Military Factors Research Articles

Multiple Informant Cluster Analysis Findings: Which Military-connected Preschool Aged Children Are Doing Well and Why?

AbstractInformed by models of resilience in military families, we explored factors theorized to be associated with social-emotional resilience and risk among young military-connected children. Our secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from 199 military-connected families (n = 346 parents) with at least one preschool-age child in the home (n = 199) led to the empirical identification of two distinct clusters: families with children demonstrating healthy social-emotional functioning and those showing indicators of less healthy social-emotional functioning when compared to the first group. We then identified factors associated with membership in each cluster to determine which deployment and parental well-being variables were salient for young child adjustment. Parent psychological symptoms, parenting, child behavior, and parent-child relationships were measured by parent report and observed interaction. Children with healthier social-emotional functioning were found to be residing with families experiencing less stress and distress. The importance of maternal trauma history is highlighted in our study, as elevated maternal symptoms across all three posttraumatic stress disorder symptom domains were associated with child social-emotional risk. Basic family demographic characteristics did not contribute significantly to the cluster distinctions, nor did military service factors such as active duty, reserve or veteran status, military rank or parent deployment history. These findings are important as the results deemphasize the importance of military service characteristics and highlight the importance of parent well-being when considering social-emotional risk and resilience of young children within military families.

Understanding the Status Quo between Taiwan and China: International Law, the Power Transition Theory and Case Studies

Based on international law, the power transition theory as well as case studies, this research note aims to illustrate the reasons Taiwan’s situation represents a fundamental matter for the international order and to approach the island not only as a major stake for dominant nations but also as a central actor in the stability of the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. This paper demonstrates the essential role that the Taiwanese status quo plays in the power competition between Washington and Beijing and how Taiwan’s geographic location and its military, economic, and technological value can redistribute power both at the regional and international levels. Moreover, this research highlights how the notion of power must not only be understood in terms of military and economic factors but also in legal terms. Analyzing Taiwan’s situation under this framework shows how the power transition occurs equally in the legal sphere and how legal factors could contribute to reinforce Taiwan in the face of growing threats in the Strait.

Features of the development of the Ukrainian and European print media market in the current conditions

The article analyses the state of the Ukrainian and European print market in the current conditions, which are caused by socio-political, military, economic and technological global processes. The author identifies the peculiarities of functioning and development of the print media market in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war, which became a catalyst for a number of economic changes that led to a number of processes in financial terms: closure of publications, reduction of circulation, total transition to digital format, and, accordingly, transition to subscription. It is important to note that the above-mentioned processes took place in three stages: digitalization, the global economic crisis of 2013-2014 and Covid-19, and the war only accelerated them. The print media market cannot compete with other types of media. Falling circulation, closure of newsrooms or their mergers are typical for both the Ukrainian and European media markets. Today, this market and the online media market closely overlap, as print media, in order to survive financially and retain their audience in a highly competitive information environment, are actively moving to online platforms, often choosing social media as a place of operation. The study focuses on the print market in Poland, France, the UK, Germany and the Czech Republic. The European readership of traditional media consists of two parts: the older generation reads the printed version of publications, while the younger generation prefers to subscribe to digital analogues. It is more difficult for Ukrainian publications to retain their audience due to economic and military factors and a relatively young media market compared to the European one. The article emphasizes that the print media market is undergoing further active digitalization, which has particularly intensified during the Covid-19 period. This has given rise to the following trends: 1) updating of subscriptions to the digital format of printed publications; 2) transition to online formats of the same name, adaptation of the content of periodicals to social networks.

THE CONCEPT OF SPLENDID ISOLATION: A CONTEMPORARY APPROACH

The article deals with the concept of «splendid isolation», traditionally associated with British foreign policy in the late 19th century, refers to the period when Britain distanced itself from European alliances. This article examines the rationale and consequences of this policy through a contemporary lens, drawing on contemporary scholarship to reassess the motivations and outcomes of Britain's diplomatic posture in that era. Analyzing the concept of «splendid isolation», the study focuses on the political, economic and military factors that determined British strategy. The focus of the study is also the analysis of criticism of this strategy and its consequences for Great Britain in the context of changes in the international balance of power at the beginning of the 20th century. The question arises as to whether «splendid isolation» was really an effective strategy for protecting national interests and maintaining the status of a world power. The traditional view of British foreign policy in the late Victorian era emphasizes independence and avoidance of binding alliances. The article examines the changes in the international environment, especially the growing competition from France, Russia, Germany and the United States, and how they influenced the decisions of British politicians. The article also examines the transition from isolationist policies to strategic alliances at the beginning of the 20th century.

Prerequisites of hybridization of university financing as a tool for ensuring sustainability and strategic development

Purpose. To assess the state of budget financing of Ukrainian HEIs, determine their funding structure, and identify prerequisites for developing hybrid financing as a tool for stability and strategic development. Methodology. Dynamic and structural analysis, the Hirschman-Herfindahl index (HHI(DI) and such methods as quantitative, arithmetic mean, limit values, graphic, visualization, and system methods were used in the research process. The practical testing of research hypotheses was carried out on the basis of a comprehensive approach to the financing of HEIs of Ukraine and a panel sample of 35 universities, which takes into account rating indicators, industry and regional aspects. Findings. Transformation processes at various levels are linked to trends such as reduced budget funding, structural changes, staff and student migration, decreased demand for additional services, and military factors, creating prerequisites for hybrid university funding. The article identifies conditions for hybrid financing, highlights negative trends in HEIs budget financing –including systemic underperformance and inflation impacts – and analyzes income diversification in Ukrainian universities using the HHI(DI). Limiting and average values were determined using the quantitative method, which made it possible to classify universities into sustainable (HHI(DI)  0.55) and risky (HHI(DI) > 0.55) ones; tendencies towards a slight diversification of universities’ incomes are revealed; a conceptual model is proposed of hybrid financing of universities to expand their financial autonomy, based on cooperation between university management, stakeholders, and staff core, with the aim of creating value propositions which satisfy the needs of stakeholders and generate cash flows; a new approach to the division of hybrid financing tools into three groups is proposed: passive or image-based, active-intellectual, and passive-innovative ones. This approach is innovative in the development of financial strategies for universities. Originality. New tools for making management decisions aimed at ensuring financial stability and developing financial strategies for universities are proposed. In particular, they include an original approach to the classification of universities into sustainable and risky ones based on the value of the HHI; the conceptual model of hybrid financing of universities, which promotes the expansion of their financial autonomy; the innovative approach to the division of hybrid financing instruments into three categories: passive or image-based, active-intellectual, passive-innovative. Practical value. The study’s results can be used to make management decisions on expanding financial autonomy of universities. The introduction of the conceptual model of hybrid financing will contribute to the diversification of income, increase in financing, as well as ensuring financial stability and strategic development of universities.

Strategic Formation of Agricultural Market Clusters in Ukraine: Emerging as a Global Player

This study investigates the cluster approach to optimize strategies for agricultural enterprises in Ukraine, emphasizing geographical proximity as a key factor in cluster formation. The research applies Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps (SOMs) and Ward’s hierarchical clustering to classify enterprises based on storage capabilities, transport logistics, crop yields, and military risk exposure. By analyzing these factors, this study identifies distinct patterns of innovation adoption, strategic management, and economic resilience among the clusters. The findings highlight variations in competitiveness and resource efficiency, providing a detailed understanding of regional economic performance. Unlike previous research, this study offers a novel integration of conflict-related risks into the clustering methodology, revealing new insights into how military factors influence cluster dynamics. Comprehensive maps and diagrams illustrate the spatial and economic distribution of clusters, aiding in visual interpretation. The results propose strategic measures tailored to enhance agricultural productivity and competitiveness, particularly in Ukraine’s current military context. This approach offers a more adaptive framework for managing agricultural enterprises, promoting resilience and long-term sustainability in global markets.

Understanding the spatial pattern and structural characteristics of cities in late feudal China: evidence from the local chronicle maps of the qing dynasty (1644–1911)

ABSTRACT Our study analyzes the spatial pattern and structural characteristics of cities in late feudal China based on multiple correlation and geographic information system spatial analysis, using 58 local Chinese chronicle maps of Jiangsu in the Qing Dynasty as research material. The elements in the city map were dominated by the types of official buildings, transportation facilities, and religious buildings. The urban spatial pattern can be classified into four types, such as extraverted and introverted, with each type having an aggregated spatial distribution and a gradual introverted orientation in time. The urban spatial structure can also be divided into four types: traditional, axial, random, and composite. Spatial distribution of each type is relatively stable, with little change over time. The geographic environment and the traditional concept of city building are the basic reasons for the formation of the spatial pattern and structure. The flood disaster, commercial and military factors contribute to the diverse structures. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of quantifying the ancient Chinese chronicles’ city maps. The findings have important value for contemporary ancient city restoration and shaping urban characteristics.

The Changes of United States Foreign Policy in The Arctic in 2022

The United States' (U.S.) attention to the Arctic region has intensified in recent years due to the opening of vast natural resources and the potential for new shipping routes resulting from global warming. As an Arctic nation, the U.S. has actively focused on the region. From its initial Arctic policy in 1971 until 2021, U.S. foreign policy remained relatively passive, merely outlining the general U.S. position in the region. However, in 2022, without significant changes or upheavals in the Arctic region, the U.S. significantly altered its foreign policy by incorporating military instruments To explore that factors that influenced the change in U.S. policy in the Arctic in 2022, this study employs the decision-making process theory. Utilizing qualitative research methods, the study relies on both primary and secondary data, drawn from official U.S. policies, supplemented by credible articles, news, and scholarly writings. The research identifies three factors that led to the U.S. altering its foreign policy in the Arctic in 2022: domestic political conditions, economic and military factors, and the international context.

Prevalence and risk factors of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) among veterans in the airborne hazards and open burn pit registry: a prospective, observational, nested study

BackgroundVeterans have unique military risk factors and exposures during deployment that may augment their risk of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). The purpose of this study is to identify potential risk factors for PASC among Veterans in the national Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry (AHOBPR).MethodsThis prospective observational study consisted of a semi-structured interview conducted via phone or videoconference from November 2021 to December 2022 among a stratified random sample of deployed Veterans nested within the national AHOBPR with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. PASC was defined as persistent new-onset symptoms lasting more than 2 months after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Deployment history, airborne hazards exposure and symptoms were obtained from the AHOBPR self-assessment questionnaire completed prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection (past). Post-infection symptoms and health behaviors obtained at study interview (present) were used to test the hypothesis that deployment experience and exposure increases the risk for PASC.ResultsFrom a sample of 212 Veterans, 149 (70%) met criteria for PASC with a mean age of 47 ± 8.7 years; 73 (49%) were women and 76 (51%) were men, and 129 (82.6%) continued to experience persistent symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 (596.8 ± 160.4 days since initial infection). Neither exposure to airborne hazards (OR 0.97, CI 0.92–1.03) or to burn pits (OR 1.00, CI 0.99-1.00) augmented risk for PASC.ConclusionsPASC is highly common among Veterans enrolled in the AHOBPR, but we did not observe any unique military risk factors (e.g., airborne hazards exposure) that augmented the risk of PASC. Our findings may provide guidance to clinicians in the VHA network to administer appropriate care for Veterans experiencing PASC.

Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics: Normative Reference Values for U. S. Army National Guard Soldiers.

The Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) is a computerized cognitive test system used extensively with military service members. The aim of this study was to develop a nationally representative normative dataset of Army National Guard (ARNG) personnel and to explore potential relationships between ANAM performances and select military service, demographic, and health factors. ANAM performance data were collected using standardized procedures from a representative sample of ARNG service members in six U.S. states. Normative performance values, stratified by age, sex, and military occupational category, were calculated for each ANAM subtest and descriptive measures were computed, along with base rates of below-average performance. The effect of demographic (e.g., age, sex, education, race) and military service and health factors (e.g., deployment, job category, history of head injury) was examined. Data from 1,436 ARNG service members (14.3% female) were analyzed, and normative values calculated. Overall, differences in ANAM performance based on demographic, military service, and health factors were small. A total of 8.9% of the sample had scores on two or more subtests that were ≥ 1.3 SD below the mean; this dropped to 1.9% using a more stringent cut point (≥2 SD below the mean). The ANAM normative data reported herein ensure that healthcare providers and researchers have access to reference data that more accurately reflect the larger population of ARNG service members. These data support the assessment and management of ARNG service members' health, as well as future ANAM research involving ARNG service members.

Public Opinion in Conflict Situations: A Sentiment Analysis of Tweets About Russia During the War on Ukraine

ABSTRACT Wars not only bring death and suffering to the conflicting parties, but they can also trigger a spiral of negative emotions in the countries observing the conflict. This study examines global public opinion at the start of the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 by analyzing comments about Russia on X (formerly Twitter) in 127 countries. Using Python, the sentiment levels (positive, negative, neutral) of a total sample of 429,408 tweets in 48 languages were estimated. In addition to quantifying a net sentiment index for each country, the study focuses on the possible existence of differences in terms of military, political and cultural factors. The results show that sentiment towards Russia after the invasion was negative in most countries around the world, although there were significant differences between opinions in NATO countries and those allied with Russia. Additionally, public opinion was less negative in individualistic countries compared to those with collectivist societies.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for the Development of Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder in a Large U.S. Military Cohort.

While bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED) are prevalent in military populations, an understanding of risk and protective factors is limited by a lack of longitudinal population-based epidemiological research. This study examined the prevalence of BN and BED among active duty service members and identified military and psychosocial factors associated with their development. Millennium Cohort Study participants were followed for up to 15 years and prevalence was ascertained using survey and electronic medical record data. Longitudinal multivariable logistic regression models evaluated risk factors associated with the development of bulimia nervosa (n=96,245) or binge eating disorder (n=113,733). Weighted prevalence estimates from survey data (range, 0.80%-4.80%) were higher than those from medical records (0.04%-0.14%). Military factors significantly associated with increased risk for BN and BED included active duty component (vs Reserve/Guard); serving in the Army, Marines, or Navy/Coast Guard (vs Air Force); and combat deployment (vs deployment without combat). Associated psychosocial factors included lack of social support, experiencing at least one life stressor, and screening positive for posttraumatic stress disorder or problem drinking. Findings highlight the critical need for disordered eating screening and prevention efforts that bolster coping skills, which can ultimately improve service member functioning and readiness.

Body Dissatisfaction Is Central to Military Eating Disorder Pathology: A Multi-Time-Point Network Analysis

Military membership may put individuals at risk for eating disorders (EDs) due to military specific risk factors such as strict physical fitness requirements, increased salience of weight, and exposure to trauma. Current ED assessments and treatments do not account for these military-specific risk factors. Empirically identifying maintaining factors for EDs can clarify which specific ED symptoms may be efficacious treatment targets for service members and veterans. Thus, we employed network analysis within a military sample to identify central ED symptoms and compare if these symptoms changed across three time-points. We hypothesized that body dissatisfaction and overexercise would be identified as central symptoms across all three time-points. Individuals in the military (73.7% male, 84.8% active duty, Mage = 30.74) completed the Eating Pathology Symptom Inventory (EPSI; Forbush et al., 2013) at baseline (n = 216), and at 1-month (n = 191) and 3-month follow-up (n = 176). We computed cross-sectional graphical LASSO networks and found that the most central symptoms were related to body dissatisfaction, overexercise, binge eating and diet pill/diuretics; these symptoms were largely stable across multiple time-points. Body dissatisfaction was identified as central across all three time-points and overexercise, binge eating, and diet pill/diuretics were identified as central across two timepoints. These findings are in line with network studies among men and clinical patients that find weight/shape concerns consistently emerge as central ED symptoms. Given that overexercise and diuretics are both central symptoms and frequently employed by military populations, providers should assess these symptoms and work to treat them in a culturally responsive way when they arise.

Palestine in a Vicious Circle of Violence, Wars and Terror (1948–2023)

This article deals with one of the most explosive areas of the world today, which is the Near and Middle East (NMEA) and especially the territory of historical Palestine, where the Israeli-Palestinian conflict (IPC) has been going on for a long time. The text deals primarily with historical and military factors and is written as a historical explanatory analysis. It focuses on the most significant historical events and explains the ways of functioning and the consequences of the processes that have been taking place there for a long time.

Psychological and gender specific correlates of aggressive behaviour in military personnel

Participation in conflicts can have a significant impact on the manifestation of aggression among military personnel, especially those who have had intensive combat experience in war zones. The key aspects of gender psychology and the influence of military factors on aggressive behaviour are considered. The term “gender-based aggression” in military personnel is proposed, which reflects the concept that describes the difference in the manifestations of aggressive behaviour depending on the gender characteristics of a person. It is used to analyse and understand how gender and psychological factors influence the perception and expression of aggression among men and women, particularly in the context of military settings. The purpose of the study is to identify and analyse the psychological and gender factors associated with aggressive behaviour of military personnel. The study was conducted with 89 combatants, including 47 men (first group) and 42 women (second group). To achieve this goal, the Aggression Level Questionnaire by A. Bass and A. Darkey. The mathematical and statistical processing of the results was carried out using Student's t-test for independent samples and Fisher’s angular transformation criterion (φ). It has been empirically found that men have a higher tendency to indirect aggression and a high level of mistrust, while women show less physical and verbal aggression. The aggression index scores of both groups of servicemen are within acceptable norms, which indicates that the overall level of aggression among them is satisfactory. However, the hostility index score was higher than the normative values in both groups, indicating an increased tendency to hostile behaviour and conflict among servicemen. The results emphasise the importance of an individual approach to psychological support for servicemen and women, taking into account their gender identity. The findings of the study can serve as a basis for developing effective strategies for managing stress and conflict in the military environment and are an incentive for further research in the field of gender psychology.

Prospective comparison of risk factors for firearm suicide and non-firearm suicide in a large population-based cohort of current and former US service members: findings from the Millennium Cohort Study

BackgroundSuicide is a leading cause of death among service members and veterans. Among suicide methods, firearms are the most lethal and commonly used method among military populations. Limited research has compared risk factors for the various suicide methods. This study evaluated and compared risk factors for firearm versus non-firearm suicides using data from the Millennium Cohort Study, a large longitudinal military cohort. MethodsUsing a competing risk approach, we identified factors associated with each suicide method. Risk factors included demographics, mental health diagnoses, mental health symptoms, military-specific characteristics, health behaviors, and psychosocial factors. Cause of death was assessed from July 1, 2001, through December 31, 2018. FindingsAmong 201,565 eligible participants with a mean [SD] age of 27.9 [5.2] years, there were 139,789 (69.3%) male, 61,776 (30.7%) female, 15,927 (7.9%) Hispanic, 24,667 (12.3%) non-Hispanic Black, 14,107 (7.0%) Asian, Pacific Islander, American Indian or Multiracial, and 146,736 (72.8%) non-Hispanic White participants. During the study period, 330 died by firearm suicide and 168 died by non-firearm suicide. Overall, effect estimates for risk factors were similar across both methods of suicide. After adjustment, men (HR: 3.69, 95% CI: 2.59, 5.24) and those who screened positive for depression (HR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.36, 2.87) had an elevated risk for firearm suicide. In contrast, those who self-reported a history of bipolar diagnosis (HR: 3.40, 95% CI: 1.76, 6.55) had significantly increased risk for non-firearm suicide. InterpretationFindings suggest that prevention and intervention strategies overall may not need to be differentiated by specific demographic, military, or health factors. Targeted interventions that consider sex and mental health screens might have relative utility in preventing firearm related suicide risk compared with non-firearm suicide. FundingMilitary Operational Medicine Research Program, Defense Health Program, and Department of Veterans Affairs.

Longitudinal association of health behaviors and health-related quality of life with military spouse readiness.

Unhealthy behaviors impose costs on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) reducing productivity and readiness among military members (Hoge et al., JAMA 295:1023-32, 2006; Mansfield et al. 362:101-9, 2010). Among married personnel in particular, patterns of spouse health behaviors may play an interdependent role. As a result, the identification of military spouse health factors related to readiness may inform strategies to screen for and identify those in need of greater support and enhance readiness. This study explored behavioral and HRQOL predictors and potential mediators of military spouse readiness utilizing data from the Millennium Cohort Family Study. The analytic sample comprised of 3257 spouses of active-duty, non-separated service members who responded to both waves 1 and 2 of the survey. Sample characteristics are described with respect to demographics (e.g., age, sex, race/ethnicity, etc.), readiness measures (i.e., military satisfaction, lost workdays, health care utilization, military-related stress, and satisfaction), health behaviors (i.e., exercise, sleep, smoking, and alcohol use) and HRQOL (Veterans RAND 12-Item Short Form Survey). We conducted multivariate mediation analyses to evaluate the role of mental and physical HRQOL as mediators between the baseline health behaviors and the health readiness outcomes at follow-up, while adjusting for spouse and service member demographics. HRQOL had direct effects for all five readiness outcomes examined. Multiple health behaviors (insomnia, smoking, binge drinking, and exercise) were further significantly associated with spouse readiness outcomes, although most effects were mediated through HRQOL, suggesting this may be a useful index of military spouse readiness. Insomnia was the specific health behavior most consistently associated with poorer readiness across outcomes, and effects were only partially mediated by physical and mental HRQOL. The results show spouse health behaviors are directly and indirectly (through HRQOL) associated with readiness indicators. This suggests that assessments of modifiable health behaviors (e.g., insomnia symptoms) and mental and physical HRQOL are important indicators of readiness among military spouses and should be used to inform future programs designed to improve population health.

PROCESSING, ANALYSIS & ANALYTICS OF BIG DATA FOR THE INNOVATIVE MANAGEMENT

The changes that have taken place in the economy of Ukraine in recent years as a result of the consistent impact of global macroeconomic, epidemiological and military factors of the current deep crisis have actualized for organizations, enterprises and corporations the urgent need to maximize their effectiveness, the key component of which is the innovative management of their complex projects. The primary scientific and practical results presented in the article regarding the specifics of the methodology and technologies of deep intellectual analysis and analytics of Big structured and semi-structured Data in innovative project management must be taken into account during crisis reengineering of the management systems of domestic private and public organizations, enterprises and corporations. Moreover, the obtained results are relevant and applicable for not only local organizations, enterprises and corporations, but for international on emerging markets in the context of future global and regional macroeconomic and possible epidemical crisis phenomena.

Prevalence of obesity and associated health risks in soldiers of the German Armed Forces

BackgroundObesity rates are rising in the armed forces of Western democratic countries, impacting military readiness and health. This highlights the need for preventive health risk assessments and countermeasures.MethodsUsing mandatory health examination data from 2018 to 2022, we analyzed the prevalence of obesity, health risks, and associated specific military risk factors (rank and unit) in 43,214 soldiers of the German Armed Forces. Statistical methods included χ2 contingencies and binary logistic regressions.ResultsThe prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30) was 18.0%. Male soldiers (OR = 3.776) and those with an officer’s rank (OR = 1.244) had an increased chance for obesity. Serving in a combat unit reduced the chance of being obese (OR = .886). Considering BMI and waist circumference, 2.4% of the total sample faced extremely high cardiovascular and metabolic health risks, while 11.0% and 11.6% had very high or high health risks, respectively.ConclusionsOur data underscore the importance of targeting obesity-related health risk factors in soldiers to ensure their well-being and deployment readiness.

Consumer lending vs ludomania: From resilience to social responsibility in the case of Ukraine

The main idea of the article lies in seeking a balance between the interests of the state, citizens - microcredit borrowers, non-banking financial institutions, and gambling entities (this is exemplified through relationships where low-income citizens use consumer credits for gambling). Unwise decisions by any of these participants regarding consumer credits and their use for gambling pose risks to both financial and social security in society. The issue of rationalizing the purpose of consumer credits, particularly in the context of military factors, when both the state and citizens are highly vulnerable, gains particular significance. In pursuit of the aim to identify an effective strategy to counter their (credits) use in citizen-risk operations, such as gambling, the article provides reasoned proposals for enhancing legal regulation of these relationships in Ukraine. Furthermore, the conceptual component of the article is reinforced by emphasizing the significant role of the concept of socially responsible business, which serves as a guarantee for achieving a positive social impact and minimizing predatory treatment of citizens in the microcredit sector. The research offers measures to prevent the misuse of microcredits and underscores the importance of achieving a balance between state and private interests in this field.