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Studying social mobility can help understand societal development and changes, but it is lacking in nowadays tourism research. Focusing on tour guides, the present paper concerns how tourism employment affects intergenerational social mobility. We interviewed 22 tour guide families in Wulingyuan, China, where tourism has been the main economic driver for over 40 years. Drawing on the concept of capital with thematic analysis, we found that tour guide as a job (1) enables household economic growth (2) enlarges household social capital with networks of tourism associates and valuable customers, (3) cultivates individual cultural capital growth through at-work knowledge acquisition, skill development, and vision expansion, and (4) jointly improves individual symbolic capital in mianzi accumulation (higher social status). Some of the capital can be transferred to their offspring, which fosters an upward intergenerational social mobile trend. The key to successful transfer is parenting. The present study contributes to studies of tourism development and societal growth, highlights the advantages of frontline tourism jobs in promoting long-term growth for both the practitioners and their families, and pinpoints critical factors behind such long-term growth. Theoretical, practical and policy implications are accordingly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of matrescence, akin to adolescence, has renewed our theoretical understanding of maternal subjectivity. Over the past two decades, there has been increased attention given to addressing reproductive psychological issues and maternal mental health, acknowledging the profound changes mothers undergo. This special issue explores matrescence as an important yet overlooked developmental phase, rich with opportunities for personal growth and societal transformation. Maternal subjectivity continues to require thorough documentation, investigation, and innovative theoretical frameworks. This discussion reviews recent efforts in psychoanalysis to shed light on the complexities of maternal subjectivity in the modern era and to point toward future research and action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the essential role of STEM education in mechatronics, emphasizing its impact on developing youth and students. As nations recognize the necessity of preparing future generations for a technology-driven workforce, initiatives are being introduced to align higher education with Industry 4.0 demands. Through interdisciplinary projects and innovative methods, students gain vital skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The paper highlights successful educational programs and discusses the integration of STEM and mechatronic principles in curricula, promoting critical thinking and collaboration. It also reviews government initiatives in countries such as China, the United States, and Romania that aim to enhance STEM competencies, serving as catalysts for societal growth and innovation toward a prosperous future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The access gateway layer in the IoT interior design bridging the gap between several destinations. The capabilities include message routing, message identification, and a service. IoT intelligence can help machinery industries optimize their operations with perspectives on factory processes, energy use, and help efficiency. Automation can bring in improved operations, lower destruction, and greater manufacture. IoT barriers are exactly developed for bridging the gap between field devices and focused revenues and industrial applications, maximizing intelligent system performance and receiving and processing real-time operational control data that the network edge. The creation of powerful, flexible, and adjustable Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) can enable associates with information and tailored solutions to increase productivity while remaining safe. An innovative strategy for data-enabled engineering advances based on the Internet of Manufacturing Things (IoMT) is essential for effectively utilizing physical mechanisms. The proposed method HMI-IoMT has been gap analysis to other business processes turns into a reporting process that can be utilized for improvement. Implementing a gap analysis in production or manufacturing can bring the existing level of manpower allocation closer to an ideal level due to balancing and integrating the resources. Societal growth and connection are both aided in the built environment. Manufacturing operations are made much more productive with the help of automation and advanced machinery. Increasing the output of products and services is possible as a result of this efficiency, which allows for the fulfillment of an expanding population's necessities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development proposes the ambitious goal of an inclusive and sustainable economy. Thus, a realistic assessment of individual countries' possibilities to implement the Sustainable Development Goals might provide helpful insights. We seek to contribute to the existing literature by proposing a working framework for assessing, at the individual country level, the impact of long‐run economic growth on societal sustainable development. The framework is based on composite models from the Structural Equation Modeling‐SEM with a Partial Least Squares Path Modeling (PLS‐PM) estimator. In contrast, societal sustainable development is viewed as emerging from its various dimensions (environmental protection, human development and public health). Based on the analyses of an extended sample of 99 countries, including data for thirty years (from 1990 to 2019), we find that economic growth matters in explaining societal sustainable development, and different countries have benefited unequally from this situation. The key finding reveals that countries aiming to follow the SDGs should recognize their significant disparities and engage in profound structural, institutional, functional and cultural transformations. Thus, a more holistic approach to societal sustainable development is currently needed to enhance government effectiveness as a transmission channel for the impact of growth. In addition, governments need to adjust their economic mechanisms to internalize the costs of environmental degradation and negative externalities for human development and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past animosities and complex geopolitics make the Israel-Palestine conflict complex and require a multifaceted approach. As modernization theory fails to address such conflicts, we combine post-colonial theory, identity politics, critical geopolitics, with modernization theory to provide a more complete picture. A comprehensive strategy for building a strong and united Palestinian society is presented in this paper, which emphasizes democratic changes, military power rebalancing, international law, and economic independence. Education and technological progress drive societal growth, so strong governance systems are essential for political stability. We demonstrate how these methods work and what are their drawbacks by analyzing real-life examples of how social, economic, and political factors affect conflict. In the study, governments, civil society, and international organizations are a key focus for finding a long-term solution. This extensive research on conflict resolution and growth expands the conversation and offers lessons that can be applied to various conflict situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Informatics Control Measurement in Economy & Environment Protection / Informatyka, Automatyka, Pomiary w Gospodarce i Ochronie Środowiska is the property of Lublin University of Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The advancement of transportation machinery has played a crucial role in driving global economic and societal growth. However, this progress has also given rise to challenges, such as the depletion of chemical resources and the escalating impact of climate change. As a result, automobile companies are now prioritizing energy efficiency and transitioning towards eco-friendly vehicles. In response to this demand, various efforts have been made to harvest energy and improve the efficiency of eco-friendly vehicles, with energy-harvesting dampers emerging as a promising solution. This study focuses on the optimization of the shape and design of a rotary power generation system integrated within an energy harvesting system. The primary objective of the rotary power generation system is to convert mechanical motion into electrical energy, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of eco-friendly vehicles. By considering the specific characteristics of SAE 30 W working oil within the damper, the optimal blade shape and generator can be determined to maximize the power generation capabilities of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and advancements in Moldova's justice system reform, particularly in the context of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It delves into the pivotal role of the Moldovan justice system in governance and societal well-being, highlighting how its efficiency, transparency, and accessibility are essential for democracy, reducing corruption, and building public trust. The paper examines Moldova's ongoing struggles with judicial independence, corruption, and resource limitations, exacerbated by its post-Soviet transition and the need for alignment with European standards. The relevance of SDG 16, which focuses on promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice, and building effective institutions, is underscored as a key framework for Moldova's judicial reforms. The paper argues that aligning Moldova's justice system with SDG 16 is not only strategically necessary but also an ethical obligation. Improving the judicial system could lead to significant advancements in reducing corruption, enhancing public trust, and creating a stable legal environment conducive to economic growth and societal wellbeing. The paper also highlights the well-established link between an effective justice system and broader sustainable development goals in the literature. It includes a thorough literature review, analysis of justice financing in relation to SDGs, a discussion of Moldova's specific challenges, and concludes with policy recommendations and future research directions. This exploration aims to provide a nuanced understanding of Moldova's justice system reforms and their critical role in the nation's journey towards sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the comprehensive previous research on different aspects of inventions and externalities spanning both the micro- and macrolevels, no prior studies have, to our knowledge, examined the relationship between the commercialization strategies of inventions/patents and social knowledge spillovers. To bridge this gap in the literature, we examine how such spillovers, measured as forward citations, covary with four commercialization modes: (1) setting up a new firm, (2) commercialization within an existing firm where the inventor either is employed or (3) has an ownership stake, and (4) licensing/selling patents to other firms. Alternatively, an inventor may refrain from commercialization. Utilizing unique survey data on patents owned by small- and medium-sized enterprises and individuals, we provide evidence that commercialization through licensing/selling is the most efficient way of generating knowledge diffusion. We also find some support for new ventures being an important source of knowledge spillovers. Plain English Summary: New inventions and discoveries, here defined as patents, are instrumental in promoting growth and increasing societal prosperity. To contribute to a benevolent development of societies, it is imperative that new findings and new knowledge also is disseminated to a large group of users and producers. We investigate how such diffusion is affected by the chosen strategy to commercialize patents: through a new firm, within an existing firm, or licensing/selling patents to other firms. We provide evidence that commercialization through licensing/selling, closely followed by setting up a new firm, appears to be the most efficient way to generate knowledge diffusion. Policymakers should therefore not only support technological development and encourage new firms but also facilitate for firms to interact and enhance their networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the entrepreneurial ecosystem, a dynamic network that harnesses business resources, knowledge, and talent for enhancing organizational prosperity. It places a special emphasis on how enterprises not only seek growth but also aim to positively impact society and the environment. At the heart of our inquiry are the concepts of social entrepreneurship and social innovation, which we argue are essential for fostering societal progress within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Our research aims to dissect the influence and integration of these concepts in promoting a sustainable entrepreneurial environment. To this end, we conducted a detailed survey among 51 startup managers, ensuring participants had a deep understanding of the themes in question. Through rigorous statistical analysis using SPSS and Excel, we discovered the crucial role of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in facilitating effective collaboration across various domains, including human and technological resources. The study reveals that embracing social entrepreneurship and innovation is vital for businesses to contribute meaningfully to societal betterment while achieving their growth objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the application and evolution of philosophical practice in China, which employs philosophical principles and methods to facilitate insights and address life's complexities. We aim to bridge the knowledge gap regarding the trajectory and contemporary landscape of China's philosophical practice and its impact on individual and societal flourishing. Guided by the research question, "How has philosophical practice evolved in China, and what are its challenges and future prospects?" this study adopts a qualitative research methodology, including a literature review, historical analysis, and case studies from Chinese philosophical communities. Findings indicate a burgeoning growth of philosophical practice in China, with traditional Chinese philosophies being adapted to provide practical guidance for contemporary issues. The spread of philosophical practice communities across China reflects a growing embrace of these practices. This paper outlines the hurdles and prospects for philosophical practice, pinpointing opportunities for further research and cross-cultural engagement. The insights furnished by this study offer a framework for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to enhance philosophical practice's role in personal growth and societal well-being, both within China and internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/purpose: Human Resource Management (HRM) has evolved as a strategic function for an organization, contributing significantly towards organizational development, business growth and societal development. The current work fills the gap in the literature by unveiling the higher order motivational needs driving the satisfaction of human resource (HR) professionals in their job roles. Further, it intends to delve into the causal relationship of the underlying factors. Methods: A three stage detailed exploratory and mediation analysis is carried out. In the first stage, a focused group interview of 25 senior HR professionals was conducted. These professionals are all holding the role of Chief Human Resource Officers(CHROs) in their respective organizations. In the second stage, a large scale exploratory analysis is carried out based on the responses of 423 respondents. Stage three confirms the interrelationship among the underlying factors obtained through the EFA. Results: The results of the primary survey of 423 professionals reveal the three underlying factors such as identity, power and societal leadership (SL) that motivate HR professionals and drive their satisfaction in the job role. Further, it is observed that power mediates the interrelationship between identity and SL. Conclusion: The results of the survey strongly suggest that there exists a high degree of correlation between identity, power, and societal relationships when it comes to HR professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GWP: Gesellschaft Wirtschaft Politik is the property of Verlag Barbara Budrich GmbH and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This review investigates the evolution of green information systems (ISs) based on an examination of the literature spanning the years 2000 to 2023. Using bibliographic analysis, a method that enables the study of a large volume of sources, this paper establishes connections among pertinent concepts in the green ISs field, outlining the authors' interests in the analysed period. Based on the identification of key trends, primary directions, interdisciplinary initiatives, and emerging areas, the assessment reveals that the interest in minimizing the negative impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on the environment is a relevant research topic, with significant evolution in the analysed period. On this basis, this study emphasizes the need for the integration of environmental protection in all stages of the IS life cycle and in all industries, a holistic approach we consider essential for the sustainable growth of the ICT-based societal domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between democracy and innovation across 61 developing countries from 2013 to 2020, utilizing data from Global Innovation Index. Employing the Freedom House Index and Polity2 indicators as proxies for democracy, research employs Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Fixed Effects and SystemGMM techniques to analyze their impact on innovation. The findings of the study reveal no statistically significant relationships between democracy and innovation in developing nations within specified timeframe. Through empirical analysis, including various econometric approaches, it is observed that the level of democracy as measured by these indicators, does not appear to exert a discernable impact on the innovation landscape of these countries. These results carry important implications for public policy. While the promotion of democracy remains a crucial goal, especially for societal development and political stability, this study suggests that solely focusing on enhancing democratic institutions might not necessarily yield immediate direct improvements in the innovation capacities of developing nations. Policymakers and stakeholders involved in fostering innovation ecosystems in these regions may need to consider a more nuanced approach, encompassing factors beyond the scope of democratic governance to effectively spur innovation. Understanding the nuanced relationship between democracy and innovation in developing countries has significant implications for designing targeted policies aimed at enhancing innovation capacities, economic growth and overall societal development in these regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing trend of single mothers entering the business sector in Malaysia has garnered attention due to the increasing prevalence of single-mother households and the imperative for economic sustainability. Single mothers often face significant challenges in both supporting their families and achieving financial stability. To address these challenges, entrepreneurship presents a viable solution, enabling them to generate income and create employment opportunities, which, in turn, can foster societal and economic growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accentuated this opportunity, as many single mothers began operating businesses from home during the movement control order (MCO). This study aims to explore the business potential of single mothers by examining the types of businesses they engage in, the products and services they offer, and the challenges they encounter. The pandemic has notably influenced the rise of online businesses in sectors such as food and beverage, services, and fashion design, driven by increased customer demand. However, single mothers face challenges related to work-life balance and entrepreneurial activities, including high external locus of control and inadequate financial management, which impede their ability to sustain their businesses. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the entrepreneurial experiences of single mothers and offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders. It informs the development of targeted policies and programs aimed at supporting the economic empowerment of single mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an era where innovation and entrepreneurship play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and societal progress, educational institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among their students. This case study focuses on the exemplary efforts of Thiagarajar College of Engineering in Madurai to cultivate entrepreneurship and nurture a thriving startup culture within its campus. The study begins by delving into the college's strategic approach to curriculum development. It examines how Thiagarajar College of Engineering has integrated entrepreneurship-related courses and modules across various disciplines, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to ideate, validate, and execute innovative business concepts. By analyzing the college's curriculum adaptation, this study sheds light on the methods employed to seamlessly integrate entrepreneurship education with technical learning. The role of industry collaborations in enriching the entrepreneurial ecosystem is another key aspect under scrutiny. The case study examines how the college has fostered partnerships with various startup companies. Furthermore, the case study explores the array of support systems established by the college to encourage students' entrepreneurial journeys. This includes the provision of mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, access to seed funding and incubation facilities, and guidance on intellectual property protection. By investigating these support mechanisms, the study elucidates how Thiagarajar College of Engineering (TCE) empowers its students to transform their ideas into viable startups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper delves into the realm of onomastics within the context of migration by analyzing Shi Yang Shi's autobiographical novel, Cuore di Seta. Through the protagonist's journey from China to Italy, the narrative unveils the profound significance of names in the process of identity reconstruction, as experienced through memory. The Chinese onomastic system is carefully elucidated for readers, providing insight into its cultural nuances. Throughout the story, the evolution of the protagonist is mirrored in the evolution of his nicknames, which reflect both personal growth and societal challenges encountered along the way. As the protagonist grapples with conflicts between Confucian traditions and his dual identity as a Chinese migrant in Italy, the narrative chronicles his quest for self-discovery. Ultimately, he embraces his plural nature by employing the act of renaming as a symbolic gesture of acceptance and integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the entrepreneurial ecosystem, a dynamic network that harnesses business resources, knowledge, and talent for enhancing organizational prosperity. It places a special emphasis on how enterprises not only seek growth but also aim to positively impact society and the environment. At the heart of our inquiry are the concepts of social entrepreneurship and social innovation, which we argue are essential for fostering societal progress within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Our research aims to dissect the influence and integration of these concepts in promoting a sustainable entrepreneurial environment. To this end, we conducted a detailed survey among 51 startup managers, ensuring participants had a deep understanding of the themes in question. Through rigorous statistical analysis using SPSS and Excel, we discovered the crucial role of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in facilitating effective collaboration across various domains, including human and technological resources. The study reveals that embracing social entrepreneurship and innovation is vital for businesses to contribute meaningfully to societal betterment while achieving their growth objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the intersection of truth, freedom, and biblical anthropology, examining how the concept of truth, as derived from the Bible, impacts individual freedom and societal values. Topics discussed include the biblical perspective on human nature, the relationship between truth and freedom, and the contrast between competing anthropological views in shaping public policy and law.

While high fertility levels in sub-Saharan Africa pose multiple challenges for economic, social, and environmental prospects, the perspectives of actors from this region have not been well documented. We offer a selection of viewpoints from 42 countries in sub-Saharan Africa along four main dimensions: perceptions of the role of population growth for broader societal implications; the representation of sub-Saharan Africa in discussions of population growth; the integration of population dynamics and reproductive health and rights in environmental considerations and instruments; and the sensitive nature of the topic of population growth. A mixed-methods qualitative project was conducted, using an online survey of 402 participants followed by 18 in-depth interviews, to collect the views of policy makers, researchers, and activists in sub-Saharan Africa. We find overwhelming agreement that population growth has negative implications for environmental sustainability and other social welfare outcomes. We find broad support for the integration of population dynamics and reproductive health and rights dimensions at international environmental meetings and in environmental sustainability instruments. Participants also stressed the under-representation of sub-Saharan Africa in discussions of population dynamics and in international environmental governance. Overall, this paper contributes to a better understanding of sub-Saharan African perspectives and attitudes on the interconnectedness of reproductive health, population dynamics, and environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of literature on society is profound and far-reaching. Through the pages of books, we embark on journeys that not only entertain and educate but also shape our perspectives and values. Literature has the unique ability to transport us to different times, places, and cultures, allowing us to experience the world through the eyes of diverse characters. This experience fosters empathy, as we come to understand the struggles, triumphs, and complexities of individuals from all walks of life. Additionally, literature serves as a reflection of societal norms and values, often challenging and questioning established beliefs. It acts as a mirror, encouraging readers to critically examine their own perspectives and prompting them to consider alternative viewpoints. The power of literature lies in its capacity to inspire change, to ignite conversations, and to ultimately contribute to the collective growth and evolution of society. As we engage with books, we not only enrich our minds but also become active participants in the ongoing narrative of human civilization. The significance of studying the impact of literature on society, specifically how books shape our perspectives and values, cannot be overstated. This research delves into the intricate relationship between literature and societal development, shedding light on the profound influence that books have on individuals and communities. Understanding this dynamic allows us to comprehend how literature serves as a vehicle for cultural exchange, empathy-building, and the dissemination of ideas. Moreover, it provides valuable insights into how authors navigate and challenge prevailing societal norms through their narratives. By examining the evolving role of literature in shaping values and perspectives, we gain a deeper understanding of how it contributes to the intellectual, emotional, and moral development of individuals. This research not only explores the historical impact of literature but also investigates its contemporary relevance in an ever-changing world. Additionally, it holds implications for educators, policymakers, and writers, offering valuable insights into how literature can be harnessed as a tool for positive societal transformation. Ultimately, this research endeavors to contribute to the broader discourse on the role of literature in shaping societies and fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience. The EDAS score primarily based on the space from the suggest agreement machine is the installed energy for a manufacturing plant. Experts' critiques and derived numbers do not trust each different concerning solar energy and geothermal electricity. Although solar strength is a renewable power source, it's miles the desired electricity supply by professionals due to Access and giant availability characterization (2d in Fuzzy AHP space) however numeric Physically damaging electricity due to high set up cost (4th area in EDAS). And low performance Impact of Literature on Society. Relevance, Cultural Enrichment, Empathy Building, and Knowledge Expansion. the Ranking for Impact of Literature on Society. Impact of Literature on Society 5 is got the first rank whereas is the Impact of Literature on Society 4 is having the Lowest rank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mature developed urban area like London has various policy tools to trigger economic development and leverage poverty. The scale of economic inequality in London has called for more effective policy tools to leverage poverty and close the gaps of economic inequality. Opportunity Areas is one of the tools in urban regeneration to alleviate poverty and develop communities. After over a decade of the policy rollout we have little knowledge how effective this type of policy tool is. The project investigates how effective opportunity areas for economic growth and societal development in London. The key economic indicators including unemployment rate and house price were assessed at MSOA/ward levels in London to understand their spatial variation through GIS mapping. Subsequently, socio-economic factors of commercial land use, culture infrastructure and public transport accessibility were discussed and selected to explore whether they have impacts on the difference of economic performance within opportunity areas. The spatial impacts of these factors among wards/MSOA were evaluated by Geographically Weighted Regression. The research discussed these factors' variations in Lee Valley, Park Royal and Croydon. Finally, this paper argued that local geographical context has limitations for small area growth corresponding to general policy and strategic management plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degrowth advocates argue for structural transformations in how economies and societies prioritize material wealth accumulation to reduce the negative effects of future anthropogenic climate change. Degrowth proponents argue that human economic activity could be lessened, and societies transformed to prioritize improved wellbeing, reducing the threat of climate change. This paper explores implications of alternative patterns of economic growth with transformational policy pathways (i.e., redistribution) to assess what effects economic growth and broader policies have on changing patterns of human development across both the Global North and South. Using the International Futures model, this article shows that negative growth and societal transformations in the Global North are possible without dramatically damaging long-term global socioeconomic development, though these interventions do not solve the global climate crisis, reducing future cumulative carbon emissions by 10.5% through 2100. On the other hand, a global negative growth scenario will significantly reduce future cumulative carbon emissions (45%) but also dramatically undermines the pursuit of global development goals, like the elimination of poverty. Even with global policies that significantly increase cash transfers to the poor and retired, dramatically improve income inequality, and eliminate military spending, the Global Negative Growth Big Push scenario leads to an increase of 15 percentage points in global extreme poverty by 2100. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tannery industries have become an important part of societal growth; however, these processes have produced huge volumes of effluents containing heavy metals, particularly Cr(VI) oxyanions. The study is crucial and cost-effective for reducing the chromium (VI) from industrial wastewater. In order to meet the sustainable development goal (SDG) objective 6.3, the capacity of Sambucus nigra L. to adsorb heavy metal is established with the purpose of eradicating hazardous chemical contamination and reducing pollution. In this study, discontinuous tests were carried out to determine the efficiency of Cr(VI) sorption on leaves of Sambucus nigra L. Adsorption factors such as pH, temperature, adsorbent dosage, and contact time were evaluated. At a dosage of 3 g/L and pH 2, an efficiency of 98.22% was achieved under favorable conditions. The equilibrium and kinetic models that best fitted the experimental data are non-linear Freundlich and; pseudo-second order, and intra-particle diffusion, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters of the adsorption process, including Gibbs free energy (ΔG0), enthalpy (ΔH0), and entropy (ΔS0), were measured at 291, 303, 323, and 343 K, indicating that the phenomena was spontaneous and endothermic. The chemical analyses and surface morphology of the adsorbent were analyzed using SEM (scanning electron microscopy), EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy), FTIR (Fourier transform infra-red), XRD (X-ray diffraction), and ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma optical-emission spectroscopy) techniques. The results showed that Sambucus nigra L. has a significant removal efficiency of Cr(VI) in the contaminated solutions, establishing adsorbent as a low cost, readily available, and environmentally friendly and ensuring its potential for industrial usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The realization that we are highly dependent on the increasingly limited water resources and the opportunity offered by the circular economy for the reversibility of this important resource become a matter of personal and societal growth. The use of wastewater treatment plants has been proven to bring with it positives for both the environment and water, as well as for human health. The introduction of local waste water treatment plants in small agglomerations is the nowadays step towards a better and ecological environment, and in addition it leads to financial savings achieved by the low subsequent costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores how a 'sense of Italianness' formed among Jews in Libya during the Italian colonial period and in the decades following its formal end. Based on interviews with Jews born in Libya to different generations and currently living in Israel and Europe, the essay considers the concrete declensions of this socio-cultural phenomenon and the different meanings that the respondents ascribe to it. Meanings span from the macro level of historical events and societal changes, to the micro level of individual social relations and material culture. Viewed across generations and framed in the peculiarities of Italian colonial history, the 'sense of Italianness' expressed by Jews in Libya appears as both a colonial and post-colonial legacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Democracy, as a political regime and a political system in which the people are recognised as the source of power, is now facing new challenges. The expansion of human rights raises important new issues for society, such as who should be held accountable for decisions. In contrast to traditional representative democracy, grassroots democracy expands civil rights and liberties and holds citizens more accountable at the local level. Concurrently, it generates some potential benefits for social development, both for the individuals who take part in it and for society as a whole. This study examines the experience of nations worldwide in implementing grassroots democracy and grassroots governance mechanisms. It makes an effort to evaluate the potential and prospects of legal conceptualisation of the concept of grassroots governance and adaptation of personal self-governance systems in terms of the social growth of communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing evolution and rapid transformations occurring in the labor market, influenced by economic progress, are leading to the emergence of novel job roles and substantial modifications in conventional occupations. These changes underscore the importance of adapting educational systems to anticipate the future demands of the labor market, ensuring seamless transitions for individuals from educational institutions to the workforce. Education and employment are interdependent. On one hand, the European Union (EU) and its member states require an effective education system that equips individuals with skills aligned with labor market demands. However, it is also imperative to provide a proficient and inventive workforce market that amplifies efficiency while fostering individual growth and societal integration within the population. The key dimensions frequently analyzed to characterize the state of the education market and evaluate its implications on the labor market include the demand for education (participation rates in education), characteristics of the education supply (financial aid for tertiary education), and outcomes of the educational system (early school leavers, tertiary graduates, youth not in employment, education, or training). To gather relevant information, the statistical database Eurostat, Tempo-online (National Institute of Statistics), as well as data provided by the European Commission, the Council of the Union, and the European Parliament were utilized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature on immigrant perceptions has predominantly focused on the effects of perceived threat on attitudinal and behavioral outcomes toward immigrants. Although this threat perspective is useful, it is mismatched with many public opinions that immigrants are vital contributors to organizational and societal growth. The implications of immigrant contribution perceptions are still largely unknown. Building on a dual-dimension framework, this paper explores and presents the perceived immigrant contribution construct and develops a scale as a tool to measure perceptions of economic or realistic (i.e., physical resources) and symbolic (i.e., cultural resources) immigrant contributions. Five studies provide evidence for the scale and construct validity in both general and workplace-specific contexts. The inclusion of this construct will allow future scholars to capture an alternative perspective and gain additional insights into immigrant-directed attitudes and behaviors, guiding future research toward a more positive psychology approach to studying immigrant perceptions and its organizational implications for workplace well-being, treatment, and integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of digital capabilities and IT skills with government services in the public sector is crucial for societal and economic growth. The adoption of digital capabilities and technological advancements renders more efficacy and efficiency to the delivery of public sector services. However, governments face challenges in meeting the increasing demands from corporations and residents. To leverage emerging digital technologies, governments need to collaborate with residents, society, and enterprises while ensuring proper technological implementation. Every nation must structure itself and ensure that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies are strategically incorporated to enhance the delivery of services to citizens. This study has used logistic regression analysis to explore the influence of factors such as digital capabilities, technology skills, innovation, and data capabilities on the implementation of AI-enabled public services. The Governments' Artificial Intelligence Readiness Index score of 100 countries, provided by Oxford Insights and IDRC, is used to analyze the impact. The findings reveal that the utilization of AI in public services significantly affects a nation's procurement of advanced technology, data capabilities, and innovative capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creativity is critical to economic growth and societal progress. However, assessing creativity using objective approaches remains a challenge. To address this, we employ three objective indicators based on semantic distance to quantify the originality and appropriateness of creativity by analyzing long texts in a story‐writing experiment. Global and local distances were generated separately by computing the mean distance of the whole text and the distance between adjacent sentences, and they were positively correlated with story originality in writing. Global cohesion was positively correlated with story rationality in writing, as generated by computing the semantic coherence between the text and story context. At the behavioral level, three semantic indicators were used to measure originality and appropriateness of creativity and reflected individual differences, including creative achievement and creative personality. At the neural level, global distance was best predicted by the features of the salience and default networks, whereas global cohesion corresponded to the control and salience networks. These findings point to a stable neural basis for semantic indicators and verify the idea of separating different dimensions of creativity. Taken together, our results demonstrate the significance of semantic indicators in assessing creativity and provide insights into analyzing long texts in natural paradigm. Our findings add a new perspective on semantic distance to assess creativity in story writing, by generating three semantic indicators to quantify originality and appropriateness at behavioral and neural levels. We also identify distinguishable functional connectivity patterns for objective assessments of creativity. This provides evidence that the default mode network and executive network contribute differently to creative idea generation and evaluate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a tropical nation with ~40% forested land area and 290 protected areas in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, Vietnam holds an important part of global forests. Despite a complex history of multiple colonial rules, war, rapid economic development and societal growth, Vietnam was one of a few Southeast Asian countries to reverse deforestation trends and sustain net forest cover gain since the 1990s. However, a considerable amount of Vietnam's forest gain has been from plantation forestry, as Vietnam's policies have promoted economic development. In the Central Highlands region of Vietnam, widespread forest degradation and deforestation has occurred recently in some areas due to plantation forestry and other factors, including fire-linked deforestation, but protected areas here have been largely effective in their conservation goals. We studied deforestation, wildfires, and the contribution of fire-linked deforestation from 2001 to 2020 in an area near the Da Lat Plateau of the Central Highlands of Vietnam. We stratified our study area to distinguish legally protected areas and those in the surrounding landscape matrix without formal protection. Using satellite-derived data, we investigated four questions: (1) Have regional deforestation trends continued in parts of the Central Highlands from 2001 to 2020? (2) Based on remotely sensed fire detections, how has fire affected the Central Highlands and what proportion of deforestation is spatiotemporally linked to fire? (3) Were annual deforestation and burned area lower in protected areas relative to the surrounding land matrix? (4) Was the proportion of fire-linked deforestation lower in protected areas than in the matrix? To answer these questions, we integrated the Global Forest Change and FIRED VIETNAM datasets. We found that 3794 fires burned 8.7% of the total study area and 13.6% of the area became deforested between 2001 and 2020. While nearly half of fires were linked to deforestation, fire-linked deforestation accounted for only a small part of forest loss. Across the entire study area, 54% of fire-linked deforestation occurred in natural forests and 46% was in plantation forests. Fire ignitions in the study area were strongly linked to the regional dry season, November to March, and instrumental climate data from 1971 to 2020 showed statistically significant increasing trends in minimum, mean, and maximum temperatures. However, the total area burned did not have a significant increasing trend. Regional trends in deforestation continued in Vietnam's Central Highlands from 2001 to 2020, and nearly half of all detected fires can be spatially and temporally linked to forest loss. However, protected areas in the region effectively conserved forests relative to the surrounding landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has increased in prevalence over the past 20 years worldwide. Also, diabetes mellitus (DM) is becoming increasingly common in the general population. DM and GERD have a two-way association effect on health. Both conditions have had a significant negative impact on the cost of healthcare and have even impeded societal and economic growth. A Literature review in the field provides conflicting information regarding the prevalence of GERD in diabetes individuals. Studies have been performed recently to assess the relationship between GERD and type 2 diabetes. Some studies revealed a positive association between type 2 diabetes and GERD, while others found no association between these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For example, while the search for meaning was found to be negatively related to the presence of meaning among U.S. participants, it was positively related to the presence of meaning among Japanese individuals (Steger et al., [25]) and Israelis (e.g., Abu-Raiya et al., [1]; Russo-Netzer, [19]). The new meaning of meaning To understand the new meaning that emerged at this conference, it is important to understand the philosophy behind the conference and the organization itself. Meaning is essential to human health, well-being, and valued living, in general and related to disaster mental health (Finkelstein-Fox et al., [12]; Melton & Schulenberg, [17]; Pavlacic et al., [18]; Schulenberg, [20], [21]; Schulenberg et al., [22]; Weathers et al., [20]). Keywords: Meaning; existentialism; Viktor Frankl; sociology; social justice EN Meaning existentialism Viktor Frankl sociology social justice 129 137 9 04/03/23 20230401 NES 230401 Meaning in crisis The world is in crisis!. [Extracted from the article]

How do policy paradigms change? This article demonstrates that changing social imaginaries about economic growth enabled paradigmatic changes in USA corporate tax policy in the 1980s. Based on archival sources, it reconstructs how policy makers switched from focused support for capital-intensive smoke-stack industries towards support for emerging high tech-sectors between two major tax-bills in 1981 and 1986. This switch was made possible by the emergence of what we call the Silicon Valley imaginary—the idea that sound economic policies stimulate the reallocation of society's resources towards new economic fields. The emergence of this social imaginary resulted from political realignments and changing notions of economic growth and justice. The search for sources of future economic growth and societal coalitions led policy-makers to appropriate ideas about the promises of new industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has a long history of dedication to polymer science and engineering research and education. The Polymer Science & Engineering (PSE) Department, which was formed in 1961, has produced over 700 PhD alumni who have gone on to become leaders in industry, academia, and government. The department has grown to include 20 faculty members and over 100 graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. This special issue of the Journal of Polymer Science features articles that highlight forefront research in the polymer field, covering topics such as nanocomposites, biomaterials, interfacial science, theory, and structural characterization. The collection of articles reflects the breadth and depth of modern polymer science, with contributions from UMass faculty members and PSE alumni. The university is committed to addressing important challenges in sustainability, energy, and the intersection of polymers with health and medicine through continuous innovation. [Extracted from the article]

Human societal growth has greatly pressured available land resources. The key to reducing land pressure and fostering regional synergistic development is revealing the transmission effect of land pressure. We used a modified gravity model to construct a spatial correlation network (SCN) of the land pressure in the Yangtze River Delta region (YRDR) for the years 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020. To examine how the land pressure is transmitted throughout the cities in the YRDR, we used a social network analysis to examine the overall network structure, individual network characteristics and spatial clustering characteristics. Finally, the center of gravity-GTWR model that coupled the inter-city interactions and the temporal non-smoothness further revealed the spatiotemporal evolution and the different patterns of the influencing factors. The results revealed that (1) the spatial correlation structure of the land pressure in the YRDR was relatively stable. Nanjing, Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou and Changzhou played a significant role as linkages. (2) The YRDR was beyond the geographical limit for the land pressure transmission effect and each block had a considerable and mostly steady transmission impact. (3) The center of gravity-GTWR model that coupled the inter-city interactions and the temporal non-stationarity was a viable method for analyzing the factors that influence the land pressure. (4) There were significant regional and temporal variations in the factors influencing land pressure. The influencing factors differed in intensity and direction from city to city. Our results can provide a new perspective on relieving land pressure from the perspective of urban agglomerations and help accomplish the sustainable development of regional land resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous nations and regions are utilizing significant technological progress to tackle economic, social, and environmental issues. In addition, emerging economies and companies devote a growing portion of their resources to research and development (R&D). On the basis of this, we understand that technological innovation is a key contributor to both economic growth and societal advancement. Hence, nations across the globe are competing for the latest technology by investing heavily in research and development. Regrettably, most of the papers focus on developed countries as a result overlooking the developing and emerging nations. As a result, this paper examines the factors that can promote technological transition in middle-income countries. To answer this question, the study employed regression models consisting of CCR, DOLS, and FMOLS to assess the long-run association that exists among the variables. What is more, a Granger causality test was carried on to analyze the causal direction among the variables. Within this context, the results showed that long-term technological change is influenced by factors such as internet usage, government spending, manufacturing value-added, and the credit offered to the private sector. However, because of its detrimental effects on research and development, the economic growth of middle-income countries is not favorably supporting a technological transition. Finally, the study offers a thorough framework that concentrates on a variety of macro factors, enabling researchers to further explore their effects and validate cutting-edge hypotheses about how they might affect a country's performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]