Policy Shift Research Articles

Integrating sustainability into cybersecurity: insights from machine learning based topic modeling

The increasing emphasis on sustainability in computing systems, ranging from small devices to large data centers, is fueled by environmental concerns. Moreover, ensuring cybersecurity in these interconnected networks demands the use of technologies such as resource-intensive cryptography and advanced intrusion detection systems. Our unique study investigates the integration of environmental sustainability into cybersecurity practices by identifying six pivotal themes through a textual analysis of related publications via machine learning based topic modeling. These themes highlight the convergence of cybersecurity with sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). These include the integration of sustainable cybersecurity measures in smart cities, sustainable digital protection strategies, the application of blockchain for cybersecurity in smart grids, and cybersecurity solutions for SMEs aimed at minimizing resource consumption. Additionally, the study explores multidisciplinary strategies and innovations across four perspectives: adaptive frameworks that prioritize resilience and environmental consciousness, policy shifts for coordinated protection, the power of AI in intelligent threat detection, and the impact of emerging technologies on both security and environmental efficiency. These strategies advocate for an evolved approach that incorporates advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain into resilient, sustainable cybersecurity frameworks. This study not only provides a comprehensive overview of the intersection of cybersecurity and sustainability but also serves as a guide for future research and practical applications in creating robust, environmentally friendly cybersecurity practices.

From Policy to Practice: Challenges in Implementing PROMs Reporting Under the New CMS Mandate.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently introduced mandatory reporting of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) following primary, elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA) procedures. This article explores the implications and implementation challenges of this policy shift in the field of orthopaedic surgery. With a review of the existing literature, we analyze the potential benefits and limitations of PROs, discuss the role of CMS in health-care quality improvement initiatives, explain the predicted difficulties in the successful implementation of this new mandate, and provide recommendations for the successful integration of the reporting of PROs in clinical practice.

European Security Dilemmas: A Comparison of Germany and France's Approaches to the Relationship of the EU and NATO Roles in Europe after 2022

In 2016–2017, it was the Franco-German tandem which nurtured European security integration. The leaders of both states have been used to reaching a compromise despite different approaches to Atlanticism and Europeanism balance. However, the Ukrainian conflict escalation has changed the defense policies pursued by France and Germany. This paper argues, that during the last two years the differences between the two states concerning security issues have widened. With Germany even more relying on NATO as the most important security guarantor for Europe, France tends to simultaneously argue for a stronger, more independent European defense. Amid limited resources, it became more difficult for both parties to compromise. The article compares shifts in German and French policies on three levels, that are conceptual (the role of NATO and the EU in strategic papers and addresses of the French and German leaders), program-initiative (involvement in NATO and the EU security initiatives over the past two years), and military-industrial (joint projects and procurements). The research reveals that since the Ukrainian crisis escalation France and Germany have tended to rely on NATO as the main security guarantor, still the former is strongly committed to effectively strengthening European security. Germany and France differ in terms of their involvement in NATO and the EU security initiatives as well as procurements. Having its own nuclear weapons and military-industrial complex, the latter is less committed to NATO, yet highly supports European defense projects, seeking economic and political benefits. Germany prioritizes proven NATO structures, bilateral initiatives, as well as transatlantic defense procurements. The paper reveals a correlation between the policies of Germany and France and their dependence on the US military-industrial complex.

Brokering in uncharted terrain: the revocation of protection in Norwegian and Danish asylum cases

ABSTRACT Norway and Denmark have recently adopted active policies of temporary protection featuring, inter alia, the revocation of residence permits. These policies narrow the space for human rights considerations and beg the question of how immigration decision-makers approach and navigate this new legal terrain. This article characterizes asylum appeals boards as brokers, who balance competing legal and political imperatives in this uncharted terrain. Contrasting the different ways these measures have been rolled out in both countries, the institutional analysis foregrounds the myriad challenges engendered by this new case complex. While the Danish variant is tightly regulated and coupled to (evolving) interpretations of human rights law, the Norwegian instruction-based approach challenges institutional autonomy. Despite different implementing approaches, the comparative analysis reveals broader strategies and positioning that serve to maintain institutional legitimacy in the face of this exceptional policy shift.

An Examination of How the Monetary Policies of the United States Federal Reserve Affect Both the Imports and Exports of Emerging Market Economies

The monetary policy of the Federal Reserve, especially changes in interest rates, has a significant impact on international capital flows and the macroeconomic stability of emerging market nations. This study examines the intricate processes by which changes in the Federal Reserve's monetary policy, such as increases or decreases in interest rates, have a major knock-on effect on the world's financial markets. Changes in capital flows, exchange rates, and financial circumstances are some of these factors that affect emerging economies' import and export operations. Through an analysis of the connection between trade dynamics and U.S. monetary policy, this article reveals the ways in which fluctuations in capital flows and changes in the economy impact emerging markets' trade balance. Moreover, the study highlights the strategic importance of understanding these interactions for developing effective trade policies and maintaining macroeconomic stability. The findings provide practical insights into how emerging market countries can mitigate the adverse impacts of Fed policy shifts and sustain stability in the increasingly interconnected global trading system.

Navigating China's OFDI: Financial Development and Policy Shifts in the EU

Navigating China's OFDI: Financial Development and Policy Shifts in the EU

Licensure Actions Against Psychiatric Clinicians: A Cohort Analysis of National Practitioner Database Reports.

To examine trends and predictors of administrative actions against psychiatric clinicians' licenses between 2002 and 2022. Data from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) identified 6400 disciplinary actions against psychiatric clinicians' licenses. Linear trend models assessed the trends of disciplinary actions across mental/physical health, licensing/legal issues, and unprofessional conduct. A first-order autoregressive model with a time indicator interaction term evaluated structural breaks (ie, a sudden or gradual change in the characteristics of data in a time series). Predictors of claims were assessed using logistic regression. Since 2002, disciplinary actions related to clinicians' mental/physical health (P=0.004) and licensure/legal issues (P=0.018) have decreased, while actions related to unprofessional conduct remained unchanged (P=0.358). Declines emerged in 2012 for mental/physical health (break coefficient -0.367; P=0.026) and in 2009 for unprofessional conduct (break coefficient -0.199; P=0.013). Clinicians facing disciplinary actions related to physical/mental health were significantly younger than those with legal/licensure issues (P<0.001). While the average age remained stable for mental/physical health-related actions, the average age increased for actions related to licensure/legal claims and unprofessional conduct. The decrease in disciplinary actions related to physical/mental health may reflect better access and acceptance of treatment of clinicians, while the reduction in licensure/legal actions may indicate policy shifts. Findings regarding age underscore the need for enhanced support for mid and late-career clinicians to promote lifelong learning and practice.

E-invoicing, tax audits and VAT compliance

Difficult to find another policy shift that has promised as much for tax compliance in developing countries as digitalization. Yet the evidence on its impact is scant. Using the universe of tax filings in Rwanda over the period 2012–2019, this paper investigates the extent to which digitalization (in the form of e-invoicing) has impacted on VAT compliance and in particular the effectiveness of tax audits. The evidence suggests that on the aggregate e-invoicing adoption has increased firms’ net VAT payments and has improved the efficiency of VAT audits. It is also shown that e-invoicing has a sizeable impact on VAT liabilities reported by audited firms, with this impact being attributed to tax audits being more efficient rather than to VAT registered firms becoming more compliant following their adoption of e-invoicing.

Analysis of Secondary Education with regard to the School Education Sector Plan (SESP) 2022/23-2031/32 of Nepal

Secondary education plays a critical role in shaping the future of individuals and societies by bridging the gap between basic education and higher education or the workforce. Over the years, global secondary education policies have evolved to address issues such as accessibility, equity, quality, and relevance to the demands of the 21st century. This study analyzes secondary education policy of Nepal with regard to School Education Sector Plan (SESP) 2022/23-2031/32 with their objectives and strategies The findings reveal that the SESP signifies a shift in policy towards holistic student development, focusing on quality improvement, equity promotion, and relevance to the modern job market. The policy emphasizes integrating vocational and technical education, enhancing teacher training, and fostering partnerships with industry stakeholders. However, the study identifies challenges in implementing the SESP, including resource constraints, infrastructure gaps, and regional disparities in execution. The conclusion highlights that while the SESP offers a progressive roadmap for transforming secondary education, its success will depend on overcoming these barriers. Addressing implementation challenges and ensuring continuous stakeholder engagement will be crucial to achieving the policy's ambitious goals and improving education system of Nepal.

Responses of Gulf States to the Palestine-Israel Conflict in the Post 7th October 2023

The events of 7th October 2023 marked a turning point in Middle Eastern geopolitics, prompting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to reassess their foreign policy approaches to the escalating Israel-Palestine conflict. This study explores shifts in GCC foreign policies post-escalation through the lens of Realist theory, focusing on national interests, security concerns, and state survival amid regional instability. Employing qualitative methods, including historical analysis and data triangulation, the research analyses policy statements, reports, and scholarly sources to uncover the motivations behind individual state actions. The findings reveal significant disparities in GCC responses. Saudi Arabia suspended normalisation talks with Israel to align with pro-Palestinian sentiment, while Qatar intensified mediation efforts and expanded humanitarian support. The UAE and Bahrain, balancing diplomatic ties with Israel and public concerns, adopted more cautious stances. Oman maintained neutrality, while Kuwait upheld a strongly pro-Palestinian position. The lack of unified GCC action highlights the bloc's fragmented nature, driven by diverging national priorities and geopolitical alliances. This study sheds light on the complexities of GCC diplomacy and its limitations in formulating a cohesive response to the conflict. By examining these dynamics, the research provides insights into regional geopolitics and proposes strategies to foster unity within the GCC, enhancing its role in addressing the Palestine-Israel conflict and broader regional challenges.

The Impact of Presidential Elections on Organizational Leadership in Business Environments

This essay delves into the impact of U.S. presidential elections on organizational leadership within the business sector. By scrutinizing shifts in economic policy, regulatory practices, market expectations, and leadership behavior, this work evaluates how these elections shape the strategic and operational decisions of corporate leaders. The study integrates various theories of leadership and organizational behavior, alongside recent case studies, to demonstrate how different election outcomes influence corporate governance and the broader market landscape. Ultimately, it highlights the intricate relationship between political events and business leadership, offering insights into the adaptive strategies employed by corporate leaders in response to electoral changes.

Pakistan’s Regional Integration via Shared Economic Vision: Prospects and Challenges

Regional cooperation is essential for economic development in a world characterized by complex interdependence. The phenomenon of regional integration is very common these days, and the world witnesses various regional organizations, treaties, and agreements to ensure the optimal utilization of regional collective resources. This indicated that the future is in collective growth. Pakistan also focused on its regional integration lately. It has undergone a shift in its foreign policy from a security-centric state to economic initiatives commonly known as its Shared Economic Vision. This major shift in policy was observed after the capstone economic project of Pakistan CPEC in 2015, which was later confirmed by its National Security Policy (NSP) in 2022. Regional integrations can help countries to overcome the challenges of globalization and to reap the benefits of economic growth and development. Countries can promote regional cooperation by establishing regional trade agreements and regional infrastructure projects and cooperating on security and other issues. In this regard, this paper focuses on the importance of Pakistan's regional integration and the different projects/integrations it is undergoing to enhance its regional integration.

Reshaping Research Ecosystems: Recommendations for Equitable Recognition of Non-STEM Research in Higher Institution Management

Historically, the trend in academia towards measurable measures has marginalised non-STEM, arts, and humanities subjects, often at the price of their inherent academic principles and capabilities. This review of the literature explores the shift in university policies and practises, emphasising the need for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to research administration. This study analyses a variety of scientific articles using an extensive keyword search on Lens.org to evaluate the obstacles and recommendations for equal career progression in non-STEM disciplines. The findings indicate a rising appreciation for the multifaceted nature of knowledge and the significance of varied academic contributions. The study highlights the importance of widening the concept of research impact, including qualitative evaluations, and embracing interdisciplinary approaches. It also discusses the impact of university rankings and the incorporation of SDGs in reframing the value of non-STEM disciplines. In addition, the study suggests practical methods for university administrators, such as the creation of customised appraisal forms, customised career trajectories, and equal resource allocation. The study finishes by considering the future role of the arts and humanities in an increasingly automated and technologically driven world, emphasising the relevance of human values and ethical considerations in societal growth. This study adds to the discussion about developing a balanced and human-centred approach to research management, calling for the recognition and support of all academic disciplines in the changing landscape of higher education.

Quantitative assessment of Public Health and Social Measures implementation and relaxation on influenza transmission during COVID-19 in China: SEIABR and GBDT models.

Since 2019, China has implemented Public Health and Social Measures (PHSMs) to manage the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. As the threat from SARS-CoV-2 diminished, these measures were relaxed, leading to increased respiratory infections and strained health care resources by mid-2023. The study utilised WHO's FluNet and Oxford's COVID-19 Government Response Tracker to assess how policy shifts have affected influenza. It examined changes in influenza incidence, subtype prevalence, and epidemic cycles over three periods: pre-COVID-19 and pre-PHSMs, during COVID-19 and PHSMs, and post-COVID-19 and post-PHSMs. The SEIABR model estimated the transmission probability () and real-time reproduction number () across these periods, while a gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) analysed the effects of PHSM indicators on influenza transmission. Results indicate that before PHSMs, the average incidence was 4.87 per 100 000, with a β-value of (7.95 ± 1.27) × 10-10 and Rt-value of 1.21 ± 0.16. During PHSMs, incidence dropped to 2.55 per 100 000, and β decreased to (3.17 ± 0.75) × 10-10 (Rt-value of 0.86 ± 0.20). Post-PHSMs, the incidence surged to 17.00 per 100 000, with β rising to 8.36 × 10-10 (Rt-value of 2.25). The GBDT model identified testing policies, public information campaigns, and workplace closures as the most impactful PHSM indicators. PHSMs effectively mitigated the spread of influenza, providing a foundation for future policy development to prevent respiratory diseases.

Queer refugees and human rights: on the limits of recognition

Abstract This article draws from the author’s lived experience of queer displacement and involvement in international advocacy for LGBTIQ+ refugees, focusing on key policy developments from 2016 to 2021. Central to this analysis is the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR), which, despite its potential, ultimately failed to specifically address the needs of LGBTIQ+ refugees. Through a lived-experience lens, the GCR’s text is critically examined, revealing its limitations in recognizing LGBTIQ+ refugees. Further analysis of UNHCR’s Global Roundtable on Protection and Solutions for LGBTIQ+ People in Forced Displacement exposes the power imbalances that hinder meaningful participation in spaces purportedly inclusive of LGBTIQ+ refugees. The author contends that mere visibility is insufficient for recognition; a redistribution of power is essential. Grounded in feminist and intersectional frameworks, the article advocates for a paradigm shift in refugee policy towards full inclusion, human rights protection, justice and social equity for LGBTIQ+ refugees.

The Spillover Effects of American Monetary Policy Shifts

The monetary policy of the United States has profound impacts on the global economy and financial markets, and the radical adjustments of the monetary policy of the United States and other developed countries are important attributors of global financial risks. Studying the evolvement of the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve and the spillover effects will help us to predict the direction of the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve in the future, and take initiatives to deal with and prevent the potential risks brought by the changes of the monetary policy. By reviewing the existing literatures, it is found that there is heterogeneity in the impacts of US monetary policy shifts on the price levels, interest rates, exchange rates and financial markets of different economies. In the future, researchs on the spillover impacts of US monetary policy shifts can be related to digital currency, Bitcoin and other virtual currencies.

Insect Decline-Evaluation of Potential Drivers of a Complex Phenomenon.

The decline of insects is a global concern, yet identifying the factors behind it remains challenging due to the complexity of potential drivers and underlying processes, and the lack of quantitative historical data on insect populations. This study assesses 92 potential drivers of insect decline in West Germany, where significant declines have been observed. Using data from federal statistical offices and market surveys, the study traces changes in landscape structure and agricultural practices over 33 years. Over the years, the region underwent major landscape changes, including reduced cropland and grassland and increased urbanization and forest areas. Potential detected drivers of insect decline include: (1) urban expansion, reducing insect habitats as urban areas increased by 25%; (2) intensified grassland management; (3) shifts in arable land use towards bioenergy and feed crop cultivation, particularly corn, driven by dairy farming intensification and renewable energy policies. While the toxic load of pesticide application has decreased, land-use changes, most likely driven by market demands and shifts in national and EU policies, have reduced habitat availability and suitability for insects. This study highlights how these landscape and land management changes over the past 33 years align with the observed decline in insect biomass in the region.

Navigating the shift: understanding public trust in authorities amidst policy shifts in China’s COVID-19 response

Navigating the shift: understanding public trust in authorities amidst policy shifts in China’s COVID-19 response

Shifting and sharing power in urban climate justice work: experiments in transformative learning in Vancouver, Canada

As the global reckoning with a changing climate increases in urgency, and the real-world consequences of delayed and inadequate action become impossible to ignore, city leadership continues to grow in response. Cities are making significant shifts in policy and regulation, investing in infrastructure, building strong cross-sectoral collaborations, experimenting with solutions, advocating for changes outside their jurisdiction, and taking other important actions. Alongside these activities is a growing critique that climate action is not adequately integrating principles and goals of justice, equity, inclusion, or decoloniality. In this article we argue that transformative learning is an underutilized theory and practice when working toward city-based just climate action. We describe transformative learning approaches and implications in running a Climate Justice Field School in Vancouver, Canada, a response to implementing the first ever Climate Justice Charter for the city. This work resulted in five transformative learning interventions for urban climate researchers and practitioners to engage with as they move toward just, equitable, inclusive, decolonial climate action.

Wastewater-based monitoring of antipyretics use during COVID-19 outbreak in China and its associated ecological risks.

At the end of 2022, a sudden policy shift in China triggered an unprecedented COVID-19 outbreak that led to a dramatic increase in the consumption of antipyretics. In this study, the occurrence of the two most commonly used antipyretics (ibuprofen and paracetamol) and their metabolites were analyzed in the wastewater of nine major cities in China, covering the periods before, during, and after the policy change. The remarkable surge after the policy change for ibuprofen and paracetamol reached 67 times (in Nanning) and 311 times (in Lanzhou) compared to pre-pandemic levels, respectively. The variation of increases was mainly affected by the availability and the sampling period. During the outbreak period, direct discharge of high-drug-load wastewater could cause even higher risks; the RQ values were 0.43 for invertebrates in Lanzhou and 0.30 for fish in Nanning. Furthermore, during the post-pandemic period, wastewater discharge might pose high risks (RQ value was 2.58 in Xining to algae) associated with ibuprofen chronic toxicity. Fortunately, wastewater treatments would significantly reduce this risk to a low level (RQ<0.1). In some less developed areas, the lack of a comprehensive wastewater treatment system may lead to the direct discharge of untreated wastewater due to exfiltration of sewers, overflow of combined sewers, or lack of centralized or decentralized treatment facilities. Establishing a comprehensive wastewater treatment system is of great importance, especially in remote and impoverished areas. These results indicated that the potential ecological risks associated with epidemic outbreaks should not be overlooked. These risks may be heightened due to acute toxicity during health incidents, such as the COVID-19 outbreak, providing valuable insights for ecological management in future public health crises.