Geographical Aspects Research Articles

Nine decades of research on Zostera capensis: from foundational science to conservation and resilience

Cape dwarf eelgrass Zostera capensis is the most abundant seagrass in South Africa, with some isolated populations occurring along the East African coastline. Providing numerous ecosystem services that support biodiversity and human wellbeing, it is endangered throughout its distribution. As such, the long-term persistence of Z. capensis is uncertain and novel approaches are required to reverse declines and the loss of associated critical ecosystem functions. Central to this is the need to build on existing scientific knowledge, so that habitat requirements, responses to future global change pressures and the functional significance of Z. capensis from a socio-ecological perspective can be better understood. In this comprehensive review, we summarise 8 key topics from 197 studies published between 1933 and 2023 and present a timely overview of research conducted on Z. capensis. Some of the earliest research that focussed on foundational knowledge included geographical distribution and aspects of seagrass ecology and physiology. In the last 3 decades, the breadth and diversity of research increased to encompass themes particularly relevant to ecological value and conservation, including emerging approaches such as conservation genomics, restoration and assessing the value of seagrass meadows in the context of blue carbon. This review also identifies critical gaps in our understanding of Z. capensis, including the impact of pollutants and sea level rise on seagrass persistence, novel techniques for mapping seagrass meadows, the interaction of microbiomes and seagrass health, alternative sources for upscaling seagrass restoration, increasing management and conservation efforts and engaging with people’s perceptions on the value of seagrass meadows.

A three-stage framework for optimal site selection of hybrid offshore wind-photovoltaic-wave-hydrogen energy system: A case study of China

The integration of offshore wind-photovoltaic-wave-hydrogen production is a sustainable energy development concept that could smooth the intermittency of renewable energy generation, reduce energy abandonment, and improve energy efficiency. However, the successful deployment of a hybrid offshore wind-photovoltaic-wave-hydrogen energy system is premised on the selection of an appropriate location, which necessitates a robust framework to support this decision. This study proposes a three-stage decision framework based on Geographic Information System and multi-criteria decision-making to determine the optimal location from macro and micro perspectives. To ensure the effectiveness of site selection, it develops a comprehensive criteria system, including exclusion criteria and evaluation criteria, encompassing geographical, resource, economy, risk, and sustainable potential aspects. Then, the spatial simulation of alternative sites is conducted according to exclusion criteria to rule out infeasible alternative sites. The multi-criteria decision-making in the third stage is performed in a rough-fuzzy environment to eliminate the uncertainty in decision-making. Finally, a case study is conducted on Hainan Island, China. The results show that the western sea area of Dongfang City is the optimal location to deploy the hybrid offshore wind-photovoltaic-wave-hydrogen energy system. The proposed framework offers a reference for practical offshore renewable energy project implementation.

An assessment of economy- and transport-oriented health performance

BackgroundGood health can prolong one’s lifespan and is a fundamental human right. Thus, human health is being influenced by prejudiced from sociological, environmental, economic, and geographic aspects. The economy and transportation system pose a serious challenge to the assessment of the health performance of economies.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the health performance of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) economies by using economic and transport-related indicators and examining the role of health expenditure and governance in improving efficiency.MethodsThis study measures the economy- and transport-oriented health efficiency of 35 OECD economies for the period of 2000–2022. In the first stage, this study employs a slacks-based measure and the data envelopment analysis–window analysis approach to conduct individual (economy and transportation) and joint assessments to measure health efficiency. In the second stage, this study uses the tobit regression method to investigate the effects of influencing factors, namely, government general health and pharmaceutical expenditures, the medical infrastructure, and governance, on health efficiency.ResultsEmpirical results reveal that a 1-unit change in the health expenditure during the research period improves economy-oriented health efficiency by 71% and transport-oriented health efficiency by 58%. The econometric analysis demonstrates that all the coefficients of economy- and transport-oriented health efficiency are significant and positive. Notably, a 1-unit change in the medical infrastructure increases economy- and transport-oriented health efficiency by 50.8%, and a 1% increase in pharmaceutical expenditure increases the health, economy, and transport efficiency scores by 16.3%, 33%, and 58.6%, respectively.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that some of the economies were efficient with regard to their health-oriented outputs, that is, quality of life and mortality and morbidity rates, and most of the economies demonstrated excellent economic performance. The findings of the transport-oriented health efficiency assessment reveal that the economies were unable to perform well in the last year of the research period owing to the nationwide lockdowns. Nonetheless, they demonstrated efficiency in the first half of the research period. The joint assessment of economy- and transport-oriented health efficiency indicates that economic and transport input resources can adversely affect the GDP and life expectancy simultaneously, and the medical infrastructure, pharmaceutical expenditure, and number of medical graduates serve as constructive stimuli for health efficiency improvement.

Capturing mobile, situational, and multi-dimensional tourist experience: an integrated approach

ABSTRACT Inspired by the critical and mobility turns in tourism studies, this article provides a conceptualisation of understanding tourist experiences on the move, along with an integrated methodology for tracking mobile tourist experiences. It argues that tourist experience is mobile and situational. Multi-dimensional aspects of tourist experience evolve and interact during their journey. Based on recent theoretical and methodological advancements, this article proposes an integrated approach to capturing the geographic, sensory, social, and emotional aspects of tourist experiences at specific places and times throughout their journey. To offer a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate and evolving nature of tourist experiences in different geographical contexts, this approach integrates Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking, portable sound levels sensing, and wearable physiological sensing technologies, together with Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) survey, in-situ photos and videos, and photo – and video-elicited interviews. A study case of the mobile tourist experience on Mount Huangshan in China is used to illustrate the integrated approach. Finally, this article concludes by discussing theoretical contributions, methodological advancements, and practical implications, which lay foundations for understanding the dynamics and complexities of tourist experiences in future studies.

Assessing the political vulnerability of National Parks in sub‐Saharan Africa using data on digital trends and engagement

Abstract National Parks (NPs) and other protected areas in sub‐Saharan Africa are crucial in attracting international tourists interested in wildlife tourism, contributing to national economies. Despite their cultural, economic, and conservation significance, these areas face diverse development threats, leading to pressures for protected area downgrading, downsizing, or degazettement (known as PADDD). We comprehensively analyse the geographical, historical, and structural aspects of 322 NPs in sub‐Saharan Africa and assess their political vulnerability by exploring the interplay of development pressures and public interest (as measured through Wikipedia page views). Fewer than 30% of these NPs possess or report information regarding management plans, even among the five most frequently viewed areas on Wikipedia. This is particularly concerning, since among those who underwent a PADDD event (51 NPs), almost 90% of them also had no information about the existence of management plans. Although we did not identify a statistically significant association between tourism and public interest online, tourism emerges as a potential mitigating factor against PADDD, along with high levels of peace. NPs that garner significant public interest online do not share the same socio‐geographic profile as parks that are most resilient to PADDD events. While digital metrics of public interest have potential as indicators of political resilience in NP, our research has shown that these metrics need refinement to fully understand which biophysical and cultural aspects of parks attract more public attention. Overall, effective conservation strategies in sub‐Saharan Africa require a more holistic understanding of historical, socio‐economic, and cultural factors. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility Policy on Customers' Appetite to Buy Environmental Friendly Products before and After COVID-19

Purpose: This research aims to thoroughly examine the diverse effects of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on consumer Appetite, specifically concentrating on consumers' inclination toward purchasing environmentally sustainable products. Notably, we investigate consumers' perceptions across different periods, scrutinizing behavioral shifts before and after the COVID-19 era. Design/Methodology/Approach: Employing a robust empirical strategy, our survey methodology involves a substantial sample of 815 respondents, focusing on the demographic of young consumers in Bangladesh-a dynamic developing nation. The data collection process encompasses a meticulously crafted questionnaire, and our analysis employs the sophisticated framework of structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Our insights go beyond conventional observations, revealing a nuanced understanding of consumer priorities even in the wake of the pandemic. Consumers consistently prioritize corporate practices related to circular economy principles, the geographical aspects of cloth production, raw material origins, pollution control, workers' rights, and the responsible utilization of recycled materials. Originality/value: This study introduces an original model that significantly contributes to comprehending the impact of CSR on consumer behavior, highlighting its relevance for policymakers in Bangladesh. The implications extend beyond the immediate scope, influencing strategies for integrating eco-friendly products into the broader business environment. Consequences: The empirical findings in this study challenge existing assumptions, emphasizing the pivotal influence of environmental considerations on shaping positive consumer behavior. Beyond superficial observations, this research offers a more sophisticated view of the intricate processes, providing significant insights for academics, industry experts, and businesses.

Evidence from resected early-stage non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutation: a literature review.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in early-stages (I-IIIA) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation may have specific epidemiological, clinical characteristics and treatment implications. This review aims to summarise the available evidence on these particularities, especially focusing on patient characteristics, treatment outcomes and safety with EGFR-tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI). An exhaustive search of international bibliographic databases, as well as in abstracts of communications from major international congresses was performed for evidence related to EGFR-mutated NSCLC or early-stage NSCLC published in English before December 31st, 2023. Early-stage NSCLC with EGFR mutation presents with a variable incidence depending on geographical aspects. The clinical, radiological and molecular features differ slightly from both early-stage NSCLC without EGFR mutation and advanced NSCLC with EGFR mutation. Adjuvant treatment with the third-generation EGFR-TKI osimertinib has led to improvements in disease-free survival and overall survival (OS) in these patients, representing a practice changing and a new standard of care in clinical practice. No new safety signals have been reported with EGFR-TKI in the adjuvant setting. Clinical trials are ongoing to explore new therapeutic options in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant setting as well as the optimal duration of adjuvant osimertinib. Detection of EGFR mutation in early-stage NSCLC is an important goal due to the different characteristics and additional therapeutic options that improve patient outcomes and follow-up.

The Metaverse Territorial Brand: A Contemporary Concept

The “Metaverse Territorial Brand” integrates core and interconnected elements into a virtual, interactional, experiential, and immersive space known as the metaverse. This type of brand encompasses the connection with immersive territories that may or may not be digital twins of real territories. It also encompasses two interconnected physical scales: the territorial and the regional, involved in another type of emerging territorial scale, known as the metaversal scale. Therefore, the “Metaverse Territorial Brand” is a digital-immersive extension of the territorial brand of physical territories, encompassing specific geographical and cultural aspects, but directed to the metaverse environment. This brand is a symbolic digital construction, but also a multifaceted one that incorporates discursive and visual elements, articulated by the social actors of the immersive territory, aiming to create a specific and distinct identity for a space in the metaverse. When talking about social actors in the metaverse (users), we highlight that this set of actors may or may not be the same as the physical territory. It is also important to highlight that both the territorial brand directed to physical territories and the “Metaverse Territorial Brand” are formed from the power relations of a given set of social actors. Therefore, without the strategic intention of a plurality of social actors that stimulate these relationships, there is no type of territorial brand involved.

The Locomotor Movement Abilities of Children Aged 5-6 Years in Terms of Geographical Aspects (Coastal and Mountain Areas)

This study examines the differences in locomotor abilities of children aged 5-6 years in two locations, namely coastal and mountainous areas in Kebumen City, Indonesia. This is important because children's locomotor outcomes are still poor and there has been no identification of locomotor abilities judging from previous studies that only examined manipulative movement abilities. Overall, this study contributes greatly to future research by providing important insights into how environmental and geographical factors interact with children's physical development, which in turn can aid in the creation of more effective policies and interventions to support holistic child development. Using descriptive research methods, the population was 40 schools specifically for coastal and mountainous areas, then sampling was carried out in 2 stages, namely using cluster random sampling techniques and then purposive sampling. The sample size was 130 with details of 65 children in coastal areas and 65 in mountainous regions. This instrument has been validated and reliable on 135 children in Indonesia with a validity result of 2.27 > t table 1.65 and reliability of 0.765. The statistical test results showed a p value = 0.013 which means that there is a relationship between children's locomotor abilities with geography in the two different locations, namely mountains and coasts. The average child's locomotor ability in coastal areas was found to be superior compared to mountainous areas.

Exploring Social Science Viewpoints on the Factors Influencing and Reactions to Global Climate Change

This article presents an extensive review of contemporary studies in the fields of anthropology, archaeology, geography, and sociology, examining the human activities that contribute to climate change. It specifically emphasizes the factors that lead to carbon emissions, as well as strategies for reducing their impact and adapting to the changing environment. The four disciplines prioritize cultural, economic, geographical, historical, political, and social-structural aspects as significant catalysts and reactions to climate change. Each of these fields offers distinct viewpoints and valuable insights into the factors caused by human activity, but they also operate together and contribute to comprehensive, interdisciplinary frameworks. The article commences by examining research on the temporal aspects of human activities that contribute to carbon emissions. It emphasizes the interplay between long-term and short-term factors that influence these emissions. Subsequently, detailed explanations of how the disciplines have contributed to the comprehension of mitigation as well as adaptation are presented. The article concludes with a concise overview of the main lessons provided by the four disciplines, along with recommendations for further investigation.

Sustainable development and environmental protection in the Absheron peninsula: a geo-ecological perspective

The research focuses on the ecological and geographical aspects of the Absheron region in Azerbaijan, highlighting the significant environmental challenges and the need for sustainable resource management. Given the region’s rapid economic development and urbanization, there is a crucial need to balance economic growth with environmental conservation to ensure long-term ecological stability. The Absheron region faces numerous environmental issues due to intensive industrial activities, particularly in the oil and gas sectors, and increasing urbanization. These activities have led to significant anthropogenic impacts, necessitating comprehensive studies to assess and mitigate their effects on the natural environment. The article’s primary aim is to analyze the current dynamics of economic progress in the Absheron peninsula, assess the anthropogenic impacts, and identify efficient strategies for environmental management. The study also aims to provide a comprehensive ecological survey of the region, focusing on sustainable green economic practices. There has been significant urban growth in cities like Baku, Sumgayit, and Khyrdalan, contributing to increased environmental pressure. Modern settlements and infrastructure development have played a crucial role in organizing advanced systems for economic purposes. The economic activities, particularly in the oil sector, have significantly impacted the region’s natural complexes, necessitating the implementation of green economy principles. Effective management practices are essential to prevent pollution, maintain ecological balance, and protect natural resources. The study highlights the importance of greening initiatives and emergency response plans to manage environmental risks. The author emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to economic development and environmental conservation in the Absheron region. The study provides valuable insights into the ecological and geographical challenges of the Absheron region and offers practical solutions for achieving sustainable development. The article outlines the potential of geographic information systems and remote sensing technologies in monitoring and managing environmental change, in particular, in assessing the impact of industrial activity and urban expansion. The results of the study indicate the need for a comprehensive policy that combines economic development goals with environmental protection measures to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and economic prosperity in the Absheron Peninsula.

„A szabadság fantomjai”

The rise to power of General Francisco Franco in Spain was followed after an extremely subversive civil war and bloody reprisals, which led most to perceive his system as oppressive and dictatorial. Correspondingly, various forms of anti-Francoist resistance characterized the regime from the moment of its establishment until its final days. One of the most radical and heroic forms of resistance was guerilla warfare, which unfolded over the years. Among its represent atives were active, persistent, and self-sacrificing participants from the anarchist movement in Spain. They either operated in the underground movement or were forced into exile after the civil war. This study attempts to briefly summarize the most important features of the guerilla activities maintained by anarchists, including its chronological and geographical aspects, as well as its tactics and methods. It also examines certain key actors – individuals, groups, and organizations – along with their motivations and the results they achieved.

Snow Detection in Gaofen-1 Multi-Spectral Images Based on Swin-Transformer and U-Shaped Dual-Branch Encoder Structure Network with Geographic Information

Snow detection is imperative in remote sensing for various applications, including climate change monitoring, water resources management, and disaster warning. Recognizing the limitations of current deep learning algorithms in cloud and snow boundary segmentation, as well as issues like detail snow information loss and mountainous snow omission, this paper presents a novel snow detection network based on Swin-Transformer and U-shaped dual-branch encoder structure with geographic information (SD-GeoSTUNet), aiming to address the above issues. Initially, the SD-GeoSTUNet incorporates the CNN branch and Swin-Transformer branch to extract features in parallel and the Feature Aggregation Module (FAM) is designed to facilitate the detail feature aggregation via two branches. Simultaneously, an Edge-enhanced Convolution (EeConv) is introduced to promote snow boundary contour extraction in the CNN branch. In particular, auxiliary geographic information, including altitude, longitude, latitude, slope, and aspect, is encoded in the Swin-Transformer branch to enhance snow detection in mountainous regions. Experiments conducted on Levir_CS, a large-scale cloud and snow dataset originating from Gaofen-1, demonstrate that SD-GeoSTUNet achieves optimal performance with the values of 78.08%, 85.07%, and 92.89% for IoU_s, F1_s, and MPA, respectively, leading to superior cloud and snow boundary segmentation and thin cloud and snow detection. Further, ablation experiments reveal that integrating slope and aspect information effectively alleviates the omission of snow detection in mountainous areas and significantly exhibits the best vision under complex terrain. The proposed model can be used for remote sensing data with geographic information to achieve more accurate snow extraction, which is conducive to promoting the research of hydrology and agriculture with different geospatial characteristics.

MONITORING OF THE LIVING ENVIRONMENT THROUGH AIR POLLUTANTS IN THE POLOG FIELD OF THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA

Introduction: The Republic of North Macedonia and especially the field pit of Polog in terms of geographical position and climatic aspect is considered as a place with different variables such as: temperature, humidity, radioactive exposure, hilly-mountainous relief. The Sharr mountain in the west and the dry mountain in the north, limit the Polog field pit in all directions, such as north-west and south-east, causing the living environment to deteriorate in the winter period due to air, water and land pollutants. With special emphasis, we highlight the winter season when we have an alarming state of air pollution, such as certain regions of the Republic of North Macedonia and especially the region of the field pit of Polog with the cities of Tetovo and Gostivar and the surrounding area. Recently, the city of Tetova and its surroundings is considered one of the most polluted cities in the country, region and the largest in the world, then this phenomenon of pollution necessarily leads us to unwanted consequences for the population that lives and operates in this region. As a result of environmental factors such as air pollution and other related factors such as: stress, temperature, food, social genes, mental state and other related factors can lead to disorders in the human body and lead to diseases that attack the nervous and cardiovascular systems , skeletal and thyroid. Many studies talk about the alarming condition of patients who are affected by these diseases, therefore our paper will focus on the effect of these factors above all on the actual state of pollutants in the Polog region of North Macedonia. The purpose of the study: This paper aims to investigate the potential causes that can affect the health of the population of the Polog field pit and especially the city of Tetova and its surroundings. As a potential pollutants of the living environment, the following can be considered: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, urban combustion from automobiles, combustion of various physical substances, chemical components from factories, smoke from chimneys from burning oil and coal, combustion from wood in the form of pellets, etc. Material and working method: In the study, fertilized chicken eggs were taken and incubated in the incubator for 21 days of incubation. The eggs were treated with different doses of air pollutant extract at certain stages of embryonic development. Using the stereomicroscope with macroscopic and microscopic method were analyzed ontogenetic changes in certain stages of embryonic development. Research results: The results of the research will give a real insight into the situation of the level of pollution of the living environment in the city of Tetovo and its surroundings and in the field pit of Pollog. The monitoring of the living environment can be followed by the treatment of air pollutants in certain doses in the form of ampoule therapy, and the negative effect of the given dose on the hen's eggs will be observed. All eggs with the highest dose of injection had a stagnated embryonic development, whereas egss with lower dose of injections had underdeveloped embryos. Conclusion: From the results of the research we can conclude that the potential pollutants from air pollutants can lead to consequences for the population living in this region but also for the living world in general. These factors can lead to disorders of the nervous system, cardiovascular, and thyroid disorders and other respiratory diseases. This research will give a real insight into the pollution of the living environment and the possible consequences of this at a local, regional and wider level.

Exercising Intercultural Performance in Adaptations: Regional Kerala Myths and Rituals used as tool in Shakespeare film adaptation in Kannaki and Karmayogi

Integral to the concept of "interculturalism" is an appreciation and knowledge of many cultural backgrounds. The major emphasis of intercultural performances is the equitable and meaningful interchange of performance standards and conventions. The timeless universal truths about mankind found in William Shakespeare's plays ensure that they remain relevant and influential even in our own day. Shakespearean plays are more amenable to adaptation into any genre because of their adaptability and flexibility as well as their inherent humanism. There is a lengthy history of retelling great stories in Malayalam film. The literary shifts, thematic echoes, and cultural subtleties that set apart the two film versions of Shakespeare's tragedies, "Hamlet" and "Antony and Cleopatra," from one another are the subject of this research. The exotic customs of Kelipathram and Poorakkali from Kerala have been included into the film to emphasize the cultural superiority of the Orient over the Occident. Shakespeare's Cleopatra continues to evoke mixed feelings in modern audiences; some see her as a manipulative force, while others find her aesthetically pleasing. Whatever your opinion, it's clear that Cleopatra defies categorization within patriarchal society's narrow definitions of women. The film's director gave Kannaki a mysterious air. Kannaki successfully achieves the characteristic of cinematic appropriation by meticulously blending mythological, cultural, geographical, and semiotic aspects within the narrative realm of Antony and Cleopatra. As a result, the director alludes to Antony and Cleopatra's politics inside Kannaki's oriental poetics.

Cartographic Narratives of Human Settlements: The Origin and Transformations of 'Pete' in Petta Area of Bangalore, India

Bangalore Petta, also referred to as Bangalore Pete or City Market area has garnered considerable attention from urban researchers across numerous dimensions. The name "Pete" has been a recurring identifier across diverse cultures and languages, yet its origin remains enigmatic. These dimensions encompass the spectrum from morphology to perception and from visual to sensory, allowing for the exploration of diverse characteristics within this historical part of the city. Examining these settlements through various lenses is necessary to understand the significance of multiple dimensions of the city and Cartography, though a predominant tool for assessment, seldom explored in this context. Delving into the study of one of Bangalore’s oldest vernacular settlements through Cartography can unearth the visual and geographical aspects that reveals the historical layers, linguistic roots, and cultural stories woven into the fabric of the area. This method allows the tracing of the evolution of place names and uncover the narratives that have shaped the region's identity over time, offering a deeper understanding of the etymology that defines its character. Through maps, insights can be gained into how the landscape has been interpreted, inhabited, and transformed, enriching our appreciation of the area's rich and multifaceted history. Utilizing mapping tools and through analysis of these maps, the study provided visual representations of the name's dispersal, including its shifts in morphology taking into consideration the sociocultural contexts, trade routes, and historical events that have contributed to the diffusion of the name. Comparative analysis of linguistic structures reveals the relationships between different iterations of the name, “Pette”, once a prominent commercial center which has evolved significantly over time. Its transformation reflects the influence of surrounding developments and shifts in urbanism.

Year of founding as a determinant of start-up success

This paper examines the impact of year of founding and type of funding on the growth of startups, as measured by average number of employees, and analyses the differences between different business areas. The data was obtained from a large database of startups and was thoroughly cleaned before analysis. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and cluster analysis by funding type and business area were used. The results show that year of founding and funding type are significant factors influencing startup growth. Startups funded through Private Equity (PE) Growth had the highest average number of employees, while startups with Series B and Later Stage VC funding showed strong and stable growth. In addition, specific trends were identified in different business areas. Sectors such as Mobility & Transportation and Sales and Marketing show strong growth influenced by the year of founding, while sectors such as Govtech have less growth likely due to specific regulatory requirements. The study highlights the importance of year of founding and type of funding for startup growth and provides valuable insights for founders and investors when planning expansion and funding strategies. The results also suggest the need for further research that considers geographic, macroeconomic and qualitative aspects of startup success.

A Cognitive Study of Deixis in TG Klune’s the House in the Cerulean Sea

This paper investigates the cognitive and linguistic features of deixis in T.J. Klune's The House in the Cerulean Sea. It examines how personal, temporal, geographical, rhetorical, and social deixis can enhance narrative immersion and reader engagement. The study uses mixed method to categorize deictic elements in the book. It argues that deictic shifts improve the reader's experience and narrative structure. By measuring the frequency and impact of deictic expressions, the study highlights their role in adjusting narrative pace, deepening thematic resonance, and engaging readers both intellectually and emotionally. The careful use of deictic phrases, especially those tied to interpersonal and geographical aspects, creates strong human connections and vivid setting descriptions. This intentional arrangement forms deep emotional bonds between readers and characters, leading to a rich and engaging environment. The paper explains how language and cognition enhance immersive reading experiences through emotional involvement and narrative understanding. Deictic changes show how narrative techniques affect reader engagement and the quality of the story.

Children's play activities viewed from the geographical location aspect

Children's play activities viewed from the geographical location aspect

The importance of geographic and sociodemographic aspects in the characterization of mucopolysaccharidoses: a case series from Ceará state (Northeast Brazil).

Geographic and sociodemographic aspects may influence the natural history and epidemiology of mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS). The main objective in this work was to evaluate the clinical, molecular, and geographic profile of MPS in a population from Ceará (Northeast Brazil). For this, we have performed a descriptive cross-sectional study based on clinical evaluation, interviews with patients and/or family members, and review of medical records of 76 MPS patients. MPS II was the most common type, with the most affected individuals presenting missense pathogenic variants. Patients with MPS I proved to be the most severe clinical phenotype, presenting the first symptoms (mean: 7.1 months; SD = 4.5) and being diagnosed earlier (2.2 years; SD = 2.1) in comparison with the other types. In addition, we have shown that 13 individuals with MPS VI were born of consanguineous marriages in small, nearby cities, in a place where geographical isolation, consanguinity, and clusters of genetic diseases were previously reported. Ten of these individuals (at least, seven different families) presented a rare pathogenic variant in the ARSB gene, c.1143-8T > G in homozygosity, previously reported only among Iberian and South American patients. The results presented here provide a comprehensive picture of MPS in an important state of the Brazilian Northeast, a region that concentrates many risk factors for rare genetic diseases, such as endogamy, inbreeding, and reproductive isolation. We discuss the possible evolutionary processes and biosocial dynamics that can help to explain this finding in terms of population medical genetics and public health.