bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genie in a Cola Bottle: The Multiple Worlds (and Genres) of G. Willow Wilson's Alif the Unseen (2012)
Authors: Daraiseh Isra
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Winner of the 2013 World Fantasy Award for Best Novel, G. Willow Wilson's Alif the Unseen brings some new perspectives into the fantasy genre with its Middle Eastern setting and its basis in Islamic mythologies. It generates additional energies by mixing its fantastic elements with elements from other (very Western) genres (including cyberpunk science fiction and the technothriller). At the same time, it makes extensive use of the motif of parallel worlds, which has long been a staple in fantasy fiction. The parallel worlds of Alif the Unseen are particularly interesting in the way they converge, intersect, and bleed into one another at various points, just as the novel also collapses the boundaries between genres. Ultimately, the collapsing boundaries of Alif the Unseen deconstruct Orientalist polar oppositions between East and West by allowing worlds that might be associated with one or the other to meet and interact as equals within the novel.
Zombies in Unexpected Places: Rebellion, Subversion, and the Undead in Romantic Depictions of Obeah
Authors: Crockett-Girard Lauren
Published: October 2024

Abstract: The lineage of the zombie myth is complex, reaching far beyond Haiti and Haitian folklore. To expand the zombie's literary history and further complicate our understanding of its cultural heritage, this paper will read four Romantic texts through Sarah Juliet Lauro's framework of the "protozombie": Maria Edgeworth's "The Grateful Negro" (1804), "Song of an Obeah Priestess" (Anonymous, 1821), Cynric R. William's Hamel, the Obeah Man (1827), and William Earle's Obi; or, The History of Three-Fingered Jack (1800). Although these texts do not depict a Haitian zombie-drone, their depictions of Obeah complicate the boundaries between life and death, raising questions about rebellion, subversion, and freedom in response to the transatlantic slave trade. Reading these texts through the lens of the protozombie expands our understanding of the cultural and historical forces that shaped the zombie, moving the conversation beyond Vodou to consider Obeah's connection to the zombie myth.
Employment and Poverty under Neoliberal Capitalism
Authors: Patnaik Prabhat
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: Neoliberal capitalism, characterized by freer movement of goods and services and capital, including finance, across country borders, keeps down real wages everywhere even as labor productivity increases. This raises income inequalities, creating an ex ante tendency toward overproduction, which underlies the current stagnation and growing unemployment in the world economy. This crisis cannot be overcome within neoliberalism, since globalized finance opposes larger state expenditure financed through heavier taxation of the rich or a larger fiscal deficit. This underlies the current pervasive tendency toward neofascism. Overcoming neofascism requires transcending neoliberalism by mobilizing working people around a rights-based welfare state.
Americans' Downward Mobility Shifts Votes to the Right
Authors: Ghilarducci Teresa , Tursini Ludovica
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: A decline in a person's economic security relative to that of their relatives, neighbors, and any other group used by people in comparing themselves is correlated with emotional states of loss, anger, anxiety, and decline in subjective well-being. Using publicly available data on voting patterns for 910 selected counties in the United States in four presidential election cycles (2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020), we find that if people in a county experience downward mobility in relative economic security, the county that was once majority Democratic would likely shift to majority Republican voting. This evidence suggests that the fear of loss of relative economic security is associated with voting for authoritarian candidates and agendas.
Rethinking Industrial Strategies and the State: A Global South Perspective
Authors: Mazzucato Mariana , Monaco Lorenza
Published: October 2024

Abstract: After decades of opposition and neglect in the context of a dominating neoliberal approach to markets and institutions, industrial policy has experienced a renaissance. In the wake of financial, climate, and health crises, setting a sound industrial strategy has emerged as an absolute policy priority. Yet contemporary industrial strategies remain bound by outdated frameworks and preconceptions. Those shaped by the Global North in particular fall short of addressing the unique challenges Global South countries face, including limited state capacity, dependence on volatile global markets, and colonial legacies. These factors necessitate a radical rethinking of industrial strategy. The article argues that to avoid reproducing the mainstream view of state intervention, industrial strategy should fundamentally rethink the role of the state—not as a market fixer, but as a capable and confident market shaper.
Industrial Policy: Populist and Progressive
Authors: McGahey Richard
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: In contrast to neoliberal economic policy that favors markets, the United States has seen a revival of explicit industrial policy, with government playing a significant directive role in key industries. Surprisingly, industrial policy has support from both the left and the right, creating debates both within and between America's two major parties. Progressives and authoritarians both support some specifics of industrial policy, especially those aimed against China. But overall industrial policy differs sharply between these opposing political movements. Progressives align industrial policy with pro-union, climate-focused, and race and gender equity programs. In contrast, authoritarian industrial policy is part of a larger anti-union, anti-immigrant, and pronatalist agenda. Hence, agreement among progressives and authoritarians over specifics of industrial policy should not mask very deep disagreements on overall policy frameworks.
Can Democracy Be Saved by Economic Policy? The Burden of Bidenomics
Authors: Kundnani Hans , Milberg William
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: Heightened economic insecurity has been a factor in the turn to right-wing authoritarianism in the United States and elsewhere. "Bidenomics" has been framed to suggest economic policy can create movement away from right-wing authoritarianism toward more liberal democratic sentiment. We distinguish the crisis of democracy from the rise of populism. We argue that Bidenomics may reduce the appeal of populism if it targets those "left behind," but addressing the crisis of democracy is a burden Bidenomics alone cannot bear. To raise the likelihood of buy-in to democracy, there must be significant political change as well.
Globalization after De-globalization
Authors: Milberg William , Liess Thomas , Tedesco Michael
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: Globalization began in the late 1970s, shifted into "hyperglobalization" in the first decade of the twenty-first century, hit "peak globalization" around 2011, and has in the past 10 years given way to "de-globalization," characterized by nationalism and protectionism. The rules of globalization were built on a theory of competitive markets, while the world was in fact riven with growing asymmetries of power and a strong policy bias toward capital. This bias must be eliminated if the global economy is to become more democratic and sustainable as we emerge from this moment of de-globalization.
Sino–Turkish Relations in the 21st Century: Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Christofis Nikos , Saeed Seevan
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: Turkey and China are rightly regarded as two major players in the global political arena: Turkey as an aspiring regional power in the MENA area, and China as a rising global power with worldwide influence and impact. In the globalized world we live in, and as state interests intersect, Sino– Turkish relations and interests are no exception. Indeed, there are times when the interests of the two countries, are interconnected and affect each other, either in a positive way or a negative, conflictual, way. Against this background, bilateral relations between the two countries have become a major concern for both academia and stakeholders alike. Therefore, the present article firstly examines the relations between the two states throughout the twentieth century and in particular during the Cold War. Then its focus turns to the twentieth-first century and specifically, those issues that present prospects and challenges in the relations between the two countries; notably, the economy, foreign policy, and diplomacy.
Quantitative evaluation of DNA damage repair dynamics to elucidate predictors of autism vs. cancer in individuals with germline PTEN variants
Authors: Wei Ruipeng , Hitomi Masahiro , Sadler Tammy , Yehia Lamis , Calvetti Daniela , Scott Jacob , Eng Charis
Published: October 2024

Persons with germline variants in the tumor suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homolog, PTEN, are molecularly diagnosed with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS). PHTS confers high risks of specific malignancies, and up to 23% of the patients are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or developmental delay (DD). The accurate prediction of these two seemingly disparate phenotypes (cancer vs. ASD/DD) for PHTS at the individual level remains elusive despite the available statistical prevalence of specific phenotypes of the syndrome at the population level. The pleiotropy of the syndrome may, in part, be due to the alterations of the key multi-functions of PTEN. Maintenance of genome integrity is one of the key biological functions of PTEN, but no integrative studies have been conducted to quantify the DNA damage response (DDR) in individuals with PHTS and to relate to phenotypes and genotypes. In this study, we used 43 PHTS patient-derived lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) to investigate the associations between DDR and PTEN genotypes and/or clinical phenotypes ASD/DD vs. cancer. The dynamics of DDR of γ-irradiated LCLs were analyzed using the exponential decay mathematical model to fit temporal changes in γH2AX levels which report the degree of DNA damage. We found that PTEN nonsense variants are associated with less efficient DNA damage repair ability resulting in higher DNA damage levels at 24 hours after irradiation compared to PTEN missense variants. Regarding PHTS phenotypes, LCLs from PHTS individuals with ASD/DD showed faster DNA damage repairing rate than those from patients without ASD/DD or cancer. We also applied the reaction-diffusion partial differential equation (PDE) mathematical model, a cell growth model with a DNA damage term, to accurately describe the DDR process in the LCLs. For each LCL, we can derive parameters of the PDE. Then we averaged the numerical results by PHTS phenotypes. By performing simple subtraction of two subgroup average results, we found that PHTS-ASD/DD is associated with higher live cell density at lower DNA damage level but lower cell density level at higher DNA damage level compared to LCLs from individuals with PHTS-cancer and PHTS-neither.
C1-FDX is required for the assembly of mitochondrial complex I and subcomplexes of complex V in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Baoyin , Wang Junjun , Huang Manna , Gui Yuanye , Wei Qingqing , Wang Le , Tan Bao-Cai
Published: October 2024

C1-FDX (Complex I-ferredoxin) has been defined as a component of CI in a ferredoxin bridge in Arabidopsis mitochondria. However, its full function remains to be addressed. We created two c1-fdx mutants in Arabidopsis using the CRISPR-Cas9 methodology. The mutants show delayed seed germination. Over-expression of C1-FDX rescues the phenotype. Molecular analyses showed that loss of the C1-FDX function decreases the abundance and activity of both CI and subcomplexes of CV. In contrast, the over-expression of C1-FDX-GFP enhances the CI* (a sub-complex of CI) and CV assembly. Immunodetection reveals that the stoichiometric ratio of the α:β subunits in the F1 module of CV is altered in the c1-fdx mutant. In the complemented mutants, C1-FDX-GFP was found to be associated with the F’ and α/β sub-complexes of CV. Protein interaction assays showed that C1-FDX could interact with the β, γ, δ, and ε subunits of the F1 module, indicating that C1-FDX, a structural component of CI, also functions as an assembly factor in the assembly of F’ and α/β sub-complexes of CV. These results reveal a new role of C1-FDX in the CI and CV assembly and seed germination in Arabidopsis.
Using Acanthamoeba spp. as a cell model to evaluate Leishmania infections
Authors: Santos Helena Lúcia Carneiro , Pereira Gabriela Linhares , do Reis Rhagner Bonono , Rodrigues Igor Cardoso , Masini d’Avila Claudia , Vidal Vitor Ennes
Published: October 2024

Leishmaniasis represents a severe global health problem. In the last decades, there have been significant challenges in controlling this disease due to the unavailability of licensed vaccines, the high toxicity of the available drugs, and an unrestrained surge of drug-resistant parasites, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–Leishmania co-infections. Leishmania spp. preferentially invade macrophage lineage cells of vertebrates for replication after subverting cellular functions of humans and other mammals. These early events in host–parasite interactions are likely to influence the future course of the disease. Thus, there is a continuing need to discover a simple cellular model that reproduces the in vivo pathogenesis. Acanthamoeba spp. are non-mammalian phagocytic amoeba with remarkable similarity to the cellular and functional aspects of macrophages. We aimed to assess whether the similarity reported between macrophages and Acanthamoeba spp. is sufficient to reproduce the infectivity of Leishmania spp. Herein, we analyzed co-cultures of Acanthamoeba castellanii or Acanthamoeba polyphaga with Leishmania infantum, Leishmania amazonensis, Leishmania major, and Leishmania braziliensis. Light and fluorescence microscopy revealed that the flagellated promastigotes attach to the A. castellanii and/or A. polyphaga in a bipolar and or random manner, which initiates their uptake via pseudopods. Once inside the cells, the promastigotes undergo significant changes, which result in the obligatory amastigote-like intracellular form. There was a productive infection with a continuous increase in intracellular parasites. However, we frequently observed intracellular amastigotes in vacuoles, phagolysosomes, and the cytosol of Acanthamoeba spp. Our findings corroborate that Leishmania spp. infects Acanthamoeba spp. and replicates in them but does not cause their rapid degeneration or lysis. Overall, the evidence presented here confirms that Acanthamoeba spp. have all prerequisites and can help elucidate how Leishmania spp. infect mammalian cells. Future work exposing the mechanisms of these interactions should yield novel insights into how these pathogens exploit amoebae.
Cycling reduces the entropy of neuronal activity in the human adult cortex
Authors: Ferré Iara Beatriz Silva , Corso Gilberto , dos Santos Lima Gustavo Zampier , Lopes Sergio Roberto , Leocadio-Miguel Mario André , França Lucas G. S. , de Lima Prado Thiago , Araújo John Fontenele
Published: October 2024

Brain Complexity (BC) have successfully been applied to study the brain electroencephalographic signal (EEG) in health and disease. In this study, we employed recurrence entropy to quantify BC associated with the neurophysiology of movement by comparing BC in both resting state and cycling movement. We measured EEG in 24 healthy adults and placed the electrodes on occipital, parietal, temporal and frontal sites on both the right and left sides of the brain. We computed the recurrence entropy from EEG measurements during cycling and resting states. Entropy is higher in the resting state than in the cycling state for all brain regions analysed. This reduction in complexity is a result of the repetitive movements that occur during cycling. These movements lead to continuous sensorial feedback, resulting in reduced entropy and sensorimotor processing.
Musa species in mainland Southeast Asia: From wild to domesticate
Authors: Jenny Christophe , Sachter-Smith Gabriel , Breton Catherine , Rivallan Ronan , Jacquemoud-Collet Jean-Pierre , Dubois Cécile , Chabannes Matthieu , Lý Ngọc-Sâm , Haevermans Thomas , Triệu Tiến-Dũng , Insisiengmay Oudomphone , Zhang Ting , Caruana Marie-Line , Sardos Julie , Perrier Xavier
Published: October 2024

Many species are defined in the Musa section within its natural diversification area in Southeast Asia. However, their actual number remains debated as botanical characterisation, distribution and intraspecific variability are still poorly known, compromising their preservation and their exploitation as crop wild relatives of cultivated forms. To address the underexplored Musa diversity in mainland Southeast Asia, at the northern edge of the natural range, 208 specimens were collected in Vietnam, Laos and China, mainly belonging to Musa balbisiana, M. itinerans, M. acuminata and M. yunnanensis. Data on location, morphology, environment and local knowledge were recorded, and leaf samples collected for high-throughput genotyping. This study combines geographical, morphological, and genomic diversity to clarify the taxonomic classification. The collected species exhibit highly distinctive morphologies and genomes, just as they differ in ranges and life traits. Intraspecific genomic diversity was also observed, although not necessarily morphologically perceptible. Mainland Southeast Asia is confirmed as a primary diversification centre for the Musa section. The diversity observed is only partially represented in major international ex situ collections, calling for their urgent enrichment and the promotion of in situ management procedures, for the protection of these threatened species and to better harness their potential in breeding programmes. Although considered wild, the species studied are all affected to varying extents by human use. Musa yunnanensis and M. acuminata subsp. burmannica are the most strictly wild forms, with spontaneous interspecific hybrids first described in this study. Although gathered as fodder, they were only occasionally dispersed outside their endemic zones. Musa itinerans is not cultivated per se, but natural populations are widely exploited, leading to a geographically structured diversity. The diversity of M. balbisiana is widely distributed and geographically structured by human activities. This species should be regarded as domesticated. These various stages, from simple opportunistic gathering to true domestication, shed light on the evolutionary history of today’s cultivated varieties.
Empirical evidence on the impact of the "new round" of Sino-US trade frictions on China’s foreign trade industrial policy and high-quality development
Authors: Leihua He , Fan Sun
Published: October 2024

The global attention on industrial policy’s effectiveness spans across various sectors, particularly in international trade where the focus is on enhancing the quality of foreign trade, which is crucial to understand how research hotspots and key issues can synergize. We consider the 2018 "new round" of Sino-US trade friction as an external event and analyze panel data from 2009 to 2022 comprising 1141 Chinese A-share listed enterprises. Our empirical research unequivocally demonstrates that industrial policy has significantly propelled China’s foreign trade towards high-quality development by 1.8240%. We conducted rigorous tests for robustness, heterogeneity, and endogeneity. Additionally, our results reveal that inhibitory influences arising from industrial policy on total assets or R&D investment attenuate this promotion effect; There exists a diminishing promotion effect between total assets and R&D investment. Our paper provides valuable insights into understanding their logical relationship while offering guidance for enterprises, markets, and governments in overcoming challenges collectively.
How to distinguish climate sceptics, antivaxxers, and persistent sceptics: Evidence from a multi-country survey of public attitudes
Authors: Clulow Zeynep , Reiner David
Published: October 2024

Distrust in science has been linked to scepticism over vaccines and climate change. Using data from nationally representative surveys administered in eight key countries for global efforts to mitigate climate change and COVID-19 (Australia, Brazil, China, India, Japan, South Africa, the UK and US), we find that distrust in scientists was an important predictor variable for most sceptics, who were sceptical of one issue but not both, in February 2021, when most countries had experienced their first wave of the pandemic. However, the association was significantly weaker among the segment of hardcore sceptics who were both climate sceptics and antivaxxers. We demonstrate that these individuals tended to possess many of the typical sceptic characteristics such as high distrust in social institutions and rightward political orientation, which are (collectively) suggestive of an underlying sceptic mindset rather than a specific distrust of scientists. Our results suggest that different types of sceptics necessitate different strategies to dispel scepticism.
Role of canonical and non-canonical cAMP sources in CRHR2α-dependent signaling
Authors: Armando Natalia G. , dos Santos Claro Paula A. , Fuertes Mariana , Arzt Eduardo , Silberstein Susana
Published: October 2024

Hippocampal neurons exhibit activation of both the conventional transmembrane adenylyl cyclases (tmACs) and the non-canonical soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) as sources of cyclic AMP (cAMP). These two cAMP sources play crucial roles in mediating signaling pathways downstream of CRHR1 in neuronal and neuroendocrine contexts. In this study, we investigate the involvement of both cAMP sources in the molecular mechanisms triggered by CRHR2α. Here we provide evidence demonstrating that UCN1 and UCN3 exert a neuritogenic effect on HT22-CRHR2α cells, which is solely dependent on the cAMP pool generated by sAC and PKA activity but independent of ERK1/2 activation. Through the characterization of the effectors implicated in neurite elongation, we found that CREB phosphorylation and c-Fos induction rely on PKA activity and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, underscoring the critical role of signaling pathway regulation. These findings strengthen the concept that localized cAMP microdomains actively participate in the regulation of these signaling processes.
Efficient results on fractional Langevin-Sturm-Liouville problem via generalized Caputo-Atangana-Baleanu derivatives
Authors: Thabet Sabri T. M. , Boutiara Abdelatif , Samei Mohammad Esmael , Kedim Imed , Vivas-Cortez Miguel
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we investigate the generalized Langevin-Sturm-Liouville differential problems involving Caputo-Atangana-Baleanu fractional derivatives of higher orders with respect to another positive, increasing function denoted by ρ. The fixed point theorems in the framework of Kransnoselskii and Banach are utilized to discuss the existence and uniqueness of the results. In addition, the stability criteria of Ulam-Hyers, generalize Ulam-Hyers, Ulam-Hyers-Rassias, and generalize Ulam-Hyers-Rassias are investigated by non-linear analysis besides fractional calculus. Finally, illustrative examples are reinforced by tables and graphics to describe the main achievements.
Sequential early-life viral infections modulate the microbiota and adaptive immune responses to systemic and mucosal vaccination
Authors: Li Yuhao , Molleston Jerome M. , Lovato Crystal , Wright Jasmine , Erickson Isabel , Bui Duyen , Kim Andrew H. , Ingle Harshad , Aggarwal Somya , Nolan Lila S. , Hassan Ahmed O. , Foster Lynne , Diamond Michael S. , Baldridge Megan T.
Published: October 2024

Increasing evidence points to the microbial exposome as a critical factor in maturing and shaping the host immune system, thereby influencing responses to immune challenges such as infections or vaccines. To investigate the effect of early-life viral exposures on immune development and vaccine responses, we inoculated mice with six distinct viral pathogens in sequence beginning in the neonatal period, and then evaluated their immune signatures before and after intramuscular or intranasal vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. Sequential viral infection drove profound changes in all aspects of the immune system, including increasing circulating leukocytes, altering innate and adaptive immune cell lineages in tissues, and markedly influencing serum cytokine and total antibody levels. Beyond changes in the immune responses, these exposures also modulated the composition of the endogenous intestinal microbiota. Although sequentially-infected mice exhibited increased systemic immune activation and T cell responses after intramuscular and intranasal SARS-CoV-2 immunization, we observed decreased vaccine-induced antibody responses in these animals. These results suggest that early-life viral exposures are sufficient to diminish antibody responses to vaccination in mice, and highlight the potential importance of considering prior microbial exposures when investigating vaccine responses.
Environmental Taxes as a Path to a Green Transition
Authors: Huttmanová Emília , Mikča Radoslav
Published: October 2024

The integration of sustainability elements into all spheres of human activities is one of the primary initiatives of policymakers in individual European countries, but also in a broader international perspective. The transition towards more sustainable production-consumption models is now becoming a challenge for European countries. This shift is an essential part of the commitments and goals that the European Union has set itself in the medium and the long-term horizon. The future economic orientations of European countries will depend not only on the willingness and effort to use classical tools in the process of creating a green future, but especially on the level of knowledge of their appropriate implementation in practice. The paper is focused on the issue of the evaluation of selected economic instruments of environmental policy (environmental taxes) in the European area in the context of the transition to a green economy. The aim of the paper is to evaluate the use of taxes with an environmental aspect across European countries and to analyse the similarities in the process of their application towards green transformation. The need for a deeper knowledge and understanding of this area is essential in the context of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in the countries involved in the 2030 Agenda.
 
Keywords: environmental taxes, sustainability, energy, transport, green transition
Sustainable Development Revisited: Rethinking Growth-Centric Paradigms Through the Lens of the Sabbath
Authors: Graham Molly
Published: October 2024

This paper argues that the current growth-centric paradigm of sustainable development is fundamentally flawed and proposes a paradigm shift towards the biblical concept of the Sabbath. It critiques the internal contradictions of the SDGs and challenges the unsustainable pursuit of infinite growth in addressing social and ecological crises. By exploring Sabbath's principles of rest, recalibration, and redistribution, the paper offers an ethical foundation for self-limitation and a basis for human identity beyond productivity—addressing the shortcomings of the degrowth movement. It proposes practical applications of Sabbath principles at individual, community, and structural levels, drawing upon empirical examples to demonstrate their potential as pathways to environmental justice. These multi-level applications aim to bridge the gap between the intentions of international agreements and impactful local action. The paper concludes that Sabbath presents a transformative vision for sustainable development and environmental justice, fostering a harmonious relationship between humanity and the planet.
 
 
Keywords: Sustainability, Development, Sabbath, Degrowth, Capitalism, Environmental Justice, Poverty, Well-being, Ethics, Religion.
Artificial Intelligence in Parkinson’s Disease Detection: A Strategic Assessment for U.S. Market Entry
Authors: AlSafran Dannah , Belhabib Hind , Bandah Amjad , AlSafran Sarah , Homran Sultanah , Yusuf Nadia
Published: October 2024

This study explores whether it would be feasible to introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based diagnostic tool for Parkinson's Disease (PD) to the United States (U.S.). The product is Saudi Arabian and is intended to reduce resource consumption by improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. The U.S. market offers a favorable environment because of its advanced healthcare infrastructure and stable democratic political structure. The analysis looks at the political and economic climate, including government support, market opportunities, regulatory compliance, and the strategic advantages of partnerships with local entities. The study suggests that the AI-based diagnostic tool could revolutionize PD prediction and management, offering significant benefits in terms of healthcare outcomes and cost efficiency. Also, it recommends a strategic entry through local partnerships and adherence to U.S. regulatory frameworks to ensure successful market penetration and long-term success.
 
Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, neurological disorders, AI-based diagnostic tool, healthcare sustainability, healthcare infrastructure, noninvasive diagnostics, healthcare technology, innovation in healthcare, market penetration, healthcare outcomes, and healthcare outcomes
The Role of Data Analytics in Enhancing Public Administration in Europe
Authors: Ioan MOGOȘ Radu- , DINU Mihai , Cătălin CREȚU Romeo- , Roxana COSMA Maria
Published: October 2024

Sustainable development (SD) represents a growth approach that tries to maintain a social, economic and environmental balance. SD aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations. For a sustainable development, a key element is represented by renewable energy (RE). The use of RE on an increasingly large scale brings with it a series of advantages and positively influences aspects such as resource conservation, air and water quality improvement, climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, etc. Realization of RE through different ways such as wind energy, solar power, hydropower, etc. and by combining them, European citizens can take an important step in realizing a more sustainable and renewable energy future. The article presents a data mining analysis on the use of RE in EU countries, taking into account the share of industry use such as heating and cooling, transport and electricity. The results of the analysis aim to identify countries that show a similar behavior from the point of view of the use of RE. Based on them, policies and strategies at the EU level can be founded.
 
 
Keywords: renewable energy, sustainable development, European Union, data mining
Self-realization as a Driver of Sustainable Social Development: Balancing Individual Goals and Collective Values
Authors: Stoliarchuk Olesia , Yang Qi , Diedkov Mykola , Serhieienkova Oksana , Ishchuk Alla , Kokhanova Olena , Patlaichuk Oksana
Published: October 2024

Self-realization is integral to the social aspect of sustainable development, as it enables individuals to boost mental health and personal well-being by achieving and enhancing their potential and life goals. This study explores how self-realization functions as a driver for sustainable social development in the face of adversity. The research, which involved 122 adult Ukrainians, utilized written surveys, statistical analysis, qualitative assessment, and ranking to collect data. Despite the persistent threats and crises, Ukrainians exhibit significant motivation and engagement in self-realization across various domains, including professional endeavors, family interactions, and parenting. The wartime environment has introduced new dimensions to self-realization, such as involvement in volunteering and charitable activities. Key areas of self-realization include professional and family roles, which highlight the effectiveness of personal fulfillment. Nonetheless, respondents encounter common challenges, such as procrastination, laziness, and emotional strain. The majority acknowledge the connection between their self-realization and sustainable social development, particularly its social dimensions. While self-actualization is essential for life fulfillment during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, it necessitates targeted psychological support to tackle individual-specific challenges. Self-actualization remains a vital process for life fulfillment in wartime Ukraine, yet it requires targeted psychological support to address individual challenges.
Keywords: self-realization, personality, development, societal sustainable development, social component of societal sustainable development, adult personality, communication
Digital Transformation in Georgian Banking: Trends and Current Level of Adoption
Authors: Abuselidze George , Zoidze Tamriko
Published: October 2024

The significance of digital technologies is crucial in contemporary times. This is especially pertinent for the banking industry, enabling it to deliver high-quality customer service and address market challenges promptly. This article examines the current state of the Georgian banking system, focusing on digital services and products, and the advances banks have made in integrating innovative digital technologies. Using specific criteria, the study evaluates the level of digitization within the banking sector, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. The research also explores the digital transformation experiences of developed countries' banking sectors and considers how these could be implemented in Georgia, taking into account the unique context and challenges faced by the country. The study aims to assess the digital readiness and challenges faced by Georgia's banking sector, leading to the formulation of recommendations to speed up the digital transformation process and enhance competitiveness. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods are used in the research. The digital banking products and services offered by commercial banks are analyzed, with statistical conclusions derived from quantitative data, providing a comprehensive overview of the sector's digital maturity. In the end, the study evaluates the challenges and future prospects for the digital transformation of Georgia's banking system, offering strategic insights and practical solutions for policymakers and industry stakeholders. 
Keywords: Georgian banking, innovation, digital transformation, mobile banking, online banking, digital payments
Motivations for ESG Investment Among Leaders in the MICE Industry
Authors: Hieker Carola , Gannon Greg , Nan Philips Emily , Majmudar Sohil
Published: October 2024

The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry faces mounting pressure to address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns over its environmental impact. This research investigates the driving forces behind ESG investment decisions among MICE industry leaders. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study begins with an exploratory expert interview, followed by targeted questions for focus groups involving senior industry figures. Insights from the focus group discussions inform the development of a comprehensive questionnaire, capturing key motivators identified by participants. The survey was subsequently distributed to a broader cohort of MICE industry leaders, resulting in responses from 76 individuals. 
The findings highlight that leadership responsibility and the desire to inspire others are pivotal motivators for ESG investment, transcending company size and revenue. Simultaneously, external pressures—such as talent attraction and reputation enhancement—also play a significant role. However, the presence of opaque and localized regulations poses a formidable obstacle, hindering genuine commitment from all MICE industry leaders. This research contributes unique insights to this industry, and further investigation is warranted to understand motivators for ESG investment not only in the MICE industry but also in comparable growing sectors. 
 
 
Keywords: Sustainability, MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Conferences, Exhibition) Industry, ESG (Environmental,
            Social, Governance), Motivation, Responsible Leadership, Attracting Talent, Sustainable Reporting,
           Client expectation,
EU Consumers, Renewable Energy, and Sustainable Development – An Exploratory Market-Oriented Research Approach
Authors: Veghes Călin , Strâmbu-Dima Andreea , Stoenică Laurentiu
Published: October 2024

The European Union countries are working to reach the truly ambitious objective of achieving a climate-neutral continent by 2050. Increasing the employment of renewable energy is one of the strategic directions promoted to fulfill this purpose. Although the socioeconomic and political context has accelerated the use of renewable energy sources, shifting to green energy raises significant challenges and generates a substantial impact both at the macroeconomic and microeconomic levels, with particular attention given to the overall behavior of the EU consumers within this transitional process.
The paper presents the results of an exploratory approach aiming to assess, based on the secondary data and from a market-oriented perspective, the relationships between the production, consumption, and share of renewable energy, the attitude of EU consumers toward renewable energy and the extent to which they are willing to consider it as a reliable alternative to the traditional energy, in connection to the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of the sustainable development in the EU Member States.
 
 
Keywords: Renewable energy, EU consumers, Marketing, Sustainable development
Temporal Tampering and “The Case for Reparations”
Authors: Boge Andrew Parayil
Published: October 2024

This essay examines Ta-Nehisi Coates's article “The Case for Reparations” to illuminate how he uses inventive temporal strategies to transform the grounds of the reparations debate. I argue, Coates engages in a process of temporal tampering that involves meddling with dominant temporal structures (conceptions of time that serve white supremacy) to accommodate the excessiveness of anti-Black violence. Through tactics of timeline jumping and a rhetoric of repair, Coates draws on articulations of time as a resource to sabotage anti-reparations temporalities. Instead of approaching the reparations debate through stale discursive entry points, such as financial logistics, I reveal how Coates draws upon conceptions of time to reposition reparations as a mode of worldbuilding and social transformation.
Contribuições das atividades de extensão na consecução dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável em Moçambique
Authors: Lazaro Samuel Aires Master
Published: October 2024

Este artigo analisa a inter-relação das atividades de extensão em Moçambique na concretização dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS). Os princípios e as ações analisadas giram em torno da temática Fome Zero e agricultura sustentável (ODS-2). Utilizou-se a metodologia de pesquisa descritiva, que envolve uma revisão da literatura relevante acerca do papel das instituições de ensino e as atividades de extensão desenvolvidas em Moçambique para alcançar o desenvolvimento sustentável e garantir a segurança alimentar. Realizaram-se entrevistas estruturadas com educadores, investigadores e profissionais envolvidos em atividades de extensão. O artigo aborda os desafios e as oportunidades para fortalecer os programas de extensão e aumentar seu impacto na adoção dos ODS. Os resultados sugerem que, ao fornecer educação, formação e assistência técnica à população rural, os programas de educação em extensão podem aumentar a produtividade agrícola, incentivar a gestão sustentável dos recursos naturais e aumentar a segurança alimentar. Além disso, estes programas podem capacitar as comunidades rurais para que se apropriem dos próprios processos e contribuam para o desenvolvimento sustentável de Moçambique.
Visitas noturnas no Cerrado
Authors: Araújo Denilson Barbosa de , Scardovelli Alana Moraes , Piacentin Ana Luiza , Buck Sonia
Published: October 2024

As características peculiares dos morcegos contribuíram para o estigma social construído em relação a eles. Apesar de pesquisas sobre o papel deles nos ecossistemas, o acesso aos estudos permanece limitado, de forma que os preconceitos continuam a ser perpetuados. Assim, com vistas a destacar a importância ecológica dos morcegos, foi realizada uma experiência de visita à Trilha da Natureza, estabelecida em um fragmento do Cerrado no campus sede da Universidade Federal de São Carlos, com foco nos quirópteros. Essa atividade visou a: sensibilizar sobre a necessidade da conservação dos morcegos; promover uma mudança de percepção em relação a esse grupo; demonstrar os diversos nichos deles; partilhar experiências com uma pesquisadora portuguesa, que atua em turismo envolvendo morcegos em Lisboa; e explorar o uso de instrumentos. Para a metodologia, foram utilizadas visitas noturnas, conduzidas por especialistas e monitores. A preparação da equipe incluiu leituras e palestras. Foram instaladas redes de neblina para capturar morcegos e permitir observações, e utilizados detectores de ultrassom para monitorar as vocalizações. Espécies diversas foram reveladas e essas visitas noturnas se mostraram viáveis para transmitir a importância dos morcegos em consonância com o ODS 15: Vida na Terra. Este trabalho tem potencial de contribuir para a sensibilização sobre a necessidade de conservação dos morcegos e para a pesquisa contínua.
Parcerias em prol da educação
Authors: Nascimento Francini Castilha do , Terra Fábio de Souza , Costa Andréia Cristina Barbosa , Bressan Vânia Regina , Costa Isabelle Cristinne Pinto
Published: October 2024

O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar a experiência de uma discente acerca do intercâmbio educacional internacional realizado em Angola por meio do programa Associação das Universidades de Língua Portuguesa durante a formação na graduação em Enfermagem. O texto trata-se de um relato de experiência de natureza descritiva. A oportunidade da vivência em Angola favoreceu o suporte para discutir e identificar as diferenças de saúde entre países, de modo a estabelecer um olhar mais reflexivo e crítico referente à atuação da Enfermagem em diferentes contextos. O intercâmbio proporcionou o amadurecimento tanto profissional quanto pessoal, fortalecendo habilidades e desenvolvendo capacidades para enfrentamento de problemas, aperfeiçoando a independência e a personalidade individuais. Além disso, contribuiu para fortalecer parcerias na formação de profissionais da área de Enfermagem entre países do Sul Global. Além disso, esse intercâmbio trouxe benefícios significativos para a discente de Enfermagem, a instituição de origem e a instituição acolhedora. Apesar das dificuldades, essa experiência resultou na criação de novas amizades e na assimilação de novos valores e perspectivas, enriquecendo, assim, a formação da graduanda.
Utilization of Artificial Intelligence-Based Learning Videos: Enhancing Learning Interest in Early Childhood Moral Education
Authors: Fatmawati Nilal Muna , Raharjo
Published: October 2024

A common challenge in early childhood moral education is the low level of engagement and interest when using traditional storytelling methods. This study examines the implementation and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI)--based learning videos to enhance early childhood moral education at RA Hj. Sri Musiyarti, Semarang, Indonesia. With a qualitative case study approach, the research involved 20 children aged 4 to 5 years, with data collected through observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers, and documentation. The study focuses on the impact of AI-based videos on children's interest in moral learning, a shift from traditional storytelling methods to video-based learning. Findings reveal that AI-based learning videos significantly increase children's interest and engagement, promoting active participation in the classroom. The videos facilitated cognitive development and emotional engagement, making moral learning more enjoyable and effective. The reliability and validity of the findings were ensured through methodological triangulation and peer debriefing. The study concludes that AI-based learning videos are a powerful tool in fostering intellectual and emotional growth in early childhood, supporting innovative and exciting teaching approaches in moral education. The results suggest that AI technologies can enhance early childhood education, with future research needed to expand the scope of AI in education and to explore strategies for teacher training to ensure the effective implementation of AI technologies.
Die Psychologie der Neurovisuellen Neurorehabilitation
Authors: Leitner M.C. , Hawelka S.
Published: October 2024

Sehstorungen nach Schlaganfall oder Schadel-Hirn-Trauma sind komplexe Wahrnehmungsdefizite, die erhebliche Auswirkungen auf die Lebensqualitat der Patient*innen haben und weitreichende Konsequenzen fur die Rehabilitation bringen. Neben der neurologischen und neuropsychologischen Dimension spielen beim Genesungsprozess vor allem psychologische Faktoren eine entscheidende Rolle. Besonders der Placebo-Effekt illustriert die komplexe Beziehung zwischen Geist und Korper. Unsere klinischen Studien untersuchten die Wirksamkeit der restitutiven Therapie auf die trainingsinduzierte Neuroplastizitat bei Patient*innen mit Gesichtsfeldausfallen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass nach dem Training bei strenger, eye-tracking-gestutzter Gesichtsfeldmessung keine signifikante perimetrisch messbare Verbesserung des Gesichtsfelds gefunden werden kann. Subjektive Bewertungen der Patient*innen deuten jedoch auf Verbesserungen und damit auf einen Placebo-Effekt hin. Zusatzlich zeigen die Ergebnisse unserer Studien, dass restitutives Training moglicherweise bei visuellem Neglect einen positiven Einfluss auf die perimetrisch-messbare Wahrnehmung von Patient*innen haben konnte. Diese Diskrepanzen illustrieren die Notwendigkeit einer strikten Unterscheidung zwischen neurophysiologischen Veranderungen und psychologischen Effekten. Zukunftige Forschung sollte methodisch rigorose Ansatze nutzen, um sowohl bei Patient*innen, als auch bei Behandler*innen realistische Erwartungen zu setzen, bestehende Methoden kritisch zu evaluieren und effektive Behandlungsstrategien weiterzuentwickeln. Besonders die Rolle des Placebo-Effekts sollte weiter beleuchtet und in die Bewertung neuropsychologischer Interventionen im Rehabilitationsprozess bedacht werden. Schlüsselwörter: Gesichtsfeldausfall, Hemianopsie, Neglect, Restitution, Eye-Tracking, Perimetrie, Placebo, Virtual Reality
NVT-Read – ein neues Trainingsprogramm zur Behandlung von zerebral bedingten Lesestörungen
Authors: Kerkhoff G. , Poschenrieder J.
Published: October 2024

Visuell bedingte Lesestorungen gehoren mit zu den haufigsten Beeintrachtigungen infolge zerebral bedingter Sehstorungen wie homonyme Gesichtsfeldausfalle, visueller Neglect, Storungen des Kontrastsehens und Storungen der Okulomotorik. Wir beschreiben hier ein neues vielfaltiges Trainingsmodul zur Behandlung zerebral bedingter visueller Lesestorungen. Das Training ist eines von vier Therapie-Modulen im Neuro-Vision-Training (NVT). Das NVT ist ein KI-basiertes Softwareprogramm zur Behandlung der haufigsten neurovisuellen Storungen infolge einer Hirnschadigung. In diesem Ubersichtsartikel werden die im Lesemodul NVT-Read zur Verfugung stehenden drei Lesetechniken vorgestellt und deren Wirksamkeit hinsichtlich klinischer und funktionaler, alltagsrelevanter Parameter zusammenfassend dargestellt. Perspektivisch steht hiermit ein neues, wirksames Therapieverfahren fur Patienten mit visuell bedingten Lesestorungen zur Verfugung, das nicht nur in Kliniken, Ambulanzen und Praxen, sondern auch online zu Hause von den Betroffenen selbststandig durchgefuhrt werden kann. Schlüsselwörter: Hirnschadigung, Gesichtsfeldausfall, Dyslexie, visuelle Rehabilitation, berufliche Wiedereingliederung, Software