Economic Challenges Research Articles

Projected number of people in need for long-term care in Germany until 2050.

Current demographic trends predict continuously growing numbers of individuals reliant on care, which has to be accounted for in future planning of long-term care-resources. The projection of developments becomes especially necessary in order to enable healthcare systems to cope with this future burden and to implement suitable strategies to deal with the demand of long-term care. This study aimed to project the prevalence of long-term care and the number of care-dependent people in Germany until 2050. We used the illness-death model to project the future prevalence of long-term care in Germany until 2050 considering eight different scenarios. Therefore, transition rates (incidence rate and mortality rates) describing the illness-death model are needed, which have been studied recently. Absolute numbers of people in need for long-term care were calculated based to the 15th population projection of the Federal Statistical Office. Numbers of people in need for long-term care will increase by at least 12%, namely 5.6 million people, in the period of 2021 until 2050. Assuming an annual incidence-increase of 2% from 2021 to 2050 the number of care-dependent individuals could potentially rise up to 14 million (+180%). Our projections indicated a substantial rise in the number of care-dependent individuals. This is expected to lead to raising economic challenges as well as a stronger demand for healthcare and nursing personnel.

Eksistensi Sekolah Pesisi Juang Dalam Memenuhi Hak Pendidikan Bagi Anak-Anak Pesisir Di Lingkungan Bintaro Kecamatan Ampenan Kota Mataram

This research explores the role of Sekolah Pesisi Juang in fulfilling the educational rights of coastal children in Bintaro, Ampenan, Mataram. The research focuses on the school's contribution to enhancing learning motivation, literacy, and practical skills of the children, who face various social and economic challenges. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The findings show that the school has implemented various educational programs, including Early Childhood Education (PAUD), Pojok Baca, Pojok Kreasi, and additional classes that have successfully helped meet the educational needs of these children. The study also highlights supporting and inhibiting factors in the school's efforts and presents strategies for overcoming obstacles.

From Crisis to Recovery: Successful Experiences in the Eradication of Narcotics in Afghanistan Local Communities

Afghanistan, as one of the world’s largest producers of narcotics, faces significant social, economic, and health challenges. Despite numerous efforts to combat the cultivation and consumption of narcotics, the issue remains a major problem in many local communities. However, some of these communities have succeeded in achieving remarkable progress in reducing narcotics cultivation and consumption through participatory programs and alternative economic development. This research aims to identify and analyze the successful experiences in narcotics eradication in local Afghan communities and to evaluate the factors contributing to these successes. A qualitative methodology was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with local community members, experts, and government officials. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings of the research indicate that educational programs, awareness-raising initiatives, the development of alternative economic opportunities, and active community participation have played a crucial role in reducing narcotics cultivation and consumption. Nevertheless, challenges such as financial constraints, administrative corruption, and cultural resistance remain significant barriers to the successful implementation of these programs. The study concludes that with increased international support, administrative transparency, and strengthened educational and economic programs, the dependency of local communities on narcotics cultivation can be significantly reduced. This research provides a foundation for the development of effective national policies in the fight against narcotics in Afghanistan.

Parenting a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Jordanian's perspectives.

Raising your child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Jordan is a challenge due to the prevailing behavioral concerns, low availability of specialized care, and generalized feelings of social stigma. This phenomenological study involved twelve Jordanian parents of children aged 4-14years, all diagnosed with ADHD according to DSM-IV-TR criteria. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: "The Journey through ADHD," in which parents recognized the abnormalities of their children, reported suffering during the diagnosis, and described a wide range of uncertainty regarding the diagnosis and treatments. The second theme was "Disease as part of life," where parents reported the impact on family dynamics and social life. The third theme was "Caregiving burden," reflecting physical and emotional exhaustion and financial burden. Jordanian parents caring for children with ADHD face several challenges, including physical, emotional, economic, and social challenges and limited access to specialized services. Identifying their unique needs and challenges is essential in supporting them, providing appropriate services and resources, and developing policies and guidelines for culturally competent quality services.

Robotic Single Anastomosis Duodenal-ileal Bypass With Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S) for Morbid Obesity: A Systematic Review.

The global obesity epidemic has seen a dramatic increase in prevalence since 1975, posing significant health and economic challenges worldwide. Robotic-assisted single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) has emerged as a promising surgical intervention for morbid obesity, offering potential advantages over traditional laparoscopic approaches in terms of precision, safety, and recovery outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of robotic-assisted SADI-S, focusing on perioperative and postoperative outcomes including intraoperative complications, operative time, conversion rates, mortality, length of hospital stay, weight loss, and postoperative complications. A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, adhering to inclusion and exclusion criteria focused on obese adult humans undergoing robotic SADI-S. Seven studies, published between 2015 and 2024, involving 204 patients, were ultimately included for analysis. The analysis revealed a low rate of intraoperative complications (0.49%), no mortality, and varied operative times (138 to 205.7 min). The median hospital stay ranged from 2 to 6.7 days, with minimal readmission rates. Postoperative complications occurred in 6.37% of patients, but no late complications (>30 days) were reported. Notably, significant weight loss outcomes were documented, with mean excess weight loss (EWL) up to 113.74% at 24 months follow-up. Robotic-assisted SADI-S demonstrates a favourable safety profile with promising weight loss outcomes, highlighting its potential as a primary or revisional treatment for morbid obesity. Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to establish its long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional laparoscopic methods.

Challenges and Strategies for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage in Modern China

Intangible cultural heritage encompasses a nation’s traditional culture and wisdom, offering a profound reflection of the lives and thoughts of its predecessors. This heritage manifests in diverse forms, including artistic performances, music, handicrafts, and festivals. Despite its cultural significance, the protection and inheritance of intangible cultural heritage face numerous challenges in modern society. These challenges are exacerbated by rapid urbanization, globalization, and the decline of traditional practices. Previous studies have predominantly explored these issues from cultural and historical perspectives, often overlooking the critical economic factors that influence heritage preservation. This article seeks to fill this gap by examining the difficulties and problems faced by intangible cultural heritage through a comprehensive lens that includes cultural, economic, and social aspects. By analyzing these multifaceted challenges, we aim to uncover the underlying economic dynamics that hinder effective heritage preservation. Moreover, this research will propose innovative solutions to address economic challenges and enhance the protection and inheritance of intangible cultural heritage. Ultimately, this article aims to provide new perspectives and positive impacts on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of an economic approach to its preservation and transmission to future generations.

Anticipating prosperity: a systemic analysis of long-term economic trajectories

PurposeThis study introduces an innovative approach to long-term economic forecasting by integrating anticipatory governance (AG) and causal layered analysis methodologies. Focussing on emerging economies, with Vietnam as a case study, we explore potential economic trajectories to 2050.Design/methodology/approachThe research employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative economic projections with qualitative scenario building and analysis.FindingsOur findings reveal four distinct future scenarios, ranging from low growth to transformative change. The preferred scenario, characterized by adaptive change, projects a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $30,684 by 2050, with significant reductions in agricultural labour and improvements in human development indicators.Originality/valueThis study contributes to theoretical and practical domains by demonstrating the value of integrated foresight methodologies in economic planning. It offers policymakers a comprehensive framework for navigating complex, long-term economic challenges and opportunities. This research underscores the importance of adaptive governance and systemic thinking in achieving sustainable, inclusive economic growth in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

Norita is the first of many self-managed community neighbourhoods to come: A conversation with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area (Part II)

These two conversations with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in Buenos Aires reflect the ongoing struggle for housing rights in Argentina. The discussions detail the development of the self-managed community, which emerged from land occupations in Guernica during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants highlight the collective efforts to secure land through self-organization and assembly-based decision-making, ultimately purchasing land to establish a neighbourhood for 62 families. The conversations explore the obstacles faced, including government repression, real estate speculation, and economic challenges, while also emphasizing the critical role of feminist leadership and multisectoral collaboration in their fight for land and housing rights. Additionally, the residents connect their local struggle to broader national and international movements for land reclamation and workers' rights. This underscores the urgency of solidarity and collective action in confronting neoliberal policies and housing precarity.

Norita is the first of many self-managed community neighbourhoods to come: A conversation with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area (Part II)

These two conversations with organizers and residents of Barrio Norita Cortiñas in Buenos Aires reflect the ongoing struggle for housing rights in Argentina. The discussions detail the development of the self-managed community, which emerged from land occupations in Guernica during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants highlight the collective efforts to secure land through self-organization and assembly-based decision-making, ultimately purchasing land to establish a neighbourhood for 62 families. The conversations explore the obstacles faced, including government repression, real estate speculation, and economic challenges, while also emphasizing the critical role of feminist leadership and multisectoral collaboration in their fight for land and housing rights. Additionally, the residents connect their local struggle to broader national and international movements for land reclamation and workers' rights. This underscores the urgency of solidarity and collective action in confronting neoliberal policies and housing precarity.

Employers and the Privatization of Public Health

This Article focuses on the role of employers in public health and argues that they constitute increasingly important actors in the U.S. public health arena. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, a series of judicial decisions and newly enacted statutes enfeebled the public health powers of the federal and state governments. In a 2023 statement, Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch clearly articulated his antagonism toward government-initiated COVID-19 interventions, describing them as “the greatest intrusions on civil liberties in the peacetime history of this country.” All too many share his views. Employers may be highly motivated to safeguard their workers’ health. Without healthy staff members, they cannot keep their doors open, and without visible pandemic protections, they cannot reassure concerned customers that their premises are safe. During COVID-19, many employers established mask, testing, social distancing, and vaccine rules even in the absence of government mandates. Employers’ profit motives do not diminish their contributions to public health. Their contributions can significantly reduce health disparities by protecting vulnerable individuals who otherwise face health care access barriers and economic challenges that exacerbate their risks. This Article posits that in future public health emergencies, the United States will increasingly rely on those with a financial stake in individuals’ health. Federal and state government authorities should therefore embrace employers as public health partners. To that end, this Article develops recommendations concerning guidance and funding support that should be available to assist employers in their emergency response efforts.

Cost-benefit analysis: just a step in the HIA process

Abstract The economic analysis within Health Impact Assessments (HIA) is a critical component in informing public policy decisions by assessing the financial implications of health outcomes associated with the different intervention options. Health metrics play a role defining the cost-effectiveness and societal value associated with the interventions. These metrics, quantifying the health impacts, include quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), years of life lost (YLLs) or disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). On another level, such metrics need to be translated into cost-effectiveness and societal value in which other methods play a role, such as the value of statistical life (VSL) or the value of a life year (VOLY). While VSL quantifies the value individuals place on reducing mortality risk, VOLY evaluates the value attributed to extending life expectancy. On another hand, uncertainties related to economic valuation pose challenges to the accuracy and reliability of cost estimates within HIA. These come from several factors, including data quality, methodological differences across studies, and subjective judgments involved in valuing health states. In fact, estimating the economic value of a prevented death involves multifaceted considerations and important assumptions. Additionally, assigning monetary values to non-fatal health outcomes, such as disability or reduced quality of life, involves subjective assessments and value judgments. By selecting appropriate metrics, considering diverse data sources, and addressing methodological steps and uncertainties, HIA practitioners can improve the utility of economic assessments, facilitating evidence-based decision-making in public health policy and resource allocation. This work was supported by National Funds through FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia,I.P., within CINTESIS, R&D Unit (reference UIDP/4255/2020).

Impacts of Micro-irrigation Technologies in Maharashtra: A Review

Micro-irrigation technologies have been an integral part of modern agriculture. Ranging from ‘increased crop yield’ to ‘improved economic benefit,’ such systems have much to offer. However, costly installation procedures and high socioeconomic barriers restrict their diffusion with relatively cheap alternatives. Appropriate policies and innovative approaches enable crossing these barriers only if carefully crafted to meet economic, technological and socio-economic challenges. This review offers an overview of significant strategic policies and new-generation micro-irrigation technologies that would help tap their full potential. Based on previous studies and individual experiences from India, an assessment of the transformative impacts of micro-irrigation has been done. These micro-irrigation technologies are proving highly beneficial for Maharashtra. The main gains that accrued to farmers from the process include reduced costs of cultivation, lesser dependence on chemicals and pesticides, conservation of water resourcesand less expenditure on labor. The above results manifest the contribution or role of micro-irrigation to accelerate sustainable agriculture, which induces a second green revolution imbued with higher productivity, efficiency in resource mobilization and economic prosperity.

Harnessing nature-based solutions for economic recovery: A systematic review

Nature-based solutions (NbS) involve working with nature to address societal challenges in ways that benefit communities and biodiversity locally. However, their role supporting economic recovery from crises, such as those arising from conflicts or pandemics remains underexplored. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review of 66 reviews on the economic impact of nature-based interventions. Most demonstrated positive outcomes for income and employment, though those with critical appraisal of underlying studies reported more mixed outcomes. These varied results were influenced by factors such as the balance between short-term and long-term gains, market conditions, regional effects, reliance on subsidies, and discrepancies between expected and actual economic benefits. National-scale economic growth assessments were scarce. Half of the cases featured nature-based food production investments, with much evidence from sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia and the Pacific. The few reviews comparing NbS with alternatives found that NbS delivered equal or better economic outcomes. NbS also provided broader benefits like food and water security, flood protection and community empowerment. We identified key factors influencing the delivery of benefits and trade-offs, finding that NbS must adhere to best practice standards, with community involvement being critical for equitable outcomes. Well-designed NbS can create diverse job opportunities at different skill levels, diversify income, and improve resilience, offering a rapid, flexible response to economic shocks that can be targeted at deprived communities. By integrating traditional, local and scientific knowledge, NbS can enable eco-innovation, and drive the transition to a clean and efficient circular economy, with high economic multipliers spreading benefits throughout economies. The evidence underscores the need to incorporate NbS in investment programs to concurrently address economic, environmental, and societal challenges. However, improved monitoring of economic, social and ecological outcomes and the development of comprehensive accounting systems are needed to better track public and private investments in NbS.

Exploring the Spatiotemporal Heterogeneities in Urban Vitality Through Scalable Proxies from Mobile Data

Jane Jacob’s concepts of urban vitality and diversity have become prevailing urban planning philosophies in most countries for making cities more livable. Recent changes in demographics and the impacts of COVID-19 have exacerbated the economic and social challenges that cities commonly face, particularly spatiotemporal heterogeneities. Being able to understand these heterogeneities in scalable approaches is fundamental to tackling these challenges in cities. Therefore, this article aims to provide a new form of scalable estimation of urban vitality by using the de facto population. Instead of merely adopting static statistical information such as morphological characteristics in areas, we leverage dynamic factors such as internal mobility flows and energy use intensity as proxies for the spatiotemporal dynamics of indoor and outdoor behaviors of crowds. In this way, we combine dynamic attributes and static features to describe the patterns of urban vitality, which are directly related to spatiotemporal dynamics in urban places. We utilize GNSS-based mobile data and building energy usage intensity as dynamic proxies along with static data such as land use mix and age distribution. To better capture spatial heterogeneity, we use a Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) model to identify the relationships between the de facto population and the dynamic and static factors. Drawing from the factors determining urban vitality, this article provides policy implications for alleviating spatiotemporal urban imbalances. These data-driven implications can fill the technical knowledge gaps in establishing planning strategies for achieving urban sustainability while enhancing overall subjective livability.

Regional Workforce Dynamics in West Virginia: Insights from Shift-Share and Location Quotient Analysis

West Virginia, home to approximately 1.77 million residents, has been grappling with significant economic challenges characterized by persistent poverty and sluggish growth. Despite ongoing development efforts, the state’s Gross State Product (GSP) has seen only a modest increase of 0.1% over the past five years, reaching USD 71.7 billion, while the unemployment rate remains at 4.0%. The annualized employment growth rate of 0.7% lags behind the national average, and only about 54% of West Virginia’s adult population is either employed or actively seeking employment, resulting in one of the lowest labor force participation rates in the nation. In contrast, certain industrial sectors, such as healthcare, social assistance, retail trade, and accommodation and food services, have shown intermittent growth at the county and regional levels. To explore the unique characteristics and significance of these regions in relation to employment growth, this study examines regional employment patterns in West Virginia from 2001 to 2020, focusing on the main regions of the state: Metro Valley, Mid-Ohio Valley, New River/Greenbrier Valley, Mountain Lakes, and Potomac Highlands. Utilizing shift-share and location quotient (LQ) analyses, this research identifies the sectors driving regional employment and assesses their performance. Key findings reveal strong sectoral performance in mining, manufacturing, and finance in the Mid-Ohio Valley; wholesale trade, transportation, and utilities in the Metro Valley; agriculture and administrative services in the New River/Greenbrier Valley; agriculture and manufacturing in the Potomac Highlands; and scientific services, healthcare, and utilities in the Mountain Lakes region. Based on these insights, this study recommends targeted policy interventions to address regional disparities, enhance sectors with significant short- and long-term benefits, and foster balanced economic development across the state.

THE EVOLVING LANDSCAPE OF INVESTOR PROTECTION: BALANCING STATE SOVEREIGNTY AND INVESTOR RIGHTS IN THE 21ST CENTURY

The evolving landscape of investor protection in the 21st century requires a delicate balance between safeguarding investor rights and preserving state sovereignty. As global investments expand, investors seek legal assurances to protect their assets, while states must retain the ability to regulate in the public interest, addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges. This tension has sparked debates about the role of investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanisms and the need for reform. By modernizing investment treaties and dispute resolution processes, the international community can create a more equitable system that fosters both investment and sustainable development, ensuring mutual benefits for investors and states alike.

From Gaming Elements to Purchase Intentions: The Influence of Perceived Enjoyment and Promotion Focus in Online Travel Bookings

This study examines the impact of gamification on purchase intentions in Malaysia's online travel booking industry. As traditional platforms like Expedia face declining bookings due to economic challenges and the rise of competitors such as Airbnb, Agoda, and Booking.com, understanding the role of gamification in user engagement becomes crucial. The research employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the effects of extrinsic and intrinsic gaming elements, perceived enjoyment, and promotional focus on purchase intention. A total of 141 respondents participated in the survey and the key findings reveal that extrinsic gaming elements, including points and rewards, have a significantly stronger impact on perceived enjoyment than intrinsic elements like membership levels. This heightened enjoyment, in turn, positively influences purchase intention. Additionally, the study finds that promotional focus moderates the relationship between perceived enjoyment and purchase intention, further enhancing the effect. The Importance-Performance Map Analysis (IPMA) indicates that while intrinsic gaming elements perform below average, they are less critical than other factors. Managers should prioritize improving aspects of high importance, but currently have, low performance to boost purchase intentions effectively. Overall, the research provides actionable insights for enhancing competitiveness in Malaysia's digital travel marketplace, emphasizing the need for targeted gamification strategies to align with evolving consumer preferences. The findings offer a foundation for developing strategies that can help travel platforms maintain relevance and drive engagement in a competitive landscape.

Using sport to promote the well-being among Latinx immigrants in the United States

Drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of Latino Critical Race Theory (LatCrit) and Sport for Development and Peace Theory, this study seeks to examine the potential of sport participation, physical activity, and community programs as mechanisms for addressing the challenges confronted by Latinx immigrants in the United States. The research is anchored by two primary questions: What social, legal, and economic challenges are encountered by Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, undocumented individuals, and the broader Latinx community in the United States, and how might involvement in sports, physical activity, and community events help mitigate these challenges. To investigate these questions, an ethnographic methodology was adopted, with data collected over a 13-week period in a predominantly Latinx community in Houston, Texas. The research findings underscore the resilience demonstrated by these individuals in response to the complex challenges within US society and highlight the crucial role of community-oriented sports and cultural programs in fostering inclusivity. The authors provide a comprehensive analysis of the findings and offer recommendations for future practical initiatives centered on community-oriented approaches.

A New Approach to Measuring Institutional and Researcher Contributions to the SDGs: Combining Data from Elsevier SciVal and VOSviewer

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established by the United Nations in 2015, are a comprehensive global framework that addresses social, economic, and environmental challenges through sustainable development. This study examines the role of universities, specifically focusing on the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang (UNIMMA), in contributing to the SDGs. The study utilized data from Elsevier’s SciVal to analyze the department’s contribution to the SDGs through scientific publications in the Scopus database. A total of 97 out of 156 articles published by nine researchers from the department were found to contribute to various SDGs, with a significant focus on Goals 7 (affordable and clean energy), 17 (partnerships for the goals), 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), and 12 (responsible consumption and production). The study highlights the department’s collaborative efforts and alignment with global sustainability goals. In addition, VOSviewer was used to map the research collaboration network within the department, revealing strong contributions to energy efficiency, sustainable technologies, and climate action. However, the department's research shows limited contribution to social SDGs such as poverty alleviation and gender equality. By mapping the university’s contributions to the SDGs, this study helps faculty members identify opportunities for targeted research collaborations, address gaps in SDG contributions, and enhance partnerships with researchers from other institutions, thus broadening the university’s impact on global sustainable development goals.

Quantitative evidence of the community of shared future for mankind as a driver of sustainable development in human society

In an era marked by global economic challenges, an increasing array of non-traditional security threats, and a proliferation of conflicts and issues, China has put forth the building of a community of shared future for mankind as a way to address this question of the times. The theory of the community of shared future for mankind offers a framework to address contemporary issues by promoting equality, mutual benefit, security, justice, openness, innovation, multicultural exchange, and green development. This paper innovatively quantifies the five core principles of the theory of the community of shared future for mankind using the entropy method. It calculates the proxy variable for sustainable development, green total factor productivity, using the super-efficiency Slack-Based Measure model in Data Envelopment Analysis. Baseline regression is conducted on this basis. The Principal Component Analysis method and another Data Envelopment Analysis method, the Malmquist index, are utilized to recalculate the indicators, followed by another round of regression analysis. The results are consistent with the baseline regression. Additionally, Ordinary Least Squares, Partial Least Squares, Maximum Likelihood Estimation, Ridge regression, and Lasso regression are employed to ensure the robustness of the results. The findings indicate a significant positive relationship between the community of a shared future for mankind and the sustainable development of human society, with consistent conclusions drawn from different calculation methods and regression techniques. Through value recognition, international cooperation based on benefit-sharing and mutual reciprocity can guide humanity towards a harmonious coexistence with nature, irrespective of regional and economic disparities. This study provides quantitative evidence of the impact of the community of a shared future for mankind on the sustainable development of human society, filling a gap in existing research. Based on these findings, feasible policy recommendations are proposed to promote sustainable development in human society.