World Grapples Research Articles

Energy Transition in the Middle East and North Africa Region: Regional Solutions for Climate Change Challenges Amid Economic Sanctions

As the world grapples with the urgent priority of transitioning to a net-zero future, there exists a shared need to make all efforts to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, mostly caused by burning fossil fuels. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region plays an important role because of its oil and natural gas output. Additionally, this region has experienced significant conflict and numerous wars. This article will focus on one of the many challenges that some key states in the MENA region, with a main focus on Iran, are facing in their energy transition. Several countries in the MENA region are or have recently been subject to some form of economic sanctions. Sanctions appear to have had a material impact on these countries’ abilities to fulfill their contributions to transitioning to a net-zero economy. Research suggests that the chief obstacles they face regarding that transition is the lack of access to the latest technologies, a dearth of financing, limited or often no direct investments in low carbon industry, diplomatic isolation, and the concomitant economic volatility caused by sanctions, which in sum, take away from the financial capacity of a target country to save and invest for the transition to net zero. Therefore, it is crucial to revisit sanctions laws and policies, ensuring that they do not hinder the global community from achieving its climate goals. This article proposes establishing a regional ‘climate savings account’ to serve as a strategic mechanism to balance geopolitical interests and environmental goals.

The Role of Renewable Energy, Technological Innovation, and Human Capital on Environmental Quality in Türkiye: Testing the LCC Hypothesis with Smooth Structural Shifts

Newly industrializing economies are ardently striving for rapid development, aspiring to emulate the affluence of Western nations. However, amidst this relentless economic dynamism, the world grapples with an escalating climate change crisis. Therefore, it becomes imperative to identify the factors contributing to improving developing nations' environmental quality while concurrently advancing their sustainable development objectives. In this regard, the present study aims to dissect the environmental implications of renewable energy consumption, technological innovation, and human capital and examine the "Load Capacity Curve" (LCC) hypothesis in Türkiye through an extension of the STIRPAT model. To achieve this objective, the research operates a novel econometric methodology, namely the "augmented autoregressive distributed lag" (A-ARDL) approach with Fourier terms, to analyze yearly data from 1980 to 2019. The empirical findings substantiate the validation of the LCC hypothesis in Türkiye, both in the short and long term. Furthermore, the results unveil that renewable energy consumption and human capital significantly bolster ecological welfare over the long term, whereas technological innovation exhibits no discernible impact on the environment. Additionally, the outcomes display that population growth positively impacts the environment in the short term; nevertheless, over the long term, it becomes detrimental to environmental quality.

Mpox: A zoonotic threat that demands a One Health response

As the world grapples with yet another zoonotic disease in the form of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), it has become increasingly clear that managing such outbreaks requires a holistic approach that acknowledges the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment. The One Health framework offers a powerful strategy for containing mpox and preventing future zoonotic threats. Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease has gained global attention due to outbreaks in several regions, particularly the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries, where two virus clades (Ia and Ib) are spreading. Mpox is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected individuals or animals, and in some cases through contaminated objects. The symptoms typically include rash, fever, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, with some cases leading to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. Vaccines are available and recommended for high-risk groups, though there is no definitive antiviral treatment yet.

Imaging the Impact: Computed Tomography Thorax in COVID-19 - A Comprehensive Review and Clinical Analysis

This comprehensive review and clinical analysis explore the pivotal role of thorax computed tomography (CT) in the context of COVID-19. As the world grapples with the ongoing pandemic, the need for effective diagnostic tools and management strategies remains paramount. This review meticulously examines the impact of thorax CT imaging on the understanding, diagnosis, and clinical management of COVID-19. The review encompasses an extensive analysis of the existing literature, shedding light on the nuances of thorax CT findings in COVID-19 patients. It explores the characteristic imaging features, such as ground-glass opacities, consolidations, and other pulmonary abnormalities, providing insights into the pathophysiology of the disease. Furthermore, the clinical analysis component synthesizes data from diverse studies to elucidate the diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity of thorax CT, particularly in cases where molecular testing may present challenges. The review also delves into the role of thorax CT in early detection, risk stratification, and longitudinal monitoring of patients with COVID-19, offering valuable perspectives for healthcare professionals. Importantly, considerations of radiation exposure and ethical use of thorax CT are addressed, emphasizing the judicious integration of imaging into clinical practice. The article concludes with practical recommendations for optimizing the utility of thorax CT in the broader context of COVID-19 diagnosis and patient care.

Development of loneliness and social isolation after spousal loss: A systematic review of longitudinal studies on widowhood.

Spousal loss is a stressful life event that is associated with loneliness and social isolation, both of which affect mental and physical health. The primary objective of this paper was to synthesize longitudinal studies that investigated loneliness and social isolation in widowhood. A systematic search of the literature was conducted using three electronic databases. 26 longitudinal studies published through June 2024 were included for further analysis. Participant characteristics, study design, and key findings were extracted. Most studies were from the United States or Europe, included more widows than widowers, and assessed loneliness in older adults aged >60 years. Loneliness peaked directly following spousal death, but findings were inconsistent regarding the lasting effects of widowhood. Heterogeneity in the longitudinal trajectories of loneliness was noted, with studies showing linear increases, decreases, or curvilinear relationships over time. Several factors modified the relationship between widowhood and loneliness, including volunteerism, military experience, income, and age. Widowers consistently reported greater loneliness and worse social isolation when compared with widows. Few studies investigated social isolation specifically, but those that did found that social isolation may decrease in widowhood. As the world grapples with a social pandemic of loneliness and social isolation, widowed adults may be uniquely affected. Few studies investigated the longitudinal trajectory of loneliness and especially social isolation in widowhood, and those that did found heterogenous results. Future work is needed to understand why some widowed adults are uniquely affected by feelings of loneliness and social isolation while others are not, and whether potentially modifiable factors that moderate or mediate this relationship could be leveraged by psychosocial interventions.

A multi-objective optimization approach for harnessing rainwater in changing climate

As the world grapples with the profound impacts of climate change, water scarcity has become a pressing issue. However, there is a shortage of in-depth research on the trade-offs between water resource dependence and the economic, ecological, and social needs of arid and semi-arid regions like Lanzhou, China. Flower cultivation in Lanzhou relies heavily on the Yellow River, often overlooking the potential of natural rainfall. Here we first calibrated a water balance model through artificial precipitation experiments in a Soil and Water Conservation Demonstration Park in Lanzhou. We then developed a multi-objective optimization model to balance the cost-benefit considerations of various plausible measures across economic, ecological, and social dimensions in the searching for solutions that are more adaptable to climate change and local development needs. Model simulations show that the solutions we designed can effectively manage water-shortage days, significantly reduce Yellow River water extraction, and improve cost-effectiveness, meeting 66%–80% of water needs for flower cultivation in the studied park. The findings highlight the potential of rainwater collection and utilization solutions to mitigate water scarcity in arid and semi-arid cities, thereby enriching water resource management.

Emerging Threats in the Age of Pandemics: A Focus on COVID-19 and the Novel Sub-Variant EG 5 ("Eris"): Review Article

This paper draws attention to a recently identified sub-variant of SARS-CoV-2 known as EG 5, colloquially named "Eris," designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a variant of interest. The organization has urged nations to monitor and respond to the spread of this sub-variant since its identification on February 17, 2023. The discovery of the EG 5 variant, a sublineage of the Omicron variant, has introduced new challenges. Designated a "variant of interest" by the WHO, EG 5 carries distinctive genetic mutations, including an additional F456L amino acid mutation in the spike protein. Global prevalence has doubled, raising concerns about increased transmissibility. Although specific symptoms of EG 5 are not yet fully characterized, the variant has spread to 51 countries, with over 7,000 reported cases by August 15, 2023. The manuscript also explores the unique situation in Iraq, where, as of August 17, 2023, no EG 5 cases have been officially recorded. However, challenges such as self-treatment at. As the world grapples with the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the dynamics of emerging variants is crucial for effective public health responses and the development of targeted interventions.

The Sweet Gains of Diversification: A Review of Intercropping Benefits in Sugarcane Farming

Sugarcane farming, a cornerstone of the global sugar and bioenergy industries, has seen a surge in interest in recent years due to the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. One such practice, intercropping, is becoming increasingly recognized for its potential to transform the dynamics of sugarcane cultivation. As the world grapples with the challenges of sustainable agriculture and food security, the adoption of intercropping in sugarcane farming stands as a promising strategy. This review emphasizes the pivotal role of diversification in enhancing the resilience and prosperity of sugarcane farming while contributing to global agricultural sustainability. It underscores the pivotal role of intercropping in sugarcane cultivation, not only in augmenting crop yields and farmer livelihoods but also in fostering soil resilience and health.

Forecasting synergistic pathways between rare earth elements, renewable energy, and product and economic complexities in achieving a low-carbon future

Recent decades have witnessed an unprecedented transformation in the global energy landscape, driven by environmental concerns and the quest for sustainable economic growth. As the world grapples with the urgent need for decarbonization, the utilization of renewable energy technologies with the instrumental role of rare earth elements (REEs) has come to the forefront. However, empirical investigations into their synergistic pathways for product and economic complexities concerning achieving a low-carbon future remain scarce. Therefore, we forecast synergistic pathways between the REE supply, renewable energy, economic and product complexities, and GDP growth using a panel dataset of 11 REE-producing countries from 1990 to 2023. We used Common Correlated Effects and Temporal Causal Models as primary methods to estimate panel long-run elasticities and subsequently forecast mutual causal synergies between the variables. The results indicated that REE supply led to renewable energy and economic growth that further elevated the countries’ product and economic complexities rankings. GDP growth increased REE production, economic complexity, and renewable energy directly, and consequently, product complexity and REE production through them. This underscores the positive role of REE production coupled with renewable energy technologies in achieving a low-carbon future based on economic diversification, enhanced industrial capabilities, and technological sophistication.

Bio‐innovation for environmental sustainability: Asymmetric nexus between bioenergy technology budgets and ecological footprint

AbstractAs the world grapples with sustainable energy and environmental preservation challenges, budgeting for bio‐resilience emerges as a pivotal step toward environmental sustainability. Our investigation delves into the influence of bioenergy technology budgets on the ecological footprint (ECF) in the top 10 nations that invest in bioenergy research and development (USA, China, Brazil, Germany, Japan, Canada, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands). Prior research depended on panel data methods to explore the bioenergy technology‐environment nexus, disregarding the specific traits of individual countries. Contrarily, the existing research applies the quantile‐on‐quantile tool to improve the precision of our analysis by delivering a holistic worldwide viewpoint and customized perceptions for every economy. The findings indicate that dedicating budgets to bioenergy technology improves environmental quality by reducing ECF across several quantiles within our sample nations. Moreover, the outcomes uncover unique patterns in these relationships across multiple countries. These results stress the significance of policymakers conducting exhaustive assessments and implementing productive tactics to address bioenergy technology funding and ECF changes.

Smart Grid Technology : Simplifying the Complexities of Modern Energy Management

This paper explores the transformative role of smart grid technology in simplifying contemporary energy management complexities. By integrating advanced communication and automation, smart grids enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in power distribution, paving the way for a more resilient and responsive energy infrastructure Through the integration of cutting-edge communication and automation, smart grids not only bolster efficiency but also elevate the reliability and sustainability of power distribution. This research sheds light on the potential of smart grids to create a more resilient and responsive energy infrastructure, addressing the challenges of our rapidly evolving energy landscape. The exploration extends beyond the surface benefits, delving into the nuanced ways in which smart grids empower energy systems to adapt and evolve. This adaptive prowess not only simplifies the complexities of energy management but also fosters a more resilient and responsive energy infrastructure. The intricate interplay of technological advancements within smart grids forms the bedrock for a paradigm shift in how we conceptualize, distribute, and consume energy resources. As the world grapples with the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions, this research sheds light on the multifaceted contributions of smart grid technology. By paving the way for a harmonized and dynamic energy ecosystem, smart grids stand poised to redefine the future of energy management, offering a promising path towards a more sustainable and resilient global energy landscape. Keywords-Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)

Research on emerging infectious diseases: pros and cons of centralised government controls.

As the world grapples with the constant threat of new pathogens, the role of government oversight in research and response efforts has become a topic of considerable debate in the academic community. In the recently released "SOP [standard operating procedure] for Nipah virus research in Kerala for studies involving human participants / human samples" by the Government of Kerala, the SOP, apart from administrative permission, requires the proposal to be cleared by the Institutional Research Committee at a Government Medical College, and the inclusion of an investigator from a government institution [1]. In these challenging times, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of stringent administrative controls to ensure an effective and ethical approach to tackling emerging infectious diseases.

Net Zero Carbon Emission

Abstract: With the rapid growth of digital services and the increasing reliance on data centers, energy consumption and carbon emissions from server infrastructure have become significant environmental concerns. This abstract outlines a novel approach for carbon detection from servers, aiming to improve the sustainability of data centers. Carbon emissions from data centers are increasingly a cause for concern, as the world grapples with the realities of climate change. According to recent studies, data centers are responsible for a significant share of global electricity consumption, and subsequently, carbon emissions. It’s evident that addressing the sustainability of data centers is not just a technological challenge; it’s a moral and environmental imperative.

Sustainable Development and Renewable Energy Policy: A Review of Global Trends and Success Stories

As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the imperative for sustainable development and the adoption of renewable energy policies has become increasingly apparent. This comprehensive review explores the global landscape of sustainable development and renewable energy policies, shedding light on emerging trends and success stories that offer valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. The paper begins by examining the evolving international discourse surrounding sustainable development, emphasizing the crucial role of renewable energy in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. It delves into the key principles and frameworks that guide global efforts towards sustainable development, highlighting the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The review identifies and analyzes the diverse approaches and strategies employed by countries worldwide to integrate renewable energy into their policy frameworks. Case studies from various regions showcase successful initiatives, emphasizing the impact of well-designed policies on fostering a transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. Examples of effective policy instruments, such as feed-in tariffs, renewable energy targets, and innovative financing mechanisms, are explored to provide a nuanced understanding of the factors contributing to success. Furthermore, the review critically assesses the challenges and barriers hindering the widespread adoption of renewable energy policies, including policy inconsistencies, technological constraints, and socio-economic factors. Insights gained from the analysis offer valuable lessons for refining existing policies and developing new strategies to accelerate the global shift towards sustainable and renewable energy solutions. This review serves as a comprehensive resource for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders, offering a nuanced understanding of the current global trends in sustainable development and renewable energy policies. By drawing upon success stories and identifying key challenges, it provides a roadmap for fostering effective and scalable solutions to address the urgent need for a sustainable energy future.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN CROSS-BORDER ENERGY TRADE: THE CASE OF THE KAZAKHSTAN – CHINA PIPELINE

The article delves into the nuanced realm of environmental sustainability in the context of the KazakhstanChina pipeline – a crucial conduit for oil and gas resources spanning borders. Rigorous methodologies, including Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and community engagement, unveil the environmental challenges intrinsic to cross-border energy projects. From habitat disruption and pollution to the potential for oil spills, the negative impacts demand strategic mitigation. The article advocates for a multifaceted approach, recommending the incorporation of advanced technologies, strategic route planning, and diversified energy sources. Emphasizing community engagement, transparency, and international cooperation, the proposed sustainable practices aim to balance the imperatives of economic growth with ecological preservation. As the world grapples with increasing energy demands, the Kazakhstan-China pipeline stands as a poignant case study, prompting a collective reevaluation of our approach to global energy trade. Through proactive measures and collaborative efforts, it is possible to navigate the delicate equilibrium between energy security and environmental stewardship, fostering a future where sustainable practices underscore the foundation of cross-border energy endeavors.

Reinforcement-Learning-Based Virtual Inertia Controller for Frequency Support in Islanded Microgrids

As the world grapples with the energy crisis, integrating renewable energy sources into the power grid has become increasingly crucial. Microgrids have emerged as a vital solution to this challenge. However, the reliance on renewable energy sources in microgrids often leads to low inertia. Renewable energy sources interfaced with the network through interlinking converters lack the inertia of conventional synchronous generators, and hence, need to provide frequency support through virtual inertia techniques. This paper presents a new control algorithm that utilizes the reinforcement learning agents Twin Delayed Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (TD3) and Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) to support the frequency in low-inertia microgrids. The RL agents are trained using the system-linearized model and then extended to the nonlinear model to reduce the computational burden. The proposed system consists of an AC–DC microgrid comprising a renewable energy source on the DC microgrid, along with constant and resistive loads. On the AC microgrid side, a synchronous generator is utilized to represent the low inertia of the grid, which is accompanied by dynamic and static loads. The model of the system is developed and verified using Matlab/Simulink and the reinforcement learning toolbox. The system performance with the proposed AI-based methods is compared to conventional low-pass and high-pass filter (LPF and HPF) controllers.

Unraveling the role of nanoparticles in improving plant resilience under environmental stress condition

Abstract Background As the world grapples with increasing agricultural demands and unpredictable environmental stressors, there is a pressing need to improve plant resilience. Therefore, understanding the pioneering role of nanoparticles in alleviating plant stress is crucial for developing stress-resilient varieties to enhance food secure world. Nanoparticles have unique physical and chemical properties, and demonstrate their potential to enhance plant growth, nutrient utilization, and stress tolerance. This review delves into the mechanistic insights of nanoparticle-plant interactions, highlighting how these tiny particles can mitigate diverse stressors such as drought, salinity, and heavy metal toxicity. The action of different types of nanoparticles, including metal, carbon-based, and biogenic nanoparticles, are discussed in the context of their interaction with plant physiology and stress responses. Aims This article also explores the potential drawbacks and environmental implications of nanoparticle use, emphasizing the need for responsible and sustainable applications. Therefore, this study aimed to offer exciting possibilities for managing both biotic and abiotic stress in plant species, from improving water-use efficiency and stress resilience via nanotechnology. Conclusions Future research directions are suggested, focusing on nano-bioengineering and precision agriculture to create stress-resilient crops and enhance food security. Through the lens of interdisciplinary research, this paper underscores the significance of nanoparticles as innovative tools in the realm of agriculture, catalyzing a paradigm shift towards sustainable and stress-resilient farming systems.

REDEFINING THE FUTURE OF TALENT ACQUISITION: THE GENESIS OF IMMERSIVE VR RESUMES THROUGH DESIGN THINKING

The rapid evolution of virtual reality (VR) technology is poised to revolutionize the professional recruitment landscape, shifting the paradigm from the linearity and static nature of traditional resumes to immersive VR resumes. This article introduces a groundbreaking framework anchored in the Design Thinking process model, which offers a structured, user-centric approach to creating VR resumes on platforms like Spatial. Rooted in five stages—Empathise, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test—this methodology emphasizes the importance of user experience, iterative design, and context. By seamlessly integrating 'context' and 'form', the proposed strategy aids professionals in designing resonant and interactive resumes in a virtual space. The application of VR in Spatial offers features like customizable 3D environments, personalized avatars, and real-time collaborations, empowering candidates to craft compelling narratives of their professional journeys. Although industries like technology and design are predicted to be early adopters, the adoption of VR resumes might encounter initial resistance due to factors like a lack of standardization and concerns over inclusivity. However, with potential integrations on platforms like LinkedIn and the prospect of virtual job fairs, VR resumes have the potential to redefine engagement methods in recruitment. As the professional world grapples with this transformation, it's vital to strike a balance, ensuring that VR resumes complement rather than replace traditional methods, fostering a recruitment process that is technologically advanced yet deeply human-centric and inclusive.

Approaching sustainability and circularity along waste management systems in universities: an overview and proposal of good practices

In recent years, the importance of sustainability and circularity in waste management systems has become increasingly evident. As the world grapples with the environmental consequences of excessive waste generation, it has become crucial to find innovative and sustainable solutions. Universities, as centres of knowledge and research, play a vital role in achieving sustainability and circularity in waste management. The key contribution of this study is to provide: 1) a systematic review of the existing literature concerning sustainable waste management systems (SWMS) implemented in universities; 2) an analysis of the studies presented in this paper identifying applicable approaches and sustainable practices to provide novel guidelines by including waste management system in a circular and sustainable model within universities. Through research, collaboration, education, implementation of sustainable practices, and support for entrepreneurship, universities can strongly contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable waste management practices. As the world continues to face the challenges of waste generation, universities will continue to be at the forefront of finding innovative, sustainable, and circular solutions.

ECOLOGICAL COMPETENCES AND THEIR ROLE IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

In recent years, the importance of ecological competences in education has gained significant attention as the world grapples with environmental challenges. This article explores the concept of ecological competences and examines their role in the educational process. It delves into the significance of integrating ecological competences into various levels of education to foster environmental awareness, sustainability, and responsible citizenship. Drawing on research and theoretical frameworks, this articlehighlights the benefits of incorporating ecological competences into curricula and pedagogical practices. Additionally, it discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing ecological competences in educational settings and offers recommendations for educators and policymakers.