Global Trends Research Articles

The incubation revolution: transforming entrepreneurial education with artificial intelligence

Purpose Universities face challenges due to the absence of artificial intelligence (AI) integration in entrepreneurship education (EE) and its incubation centers for young startups. Making a business plan for their innovative enterprises, which includes market analysis, financial projections, marketing strategy and an operations plan, are a few of the toughest tasks they may face. Aspiring students can make it simple to launch their dream business by integrating AI tools. Hence, this study aims to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) to examine the global trend of the transformation of EE with AI and determine the necessity of integrating AI in university incubation centers as a potential future research direction. Design/methodology/approach In this study, the authors conducted an SLR method to investigate the transformation of EE with AI. This review employed a bibliometric analysis covering the period of 1993–2023 and utilized articles published in scientific journals available in the SCOPUS database as our data source. Findings There is an enormous potential for research on EE using cutting-edge AI in developed and developing nations. There is a lack of studies exploring AI integration into university incubation centers. Hence, there are possible future directions for research into integrating AI into university incubation centers using cutting-edge tools like chatbots, ChatGPT, ChatGen and other AI that will help to develop a comprehensive business plan for students aspiring entrepreneurial venture startups. Research limitations/implications The study’s research was limited using the Scopus database’s core collection, which may ignore other significant research articles. Therefore, the study’s scope can be constrained due to the narrow search parameters. The study, however, tries to establish the importance of its research by offering a thorough review and evaluation of AI in EE. Practical implications There is significance of incorporating AI into EE to foster an EE culture and realize its potential benefits. To transform incubation centers and promote aspirant entrepreneurs in the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), higher education institutions (HEIs) should strategically adopt AI. Originality/value This study presents a novel viewpoint by investigating the distinction in AI perception and usage among educators, advocating the incorporation of AI in university incubation centers to help entrepreneurial students. It contributes uniqueness and innovative approaches to early startup issues in EE.

A Review on Benefits of Homestay Tourism in Nepal

Homestay tourism in Nepal has become a prominent and sustainable model, offering a range of socio-economic, cultural, and environmental benefits. This review explores how homestays contribute to these areas, highlighting examples from across the country. Since the introduction of homestays in Sirubari in 1997, the model has expanded to over 200 homestays across 60 districts. Google Scholar, Web of Science, Research gate, JSTOR, and Scopus using keywords like “homestay tourism in Nepal” and “benefits of homestay tourism.” Relevant peerreviewed articles, reports, and literature published between 2010 and 2024 were included. Homestays in various regions provide tourists with immersive experiences in ethnic cultures, including traditional festivals and local crafts, which help preserve cultural heritage and build community pride. Economically, these homestays generate essential income for local families, improve access to education and healthcare, and boost local businesses through increased demand for goods and services. Environmentally, homestays adopt sustainable practices such as waste reduction and solar energy use, with tourism revenue supporting conservation projects like reforestation and wildlife protection. By aligning with global trends toward responsible tourism, homestays reduce ecological impact and foster meaningful interactions between tourists and hosts. The review recommends implementing comprehensive training programs for homestay operators to enhance sustainable practices and maximize benefits, ensuring the long-term success and positive impact of homestay tourism in Nepal.

Editorial: Fact-Checkers Around the World—Regional, Comparative, and Institutional Perspectives

This thematic issue explores the global fact-checking field, focusing on its organizations, practices, and institutional dynamics. Over the past decade, fact-checking has expanded to over 400 organizations, with approximately half operating in the Global South. Fact-checkers have built a solid institutional framework featuring annual conferences, regulatory bodies, and partnerships with big techs and public organizations. Even with this cohesion, the fact-checking movement remains deeply heterogeneous. Organizations range from small local outlets to global media giants, operating within varied media and political systems. These differences shape how fact-checkers define their mission and approach misinformation, and offer a valuable lens for journalism and political communication studies to analyze evolving media systems and digitalization effects worldwide. Given such diversity, our issue addresses the need for research to observe regional and comparative perspectives on fact-checking alongside studies of broader global trends. Recent scholarship has focused on how fact-checkers adapt to diverse environments, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and how the field is evolving. It also examines fact-checkers’ relationships with platform companies, policymakers, and transnational institutions combating misinformation. Contributions employing diverse methodologies, from case studies to large-scale content analyses, are included, with a particular emphasis on understanding organizational and contextual specificities in this crucial area of media and political communication.

Repercussions of the diagnostic delay of rare diseases: A scoping review protocol

Rare diseases (RDs) are life-threatening conditions affecting 263 to 446 million people globally. However, diagnosing these diseases often takes years, leading to a "diagnostic odyssey." The impact of these delays is often underreported, leaving patients' consequences unclear. This protocol intends to guide a scoping review about the current knowledge on RDs, identify gaps and clarify reasons for diagnostic delays, focusing on global trends and Brazil. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s framework, searches will be conducted in five databases (PubMed, LILACS, Embase, Cochrane Library, and IBECS) and grey literature from reputable sources. Two authors will independently screen and extract data, resolving discrepancies with a third reviewer. Data will be analyzed qualitatively and presented through figures and narrative synthesis, with statistical analysis applied when pertinent. This protocol will supply a step-by-step guide for a scoping review that is going to provide critical insights into the effects of diagnostic delays in rare diseases, offering valuable information to improve diagnostic process and patient care. This protocol has been registered in the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/zte3c/?view_only=90c5abadfbb646d6a64bc284314e696c).

The Evolution of Microplastics Research: Global Trends and Agricultural Implications

ABSTRACTMicroplastics (MPs) are a growing concern due to their impact on ecosystems and human health. To identify the layout of the global research landscape, emerging topics, and future directions of MP research, particularly in the agricultural context, this study analyzed 16,134 publications from the period 2014 to 2023. The findings revealed a significant increase in MP publications, with China and India emerging as main contributors. Domestic citations, especially in emerging topics, have increased, potentially indicating reducing international information exchange. Seventy‐six topics were identified, with marine environments appearing in 39.8% of publications, while terrestrial (12.5%) and agricultural ecosystems (3.1%) showed substantial growth. At the same time, research on the effects of MP pollution is changing focus from aquatic life, such as fish (24.9%), to topics in the agricultural context, such as MP effects on soil microbes (3.5%) and terrestrial plants (6%). In the agricultural context, six main topics were identified: agricultural plastics, biosolids, pollutant interactions, microbial interactions, environmental risks, and human risks. The findings provide a comprehensive overview of the current research environment. Future research should prioritize understanding critical questions about MP sources, climate change effects, contaminant interactions, and impacts on microorganisms and human health. While exploring the long‐term impacts of MPs on agricultural ecosystems, international collaboration and information exchange should be emphasized to address regional research gaps. While these results reflect the dominant trends in the field, further research incorporating a broader set of countries and language sources could provide a more nuanced global perspective.

Evolution of research on air emissions from agricultural activities: A comprehensive review.

Air pollutant emissions from the agricultural sector are among the most critical issues affecting human health and the environment. This sector releases a complex mixture of biological, microbial, and inorganic contaminants into the air from land preparation, crop production, fertilization, harvesting, biomass burning, machinery use, livestock production, manure management, waste management, and deforestation. This article aims to identify the evolution and global research trends related to air contaminant emissions, specifically from the agricultural sector. This study systematically analyzed the knowledge map derived from 4016 scientific publications from 1990 to 2023. From an evolutionary perspective, the bibliometric and networking analysis revealed a consistent increase in scientific publications over the past 34years, with the contribution of 117 countries, more than 1600 authors, and 1300 journals. Additionally, it sheds light on the most studied pollutants, measurement techniques, and modeling employed to comprehend and mitigate the impact of these pollutants on yield, human health, biodiversity, and climate change. Furthermore, the research facilitates the identification of emerging air pollutants considering agricultural activities such as crop production, waste crop management, livestock production, manure management, deforestation, and land change use. These findings underscore the evolution of the research, identifying the main topics of interest, the emerging topics, and the future of research on air pollutant emissions.

The Current Situation and Trend of Sino-US Trade Development in the Context of Economic Globalization

The evolution of trade and commercial relations between China and the US is particularly noteworthy, given the significant impact of economic globalization and its role as a fundamental pillar of global economic stability and progress. The trade volume between China and the US is steadily increasing, and this is happening at the same time as the trade structure is changing significantly. The process of commerce between China and the US is not without its difficulties, though, as seen by the US's gradual growth in trade protectionism, the frequency of trade disputes, and the imbalance in trade relations. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the dynamic evolution trend of China-US trade in the context of economic globalization and discusses the current status and challenges of China-US trade relations, as well as the future trend based on global economic, political, and technological development trends. In addition, the paper forecasts how China-US trade relations will develop in the future in light of new technological advancements, policy adjustments, and shifts in the global economic landscape. It also offers policy recommendations and strategic adjustment guidelines to encourage collaboration between the two sides and produce win-win outcomes.

Supplemental Material for Global Trends and Regional Differences in the Burden of HIV/AIDS Attributed to Intimate Partner Violence Among Females in 204 Countries and Territories, 1999–2019: An Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study

Supplemental Material for Global Trends and Regional Differences in the Burden of HIV/AIDS Attributed to Intimate Partner Violence Among Females in 204 Countries and Territories, 1999–2019: An Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study

Inclusive Marketing Communication with Specific Reference to LGBTQ: A Review of Literature and Directions for Future Research

The purpose of this study is to explore the existing literature on how inclusive marketing communication targets LGBTQ individuals (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer). This study has used SLR and bibliometric analysis to gain in-depth understanding of the topic. Data were extracted from Scopus database as it is one of the most widely used databases across the world and a total of 174 papers qualified the criteria. The findings of this study stated important insights on information like country collaborations, growth of topic undertaken across years, trending topics and so on. Clusters were also identified which helped in identifying trending topics and area of studies which yet needs to be focused. Moving forward, this study compiled all the information to identify future research gaps and implications for academicians as well as practitioners. It is among the few studies which have explored the importance of inclusive marketing specially focusing on LGBTQ individuals. This study has suggested agendas for future advertising research. Also, with evolving role of inclusive marketing, organizations need to re-think and re-position themselves in the market to survive; hence, this study also provides future research agendas for practitioners to understand global trends of consumer behaviour.

The influence of middle-aged and older adults’ social capital and education on physical function: evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study

BackgroundPopulation aging is a major global trend with significant social, economic, and health implications. In China, the increasing aging population presents challenges, including increased chronic diseases and disabilities. Social capital has emerged as vital in determining health outcomes for middle-aged and older adults. This study seeks to examine the impact of social capital and educational attainment on physical functioning in middle-aged and older adults, with particular emphasis on the moderating effect of education within this relationship.MethodsThis study utilized data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) from 2018 to 2020, involving 9,497 participants aged 45 and older. Physical function was assessed using the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scales. Social capital was measured in four dimensions: social trust, social support, social participation, and reciprocity. Educational attainment was categorized into four levels: below primary school, primary school, middle school, and high school or above. Cox proportional hazards regression and moderating effect models were used for data analysis, adjusting for demographic and health-related variables.ResultsOur findings highlight the significant roles of social participation (aHR = 0.856, 95%CI: 0.675–0.809) and reciprocity (aHR = 0.700, 95%CI: 0.626–0.784) in improving physical function. Education enhanced the positive effects of social participation (aHR = 0.923, 95%CI: 0.840–0.980). Subgroup analyses showed that social support was a protective factor for females (aHR = 0.857, 95% CI: 0.737–0.998), while social trust negatively affected urban residents (aHR = 1.330, 95%CI: 1.135–1.560).ConclusionThe findings underscore the importance of social participation, reciprocity, and education in enhancing physical function among middle-aged and older adults. Tailored interventions addressing gender and residential differences are essential to meet the unique needs of various subgroups. Understanding the relationship between social capital, education, and health can inform strategies to improve this population’s well-being.

Global Trends and Hotspots in the Research of the Effects of PM2.5 on Asthma: A Bibliometric and Visualized Analysis.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been identified as a significant environmental and public health challenge, particularly due to its association with respiratory diseases like asthma. With the global rise in urbanization and industrialization, PM2.5-related asthma research has grown substantially over the past two decades. This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map global research trends, highlight key contributors, and identify emerging hotspots in the relationship between PM2.5 and asthma. We performed a bibliometric analysis using the Web of Science Core Collection database, covering research from January 2004 to September 2024. The selected studies were analyzed using CiteSpace and VOSviewer to assess publication trends, global collaborations, and research hotspots through visualized networks and co-occurrence analyses. A total of 2035 publications were identified, demonstrating a steady increase in research output over the past two decades. The United States and China emerged as dominant contributors, frequently collaborating with countries like Canada, Australia, and South Korea. Key research areas focused on air quality, particulate matter exposure, and asthma exacerbation, with an increasing emphasis on indoor air pollution and long-term exposure risks. Institutional collaborations were led by prominent universities such as the University of California System and Harvard University. Additionally, research on vulnerable populations, particularly children, and the impact of early-life exposure to PM2.5 has gained attention in recent years. The global research landscape on PM2.5 and asthma has expanded significantly, with growing attention to interdisciplinary approaches that combine environmental science and public health. Future studies should focus on the global burden of air pollution, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and address the long-term health impacts of PM2.5 exposure, especially in vulnerable populations.

Environmental policy in the context of the implementation of the sustainable development goals in the countries of central Asia: Projection to the regional level

The article examines the modern vectors of implementation of measures to achieve results in the field of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), both at the level of national priorities and at the level of Central Asian countries. The purpose of this study is a multidimensional analysis of actions that make it possible to develop solutions to stabilize the environmental situation in Central Asian countries based on global international trends. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the integrated use of thematic modeling methods, as well as sociological surveys used to improve the efficiency of business processes in the field of environmental protection. The methodological basis for conducting a comparative assessment of the impact of environmental policy instruments used on regional development is the concept of sustainable development. In conclusion, conclusions are drawn about the need to develop effective mechanisms for the implementation of environmental policy in the studied countries.

From the perspective of children and parents: What makes communal open spaces in multi-story residential neighborhoods child-friendly?

An increasing number of children live in apartments due to global trends in urbanization. However, little attention has been paid to the communal open spaces that are appropriate and attractive to children. This study aims to identify characteristics that significantly impact the quality of child-friendly communal open spaces within multi-story residential neighborhoods. The paper first reviewed the relevant literature to develop a conceptual framework. The measurements for the framework factors were then calculated through two online questionnaires seeking the perspectives of children and parents. Participants consist of 441 children aged 6–12 years and 576 parents. Both groups were living in 3 to 9-story residential buildings in Sanandaj, Iran. The findings show the four most significant factors for a child-friendly communal open space: “connection with nature”, “spatial flexibility”, “social networking”, and “safety/security”, in this order. Water play is the most significant indicator of child-friendliness followed by the provision of a variety of play equipment and natural environments. The most significant safety indicators for children are the availability of an outdoor shelter and soft surface materials. While children prefer free space for self-directed activities, parents ranked formal sports fields higher. We suggest biophilic design and participatory design that involves children and parents.

Fostering Sustainability through Educational and Research Initiatives at ETUT

This paper conducts a comparative analysis of sustainability-focused educational initiatives at Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan (ETUT) alongside other young universities, including Duke Kunshan University (China), Ashoka University (India), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST, Saudi Arabia). The study examines how these institutions integrate sustainability into their curricula, student engagement, and community outreach efforts, emphasizing the role of emerging universities in advancing sustainability education. Through an in-depth case study of ETUT and a comparative review of global trends, the research highlights innovative approaches aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This paper illustrates how young universities leverage their agility to embed sustainability into their operations, curricula, and community interactions, preparing students to address pressing environmental and social challenges in the 21st century.

Cross-border collaboration, communication, and research frontiers on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis from 2004 to 2023

ObjectiveBiologics are considered as a promising novel treatment option for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who failed with the standard of care (medical therapy and surgical interventions). This bibliometric analysis was performed to explore cross-border collaboration, communication, and research frontiers on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis.MethodsOriginal research publications on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis were retrieved from the Science Citation Index-Expanded (SCI-E) database in the Web of Science Core Collection between 2004 and 2023. Using CiteSpace and R software, the country/region, author, institution, journal, reference, and keywords were extracted to analyze the research focus and global trends in this field.ResultsResearch articles exhibited a consistent rising trend from 2004 to 2023, especially the period between 2020 and 2023. Most articles were published by authors from the USA. The USA was the most cited country, enjoying the most active cooperation with other countries/regions. Bachert C owned the most publications and collaborations. Ghent University and Karolinska Institute had the most collaborations with other institutions. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and Allergy published the most articles and were the most co-cited journals. Research frontiers on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis would focus on efficacy, quality of life, safety, children, management, etc.ConclusionsThis bibliometric analysis displayed the overall situation and global trend on biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis. The visualization analysis of publications could assist researchers rapidly in understanding the hotspots and trends. Further research is warranted to determine the long-term effects and side effects of biologics in chronic rhinosinusitis.

A hundred years of Pacific halibut management in the context of global events and trends in fisheries management

The Convention for the Preservation of the Halibut Fisheries of the Northern Pacific Ocean, signed between Canada and the United States of America on 2 March 1923 and ratified on 21 October 1924, established the International Fisheries Commission, renamed in 1953 to the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC). It was the first international agreement for joint management of a marine fishery resource and a major milestone for development of modern standards for marine conservation. The IPHC’s centennial year is an opportunity to celebrate a remarkable history of the Commission, but also reflect on challenges that shaped its mission. Born from alarms about overfishing during World War I, the Commission gradually gained authority to implement a wide range of conservation measures through established public confidence in its basis for decisions. This paper explores the evolution of management measures applied to Pacific halibut commercial fishing shaped not only by the changing stock conditions and growing demand for seafood, but also global events and trends in fisheries management. It examines the impact of rapid commercialization of fisheries driven by population growth and technological improvements, establishment of exclusive economic zones and altered access to fishing grounds, and adoption of Agenda 21, which highlighted the importance of balancing environmental, economic, and social aspects in fisheries management. It concludes by discussing the lessons learned over the past century and their implications for future fisheries management, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation, adaptive strategies, and science-based policies in sustaining transboundary fish stocks like the Pacific halibut.

The Financialisation of Housing and Housing-related Family Support in Hungary, By Bence Kováts (Budapest, Akadémiai Kiadó, 2023)

Bence Kováts’s book, The Financialisation of Housing and Housing-related Family Support in Hungary, builds on his doctoral dissertation and is driven by a pressing need to better understand the dynamics of commodification and de-commodification in housing, particularly within the context of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), with a particular focus on Hungary. While global trends indicate a resurgence of commodification in housing, leading to increased reliance on familial support, it is unclear whether similar patterns are evident in the CEE region, where the transition from state socialism to market capitalism has uniquely shaped housing systems. Existing literature has concentrated mainly on high-income countries, creating a gap in understanding how familial support in housing has evolved in countries like Hungary, where historical and socioeconomic contexts differ significantly.

Influential Factors in the Decision to Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering and Artificial Intelligence at the School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University

Background and Objectives: University education is essential for empowering individuals and fostering economic, social, and intellectual growth. In Thailand, fair and competitive university admissions are ensured across 75 institutions by the Thai University Center Admission System (TCAS). At the same time, each individual’s decision to pursue higher education is influenced by the quality of program’s curriculum and academic reputation, along with geographical considerations and parental guidance. This study investigates factors influencing the decision to pursue a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering and Artificial Intelligence (CEAI) at Walailak University, focusing in particular on their revised curriculum. Insights gained aim to enhance curriculum alignment, boost recruitment, and meet the diverse needs of students. Methodology: This study employed an exploratory approach, using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The population consisted of 126 students enrolled in the CEAI program at Walailak University in 2022. A sample of 96 participants were randomly selected and voluntarily completed an online questionnaire. The questionnaire, distributed via academic platforms and social media, elicited demographic information and explored factors influencing participants’ decision to pursue this degree. Main Results: The results showed that curriculum factors had the greatest impact on the decision to pursue the program, followed by financial factors, educational institution factors, and personal reasons. The t-test results indicated that gender impacted decision regarding course enrollment and the total monthly income of the family affected the decision as to whether or not to enroll at a particular institution. Discussions: This study revealed key factors influencing enrollment decisions for CEAI students at Walailak University. Curriculum relevance, faculty expertise, and financial considerations emerged as their primary concerns. Notably, female students valued curriculum aspects more highly than their male counterparts, yet they remain underrepresented, highlighting persistent gender stereotypes in engineering. Income-related differences significantly impacted perceptions of financial factors. To address these findings, we recommend: (1) curriculum-focused marketing emphasizing industry relevance, (2) targeted outreach to female students, (3) expanded financial support and transparency, and (4) enhanced public relations leveraging social media and outreach programs. These strategies aim to create a more diverse and inclusive program, aligning with global trends in STEM education and workforce development. Conclusions: The study reveals that curriculum factors, particularly job market relevance and faculty expertise, are most important to students in Walailak University's CEAI program. Gender and income related differences significantly influence student perspectives. These insights can help improve program quality, develop targeted admission strategies, and better serve diverse student needs.

Three Decades of Adolescent Health: Unveiling Global Trends Across 41 Countries in Psychological and Somatic Complaints (1994–2022)

ObjectivesThis study examined (non-)monotonic time trends in psychological and somatic complaints among adolescents, along with gender differences.MethodsRepeated cross-sectional Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) data from 1994 to 2022 covering 15-year-old adolescents from 41 countries (N = 470,797) were analysed. Three polynomial logistic regression models (linear, quadratic, cubic) were tested for best fit, including separate analyses by gender and health complaints dimension.ResultsTime trend patterns varied by gender and health complaints dimension. Increases were found in 82.3% of cases (linear 25%, quadratic U-shaped 28.7%, cubic 28.7%), while 14% showed no clear trend, and 3.7% decreased. Boys typically showed linear increases or no clear trend over time, whereas girls generally showed cubic or U-shaped trends. Psychological complaints often displayed U-shaped or cubic patterns, whereas somatic complaints mostly showed linear increases.ConclusionPsychological and somatic complaints demonstrated diverse time trend patterns across countries, with non-monotonic patterns (U-shaped and cubic) frequently observed alongside linear increases. These findings highlight the complexity of changes within countries over three decades, suggesting that linear modelling may not effectively capture this heterogeneity.

Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) on Highways: Global Trends, Vietnam's Experience, and Policy Lessons

This paper explores the transformative shift to Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) systems in highway management, focusing on deployment patterns and the realized benefits. By analyzing global ETC trends and taking a deep dive into Vietnam’s experience, it offers practical policy insights for developing countries facing this critical transition.A key feature of the paper is its in-depth analysis of Vietnam’s shift from manual toll collection (MTC) to ETC, demonstrating significant improvements in emissions reduction, operational efficiency, and cost and time savings.Based on its findings, the paper emphasizes the role of ETC in enhancing productivity, promoting sustainable development, reducing pollution, and advancing towards a smart economy and society. It highlights the crucial importance of government leadership and private sector collaboration in achieving successful ETC implementation. Additionally, the paper underscores the urgency and substantial benefits of investing in digital transformation for toll facilities like metros, tunnels, and skyways to alleviate traffic congestion in megacities and on inter-city roads, potentially saving millions of people and vehicles hours of travel time.