International Efforts Research Articles

Internationalisation in First-Year Computing

Higher education institutions have responded to the growing demand of internationalisation by embedding global citizenship and intercultural competency as key graduate attributes within their curricula. These attributes shape the learning outcomes (LOs) and assessment criteria (UTS, 2023), guiding students to acquire the necessary skills to thrive in diverse global environments (Wong et al., 2022). LOs are pivotal in understanding how internationalisation is incorporated and prioritised within the curriculum, reflecting the institution’s commitment to preparing graduates with these key competencies. This study seeks to evaluate how internationalisation is integrated into computing education curricula, with a focus on the potential of graduates’ design decisions to foster an environmentally sustainable and equitable world (Shultz & Jorgenson, 2009). The first phase of the study examined the LOs for five first-year units across three Australian universities to assess the initial introduction of internationalisation to students. The data for this study was sourced from publicly available information on university websites, including curriculum details, course descriptions, and associated documentation outlining the LOs. These LOs typically provide an overview of the educational goals for a course or unit, highlighting the primary skills and attributes students are expected to develop. However, they may not fully capture the specific pedagogical approaches or assessments used to achieve these outcomes. The analysis involved a comprehensive review of the available curriculum, course descriptions, and associated documentation to understand how internationalisation is integrated into the LOs. Each identified LO was systematically analysed to identify codes related to internationalisation. An inductive thematic analysis approach was used to derive themes from these codes, representing the forms in which internationalisation appeared in these units. Out of the 15 units examined, 46.7% (seven units) did not include any LOs related to global citizenship. Therefore, the themes derived from the analysis represent the remaining 53.3% (eight units) across the three universities: Ethical/Moral/Legal Obligations: Six out of eight units referenced moral, legal, ethics or ethical behavior in professional practice. Thinking Skills: Seven out of eight units required students to demonstrate analytical, and critical thinking skills as part of the learning outcomes. Diversity of People and Places: Three out of eight units mentioned diverse cohorts of people or places, emphasising the importance of understanding, and engaging with diversity. Working with People: Four out of eight units included the need for students to work effectively with others, highlighting teamwork, leadership, and conflict management skills. Communication Skills: Four out of eight units stressed the importance of effective communication, requiring students to convey complex information appropriately in various formats. While LOs provide a valuable starting point for assessing the presence and emphasis of global citizenship attributes within the curriculum, they may not fully capture the depth of internationalisation efforts. Exemplary practices are those that explicitly and comprehensively incorporate internationalisation concepts, as evidenced by detailed LOs. These practices are identified through the presence of key attributes such as ethical obligations, thinking skills, diversity, teamwork, and communication. By highlighting these attributes, the study aims to showcase effective integration methods that could serve as models for other disciplines.

BIOM-51. MOLECULAR SUBTYPES, CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS, AND THERAPEUTIC IMPLICATIONS FOR CNS TUMORS WITHBCOR/BCORL1 FUSION/INTERNAL TANDEM DUPLICATION

Abstract Central nervous system (CNS) tumors with either BCOR internal tandem duplication (BCOR ITD) or gene fusions involving BCOR/BCORL1 (BCOR FUS) are recognized as tumor types with characteristic molecular and clinical features but lacking clear therapeutic guidance. In an extensive international effort, we compiled a retrospective cohort of 229 (148 BCOR ITD, 81 BCOR FUS) unique cases via molecular profiling of CNS tumors. By analyzing DNA methylation patterns of 220 tumors we confirmed distinct epigenetic profiles of BCOR ITD versus BCOR FUS. The majority (91 percent) of BCOR FUS primary tumors was localized in the supratentorial region whereas BCOR ITD were localized across all anatomical CNS compartments. Median patient age at diagnosis was 20 years for BCOR FUS and 4 years for BCOR ITD. Metastatic disease was rare in BCOR FUS patients but more common in BCOR ITD tumors where 10 percent presented with metastatic disease and one third showed CNS or (rarely) extra-CNS metastasis in the course of disease. This was also reflected in clinical outcome as 5-year overall survival (OS) was 89 percent in BCOR FUS but 61 percent in BCOR ITD. In contrast, 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) was comparable reaching 27 percent in BCOR FUS and 30 percent in BCOR ITD. Integrating treatment details we found a trend towards benefit of gross-total resection on OS (BCOR FUS, n=18, p<0.08; BCOR ITD, n=67, p<0.12) but not for PFS (BCOR FUS, n=16, p<0.33; BCOR ITD, n=64, p<0.59). Radiotherapy was associated with improved PFS (BCOR FUS, n=18, p<0.01; BCOR ITD, n=70, p<0.001) and OS (BCOR FUS, n=20, p<0.01; BCOR ITD, n=73, p<0.001). Further in-depth analyses of clinical outcome parameters (primary metastatic disease, radiotherapy approach, chemotherapy type, patient age) are currently ongoing. In summary, we provide first robust annotation of CNS BCOR tumor types, clinical outcomes and therapy.

Визнання Голодомору геноцидом українського народу парламентом Великої Британії: дебати 2013–2023 рр

The international recognition of the Holodomor of 1932–1933 is evidence of the establishment of historical justice in assessing the crime against humanity committed against the Ukrainian people. For the first time, the famine in Ukraine was discussed in the British Parliament in 1934: a report based on information received from Cardinal Archbishop of Vienna Theodor Innitzer and journalists William Henry Chamberlin and Malcolm Muggeridge was delivered in the House of Lords by the liberal politician Lord Charnwood. However, a number of MPs opposed the discussion of the famine in the USSR, stressing that it was an internal affair of another state, and the debate was closed. In the early 2000s, after the recognition of the Holodomor as genocide by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (2006) and the intensification of the Ukrainian authorities’ efforts to raise awareness of the crimes of the Soviet regime among the world community, this issue was discussed three times (2013, 2017, 2023) in the House of Commons. P. Latham, a representative of the ruling Conservative Party, was the initiator of the debate. She presented indisputable historical facts and oral memories in her speeches, that allowed to assess the Holodomor as a deliberate act of genocide by the Soviet government, which became a deep trauma for Ukraine and had a catastrophic impact on the Ukrainian national identity. The politician also argued her thesis with the statement of the author of the concept of “genocide” R. Lemkin, who called the destruction of the Ukrainian nation a classic example of genocide, stressing that the purpose of the Holodomor was to overcome Ukrainian national resistance to the Soviet regime. In general, all the speakers emphasised the artificiality of the famine, the scale of the tragedy (from 2 to 12 million deaths), which was planned by the Stalinist totalitarian regime to achieve its main goal – the destruction of the Ukrainian nation. The MPs recognised the need to honour the memory of the millions people who were brutally murdered; condemned the Soviet regime’s confiscation of food, restrictions on the movement of the population, refusal of foreign aid, brutal suppression of protests, and Russification policy; called on the UK government to further raise awareness of the Holodomor and condemned any attempts to deny or distort this historical truth, considering it nothing less than genocide.They noted the heroism of the contemporaries of the events, in particular the British journalists Gareth Jones and M. Muggeridge, and ordinary citizens who were not afraid to speak out about the real state of affairs. In this context, the parliamentarians drew historical parallels with the present: reporters from many countries, including Ukraine itself, are endangering themselves to expose the true extent of Russian barbarism and war crimes during Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine, in which Putin aims to destroy the Ukrainian nation and the concept of Ukrainian identity. The MPs argued that the recognition of the Holodomor as genocide is not a formal definition: it is a recognition of the truth of historical events and has implications for the current war, as it sends a clear signal that the international community will not turn a blind eye to acts of cruelty and injustice. In early 2023, President of Ukraine V. Zelenskyy and Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine R. Stefanchuk addressed the UK Parliament, focusing on the current situation in Ukraine. However, the head of the Ukrainian parliament stressed the importance of restoring historical justice in the issue of recognising the Holodomor of 1932–1933 in Ukraine as a crime of genocide against the Ukrainian people, especially because of the unchanging policy of Russia, which commits mass war crimes and crimes against humanity. The House of Commons unanimously passed a resolution recognising the Holodomor as genocide of the Ukrainian people on 25 May 2023. The position of official London has remained unchanged: Holodomor was a horrific, man-made disaster of unimaginable scale and the government recognise the human tragedy that occurred and its importance in the history of Ukraine and Europe. Government policy is that recognition of genocides should be a matter for judicial decision and so it should be for judges, rather than Governments or non- judicial bodies, to make a designation of genocide. Such decisions should be based on a credible judicial process, and the courts are best placed to judge what are essentially criminal matters. At the same time, the government emphasises that this position in no way diminishes the gravity of the crime and the responsibility of the Soviet leadership for the deaths of millions of Ukrainians. It also assures that it will continue to support Ukraine in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and international efforts to bring Russia to justice for its aggression against Ukraine. Key words: Holodomor, genocide, Great Britain, P. Latham, Ukraine.

Empowering university students’ learning in Taiwan’s higher education: Pathways to overcome challenges

Taiwan’s higher education is characterized by tradition, innovation, and persistent pursuit of academic excellence. However, similar to its global counterparts, many challenges are prevalent in Taiwan’s educational sector that impede its progress and effectiveness. These challenges encompass demographic shifts, financial constraints, quality assurance, internationalization efforts, and technology integration. This study analyzes the challenges in higher education in Taiwan, and offers strategies to address them and improve university students’ learning experiences. The researchers used literature analysis methods to analyze the challenges in higher education in Taiwan, and analyze the pathways to overcome challenges. These pathways can address current challenges and help empower students to thrive in Taiwanese higher education, fostering an adaptable, skilled, and socially conscious generation of learners. These pathways are as follows: (1) In response to the declining birthrate, develop university curricula and courses incorporating diverse perspectives, improve university enrollment, and increase investment in higher education; (2) Improve teaching and learning quality assurance; (3) The internationalization of higher education promotes foreign internationalization and local internationalization; (4) Integrating technology into higher education teaching and providing more diverse online teaching and abundant learning experiences for students.

Localized Internationalization Framework in Higher Education for Undergraduate Institutions in the Context of Emerging Engineering Disciplines

This study explores the integration of global perspectives within engineering literacy education through localized internationalization efforts at Guilin University of Electronic Science and Technology (GUET). Focusing on the experiences of faculty members and administrative staff, the research investigates how GUET applies its localized internationalization model to emerging engineering disciplines. Utilizing a qualitative research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with participants directly involved in curriculum development and international collaboration projects. The Concept-Construct-Theme (CCT) method was employed for data analysis, allowing for the identification of key themes related to the implementation, challenges, and effectiveness of the internationalization initiatives at GUET. The findings highlight the critical role of tailored educational strategies in enhancing global competencies while maintaining regional relevance. The study also underscores the importance of addressing resource limitations, institutional support, and faculty development to strengthen internationalization efforts. The insights gained from this research offer valuable recommendations for improving practices and policies in higher education institutions aiming to balance global engagement with local context.

Research trends related to road innovation in civil construction of public spaces

Road innovation is transforming civil construction by introducing technologies and approaches that improve the efficiency, safety and sustainability of transportation infrastructure. These traffic management systems and real-time monitoring sensors optimize vehicular flow and minimize congestion. The objective of the research is to analyze research trends related to road innovation in civil construction of public spaces. The research approach is mixed, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. A descriptive and retrospective bibliometric analysis was carried out, which was complemented with a documentary review, developed in the Google academic database, Scielo and SCOPUS. The behavior of the researches was decreasing, characterized by a polynomial function with a maximum peak in 2020 of 27 researches. Research in environmental sciences in China predominated. Three lines of scientific research and their main thematic nuclei were identified and explored as key categories and systematized in order to recognize the trends of road innovation in the civil construction of public spaces. The main results were introduced in China with analysis of impacts on the population, use of geographic information systems, environmental pollution studies, among others. Despite international efforts to develop sustainable strategies for the construction and management of public spaces, there are still significant challenges to be addressed to ensure innovation and sustainability in this area.

Sport for development in German development cooperation: early and unknown efforts

ABSTRACT The early involvement some Western liberal states, such as Norway and Canada, in the field of Sport for Development (SfD) is well known, with both countries regarded amongst the pioneers in this area. In contrast, Germany’s early investments in the field are not widely known, in part due to deficiencies in documentation and publication. This paper will not only challenge the deficient historical documentation on the subject but will also provide a preliminary descriptive account of the factors that have driven investment or withdrawal from the SfD sector within Germany. This will be set against a broader global context and in relation to key turning points affecting the field. Based on a literature review and content analysis, the results trace the chronological course and development of SfD in Germany in three phases, where the popularity of sport as a developmental tool is subject to strong fluctuations. Additionally, German efforts in SfD have differed from international trends, particularly in the early adoption of sport in German development cooperation in the mid-1970s and the constraints observed during SfD’s international growth in the 2000s. Key implications of this paper include highlighting the strong influence of domestic politics on SfD funding and activity, and formally documenting the breadth and scale of German SfD efforts. Overall, this paper provides a foundation for further work looking at German international SfD efforts, as well as future consideration of the role of national politics in SfD funding.

Mechanisms of international economic cooperation to support the global energy transition: ways to improve

The global energy transition is a complex process and requires deep international economic cooperation and joint efforts to achieve sustainable development. Effective interaction between countries, financial institutions and the private sector is essential to ensure sufficient investment in renewable energy and technological innovation. International financial mechanisms, such as green bonds, can significantly contribute to accelerating this process, but they must ensure access to resources for all participants, especially developing countries. Reforming the international financial system and developing new instruments for attracting private capital is an important step towards reducing risks and increasing the investment attractiveness of renewable energy projects. Removing barriers to investment in countries with unstable economies through the development of technical assistance programs and financial guarantees is also an important condition for success. The energy transition can only be successfully realized through a concerted international effort involving both developed and developing countries. A sustainable energy future and ambitious climate change targets can only be achieved through global cooperation, innovative financial solutions and technology sharing.

Disability and Vulnerable Groups Inclusion in COVID-19 Policy and Planning in Sub-Sahara African Countries

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an excess burden of disease in disabled and vulnerable populations. These populations may face an increased risk of contracting COVID-19, greater demand for services and social support, and reduced access to treatment. Despite various national and international efforts towards disability rights and inclusion, substantial gaps exist between disability rights legislation and its implementation. Aims: To assess the inclusion of people with disability and other vulnerable groups in policy and planning documents related to the COVID-19 pandemic response in sub-Sahara Africa. Methods: We conducted content analysis using the EquiFrame policy analysis tool and assessed commitment to 12 vulnerable groups and 21 core human rights in policy and planning documents related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We included documents on general pandemic response, stakeholder engagement, risk communication, and the COVID-19 vaccine from five sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Zambia. Results: The study highlights the varying degrees to which countries integrate disability, vulnerable groups, and other core human rights concepts into their COVID-19 health policies and planning documents. Only Kenya mentioned disability in their pandemic response plan. However, all countries have explicitly mentioned disability in their stakeholder engagement plans. Except for Kenya, all countries have included disability in their risk communication plans. Notably, South Africa and Zambia demonstrated extensive disability inclusion in their stakeholder engagement and vaccine plan. Thus, these countries have the potential for comprehensive and inclusive health policymaking. In contrast, Nigeria and Ethiopia lag, therefore highlighting areas of improvement across all policy domains. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the critical importance of not only mentioning disability and other vulnerable groups, but also ensuring the depth and quality of this inclusion. While there are positive strides in certain areas, there remains a consistent need for deeper and broader inclusion across all policy domains. Received: 10 September 2024 | Reviewed: 16 October 2024 | Revised: 03 November 2024 | Accepted: 05 November 2024.

Colombia Rising (But Is It for All the Right Reasons?)

Colombia, home to the 4th largest economy in Latin America and an OCED member since 2020, was until 2021 one of most ardent supporters of the recommendations of the OECD’s BEPS Project. Yet recently, Colombia has taken a prominent position among the countries pushing for a UN alternative to the work of the OECD. In this Talking Points, Eric Thompson examines how Colombia has come to play a leading role in international tax reform efforts, and wonders whether its motives stem more from a desire to improve the position of countries in the developing world, or from a desire to enhance its own tax revenues.

Study on National Image Construction and International Communication in CHINA ON THE MOVE Amid Deconstructionism and Constructivism

National image documentary is a key part in shaping a country’s brand, fostering cultural exchange. However, China has faced challenges in presenting a dynamic and multidimensional national image on the global stage. In recent years, China has intensified its international communication efforts, leveraging various media formats to portray a more comprehensive image. The paper critically analyzes the contradictions inherent in the construction of national image and its overseas translation and communication, focusing on the biases of logocentrism and egocentrism. Taking China on the Move as a case study and examining its production, characterization, narrative, and translation strategies to summarize patterns and practices from a series of high-quality Sino-foreign co-produced documentaries. The analysis explores how the deconstructionist strategy of decentralization contributes to the joint-shaping of national image, and how an emphasis on marginalization reflects broader societal structures through the lens of ordinary lives. The deconstructionist translation strategy underscores the translator’s active role and the importance of “creative rebellion”. Conversely, the constructivist strategy elucidates the underlying logic of China’s image for international audiences, promoting empathetic communication by seeking common ground while acknowledging differences. The constructivist translation strategy also imposes necessary limitations on “creative rebellion” to ensure coherence in the translation process.

Islamic Law and Human Trafficking: The Ethical and Legal Frameworks

Human trafficking represents a profound violation of human rights, prompting critical examination across both Islamic and Western legal traditions. This study compares these perspectives, identifying shared values and key distinctions, with particular emphasis on the ethical and punitive aspects of Islamic law related to exploitation. Using a normative legal research methodology, this research investigates the role of Islamic law (Sharia) in countering human trafficking, viewed as a contemporary form of slavery. Through an analysis of Sharia principles, such as the sanctity of human life and the comprehensive prohibition against exploitation, this study reveals preventive strategies embedded within Islamic jurisprudence. These strategies include the elimination of exploitation sources and the prohibition of unjust enrichment at the expense of vulnerable populations. The study further advocates for an integrated approach that addresses both the physical and moral dimensions of human protection. In conclusion, this research affirms Islamic law as a comprehensive framework that aligns with international human rights efforts, notably in its decisive opposition to human exploitation and commodification.

POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION AND INSTITUTION BUILDING IN CAMEROON

Cameroon has been embroiled in prolonged conflicts, including the Anglophone Crisis and the Boko Haram insurgency, both of which have deeply impacted the nation's socio-political fabric. The central problem is the breakdown of institutions, displacement of populations, and socio-economic instability, necessitating urgent post-conflict reconstruction. This study aims to explore the key challenges and barriers to reconstruction, assess the roles of national and international actors, and analyze strategies to build institutions for sustainable peace and stability. The research draws on hybrid peace and conflict transformation theories and adopts a qualitative research design, relying on secondary data sources. Through an in-depth analysis of official documents, scholarly articles, and reports from international organizations, this study provides a comparative examination of similar post-conflict settings, such as Rwanda and Sierra Leone. Data were systematically analyzed to identify key themes related to governance, security, and institutional reform. Findings reveal that political instability, lack of decentralization, and limited financial resources significantly hinder effective reconstruction efforts. Governance challenges, including corruption and centralization of power, impede institution-building, while socio- economic issues, such as ethnic and linguistic divisions, further complicate peacebuilding efforts. International actors and NGOs play a vital role but often lack coordination, limiting the effectiveness of their interventions. The study concludes that Cameroon’s post-conflict reconstruction requires comprehensive reforms. Decentralization, inclusive governance, and accountability must be prioritized. International efforts should align with local needs, emphasizing long-term development over short-term aid. Effective security sector reform, alongside strategies for institutional capacity-building, will be essential to fostering peace and preventing future conflict.

Environmental Sustainability in Dermatological Surgery. Part 2: Reducing Activity and Future Ecological Strategies.

This two-part review addresses the pressing need for environmental sustainability in dermatological surgery, driven by the NHS's commitment to net-zero emissions. Part 2 of this review extends the discussion of sustainability in dermatological surgery by focusing on system-wide changes in service delivery and identifying future opportunities for reducing environmental impact. Building on the strategies outlined in Part 1, which explored low-carbon alternatives and operational resource optimisation, Part 2 advocates for a comprehensive shift in the skin surgery service. Key strategies include reducing overall surgical activity, advancing research and innovation, and enhancing management practices to align with sustainability goals. Reducing surgical activity mainly involves the prevention of skin cancers, in addition to optimising current patient pathways and empowering patients to take ownership of their follow-up. Outside of immediate clinical decision-making at the individual level, the review highlights the importance of managerial policy, procurement practices and supply chain factors in driving broader national and international sustainability efforts. Advancing the sustainability agenda will also require targeted research and innovation, particularly in digital health solutions using evidence-based practices. By integrating these strategies, this review aims to provide a framework for reducing the environmental footprint of dermatological surgery and advancing towards a more sustainable healthcare system.

Commercial Diplomacy and Internationalization of SMEs: A Scoping Review

The purpose of this study is to synthesize information about the possible advantages of SME internationalization. The primary question driving this scoping review is: What is the extent to which field of commercial diplomacy has identified its potential to benefit the SMEs, specifically in their internationalization efforts? We do have done a scoping review adhering to a five-step methodology, and extensively reviewing the relevant studies. A systematic literature review was conducted using electronic databases with predefined inclusion-exclusion criteria. 191 articles were screened, yielding 19 relevant studies for final analysis. Our review not only offers a comprehensive analysis of the current research on the relationship between CD and SME internationalization, but also identifies key themes. While doing so, this study sheds light on significant findings, on-going debates, and identifies research gaps that need future exploration. The study’s theoretical and practical implications are also discussed. The role of SMEs in economic growth and innovation is crucial in the context of globalization. Nevertheless, SMEs have several internal and external challenges throughout their process of internationalization. Despite the established significance commercial diplomacy plays in the internationalization efforts of SMEs, centre of attention remains on large organization and their facilitation. While the current body of research mostly focuses on the economic consequences of internationalization for bigger companies, it remains limited on SMEs.

Science in times of war: reflections from Sudan

The war that erupted in Sudan on 15th April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Force (RSF) resulted in widespread destruction of national infrastructures, including the educational and research systems. Based on the personal experiences of the authors, this paper discussed the impact of the war on science and community of scientists who remained in Sudan during the war, including the resultant challenges, opportunities offered, and future perspectives. Clearly, the war brought about unquantifiable devastation on professional and personal lives of scientists; internal and external displacement and separation of scientists, colleagues, and families; loss of research and teaching resources; loss of jobs and financial instability; and host of negative psychological, emotional and social issues. Given that more than 10.4 million Sudanese were forcibly displaced, among them scientists, the educational system has been hampered. Available data indicate that in Khartoum State, 39% of governmental and 73% of non-governmental universities were occupied by RSF, whereas it was 10% of governmental and 8% of non-governmental universities in Gezira state. This contrasts with 3% of governmental and 5% of non-governmental university in South Darfur. Some universities and colleges were partially or completely damaged, while in some it was not possible to determine the damage. This has led to complete shutdown of the universities, forcing students to find expensive alternative ways to continue their education or abandon it altogether. Scientists and science in Sudan faced many challenges, which are difficult to overcome. While efforts to restore infrastructure and physical capital will be challenging, the social, psychological, and emotional devastation might be even more intricate. Revitalizing policies and international efforts are needed to support the recovery of the entire educational systems and research infrastructures, as well as the wellbeing of scientists.

Impact of Perceived Internationalization of Higher Education on Student Outcomes

Given the multitude of international education options available to students, academic institutions need to understand better how international students perceive their internationalization efforts and how these perceptions influence student outcomes. Employing quantitative and qualitative methods, this study investigated how student satisfaction and performance are impacted by perceived internationalization. Primary data were collected from 124 international students enrolled in a state university in Thailand using a pre-tested questionnaire. The data were assessed for validity and reliability through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Bottom of Form The predicted relationships were examined using path analysis and mediation analysis. Results indicated neutrality in students' perceptions of their international educational environment and experience. Perceived internationalization was directly related to satisfaction. However, the path modeling analysis showed a negative mediating effect of satisfaction on the relationship between perceived internationalization and performance. This finding suggests that international students may still perform well academically even in non-satisfying educational contexts. The implications for higher education institutions present opportunities to align policies, strategies, and actions toward developing a truly international learning environment that will be beneficial for students.

Combating drug abuse through pharmacist-led public health campaigns strategic initiatives for global prevention

The global drug abuse crisis continues to pose significant public health challenges, necessitating comprehensive prevention strategies. Pharmacists, as accessible and trusted healthcare professionals, are increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in drug abuse prevention. This paper explores pharmacist-led public health campaigns and interventions designed to mitigate drug abuse, particularly through education, outreach, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. It examines core components of effective campaigns, including targeting at-risk populations such as youth and high-risk communities. Additionally, the paper discusses global prevention strategies, addressing the cultural, economic, and legal barriers that pharmacists face while highlighting opportunities for their leadership in international drug prevention efforts. The conclusion emphasizes the need for policy recommendations to enhance the pharmacist’s role in drug abuse prevention, alongside future directions leveraging digital health technologies and international collaboration to achieve more effective global outcomes.

Assessment of microplastic characterization and distribution from surface water and the seabed in the Flores Sea, Indonesia

Despite growing global concerns, there has been limited research on the characterization and distribution of microplastics in the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF) pathways, such as the Flores Sea. The Flores Sea is a component of the Indian–Pacific Current, a significant ocean current system that links the Pacific and Indian oceans and has the capacity to carry pollution over large marine ecosystems, making this research extremely important. Understanding the microplastic pollution in this area informs local environmental management. It provides insights into how these currents may distribute microplastics (MPs) across regional and global scales, impacting marine life and human health far beyond the immediate area. To respond to these concerns, this research aims to determine the characterization and distribution of MPs at six research sites in the Flores Sea that are precisely located within the ITF. This work exhibits an extensive dataset focusing on the occurrence, attributes, and dispersion of microplastics in the Flores Sea. The water sampling was carried out during a Jala Citra 3 by the Indonesian Navy from April to May 2023. Sea surface water samples were collected using a Neuston net, while sediment samples were taken from three stations at the shallowest depth using the Ekman Grab sampler. Additionally, abundance, size, shape, and color analyses were conducted using a light microscope, and microplastic types were identified through Raman spectroscopy. The results indicated that the Flores Sea waters and sediment are polluted with microplastics, with relative abundances ranging from 0.75 ± 0.49 to 2.13 ± 0.25 items/l samples. The most dominant shapes identified were filament (77.45%) and fragment (13.40%), with sizes varying between surface water 4.70 to 3799.25 μm and seabed from 67.20 mm to 2176.87 mm, while black (30.07%) and blue (24.51%) were reported as the common MPs colors. The identified polymers include PET and PE. This study confirms visual evidence of microplastics in the open waters of eastern Indonesia. While it may not fully capture the wide range of temporal variations, it establishes initial microplastic presence and dispersion levels. Given that the ITF influences both the Pacific and Indian Oceans, this research contributes to the global understanding of microplastic distribution across ocean basins, underscoring the need for coordinated international efforts to address marine pollution.

الجهود الدولية في حفظ السلم والأمن الدوليين

This study examines the international efforts made to maintain international peace and security, as many international efforts were made to establish an effective international organization to maintain international peace and security. As a result a number of conferences were held, and efforts were made to establish the United Nations. A large number of countries participated in establishing the Charter of the United Nations. This demonstrates the extent of international interest and the desire of countries and peoples to maintain international peace and security. There are also political, diplomatic, and judicial means to resolve international disputes by peaceful means that can contribute significantly to maintaining international peace and security if it is implemented. Among the results reached by the study are that many international efforts were made to establish an effective international organization to maintain international peace and security. The recommendations include activating the objectives and principles stipulated in the Charter of the United Nations in order to achieve the ultimate goal of maintaining international peace and security.