Changing World Research Articles

Leishmaniasis in Humans and Animals: A One Health Approach for Surveillance, Prevention and Control in a Changing World

Leishmaniasis is classified as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, which are transmitted to humans and other animals through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies. There are three forms of the disease: cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) manifested by ulcers and scars; systemic or visceral leishmaniasis (VL), which can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated; and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL), which can destroy the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and throat. Human leishmaniasis is endemic in many countries across Africa, Asia, Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Central and South America. The interconnection of environmental, animal and human health underlies the spread of the Leishmania parasite. Environmental disruptions, such as climate change, deforestation or urbanisation, but also globalisation and migration, significantly affect the distribution and abundance of sand fly vectors and reservoir hosts. Climate change alters the breeding patterns of sandflies and expands their geographic range; deforestation and misuse of large areas disrupt ecosystems, leading to increased human-vector contact; and urbanisation increases the potential for contact between parties, particularly in densely populated areas. Migration of humans and animals, either through natural migration or, for example, the pet trade and breeding, can facilitate the spread of Leishmania parasites. In addition, socio-economic factors, including poverty and lack of access to healthcare, increase the burden of leishmaniasis in vulnerable populations. Due to this multitude of reasons, the geographic distribution of sandflies has expanded to higher latitudes and altitudes in recent years, with a consequent increase in disease burden. Indeed, despite ongoing challenges in the surveillance systems, data from the last available year have shown an increase in many cases in both humans and dogs. This perspective explores the interconnected factors influencing the spread of leishmaniasis worldwide and the epidemiology of the disease. In addition, it illustrates the importance of integrated strategies in a One Health approach: surveillance, prevention and control of vectors, animals and humans.

The EU-funded action to strengthen health information systems

Abstract The European Commission initiative to build a European Health Union recognizes the need to address in a coordinated fashion the effects of the pandemic in health and social sectors and to strengthen the resilience, accessibility and effectiveness of health systems through co-operation, best practice exchange, training schemes, technical support and improved data and knowledge management. To make the most of the potential of health data, the European Health Data Space (EHDS) is being established as one of the central building blocks of a strong European Health Union. The EHDS sets out rules, common standards, infrastructures and a governance framework for the use of electronic health data for healthcare, research, innovation and policy making. In line with these policy goals, the European Commission is funding the Action ‘Supporting Member States in the WHO European Region in strengthening health information systems and boosting health data governance’. This Action will be implemented by WHO Regional Office for Europe and aims to boost the use and reuse of health data, including by promoting, where possible, the principles and solutions developed and implemented for the EHDS. It will also contribute to the objectives of the EU Global Health Strategy to improve global health security and deliver better health for all in a changing world. In addition, the Action is designed to strengthen countries’ capacity across critical programmatic areas of health data and digital health such as data quality (including appropriate data management and analytics) and digital health literacy across the 53 Member States in the WHO European region. The main objectives of the Action are to establish a Health Information Network for strategic guidance; and develop and implement tools and capacities to strengthen health information systems, health data governance, data quality and interoperability in countries.

Human-forest proximity and the risk infectious diseases in a changing world

Abstract Background Emerging Infectious Diseases (EIDs) pose a significant threat to global human health; they can lead to epidemics and pandemics with severe repercussions on human life, economic performance, and societal well-being. Despite the recognized negative impact of the EIDs, current research lacks a comprehensive global framework to assess the significance and interaction of various environmental and anthropogenic factors driving emergence of these diseases. Methods In this study, we examine both environmental and anthropogenic factors and their relation to the emergence of EIDs, focusing on historical trends from 1975 to 2020. We focus on 10 diseases with pandemic and epidemic potential. Spatial data on outbreaks in humans and animals from 1975 to 2020 were retrieved from the GIDEON database. Using Bayesian statistical models, we pinpoint regions at increased risk, and we focus on a new indicator based on the human-forest proximity. Conclusions Our results show that human-forest proximity together with biodiversity loss, and high population density increase the likelihood of diseases being transmitted from animals to humans, influencing where outbreaks occur among human populations. Lastly, we introduce a country vulnerability index that combines our risk assessment with the IHRC3 indicator from the WHO, which gauges a country’s capability to handle zoonotic diseases. These combined indices help us to assess each country’s ability to respond to an outbreak. The study also addresses data limitations and proposes directions for future research, emphasizing the importance of our findings in shaping public health policies and decision-making. Key messages • Anthropogenic drivers shape the distribution of outbreaks in human populations. • Human-forest proximity exacerbates the likelihood of Emerging Infectious Disease.

Recognising and supporting authentic learning in a changing world: the opportunities and threats of AI

Since the term AI (artificial intelligence) was first coined, it has become embedded in modern life, with debate focusing on its challenges. In dentistry, AI is being used in clinical and education practice; however, many educators have limited knowledge or skills in its use. The British Alliance of Researchers in Dental Education and Scholarship hosted an AI-themed conference in November 2023. The conference organisers set out to initiate discussion on the use of AI in UK dental education, including a focused workshop to develop a consensus opinion. Before the conference, potential opportunities and threats associated with AI were determined, and through a pre-conference questionnaire, these were prioritised for in-depth discussion. During the workshop, personalised learning, support for learning, educator resources and equality were all identified as opportunities presented by AI, while digital literacy, misuse and safety were seen as potential threats. Two key overarching concepts emerged at the end of the conference: recognition that AI is here to stay and that dental schools must engage with it now to realise its potential; and recognition that educators do not know enough about how students are using AI and need to collaborate with our students in future development and research.

Historical insights at scale: A corpus-wide machine learning analysis of early modern astronomic tables.

Understanding the evolution and dissemination of human knowledge over time faces challenges due to the abundance of historical materials and limited specialist resources. However, the digitization of historical archives presents an opportunity for AI-supported analysis. This study advances historical analysis by using an atomization-recomposition method that relies on unsupervised machine learning and explainable AI techniques. Focusing on the "Sacrobosco Collection," consisting of 359 early modern printed editions of astronomy textbooks from European universities (1472-1650), totaling 76,000 pages, our analysis uncovers temporal and geographic patterns in knowledge transformation. We highlight the relevant role of astronomy textbooks in shaping a unified mathematical culture, driven by competition among educational institutions and market dynamics. This approach deepens our understanding by grounding insights in historical context, integrating with traditional methodologies. Case studies illustrate how communities embraced scientific advancements, reshaping astronomic and geographical views and exploring scientific roots amidst a changing world.

Promoting developmental diversity in a changing world.

Promoting developmental diversity in a changing world.

Value orientations of youth and the formation of cultural memory in the region (On the example of the Chechen republic)

The article analyzes the characteristics of the Chechen youth, their value attitudes and roles in the formation of cultural memory. The methodological framework covers theoretical and methodological areas of research of two social phenomena that are important signs of the changing world at the beginning of this millennium: cultural memory and the attitude of the younger generation towards it. The analysis of these phenomena is studied on the example of a specific region as a social space at a certain stage of socio-public transformation, where the foundations of traditional society with the prevalence of vertical connections continue to play an important role. At the same time, young people have a special place in the perception and transformation of values, experiencing at the same time a great influence of globalization and information technologies. The empirical basis of the study was socio-demographic data on the Chechen Republic, quantitative and qualitative methods of surveying the youth of the republic: an online survey was conducted among students (N = 92) aged 19-24 years and in-depth interviews among young people (N = 21), whose average age was 30 years. Additional materials were data from the database of surveys and focus groups collected in recent years. The results of the study showed that the transformation of cultural memory in the region is influenced by both structural factors, primarily demographic, migration dynamics, socio-economic living conditions of the population, etc., and cultural and institutional factors that determine the value attitudes of various segments of the population, the discourses prevailing in the society, attitudes to history, politics, etc. The value landmarks of young people play an important role in the formation of the cultural memory of the Chechen society and act as means of stabilizing and renewing the society. A key feature of the Chechen society is a respect towards elders. The succession of values is under threat of breaking intergenerational ties and subject to an unprecedented information aggression. The issues of an objective attitude to history, developing a position on the modernization of the society are acute.

Editorial: Dynamics of Asia’s and Australasia’s forests in a changing world

Editorial: Dynamics of Asia’s and Australasia’s forests in a changing world

Analysis Semiotic of Meaning Courage in Qaṣīdah (al-Burdah, al- Niffarīyah, al-Mutanabbī, and al-Ahtyar)

<table style="width: 688px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody><tr><td valign="top" width="501"><p><strong>This study aims to analyze the semiotic meaning of the word "courage" in four classical Arabic <em>Qaṣīdahs: Qaṣīdah al-Burdah, Qaṣīdah al-Niffarīyah, Qaṣīdah al-Mutanabbī, </em>and<em> Qaṣīdah al-Ahtyar</em>. This study uses Roland Barthes' semiotic theory to identify the signifiers, signs, and connotative meanings of the word "courage" in these poems. This research uses a qualitative-descriptive approach and a content analysis research design. The data collection techniques used are literature reviews. Primary data is in the <em>Qaṣīdah al-Burdah, Qaṣīdah al-Niffarīyah, Qaṣīdah al-Mutanabbī, </em>and<em> Qaṣīdah al-Ahtyar</em>. Secondary data comes from readings related to the study. The data obtained is reduced, displayed, and verified. The findings show that the semiotic analysis of the word "courage" in the four <em>Qaṣīdahs</em> reveals a testament to the enduring value of courage in guiding Muslims to face challenges and uphold their beliefs in a changing world. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the rich and nuanced understanding of courage in Islamic culture. These insights can contribute to a deeper appreciation of the Islamic ethical framework and its relevance in contemporary society. In addition, the methodology of this study demonstrates the applicability of semiotic analysis in unearthing deeper meanings embedded in literary and cultural texts.</strong><strong></strong></p><p> </p></td></tr></tbody></table>

Pedagogical Conditions for Developing the Ability of Logical Thinking in Primary School Children

The integration of our country into the world community, the development of science and technology require the young generation to be competitive in the changing world. It is ensured by implementing international experience and models in teaching mother tongue and reading literacy as well as natural sciences. This article discusses the concept of pedagogical conditions for developing the ability of logical thinking in primary school children.

Sacred Water: Neo-Spiritual Consumerism in Catherine Chanter’s The Well

ABSTRACT Catherine Chanter’s The Well depicts a water-scarce Britain where the fertile farm of the Ardingly couple becomes a site of exploitation by a spiritual community called the Sisters of the Rose. By setting her novel on a farm named The Well, Chanter constructs a spatial map that not only exposes the cult’s manipulative power but also serves as a symbolic microcosm of their capitalist exploitation, highlighting the rise of a phenomenon I term “neo-spiritual consumerism.” Drawing on Fredric Jameson’s concept of “late capitalism” (1991) and his theory of “cognitive mapping” (1992), this study examines how Chanter uses The Well as a spatial narrative instrument to re-mythologize religious narratives as a form of cultural consumption. Through a literary analysis of Chanter’s novel, the study examines her ironic use of religious symbols to delve into the social, psychological, and political implications of associating environmental crises with divine retribution, deflecting attention from the socio-economic systems perpetuating environmental degradation. Chanter’s subversive use of religious symbolism highlights how capitalist frameworks exacerbate ecological vulnerabilities. This research prompts critical assessment of modern spiritual movements and emphasizes capitalism’s pervasive influence in sacred domains, compelling readers to consider alternative worldviews and ethical frameworks for navigating a changing world.

Postgenocide and decolonizing approaches to peace education in the Anthropocene

ABSTRACT This article addresses the intersection of genocide studies, climate change, and peace education. It does so by examining the state of these connections, and proposes a fresh concept for considering the entanglements of contemporary violence in the Anthropocene. A notion of postgenocide sees the elements of geopolitical order, warlordism, climate change and resource exploitation. Postgenocide is an approach to mass violence occurring beyond the usual framing of state violence and intent. It aims to enrich the ongoing decolonization of peace education, as well as empower peace educators in conveying these often-complex relations in a violence-prone and climate changing world. Thinking outside of legal constraints of genocide or emotive fuzziness of climate change, educators can broaden their appeals and promote decolonized thinking of how violence works, its agents, and who it impacts in the Anthropocene. Postgenocide offers a transformative research and praxis link frame beyond globalizing Holocaust education as a stand-in for human rights education. Peace educators can leverage global concepts like postgenocide to cut through and examine the complexity of such entanglements.

The importance of integrating phycological research, teaching, outreach, and engagement in a changing world.

The ecological, evolutionary, economic, and cultural importance of algae necessitates a continued integration of phycological research, education, outreach, and engagement. Here, we comment on several topics discussed during a networking workshop-Algae and the Environment-that brought together phycological researchers from a variety of institutions and career stages. We share some of our perspectives on the state of phycology by examining gaps in teaching and research. We identify action areas where we urge the phycological community to prepare itself to embrace the rapidly changing world. We emphasize the need for more trained taxonomists as well as integration with molecular techniques, which may be expensive and complicated but are important. An essential benefit of these integrative studies is the creation of high-quality algal reference barcoding libraries augmented with morphological, physiological, and ecological data that are important for studies of systematics and crucial for the accuracy of the metabarcoding bioassessment. We highlight different teaching approaches for engaging undergraduate students in algal studies and the importance of algal field courses, forays, and professional phycological societies in supporting the algal training of students, professionals, and citizen scientists.

Global artistic citizenship: (Re-)imagining interculturalism, collaboration, and community engagement as central elements of higher music education

This article seeks to better understand the impacts of placing interculturalism and community engagement as central elements in higher music education and its effects on students’ experiences, learning outcomes, and societal contributions. Qualitative data is drawn from three contexts of intercultural learning environments, including graduates of a degree programme in global music, as well as current students participating in an intercultural arts camp and a refugee community project as part of their studies. Findings emerge in terms of the ways intercultural learning environments impact students’ sense of global artistic citizenship, develop extra-musical skills, provide opportunities to engage with societal issues, and expand professionalism, enhancing the ability to create a career and engage with the changing world. Key findings and conclusions point to the need to continuously re-imagine the structures of institutions and the ways they can become more inclusive, pluralistic, intercultural, and connected to the world around them.

Living on a Picture: Approaching Images and Life Stories in Social Media

If images were once conceived either as subordination or oppositions of words, the advent of the Internet has started new relationship dynamics between them. Within this digital scenario, vision and textuality intensely intertwine in the form of captions, posts, hyperlinks or other kind of social media content, daily handled by users. In this context, autobiographical narratives will take on a major role, shaping the way in which the subject conceives, forges and registers his or her identity in relation to the reader/viewer. This article aims to address the question, more present than ever, of how certain autobiographical narratives are disseminated through social networks, and how image and narrative dialogue within this framework. By addressing specific cases found on platforms such as Instagram, we will try to elucidate how these publications point to an ambivalent relationship with visual tropes or narratives associated with certain life experiences, either questioning it or contributing to the creation of a collective narrative. A complex interplay of image and narrative that will affect not only how we share life, but also how we understand it and construct it together with others in a changing world.

Future armed conflicts - A new point of view

This article focusses on future wars and the resulting consequences for the development of the armed forces. The purpose of this study is to indicate the course of future armed conflicts on the base of the forecasts presented by the largest research centres as well as to signal the need to look at them from a new point of view, disregarding the current tense situation in the world. The subjects of the research are armed conflicts, and above all, the possible ways of conducting them in the future, as well as the domains in which they will be fought. The authors assume that the causes and forms of future armed conflicts will evolve. Changes will depend on the time and place of the outbreak of conflicts, the technology used, as well as the scale of their play. It is also assumed that future armed conflicts will take place in all domains, between equal opponents or between great powers and smaller states or organizations, which are weaker to them in every respect. In the paper, the authors took an attempt to answer the following questions: How will the geopolitical and economic situation in the world change, also in the context of progressing climate change? How will armed conflicts evolve in a changing world? How will future wars play out and what capabilities should military forces have to fight them? According to the analysis, the authors claim that future armed conflicts will: take place in all domains; require a rapid situation assessment and decisions; conducted in a complex environment; include hybrid strategies; increasingly difficult to resolve; non-linear; took the form of asymmetric activities; periodically conducted without electronic devices (an opponent can disable devices or track them); implemented by modular units capable of conducting independent activities at the lowest levels; saturated with robots and drones.

The RelationshipBetween Critical Thinking and Problem--Solving Skills Among Vocational College Technical Students

This study aims to examine the relationship between critical thinking and problem-solving skills among technical students at Vocational Colleges. Using a descriptive survey research approach with a questionnaire instrument, the study sample consisted of 271 final year technical students from Batu Pahat Vocational College, Johor, and Kuantan Vocational College, Pahang. The data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software using Pearson's mean score, percentage, and correlation. The results of the analysis show that there is a positive relationship between critical thinking and problem-solving skills among Vocational College technical students. This study aims to justify the research hypothesis. The implication of this study is the importance of strengthening critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the curriculum and teaching strategies to prepare Vocational College technical students to become more competent and adaptive individuals in facing the challenges of a complex and changing world. It is hoped that the results of this study can make a significant contribution in the development of technical and vocational education as well as provide guidance for the preparation of amore effective curriculum to cultivate both skills among vocational college technical students.

Cross-cultural approach to biobanking of living coral cells on Woppaburra sea Country in the southern inshore Great Barrier Reef

ABSTRACT Biobanking of cryopreserved, living cells is a conservation tool being increasingly integrated into management and recovery efforts for at-risk wildlife. Together with reproductive technologies like in-vitro fertilisation, biobanking can secure biodiversity for decades and beyond to support species’ health and ability to survive and recover in a changing world. An inaugural on-Country coral biobanking project occurred in 2022 on Konomie (North Keppel Island) involving partners from Taronga Conservation Society, the Australian Institute of Marine Science and Woppaburra Traditional Custodians. Biobanking activities were undertaken with free prior and informed consent for the collection, cryopreservation and transfer of living coral material for secure and specialised storage at Taronga’s CryoDiversity Banks on Cammeraygal and Wiradjuri Countries. During this project and a subsequent Biobanking Cultural Safety event in September 2023, we discussed cultural matters related to biobanking and measures that could be taken to ensure that the enduring link to Country of these samples is maintained in perpetuity. These outcomes will form the basis of a best-practice approach to biobanking activities in other regions of the Great Barrier Reef, in partnership with the Traditional Custodians of those sea Countries.

Governing climate change in a changing world

Governing climate change in a changing world

The relationship between HE teachers' mission and teaching approach: Interaction inspiring enthusiasm as the basis for building knowledge and commitment to the profession

AbstractThe fundamental role of higher education is to help students learn to cope in a constantly changing and uncertain world. The key to this is to support the development of their agency and commitment to learning. Although technology is the main tool of knowledge transfer, according to the OECD, it is teachers who represent the values of their field and that of knowledge and learning.Since academic development is a relatively recent topic in the Hungarian literature, the present research aims to explore teachers' role interpretation, goals, missions, approaches to teaching, and their commitment to academic development at one of Hungary's leading business universities, the Budapest Business University (BBU). The study is based on 33 semi-structured interviews recorded at BBU involving 33 teachers of economics-related subjects in three faculties of the university. The interview transcripts were analysed by thematic analysis.The results show that participants have markedly different teaching approaches, and the interrelationships between their objectives, missions and academic development can be seen as constituting a system. Finally, the potential interrelationships among the different themes were examined. The findings show that the teachers' goals and missions are strongly related, although more affective factors can be identified in relation to missions. These affective factors include inspiring enthusiasm and building partnership and mutual learning. In line with this, most participants adopt a teacher/student interaction strategy, only few cases of student focus were identified.