Abstract: As the logistics industry modernizes, living standards improve, and consumption patterns shift, the demand for fresh food continues to grow, making cold chain logistics for perishable goods a critical component in ensuring food quality and safety. However, the presence of both soft and hard time windows among demand nodes can complicate single-network distribution of perishable goods. In response to these challenges, this paper proposes an optimization model for multi-distribution center perishable goods delivery, considering both one-echelon and two-echelon network joint distribution. The model aims to minimize total costs, including transportation, fixed, refrigeration, goods damage, and penalty costs, all while measuring customer satisfaction by the start time of service at each demand node. A two-stage heuristic algorithm is designed to solve the model. In the first stage, an initial solution is constructed using a greedy approach, based on the principles of the k-medoids clustering algorithm that considers both spatial and temporal distances. In the second stage, the initial routing solution is optimized using a linear programming approach from the Ortools solver combined with an Improved Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search (IALNS) algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm is validated through a case study analysis. Results indicate that the enhanced algorithm achieves faster convergence and more effective overall cost optimization.

Abstract: Rural infrastructure is an important foundation for achieving sustainable rural development. To effectively formulate policies for rural infrastructure, it is crucial to evaluate the benefits of rural infrastructure investment (RII) using a systematic method. This study aims to conduct a systematic analysis of the income-increasing effect of RII from a multi-dimensional perspective, and provide a reference for developing countries to adjust and improve rural infrastructure policies. For this purpose, this study has utilized 15 years of data in China to analyze the income-increasing effect of RII from three dimensions: structure, spatiality, and heterogeneity. The results indicate that: (1) In terms of structure, both living infrastructure investment (LII) and production infrastructure investment (PII) promote wage income. PII has the increasing effect on non-wage income, but the increasing effect of LII on non-wage income is not evident. Meanwhile, the income-increasing effect of RII for high-income groups is larger than that for low-income groups. (2) In terms of spatiality, RII has a spatial spillover effect, which increases villagers' income in neighboring areas. From the perspective of spatial effect decomposition, the indirect effect of RII even exceeds the direct effect. (3) In terms of heterogeneity, the increase in the level of job-related migration inhibits the income-increasing effect of LII, but promotes the income-increasing effect of PII; the improvement in education level promotes the income-increasing effect of LII, but inhibits the income-increasing effect of PII.

Abstract: The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into smart logistics represents a transformative approach to supply chain management, offering solutions that address

Abstract: Timor-Leste, since its independence in 2002, has faced challenges in managing the growing number of civil servants, currently numbering over 13,000. Civil servants are classified under two regimes: General (GCR) and Special (SCR). This classification leads to disparities in salary, benefits, promotions, and performance evaluations, creating dissatisfaction among employees in both regimes. GCR employees enjoy regular salary increases and promotions based on performance, whereas SCR employees, despite earning higher salaries, do not receive the same opportunities for career advancement. This policy paper analyses these differences and recommends abolishing the dual regime structure. It proposes a unified system where salary progression, benefits, and promotions are based on education level, service length, and performance evaluations. Additional allowances should be provided to those working in rural areas to encourage retention and equitable service delivery. Regular external monitoring and audits are essential for effective performance management. Evidence from Indonesia supports these recommendations, showing that additional allowances and strong leadership improve employee performance and discipline.

Abstract: EU legislation provides for extensive involvement of local governments (LGs) in the implementation of the "energy first" principle concerning buildings’ stock. LGs have a dual role. In the role of national government agents LGs co-financing is necessary for implementation of global goals. In the role of autonomous decision makers LGs are balancing various interests on behalf of local community. The aim of the research is to assess the characteristics of those interest groups that are short- and medium-term beneficiaries or losers from the EU recommendations and the risks arising from the choice of alternatives. Interests of groups are evaluated by the approximation of the Rational Choice Theory, considering diversity of competences division among national and subnational authorities. Evaluated alternatives: 1) security in the event of war versus voluntary initiatives for energy efficiency; 2) prolonging regeneration of woods’ biomass versus electrification of heating; 3) supporting entrepreneurship versus reduction of energy poverty; 4) individual or energy community solutions versus uniform treatment of all DHSs customers; 5) postponing versus acceleration of the electrification of transport; 6) re-municipalisation versus outsourcing buildings stock and its infrastructure renovation. Losers of energy performance policy should be compensated in the short and middle term, because possible future gains may be insufficient to maintain stability.

Abstract: This paper provides a narrative review of previous research on effort-reward imbalance (ERI) and passion exploitation, and provides a perspective for future research. Previous research has shown that ERI can cause work stress, negative economic behavior such as job turnover, and illnesses such as metabolic syndrome. Previous research also claims that loyal and generous people, as well as young people and women, are more likely to be targets of passion exploitation. However, there are unresolved issues in previous research, such as (i) the mechanism by which effort-reward imbalance leads to stress and illness, (ii) there is a lack of research on what types of jobs are more likely to experience imbalance, and (iii) there is a lack of research on what level of imbalance is acceptable, and therefore further research is required. To this end, this study recommends ad-dressing these challenges through the integration of ERI and passion exploitation theory.

Abstract: This paper investigates the connotation of new quality productivity, integrating existing research findings to construct a measurement index system tailored for our country, and conducts an in-depth analysis of its impact on economic growth. The study utilizes provincial panel data from Chinese provinces spanning 2012 to 2022. The results indicate that, in contrast to prior studies, new quality productivity influences economic growth not only through supply-side mechanisms but also plays a pivotal role in demand-side transmission; notably, the upgrading of consumption structures and the expansion of investment domains exert both direct and indirect effects. Accordingly, this paper proposes relevant policy recommendations. The innovative aspects of this study are as follows: 1. Measuring new quality productivity across multiple dimensions by incorporating environmental and ecological factors while exploring its transmission mechanism from the demand side; 2. Introducing dynamic quantitative analysis to simulate the operational mechanisms of new quality productivity on consumption and investment; 3. Empirical tests demonstrate that after addressing issues related to heterogeneity, endogeneity, and robustness, the transmission mechanism of new quality productivity remains significant and robust.

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Organizational excellence has emerged as a critical objective for businesses striving to remain competitive in dynamic and uncertain environments. Effective managerial practices, particularly in strategic leadership, communication, and innovation, are often identified as the primary drivers of organizational success. This study aims to provide empirical evidence to validate the relationship between these managerial practices and organizational excellence through a quantitative approach. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks such as the EFQM Excellence Model (EFQM, 2013) and the Balanced Scorecard (Kaplan & Norton, 1996), the research explores how management strategies influence performance metrics, employee satisfaction, and overall operational efficiency. A structured survey was administered to 150 employees across three key sectors—education, healthcare, and industry—in Saudi Arabia. The survey evaluated participants' perceptions of their organization’s leadership, internal communication systems, and innovation-driven practices. The findings confirm that strategic leadership is the most significant determinant of organizational excellence, accounting for 42% of the variance in performance outcomes. Moreover, internal communication was found to be positively correlated with employee engagement and alignment with organizational goals, as supported by Larkin and Larkin’s (1994) communication theories. The study also corroborates Schumpeter’s (1934) theory on innovation as a critical driver of organizational development, demonstrating that organizations fostering innovation reported a 28% improvement in key performance indicators. This research not only validates the theoretical underpinnings of effective managerial practices but also provides actionable insights for organizations seeking to enhance their operational excellence. Recommendations include investing in leadership development programs, implementing advanced communication systems, and fostering a culture of innovation to sustain competitive advantage. The study contributes to the broader discourse on organizational performance management and offers a foundation for future research on the longitudinal effects of managerial practices in diverse business contexts. Key references that frame this study include Kotter’s (1990) leadership principles, Kaplan and Norton’s (1996) performance measurement methodologies, and Schumpeter’s (1934) innovation theories. By integrating these frameworks with empirical evidence, the study affirms the indispensable role of effective management in achieving and sustaining organizational excellence.

Abstract: This study explores the long-run relationship between environmental footprint (EnF), renewable energy consumption, energy use, industrial growth, and urbanization in Saudi Arabia from 1990 to 2023, employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, alongside Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS), and Canonical Cointegrating Regression (CCR) for robustness checks. Results indicate a significant long-term relationship among the variables, with renewable energy adoption emerging as a crucial factor in reducing carbon emissions. The ARDL bounds test confirms the existence of cointegration, re-vealing the dynamic interplay between renewable energy, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The findings show that renewable energy consumption significantly reduces en-vironmental footprint (CO2 emissions), supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and sustainable development. However, industrial expansion, while critical for economic growth, still contributes to increased emissions, underscoring the need for further in-vestment in clean technologies. The study also highlights the role of urbanization, which, while essential for development, poses challenges for environmental sustainability. Short-term dynamics, represented by the Error Correction Model, indicate a fast adjustment speed toward equilibrium, with deviations corrected by approximately 52% each period. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers aiming to balance industrial growth with environmental protection, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. This research contributes to the understanding of energy-economy-environment interactions in oil-rich economies, providing a foundation for future studies to explore the impact of advanced technologies and policy interventions on sustainable development Keywords: Environmental Footprint; Co-integration; Renewable energy; Industrialization; Energy

Abstract: Real estate plays a pivotal role in the contemporary world, accounting for over half of global wealth and significant employment and GDP shares. This essay examines three key events of our times - the 2007-2008 Global Financial Crisis (GFC), the COVID-19 pandemic, and recent technological revolutions - to place real estate's centrality. Analyzing housing price indexes in major economies, the paper identifies global trends and regional nuances, and it highlights real estate's dual role as both a reflection and driver of economic cycles. Then I explore in detail the GFC, the urban roots of COVID-19 and its effects on real estate markets, and the relationship between new techno-economic paradigms and cities and real estate. Future research directions on real estate are pointed out.