Scientific Landscape Research Articles

Advocacy - defending science or destroying it? Interviews with 47 climate scientists about their fundamental concerns.

The discourse on scientists' involvement in climate advocacy has intensified, with a growing number participating in civil disobedience. This trend has sparked criticism within the academic community. We conducted 47 interviews with climate scientists about the fundamental concerns that underpin their arguments. Scientists worry that advocacy may compromise scientific impartiality and invite allegations of biased science and abuse of authority. Despite this, some scientists view informing and warning the public as their duty and as an act of defending science's credibility. Concerns about independence and the role of scientists in society exist at both ends of the debate, underscoring the challenging landscape scientists currently navigate. While this article does not comment on the acceptability of advocacy, we propose that scientists engage in discussions about their duties and delineate the types of values deemed acceptable for incorporation in science communication about climate change.

Understanding and addressing the global impact: A systematic review and cross-sectional bibliometric analysis of Langya henipavirus and pre-existing severe henipaviruses.

In 2022, Langya henipavirus was identified in patients with fever in eastern China. This study provides an overview of the scientific landscape, highlights research focus areas, and outlines potential future investigations. The relevant scientific literature was systematically searched and reviewed via advanced bibliometric techniques. Over the past two decades, henipavirus research has increased at an annual rate of 8.82 %. The United States leads in research output, with the Australian Animal Health Laboratory as the top institution. Most articles are published in the Journal of Virology, identified as the most influential journal along with researcher Wang LF. Current research focuses on "zoonosis," "vaccine," and "pathogenesis," whereas future areas may include "molecular docking," "immunoinformatics," "climate change," "antibodies," "vaccines," "glycoprotein," and "ephrin-b2." This study details henipavirus research, highlighting key players, trends, and future directions. These insights will guide future efforts to address the risks posed by novel Henipaviruses, such as Langya.

Exploring the potential landscape of chemical engineering science

Exploring the potential landscape of chemical engineering science

Comparative Population Studies at Fifty: Views on the Past, Present, and Future

The 50th volume of Comparative Population Studies (CPoS) is a significant milestone in the journal’s history, offering us the opportunity to reflect on its development into a key platform for population research, major achievements, and future aspirations. Besides a retrospective, we present a forward-looking perspective, outlining our vision for the journal’s trajectory in an ever-changing scientific landscape. Furthermore, we offer insights from 50 years of CPoS, including the total number of submissions, the geographic origins of our authors, and an analysis of the journal’s most downloaded articles. This editorial is the first in a series accompanying CPoS volume 50 in our anniversary year. Further editorials by former CPoS editors, publishers, and authors will follow, giving an overview of the editorial processes, guiding principles, and strategic considerations that have and will continue to shape the journal’s identity and impact. * This article belongs to a series celebrating the journal's 50th anniversary.

Traditional Herbal Practices as Economic Drivers: Educational Institutions and the Knowledge Society in Assam

The essence of Assam lies in its stunning landscapes and rich cultural diversity. This Northeast Indian state is a vibrant melting pot of ethnicities, each weaving a distinct thread into its unique socio-cultural fabric. The Deori and Sonowal Kachari tribes of Assam have long relied on traditional herbal practices for healthcare, spiritual rituals, and economic sustenance. These communities possess invaluable indigenous knowledge passed down through generations, forming an integral part of Assam’s cultural heritage. However, the potential of this herbal knowledge remains largely untapped in the broader economic and scientific landscape. This paper explores how traditional herbal practices can serve as economic drivers by integrating them with scientific research and market mechanisms. The role of educational institutions in bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern economies is examined, focusing on how universities and research centers can facilitate knowledge transfer, preservation, and commercialization of herbal products. Through case studies and empirical data, the paper highlights the significance of fostering a knowledge society that values and sustains indigenous wisdom, ultimately contributing to economic growth and sustainable development in Assam.

A Pedagogical Proposal for Enhancing Undergraduate Biology Education through Complex Systems Thinking (CST)

This article is centered around the key question: how do we address teaching about biology, based on complex systems? In the dynamic landscape of biological sciences, the exploration of life's intricacies demands a holistic and interconnected approach. Complexity science and systems thinking offer a transformative framework for understanding the dynamic and interconnected nature of biological systems. As educators in the field of biology, it is imperative to equip undergraduate students with the tools to navigate and comprehend the ever-growing complexity of living systems. Traditional reductionist views, while valuable in understanding specific components of biological phenomena, often fall short in capturing the intricate interconnections and emergent properties that characterize living systems. In the pursuit of understanding these complexities, undergraduate biology education must transcend traditional reductionistic silos and embrace holistic interdisciplinary approaches such as complexity science and systems thinking. This article delves into the integration of Complex Systems Thinking (CST) in undergraduate biology courses, highlighting its significance, pedagogical implication, and practical strategies for implementation. Furthermore, it describes the key characteristics, and proposes a few pedagogical concepts associated with complexity, emergence, and systems thinking. The primary goal is to provide biology educators with the tools and enough basic information about the ‘features of complexity’, utilized in Big History, so that they can consider why and how such an approach might be applied in the education of both biologists and a scientifically literate citizenry.

Becoming The Science Teacher: Constructing Identity as an Elementary Science Specialist in Urban Schools

ABSTRACT Elementary Science Specialists (ESS) contribute to the elementary science landscape yet are rarely studied, as a potential solution to challenges in elementary science education or as a phenomenon in themselves. This ethnography explores the locally defined and culturally negotiated identities of ESS in three urban elementary schools in a high-stakes testing climate, drawing upon interviews with the ESS, classroom teachers, and building administrators. The construction of science-teaching identity is portrayed and analyzed according to Social Identity Theory with an emphasis on discourse . The ESS in this study came from non-science teaching backgrounds and developed science-teaching identity and capacities in their institutionally-sanctioned role of ESS. While institutional and discursive sources stimulated identity development, personal reflection on affinity- and nature-based science identities followed, highlighting the interplay of dynamism and continuity in identity . Whether assignment as ESS was experienced as a disruption or a progression, science-teaching expertise and identity emerged in-service for these ESS. Given sufficient institutional and discursive backing, as well as engagement in science instruction, those prepared as classroom generalists can come to see themselves as science teachers.

Trends in Colorectal Cancer Peritoneal Metastases Research: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) stands as the third most prevalent malignancy globally and is recognized as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Notably, nearly 50% of individuals diagnosed with CRC ultimately develop metastatic disease, with the peritoneum emerging as the second most frequent site for metastatic spread. Recent advancements in therapeutic frameworks have enhanced both survival rates and quality of life metrics for patients afflicted with colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases (CRCPM). This study endeavors to facilitate an in-depth review of the current scientific landscape surrounding CRCPM, ultimately aiming to delineate future avenues for investigative research in this realm. Employing R software through the Bibliometrix package, alongside analytical tools such as CiteSpace and VOSviewer, we performed a comprehensive bibliometric analysis. This enabled us to assess pivotal keywords, prominent authors, influential countries, notable institutions, relevant literature, and key journals pertinent to the field of CRCPM research. Our findings illustrate a significant uptick in the volume of publications addressing CRCPM, with the USA leading in overall contribution, complemented by substantial input from distinguished scholars in the Netherlands and France. The author Ignace H. J. T. de Hingh emerged as the most prolific contributor. Current research endeavors have predominantly focused on the characterization of primary malignancies with peritoneal metastases, therapeutic interventions for CRCPM, and the orchestration of clinical trials. This analysis culminates in a systematic encapsulation of the prevailing research findings concerning CRCPM, underscoring current hotspots and predicting future trends within the global research spectrum. The exploration of treatment modalities for CRCPM remains vibrant, and ongoing multicenter clinical trials are anticipated to further enrich our understanding and management of this challenging clinical issue.

Knowledge Generation Through Open Access and Generative Artificial Intelligence

The amount of data generated by scientific knowledge is growing exponentially, much faster than natural intelligence, making it increasingly more challenging for researchers to manage their data. Reputable Generative AI (GenAI) is seen as a crucial instrument to help modern researchers facilitate ethical publications and knowledge production. This study looks at how South African researchers can move the development of ethical knowledge using artificial intelligence by utilizing open access methodologies and practices. GenAI has completely changed the scientific research landscape by providing advanced tools for knowledge generation, data management, and ethical publishing. In South Africa, researchers are using GenAI more and more to handle the complexity of modern research data. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate how functional knowledge can be produced and utilized through AI tools, emphasizing the advantages of open access to scientific data and its moral ramifications. When ethical GenAI and Open Access (OA) are incorporated into South African higher education, the implications for universal access to knowledge are profound. The creation and distribution of scientific knowledge are significantly impacted by OA since it reduces the time needed to share research findings and broadens the pool of potential knowledge recipients (Bernius 2010b). Key Words: Open Access, Ethical Knowledge Creation, Artificial intelligence-generated Scientific Content, South Africa, Research Ethics, Open Science, Knowledge Equity

The Role of AI in Predicting and Mitigating Climate Change: A Comparative Study of U.S. and China’s Approaches

Climate change is undeniably one of the most critical challenges facing the world today. It demands innovative solutions, especially in the realms of prediction and mitigation. Among the tools that offer significant promise is Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is reshaping the landscape of climate science by improving forecasting models, enhancing renewable energy systems, and driving policy changes towards sustainability. However, how AI is utilized to address climate change varies dramatically between countries, influenced by distinct governance structures, technological priorities, and institutional setups. This study offers a comparative analysis of the United States and China, two global powerhouses in the fields of AI and climate action. The research explores how these two nations, despite sharing similar climate objectives, adopt different strategies based on their political, economic, and technological contexts. The US tends to rely on decentralized, market-driven innovation, while China employs a more centralized, state-guided approach. These differences significantly impact the deployment of AI in critical areas like climate modeling, emissions monitoring, and energy optimization. The analysis is framed within the context of comparative institutionalism and technological innovation systems, which provide the theoretical underpinnings to explore the influence of political, economic, and technological factors on climate strategies. The findings of this study reveal that while the US thrives on innovation driven by the private sector, leading to the development of cutting-edge AI tools, China benefits from a unified national strategy that ensures rapid implementation on a large scale. Both models have distinct advantages and drawbacks, ultimately shaping each country’s contribution to the global fight against climate change. This paper concludes with a discussion on the implications of these findings for global cooperation in AI governance, highlighting the importance of international collaboration to fully harness AI’s potential for climate mitigation. This research thus contributes to the ongoing conversation around AI’s role in fostering sustainable development, offering practical insights and shedding light on how global political contexts influence technological solutions for the climate crisis.

Visualizing Scientific Landscapes: A Powerful Method for Mapping Research Fields

ABSTRACT How can political science scholars use visualization and mapping tools to refine the development of research on complex theoretical concepts? Literature mapping, a powerful method commonly used in the natural sciences to visualize scientific landscapes, is not yet widely used in political science. This study illustrates the capabilities of this method by analyzing visual maps of academic research on the term “organizing” in the context of political action. We describe our multistep methodological approach for generating the maps and demonstrate how they can be analyzed to produce insights about themes, potential gaps, canonical literature, and levels of dialogue across research areas. We conclude by outlining future research possibilities generated by this study’s literature mapping approach.

Global research output on Rhododendron publications based on Web of Science database

Purpose: This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of research publications on Rhododendron from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Methodology: A total of 3082 records from 1989 to 2022 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The data analyzed using MS Excel and VOS viewer software was used to determine the most frequent keywords used in the publications. Findings: The analysis shows that the number of research publications on Rhododendron has been increasing steadily over the years. The year 2022 recorded the highest number of publications (213), indicating growing interest and continued research activity in this specialized area. The top 10 most prolific authors are dominated by individuals from China, with Li Yong leading with 26 publications. The United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, and Mae Fah Luang University ranked second and third, respectively, among the most productive organizations. China emerged as the most prolific country in terms of the number of research publications on Rhododendron, followed by the United States and India. The keywords most frequently occurring in the publications include "rhododendron," "Ericaceae," and "plants," reflecting the central focus of research in this area. Research limitations: The findings of the study are limited to the data available in the Web of Science Core Collection database from 1989 to 2022. Originality/Value: The findings contribute to a better understanding of the scientific landscape within this field and can help in shaping future research directions and discoveries related to Rhododendrons.

Red Seaweed Carrageenan: A Comprehensive Review of Preparation in Cosmetics - An In Depth Analysis

Carrageenan, an extract from red seaweed (Rhodophyta), has many uses in cosmetics, and this literature review delves into them all. Due to its superior gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties, carrageenan, a polysaccharide with a wide range of chemical structures, has been utilized in various industries throughout history. In recent years, the cosmetics industry has shown growing interest in harnessing the potential of carrageenan, driven by the increasing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the botanical background, types of carrageenan, and the most effective extraction methods for obtaining the key bioactive compounds that enhance its functionality in cosmetic formulations. The functional properties of carrageenan in cosmetics are discussed in depth, including its gelling and thickening capabilities, moisturizing effects, and stability enhancement. Additionally, its biological activities, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contribute to its appeal as a valuable ingredient in skincare products. Formulation considerations, including compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients and optimal concentrations, are explored to facilitate the development of effective products. The review also addresses the incorporation of carrageenan into cosmetic formulations, along with safety and regulatory aspects, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the product's conformity with industry standards. In conclusion, the review provides an overview of current challenges, potential future research directions, and case studies showcasing the incorporation of carrageenan into cosmetic products. This review aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, formulators, and industry professionals interested in the innovative use of carrageenan in the evolving landscape of cosmetic science by synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps in the current scientific literature.

Bridging the Gap: How AI & Technology are Reshaping the Landscape of Humanity and Social Sciences

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology is dramatically reshaping our world, impacting not only human lives but also the very nature of the social sciences. This paper explores the diverse and profound ways in which this technological revolution is bridging the gap between these formerly distinct realms. Focusing on key statistics and data points, the paper begins by demonstrating the growing influence of AI and technology across various aspects of humanity. These include the exponential rise in AI spending, the widespread adoption of intelligent machines in daily life, and the increasing number of individuals participating in the gig economy. Following this analysis, the paper delves into the transformation of the social sciences through the integration of AI tools and methods. It examines the growing number of social scientists utilizing AI in their research, the emergence of new research methods utilizing machine learning and natural language processing, and the evolving landscape of data collection and analysis in the social sciences. Moving beyond a purely descriptive approach, the paper then critically examines the implications of these interconnected trends. It highlights potential benefits such as enhanced research capabilities, improved efficiency, and deeper insights into human behavior. However, it also acknowledges the inherent challenges, including concerns about ethical considerations, potential for bias, and the need for responsible data governance. Finally, the paper proposes an integrated approach to navigating the future where AI and technology are seamlessly woven into the fabric of humanity and the social sciences. This vision emphasizes ongoing collaboration between diverse stakeholders, continuous exploration of the ethical implications, and the development of responsible frameworks for responsible innovation. By bridging the gap between AI, technology, and the social sciences, we can collectively shape a future where these powerful tools serve humanity's best interests and advance our understanding of ourselves and the world around us

Shedding Light on the Mid‐Infrared Complex Refractive Index of Anodic Aluminum Oxide

AbstractIn the current scientific landscape, the understanding of optical properties in the mid‐infrared (mid‐IR) range (3–30 µm) is crucial in simulations and models to explore the potential of materials for various applications. However, due to the challenges associated with mid‐IR characterization, accurate refractive index (n) and extinction coefficient (κ) data are often lacking in the literature. This study addresses this gap by investigating the mid‐IR n and κ spectra of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) nanostructures anodized under different conditions, using two distinct approaches: IR ellipsometry and a theoretical model based on multilayer reflection and effective medium. The results demonstrate a strong agreement: the anodizing conditions have a significant influence on the optical properties of the AAO nanostructures. These differences enable accurate simulations of the emissivity spectra of AAO nanostructures on Al foils, which align closely with experimental measurements. This theoretical approximation is versatile and extensible to a broad range of materials. Different materials are tested, namely, a sapphire, a polycarbonate film, and a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film achieving a useful qualitative description. This study paves the way for a novel approach in the engineering of new micro and nano‐optical materials, facilitating their evaluation for suitability in mid‐IR applications.

A white paper from the FEBS Education and Training Conference: challenges, opportunities, and action plans for transforming molecular life sciences education.

The inaugural FEBS Education and Training Conference (ETC) was held in Türkiye, in 2024. This first-ever Molecular Life Sciences Education Conference in Europe was organized by the FEBS Education and Training Committee and it was a groundbreaking event that brought together educators and scientists to explore how to enhance education and training in molecular life sciences. The conference explored a wide range of critical themes, for example-digital revolution, active learning and student engagement, multidisciplinary teaching and learning, transitions and inclusivity in education, students' self-assessment, and self-regulated learning. The discussions and presentations underscored the pressing need for transformation in how academics and researchers approach teaching and learning. Such shift is driven by rapid technological advancements, societal shifts, and the evolving demands of the scientific landscape. This document synthesizes key insights, discussions, and recommendations from the conference and proposes actionable strategies for all stakeholders in the field-institutions, educators and students-to address current challenges in education and training in molecular life sciences.

Catalyzing sustainable development: insights from the international workshop on STI policies and innovation systems in Central America.

This article examines the landscape of Science, Technology, and Innovation policies in Central America, focusing on Nicaragua, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. These nations face significant challenges in leveraging STI for sustainable development, including financial constraints and limited resources. Additionally, Central America struggles with systemic issues such as corruption, violence, and high levels of emigration, further complicating efforts to advance STI. A workshop organized by Georgetown University's Science Technology and International Affairs program brought together scholars to discuss STI policies, resulting in key recommendations. The article highlights critical challenges, including over-reliance on state funding, stagnant researcher numbers, and the pressing need for research diversification. It emphasizes the importance of youth engagement, leadership, and resilience in shaping effective STI policies. Recommendations include investing in science education, establishing governmental scientific advisory bodies, promoting research diversity, and addressing climate change through STI strategies. The findings provide valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and international organizations working with less developed nations globally.

The Scientific Landscape of the Aging-in-Place Literature: A Bibliometric Analysis

The world’s population is aging and, as populations age, they exhibit an increased prevalence of chronic diseases, which can reduce the independence of elderly individuals. The set of initiatives known as aging in place, a common policy response to the aging population, is preferred by both the elderly population and policymakers. Aging in place is a broad and multifaceted topic that involves multiple stakeholders and academic disciplines. A science map of the literature on aging in place can help researchers pinpoint their efforts and help policymakers make informed decisions. Thus, this study maps the scientific landscape of the aging-in-place literature. This review used bibliometric analysis to examine 3240 publications on aging in place indexed in the Web of Science. Using VOSviewer 1.6.20, it conducted various analyses, including a citation analysis and an analysis of the co-occurrence of author-provided keywords. The study identified key research areas, leading countries, institutions, and journals, central publications, and the temporal evolution of themes in the literature. Based on its keyword co-occurrence analysis, the study identified five major research-area clusters: (1) aging-in-place facilitators, (2) age-friendly communities, (3) housing, (4) assistive technologies, and (5) mental health. This study improves the understanding of the various interdisciplinary factors that have influenced the research on aging in place. By making this research more accessible, the study can help researchers and policymakers navigate the extensive information on aging in place and complex relationships more effectively.

The educator and educational continuity in the zerosei integrated system in Italy. Virtues, skills and world context

In Italy, Legislative Decree 65/2017 establishes the integrated system of education and instruction from birth to six years, effectively establishing the institutional conditions for the creation of an educational proposal that has pedagogical roots dating back to the debates on educational continuity which have crossed the Italian scientific landscape since the 1980s. This proposal from the legislator has opened the way to numerous debates regarding a series of rather complex issues concerning pedagogical, political, organizational and financial issues. In the analysis and problematization of these themes, the question of the definition of the professional figure who can/should operate, precisely, in a zero-six context seems to emerge as emblematic. This issue appears to be particularly thorny since at the moment in Italy we are in a transition phase which sees on the one hand the push towards a new integrated educational system for early childhood, on the other the persistence of old training and organizational structures which on the one hand they can be considered a limit to change, on the other hand they can prove to be a solid reference base from which to start to achieve change. In the definition of operational paths to promote the integrated zerosei system, and in the definition of the related professional figures, the theme of educational continuity appears to be central, which emerges both in relation to the internal dimension of the educational structures and in relation to the contiguity between these structures, the services, the family and the territory.

Mapping the landscape of government data breaches: A bibliometric analysis of literature from 2006 to 2023

Data breaches in the government sector are severe threats to cybersecurity and illegal acts that flagrantly violate security and privacy laws. It undermines public trust in government data management. Unlike breaches in other sectors, these incidents can have far-reaching consequences and the potential to cause significant damage to governance and national security. This field has experienced rapid growth in recent years, which means an increase in urgency to address this challenge. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis to evaluate the scientific landscape of government data breaches. It analysed 107 articles published from 2006 to 2023 from the Scopus database. The key findings highlighted trends in scientific production, the most cited articles, country contributions, co-occurrence networks, thematic evolution, and factorial analysis. Ransomware has become one of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity, especially for governments. The use of increasingly sophisticated zero-day attack techniques makes it difficult for law enforcement to track the digital footprints of perpetrators. The regulations on data protection remain inadequate and require improvement. The existing legal framework is not strong enough to reduce data breaches in cyberspace. Therefore, to deal with cyber threats, such as ransomware, cyber risk management is essential and using cloud computing raises new challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity. These findings contribute to future research and practice as guidance for policymakers, system developers, researchers, and practitioners in improving cybersecurity protocols and shaping government regulations and policies.