Shoemaker and Vos' (2009) levels of analysis in the gatekeeping theory, administering a cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire, national online survey (N=1063), conducting a Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis, the study seeks to find out the relationships between socialization and perceptions of digital impact on journalism, journalists and news organizations. The findings showed news organizations' social media culture affects journalists' use of social media. Twitter interactivity mediates journalists' social media internalization and their attitude toward social media. However, this mediating effects does not apply to Facebook and other social media interactivity. The distinguishing line between reporters and editors is blurring in news organizations. Older journalists (age>40) are picking up social media as additional journalistic tools and developing a positive attitude toward them. However, there still may be a long way to go before old journalists become experts in social media.


Blood ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 134 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 2181-2181
Author(s):  
Robyn M. Scherber ◽  
Martin M. Goros ◽  
Jonathan Gelfond ◽  
Amylou C. Dueck ◽  
Sarah F Christensen ◽  
...  

Background: Quality of life (QOL) is predictive of survival in many malignancy types, including myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs; Scherber 2017, Sloan 2012, Montazeri 2009, Nilsson 2017). We have previously characterized that an association exists between symptom burden and QOL among MPN patients, but due to the disease specificity of symptoms, symptoms rather than QOL remains a key therapeutic endpoint (Scherber 2017, NCCN Guidelines). Despite these advancements, our understanding of the extent that different patient and disease characteristics, including symptoms, contribute to overall QOL has remained elusive. In this analysis, we utilized information from a large survey of MPN patients to develop a model of QOL that establishes the degree that individual variables contribute to QOL, including psychosocial variables, comorbidities, and MPN disease symptoms. Methods: The FATIGUE survey of MPN patients (Scherber 2016) investigated self-reported symptoms using the MPN10 (Scherber 2012), depression utilizing the Profile of Mood States-Brief (POMS-B, McNair 1971), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2, Kroenke 2003) and Mental Health Inventory (MHI-5, Berwick 1991), and QOL utilizing a single numeric analog scale (range 0-10) regarding overall quality of life. Linear regression analysis was utilized to establish the relationship between individual symptoms and QOL, and a structural equation model (SEM) was used to identify complex relationships among patient demographics, behavioral factors, comorbidities, and QOL. Results: A total of 914 patients from the online survey lived in the USA and provided data for this analysis. Average age was 62 with 67% of patients being female and the mean BMI was 25. Education varied across middle school or high school education (22%), undergraduate or college degree (44%), masters (26%), to doctorate (8%). 43% of respondents were employed. Fatigue (β coefficient 0.23, p<0.001), inactivity (β 0.21, p<0.001), concentration difficulties (β 0.13, p<0.001), sad mood (β 0.18, p<0.001), and night sweats (β 0.05, p=0.03) showed statistically significant impact on QOL. SEM Model: We developed the SEM model in Figure 1. Out of all variables analyzed, MPN total symptom burden demonstrated the strongest association with (β 0.89) with QOL, followed by depression (β 0.76). Comorbidities, including COPD and renal issues, age, and body mass index abnormalities had some impact on symptoms (all β <0.40), but did not demonstrate a significant impact on QOL. Comparative Fit Index (CFI) was 0.905 and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) was 0.051 (0.048, 0.054) indicating good fit. Conclusions: Previous clinical trials of JAK inhibition have targeted improvement in symptoms as a key endpoint, and ultimately demonstrated improvements in overall survival. The mechanism of this survival benefit has not been fully explored. This analysis suggests that symptoms and mood are strongly associated and potentially a major contributor to QOL among MPN patients, whereas other major comorbidities and age are not as strongly correlated. Efforts are underway to analyze more comprehensive datasets to better understand the role of other variables, including marriage status and financial concerns, on QOL. Disclosures Scherber: Blueprint: Other: Ad board; Incyte: Consultancy; Gilead: Consultancy. Hasselbalch:Novartis: Research Funding; AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals: Other: Data monitoring board. Mesa:Baxalta: Consultancy; LaJolla: Consultancy; Genentech: Consultancy; Celgene Corporation: Research Funding; Samus: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; NS Pharma: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: travel, accommodations, expenses; CTI: Research Funding; Galena Biopharma: Consultancy; Pfizer: Research Funding; Incyte: Other: travel, accommodations, expenses, Research Funding; Genotech: Research Funding; AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Other: travel, accommodations, expenses; PharmaEssentia: Research Funding; Gilead Sciences: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding; Shire: Honoraria; Sierra Oncology: Consultancy.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bahadur Ali Soomro

Purpose At present, nearly the whole globe is facing a severe threat of COVID-19. This study aims to examine the COVID-19 complications and entrepreneurial intention among the entrepreneurs of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach The study used a deductive approach. An online survey is conducted to collect cross-sectional data from entrepreneurs of Pakistan. Convenience sampling is applied to target the respondents. In total, 278 usable answers proceed for final analysis. The structural equation model (SEM) is used to infer the results. Findings The findings of the study highlight a significant negative effect of fear of COVID-19 (FO19), perceived susceptibility (PSU) and perceived severity (PSE) on entrepreneurial intention (EI) among the entrepreneurs. Practical implications The study would provide the guidelines for policymakers and planners to combat the barriers of fear, PSU and PSE during a pandemic. The findings of the second wave of COVID-19 may provide a warning to the government to take preventive measures to face the severe effect of the pandemic. Finally, the outcomes of the study may enrich the depth of COVID-19 literature globally. Originality/value This study is the first study highlighting factors such as fear, PSU and PSE toward EI in COVID-19 second wave.


Author(s):  
Anil Bilgihan ◽  
Anupama Sukhu ◽  
Jay Kandampully

This study integrates shopping value dimensions and consumers' commitment to a theoretical model to understand consumer loyalty to e-shopping. E-commerce is established as an efficient sales platform for travel and hospitality vendors. However, extant literature found that it is difficult to attract new customers and retain existing customers in e-commerce. This paper investigates the antecedents of customer loyalty in e-commerce. An online survey with (n=520) was conducted with randomly selected US consumers. A structural equation model reveals that hedonic and utilitarian shopping values determine affective and calculative commitment of e-shoppers which in turn influence consumers' loyalty towards e-shopping. This study contributes to the present literature and provides important implication towards e-tailers and website developers. It is important to fulfill e-shoppers' hedonic and utilitarian needs to gain e-loyalty. Web based hospitality service offerings should provide a convenient and pleasing online environment to gain consumer e-loyalty.


2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (20) ◽  
pp. 8650
Author(s):  
Yunjeong Kim ◽  
Kyung Wha Oh

Fashion companies are trying to increase the efficiency of their communication with consumers by providing information on sustainable activities or product levels. This study explored the effects of the perceived sustainability level of products offered by sports brands. An online survey was conducted of consumers in their 20s and 30s, and a total of 316 questionnaires were used for the analysis. The structural equation model analysis using AMOS showed that the perceived sustainability level had a positive effect on purchase intention and a negative effect on perceived skepticism. Furthermore, perceived skepticism was confirmed to have a negative effect on purchase intention. By verifying the moderating effect of the perceived brand reputation, it was confirmed that the effect of the perceived sustainability level on purchase intention and the influence of the perceived skepticism on purchase intention differ between high and low brand reputation groups. When the perceived brand reputation is high, the perceived sustainability level has only a direct effect on purchase intention, whereas when the perceived brand reputation is low, only the indirect effect of perceived skepticism appears. This study contributes to the literature and practice by verifying that perceived skepticism plays an important role in the purchasing behavior of sustainable products in fashion.


2020 ◽  
Vol 40 (7/8) ◽  
pp. 659-675
Author(s):  
Aluisius Hery Pratono ◽  
Denni Arli

PurposeThis article attempts to understand the impact of global consumer culture and ethnocentric consumerism on global citizenship by identifying the mediating effect of cultural intelligence.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed structural equation model explains the relationship between global consumer culture, ethnocentric consumerism, and global citizenship. The empirical analysis involves an online survey targeted young people in Indonesia context.FindingsThe empirical evidence broadly supports the view that cultural intelligence strengthens the impact of global consumer culture and ethnocentric consumerism on global citizenship. There is a strong tendency in this study to suggest that global consumerism will not be able to contribute to global citizenship unless cultural intelligence provides as a mediating variable. However, the results do not support the mainstream literature, which suggests that ethnocentric consumerism harms global citizenship.Originality/valueThis study extends the discussion on achieving sustainable development by examining global citizenship leads to a better understanding of consumer culture theory.


2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (21) ◽  
pp. 9194
Author(s):  
Arturo Realyvásquez-Vargas ◽  
Aidé Aracely Maldonado-Macías ◽  
Karina Cecilia Arredondo-Soto ◽  
Yolanda Baez-Lopez ◽  
Teresa Carrillo-Gutiérrez ◽  
...  

The COVID-19 pandemic and the quarantine period determined that university students (human resource) in Mexico had adopted the online class modality, which required them to adapt themselves to new technologies and environmental conditions that are different from classrooms at their university. Specifically, these new environmental conditions can be uncomfortable and have an impact on the students’ academic performance. Consequently, the present study aims to determine the impact that the lighting, noise, and temperature levels (independent variables) have on academic performance (dependent variable) in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. To do this, a questionnaire was developed, which was applied to 206 university students online, and a structural equation model was built that integrates the four variables through three hypotheses, which were statistically validated through the partial least squares method. Results showed that temperature, lighting, and noise have significant direct effects on university students’ academic performance. As a conclusion, it was obtained that the three independent variables have an impact in the sustainability of university students (human resource).


2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 101-112 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wawmayura Chamsuk ◽  
Wanno Fongsuwan ◽  
Josu Takala

Abstract A structural equation model was used to verify both the direct and indirect influences on research and development and innovation capabilities that affect Thai automotive parts enterprises competitive advantage. Thailand’s automotive sector is a major driver of the economy with a multi-thousand network of both domestic and international companies contributing a significant amount to both domestic and Asian economic growth. After peaking in 2013 and reaching the Top 10 automotive nations, there has been a slide backwards. Competition is fierce and the pace of change ever quickening. Therefore, the researchers sought to determine how the automotive parts sector needed to improve in capability, skills and infrastructure to maintain a sustainable competitive advantage. From the structural equation model analysis of 220 regional automotive parts sector managers and use of AMOS software, it was determined that research and development combined with innovation plays key roles in the industry’s profitability and survivability. Additionally, there must be support across a wide sector of the economy, including universities, government agencies and institutions. Once championed as the ‘Detroit of Asia’, Thailand’s recognized success as a global automotive hub is a classic case of a well-executed industrial plan but that lead can potentially slip away without embracing new technologies and innovative thinking.


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