Global Development Research Articles

Spatiotemporal Analysis of Drought and Its Driving Factors in the Yellow River Basin Based on a Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index

As a natural disaster, drought can endanger global ecology, socio-economic systems, and sustainable development. To address sudden droughts in the future, assess drought disasters, and propose mitigation measures, in-depth research on the spatiotemporal variations in and driving factors of meteorological drought is essential. To study drought in the Yellow River Basin, we calculated the multi-scale Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), derived from monthly meteorological data recorded at weather stations from 1968 to 2019. We examined the features of drought and its driving factors using the trend-free pre-whitening Mann–Kendall (TFPW-MK) test and Sen’s slope estimator, as well as a drought frequency analysis, center of gravity migration model, standard deviation ellipse model, and geographic detector. Our analysis shows that (1) from 1968 to 2019, the Yellow River Basin exhibited a shift from aridity to increased moisture on an annual basis, with the smallest SPEI of −1.47 in 2002 indicating a moderate drought; SPEI3 showed a growing tendency in all seasons, particularly in winter (0.00388/year), followed by spring (0.00214/year), summer (0.00232/year), and fall (0.00196/year). The SPEI3 exhibited higher fluctuations in frequency compared to the annual-scale SPEI12; (2) in terms of spatial variability, there was no significant change in drought conditions at any scale, with the probability of a drought event being greater in the eastern and northwestern portions of the watershed. The epicenter of the drought exhibited a tendency to migrate southwestward; (3) among the seven driving factors, land use and night lighting were the dominant factors affecting drought conditions, with driving force values of 0.75 and 0.63, respectively.

Public Administration and Educational Innovation: Case Studies

This paper examines the intersection of public administration and educational innovation through theoretical frameworks, historical contexts, and 15 case studies from Brazil. It examines how governance models, public-private partnerships, and collaborative networks have driven educational reform and innovation. By analyzing real-world examples, the study identifies challenges, such as resistance to change and funding constraints, and opportunities, such as digital advancements and adaptive strategies. The findings emphasize the role of public policy and administration in fostering a well-educated workforce while advocating for empirically validated pedagogical innovations. Recommendations include enhanced evaluations, adaptive strategies, and dissemination of successful practices to support global educational development. Keywords: Public Administration, Educational Innovation, Governance Models, Public-Private Partnerships, Collaborative Networks, Educational Policy.

Public Administration and Educational Innovation: Case Studies

This paper examines the intersection of public administration and educational innovation through theoretical frameworks, historical contexts, and 15 case studies from Brazil. It examines how governance models, public-private partnerships, and collaborative networks have driven educational reform and innovation. By analyzing real-world examples, the study identifies challenges, such as resistance to change and funding constraints, and opportunities, such as digital advancements and adaptive strategies. The findings emphasize the role of public policy and administration in fostering a well-educated workforce while advocating for empirically validated pedagogical innovations. Recommendations include enhanced evaluations, adaptive strategies, and dissemination of successful practices to support global educational development. Keywords: Public Administration, Educational Innovation, Governance Models, Public-Private Partnerships, Collaborative Networks, Educational Policy.

National climate strategies show inequalities in global development of carbon dioxide geological storage

Carbon dioxide geological storage (CGS) is considered critical for limiting global average temperature rise to below 1.5 °C by mitigating fossil industrial emissions and delivering permanent Carbon Dioxide Removals. Here we examine the role of CGS in long-term national emission reduction strategies submitted to the UNFCCC under the Paris Agreement. We find that a third of countries plan to develop CGS for emissions mitigation only, and a third for both emissions mitigation and carbon removals, but no countries plan on CGS for carbon removals alone. Neither the presence or performance of CGS maturity assessments correspond to CGS plans. Climate strategies of high income countries with high historic oil and gas production show firmest commitment to CGS. These countries already have multiple advantages for implementing and benefiting from CGS, which raises inequalities and sensitivities that must be carefully considered when designing carbon market and climate finance policies and frameworks for CGS development.

The Challenge and Response of Network Security in The Era of Artificial Intelligence

With the emergence of artificial intelligence, new situations, new problems, and new challenges in the field of network security are emerging one after another, affecting the global economic pattern, development pattern, and security pattern, also putting forward higher requirements for network security assurance. Nowadays, cases of using fake audio and video such as AI face-changing and AI voice-changing to commit new cybercrimes occur occasionally. From the individual level, artificial intelligence lowers the threshold for personal cybercrime. At the social level, artificial intelligence forges false information that misleads the public and poses a certain threat to people’s property. This article aims to analyse the function of artificial intelligence and discuss the impact of emerging technologies on social development. This article by comparing domestic and foreign researches on artificial intelligence, using a qualitative research methodology with case studies and literature, and expresses views and ideas regarding the laws about artificial intelligence. The article finds that maintaining network security is the common responsibility of the whole society and requires the joint participation of governments, social organisations, and the majority of netizens. Therefore, it is suggested that other security risks that may be caused by artificial intelligence in the future, should be prevented based on risk prevention, and active use laws and regulations to regulate and guide. Secondly, by referring to the law, ensuring the protection of personal information, and standardise the cyber security environment is so significant. Finally, carry out online publicity and education to improve the network security awareness.

Finansal Gelişme ve Finansal Küreselleşmenin Finansal Piyasalara Etkileri: Türkiye Örneği

A multitude of factors exert influence on stock prices. In this era of globalized capital markets, characterized by the absence of borders and the interpenetration of economies, development and globalization have emerged as pivotal elements in shaping stock prices and financial returns. Noteworthy is the decision made in 1980 in Turkey, wherein policies aimed at import substitution were relinquished, and efforts toward liberalization and globalization were prioritized. In this context, a crucial undertaking entails the examination of capital market returns within Turkey, particularly in the context of development and globalization. This study utilizes a comprehensive econometric analysis, encompassing the period from 1997 to 2021, in order to examine the relationship between the ISE All Shares Closing Prices, Financial Development Index, and Financial Globalization Index. The study employs the Johansen Cointegration Test, a methodology that assesses the long-term relationship between variables that become stationary at the first difference. The research hypothesis posits that stock prices in Türkiye are influenced by globalization and development. The findings of this study revealed a cointegration relationship between the dependent variable, ISE All Shares Closing Prices, and the independent variables, Financial Globalization and Financial Development Indices. However, a long-term causality was identified from the Financial Development Index and ISE All Shares Closing Prices to the Financial Globalization Index.

AQUAPONICS: A SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY FOR AQUACULTURE AND AGRICULTURE FOOD SECURITY

Aquaponics are one of green technologies and that would allow for the production of multiple food products like fish and vegetables in one complete system. Aquaponic systems also have potential as a sustainable food security practice as the production of vegetables and fish can be done simultaneously. The process also supports global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG); SDG 1 (no poverty) and SDG 2 (zero hunger), with the implementation of aquaponic systema by local communities. The aquaponic concept is characterised by the recycling of fish waste into beneficial products and as a source of nutrients and natural fertilisers for plant growth. The synergy between the plants, fish and bacteria in the soil and fish waste benefits all components in the system and promotes a circular economy. This review emphasises the types of aquaponic systems, the fish that are suitable for aquaponic cultivation, the types of vegetables that are suitable for aquaponic cultivation and the benefits of the application of aquaponic systems. Aquaponic systems, help promote a sustainable environment, for the recycling of fish and plant waste into fertilisers that maximise resources use and production yields. In this manner, the system helps the local community improve socioeconomic and income generation as well as supports national and global food security agenda.

The Influence of Product Quality, Service Quality, and Store Atmosphere on Purchasing Decisions McDonald’s Indonesia

The development of globalization has led to the development of fast-food restaurants in the world, one of which is McDonald’s, which is currently growing rapidly in Indonesia. As a large fast-food restaurant, McDonald’s offers various aspects to maintain customer satisfaction. Products, services, and outlets are aspects offered by McDonald’s Indonesia. Therefore, this research focuses on the impact of product quality, service quality, and store atmosphere on purchasing decisions at McDonald’s Indonesia. The population of this study is people who have made purchases at McDonald’s Indonesia with a total sample obtained through distributing questionnaires, namely 413 respondents. Sampling was carried out using the convenience sampling method with respondents who met the criteria, and the data was processed using SMARTPLS version 4 and SPSS software. The results showed that product quality, service quality, and store atmosphere had a positive and significant effect on McDonald’s Indonesia’s purchasing decisions partially and simultaneously.

Definition of the concept and the goals of sustainable development

This article examines the key aspects of the concept of sustainable development, its theoretical foundation, global evolution, and adaptation in Ukraine. Sustainable development is defined as a comprehensive process aimed at harmonizing social, economic, and environmental components to ensure the effective use, conservation, and restoration of the natural environment. It focuses on creating conditions that allow achieving a high quality of life for current and future generations. The concept emerged from the integration of three key subsystems: economic, social, and environmental, and is based on the principle of balance among them. The article highlights the global context of sustainable development, particularly the transition from the Millennium Development Goals (2000) to the Sustainable Development Goals (adopted by the United Nations in 2015). The Sustainable Development Goals – encompass 17 goals and 169 targets, aiming to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, protect the environment, stimulate sustainable economic growth, and strengthen institutional capacity. The article addresses critical aspects such as access to quality education, gender equality, healthcare, combating climate change, and preserving terrestrial and ocean ecosystems. It emphasizes that success in one goal depends on progress in others, necessitating an integrated approach. Special attention is given to the implementation of the SDGs in Ukraine. The article describes the adaptation of global goals to national conditions, the development of a national framework encompassing 86 tasks, the creation of indicators for monitoring implementation, and the establishment of target benchmarks for 2030. The political support for the SDGs is underscored, as demonstrated through strategic documents like the National Report «Sustainable Development Goals: Ukraine» and amendments to governmental regulations, integrating the achievement of the SDGs into state planning processes. The article discusses the importance of monitoring SDG implementation, improving the national statistical system, and establishing continuous oversight of indicators. It mentions Ukraine’s first Voluntary National Review on SDG implementation, presented on the international stage in 2020. The necessity of effective funding for sustainable development is also highlighted, including the attraction of international resources and optimization of existing mechanisms. The initiatives of international organizations such as UNDP, WHO, and UNICEF in collaboration with the Ukrainian government to enhance SDG financing mechanisms are described. The article emphasizes the significance of cross-sectoral collaboration, ensuring transparency, accountability, and participation of all stakeholders in the sustainable development process. It stresses the need to integrate human rights, healthcare, and environmental protection into all aspects of policy and planning. Challenges related to resource shortages, policy inconsistencies, and the need for global coordination are discussed. The article concludes that successful implementation of the SDGs is achievable only through the mobilization of financial resources, the introduction of innovations, and the strengthening of international partnerships.

Medical social work in hospice settings: Bridging clinical care and emotional support

<p>Medical social workers play an indispensable role in hospice settings by addressing the multifaceted needs of patients and their families during end-of-life care. This paper focuses on how their expertise in psychosocial assessment, care planning, advocacy, counseling, and resource coordination ensures holistic, patient-centered care that integrates clinical and emotional support. Medical social workers foster culturally sensitive practices through interdisciplinary collaboration, enhance communication among care teams, and provide tailored interventions that address emotional, social, and spiritual concerns. This integration improves the quality of life for patients and alleviates emotional and systemic burdens on healthcare infrastructures. In addition to their immediate contributions, medical social workers support sustainable healthcare systems by promoting health equity and addressing disparities in hospice care. Their work aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by ensuring equitable access to compassionate care for marginalized populations. Furthermore, their efforts to empower communities, advocate for cost-effective care strategies, and integrate social and medical perspectives contribute to the long-term resilience of healthcare systems. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the role of medical social workers in hospice care becomes increasingly critical. Their ability to address root causes of distress, navigate complex family dynamics, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration exemplifies the necessity of their role in advancing equitable and effective end-of-life care.</p>

Development and Reliability and Validity Test of the Adolescent Global Citizenship Scale

Under the influence of globalization and informatization, the world is gradually becoming a community, and adolescents need corresponding literacy and competence as world citizens in the international community. Based on literature combing and in-depth interviews, this study determines the theoretical conclusions and initial entries of the adolescent global citizenship scale, and revises the entries through the Delphi Method. The final scale was formed through item analysis, factor analysis, reliability, and validity test. The adolescent global citizenship scale includes three-dimensions of global awareness, citizenship, and sustainable development perspective, with a total of 21 items. The exploratory factor analysis extracted three common factors, and the cumulative variance contribution rate was 54.86%; the results of the validation factor analysis showed that the model fit was good. The standardized coefficients of each item in each dimension of the scale were greater than 0.5, the combined reliability was 0.86, 0.89, 0.86, and the total Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.87. Therefore, the reliability of the Adolescent Global Citizenship Scale is good, and it can be used in related research.

BuffExDb: web-based tissue-specific gene expression resource for breeding and conservation programmes in Bubalus bubalis.

Amidst the global challenge of extreme poverty, the livestock sector can significantly contribute to global sustainable development goals by enhancing resilience, smallholder productivity, and market participation. The Indian livestock sector is one of the largest in the world with a total livestock population of 535.82 million, ∼10.7% of the world's livestock population. Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) holds significant importance in India and other Asian countries, notably contributing to their economies by surpassing cattle in milk production and providing various valuable products. The limited availability of genomic and transcriptomic resources for buffaloes hinders the efforts to enhance their traits for increased milk and meat production. To address this gap, this study adopted the state-of-the-art bioinformatics tools to analyse 2429 transcriptomes representing 438 BioSamples from 23 BioProjects obtained from a public domain database, representing 76 different types of tissues and cell types from all major organ systems in buffalo species (river and swamp). The outcome of this exhaustive genomic data led to the development of a relational buffalo expression database based on a three-tier architecture named as BuffExDb (http://46.202.167.198/buffex/). The user-friendliness and flexibilities in retrieval of tissue-specific genes (TSGs) and their functional annotation are the major characteristics of BuffExDb. This is the first of its kind that offers an effortlessly navigable and filterable database, enabling users to examine and visualize the expression levels of each tissue across multiple samples, simultaneously. It also provides the Tau score parameter for the identification of TSGs along with their essential roles in tissue development, maintenance, and function as observed through the enrichment test for gene ontologies. The exhaustive outcome of this work would pave the way for the biological, functional, and evolutionary studies for easy access. This prior information based on tissue-specific mechanisms can be used for future genomic research, especially in association studies in endeavour of enhanced buffalo breeding and conservation programmes. Database URL: http://46.202.167.198/buffex/.

Food loss in Pacific Island Countries: a scoping review of the literature

Food loss and waste pose significant challenges to global food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Pacific Island Countries (PICs), with limited resources, being geographically isolated, and vulnerable to climate change, face unique challenges when it comes to the issue of food loss. This scoping review aims to systematically map the literature on food loss in PICs, addressing knowledge gaps and understanding specific methodological aspects. The review utilizes the PRISMA-ScR process to identify, categorize, and synthesize relevant literature, offering a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence. Studies focusing on food loss in PICs published in English from 2011 to 2023 were included. Exclusion criteria considered studies conducted outside PICs, those lacking food loss reduction interventions, and non-peer-reviewed sources. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the databases of JSTOR, Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science. A total of 5,787 studies for food loss interventions were identified and out of these only 49 met the inclusion criteria. A notable increase in publications from 2011, with a significant surge in 2018 and 2019, indicate a growing interest on the topic. The review reveals a limited focus on this issue across individual PICs and underscores the need for more localized expertise in the region. The review also highlights critical inefficiencies in PIC food supply chains and the need for more studies outside the common root crop agricultural system. The scoping review identified three thematic categories addressing food loss in PICs, namely., the lack of infrastructure and need for innovative technology for post-harvest management; increased vulnerability to climate change and postharvest risks of newer convenient markets. The findings underscore the need for holistic and context-specific approaches to create resilient and sustainable food systems in the Pacific, providing valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners involved in addressing these challenges.

Whom the roads bypass: Rikoti’s East-West connections in a disconnecting Georgia

This paper situates China’s transregional infrastructural engagement in the re/construction of the Rikoti Highway in the South Caucasus, a globally conceived, China-built and Georgia-led mega-infrastructure connectivity project. Engaging Rikoti as an emergent sociotechnical assemblage enables us to reveal the connecting infrastructural capacities from China to Europe in their written, spoken, performed and lived forms. By diluting the ‘Chineseness’ of the Belt and Road Initiative, we lay bare the global entanglements between Chinese and multilateral infrastructure schemes, material constructs, narrative and capital flows that come together along Rikoti. We thereby showcase the co-constructed and relational configurations of transregional infrastructural interventions wherein China’s shapeshifting involvement is but one modality of the global development paradigm that favours large-scale legacy projects. Our multiscalar study unearths the malleable, versatile and even elusive nature of ‘hard’ mega-infrastructures that are nevertheless neither void of geopolitical and geoeconomic ambitions nor decoupled from broader societal developments. While no one is against a better, safer Rikoti, its exclusionary enactment represents creeping authoritarianism in material form. Our insights move beyond the state of the art by rescaling agency and accountability in the rhetorical and practical making of mega-infrastructural interventions, even when they are (purposefully) rendered unlocatable.

International online visits on developing the global mindset of accounting and finance students in Mexico

ABSTRACT With travel restrictions easing post-COVID-19, it is pertinent to assess whether International Online Visits (IOVs) significantly influence the global mindset development of accounting and finance students amidst cancelled international academic activities in business schools. This study uses a mixed method approach, including survey data and interviews with students who chose whether to complete an IOV or not in an accounting and finance course at a university in Mexico. The quantitative results of this study show that IOVs positively affect the development of a global mindset in students and that the development of their professional aspirations mediates the effect. Moreover, the qualitative findings demonstrate that IOVs allowed students to develop their network and impacted their personal lives. Furthermore, the low cost of IOVs proved to be relevant for students. This article contributes to the literature by investigating the link between International Online Visits (IOVs), professional aspirations, and global mindset development.

Design methodology for heavy-haul railway track foundations under 40-tonne axle loads

ABSTRACT Heavy haul railway, recognized for high capacity and efficiency, is gaining traction worldwide. However, heavier axle loads can accelerate track and foundation deterioration without robust structural design. This study proposes a practical design methodology for heavy-haul track foundations under 40-tonne axle loads. Short axle spacing was considered in analyzing train load distribution, revealing significant stress superposition on the subgrade. Based on general strength, deformation, and long-term stability, a standardized multi-axle load pattern (4Z1800/2400) is introduced to capture these effects. The recommended design ensures cumulative deformation remains within the subgrade “working zone” by integrating induced stress levels and fill materials, surpassing single-factor approaches. Long-term stability, indicated by cumulative deformation approaching slow convergence, serves as the control requirement. Proposed design solutions include: 1) roadbed thickness of 3.5 m, with subgrade reaction modulus (K30) ≥110 MPa/m below the roadbed; 2) lower roadbed of 2.3 m, K30 ≥130 MPa/m, with thickness adjustments as needed; 3) upper roadbed of 0.7 m using high-quality graded gravel. These measures effectively control deformation, thus ensuring the performance and longevity of heavy-haul track foundations under extreme axle loads. The outcomes support global heavy-haul development.

Paving the Ecological Foundation of New Industrialization with Green and Low-Carbon Development

Since its inception, the new industrialization has incorporated green and low-carbon into its characteristics. Against the backdrop of the interweaving of global economic development and environmental protection, green development is an inevitable choice for China to break through resource and environmental constraints and promote the development of new industrialization. This article first analyzes the connotation and characteristics of new industrialization and green low-carbon, and then introduces the practical experience of green development in the European Union, the United States, and China. The European Union focuses on transforming energy structure and promoting innovation in green technologies, the United States focuses on supporting green low-carbon development through legislation and building market mechanisms, while China actively explores from top to bottom through policy guidance, industrial transformation, and energy system optimization. Based on domestic and foreign experiences, this article proposes to strengthen the division of responsibilities, improve supply levels, optimize energy structure, and other aspects to cultivate a green background for new industrialization.

Distribution Relationship of Quantum Battery Capacity

AbstractThe distribution relationship of quantum battery capacity is investigated. First, it is proved that for two‐qubit ‐states, the sum of the subsystem battery capacities does not exceed the total system's battery capacity, and the conditions are provided under which they are equal. Then define the difference between the total system's and subsystems' battery capacities as the residual battery capacity () and show that this can be divided into coherent and incoherent components. Furthermore, it is observed that this capacity monogamy relation for quantum batteries extends to general ‐qubit states and any ‐qubit state's battery capacity distribution can be optimized to achieve capacity gain through an appropriate global unitary evolution. Specifically, for general three‐qubit states, stronger distributive relations are derived for battery capacity. Quantum batteries are believed to hold significant potential for outperforming classical counterparts in the future. These findings contribute to the development and enhancement of quantum battery theory.

Hyper-seq Technology and Genome-Wide Selection Breeding of Soybeans

Soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) are a multifunctional crop that contributes significantly to global food security, economic development, and agricultural sustainability. Genomic selection (GS) is widely used in plant breeding, which can effectively reduce breeding costs and shorten the breeding cycle compared to traditional breeding methods. In this study, Hyper-seq technology was used to gather data on 104,728 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites from 420 natural populations of soybean that were chosen as experimental materials. Furthermore, three years’ worth of phenotypic data on the population’s main stem node count were gathered for this investigation. Comparative analysis was used to assess the validity and accuracy of a number of GS models, including Ridge Regression Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (RRBLUP), Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (GBLUP), and various Bayesian techniques (Bayesian_A, Bayesian_B, Bayesian_C, Bayesian_RR, Bayesian_LOOS, and Bayesian_RKHS). Each model’s performance was compared using fivefold cross-validation. The research findings indicate that the data obtained by Hyper-seq technology is particularly useful for breeding experiments, including genome-wide selection. The most accurate of them is Bayesian_A, whereas the one with the quickest computational efficiency is GBLUP. Using Hyper-seq technology requires integrating at least 15,000 SNPs to guarantee the model’s stability. It is also important to note that, even if 153 Hyper-seq datasets are 50% less expensive than 153 Whole Genome Sequencing datasets, the difference in prediction accuracy between the two datasets is less than 4%. This discovery further validates the reliability and efficacy of Hyper-seq technology within the domain of genome-wide selection breeding.

Violation of Arbitration Principles in the Cancellation of National and International Arbitration Decisions by Judicial Institutions

The development of globalization has brought Indonesian into free market and free competition, so that it is impossible to avoid disputes. Disputing parties generally resolve their disputes through courts. However, the parties can also choose alternative dispute resolution outside the courts, one of which is through arbitration. The only advantage of arbitration is its confidential nature as the decision is not published and the arbitration decision is final and binding on the parties. Businessmen avoid publicity over disputes between them, because they do not want company secrets to be known by their rivals and public at large. Nowadays, foreign businessmen argue that Indonesia seen as “unfriendly country” for arbitration. The reason is that arbitration decisions, which are final and binding, can be cancelled. This research uses a normative legal approach and used analytical descriptive specifications. The first conclusion, the reasons for annulling a national arbitration decision are written in Article 70 AAPS Law, the reasons for annulling an international arbitration decision are written in Article V paragraph (1) and (2) New York Convention, and the reasons for rejecting an international arbitration decision are written in Article 66 letter c AAPS Law. Second, the principle of confidentiality of disputes and final and binding arbitration decisions are only contained in the AAPS Law. The process of annulment of an arbitration decision by a judicial institution is subject to the Judicial Power Law which adheres to the principle of open trials for the public and the open opportunity to file legal remedies. Keywords: Arbitration, cancellation of decision, alternative dispute resolution