Search Results (391)

Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into everyday life, including the complex and highly regulated healthcare sector. Given healthcare’s essential role in safeguarding human life and well-being, AI deployment requires careful oversight to ensure safety, effectiveness, and ethical compliance. This paper aims to examine the current regulatory landscapes governing AI in healthcare, particularly in the European Union (EU) and the United States (USA), and to propose practical tools to support the responsible development and implementation of AI systems. Methods: The study reviews key regulatory frameworks, ethical guidelines, and expert recommendations from international bodies, professional associations, and governmental institutions in the EU and USA. Based on this analysis, the paper develops structured questionnaires tailored for AI developers and implementers to help operationalize regulatory and ethical expectations. Results: The proposed questionnaires address critical gaps in existing frameworks by providing actionable, lifecycle-oriented tools that span AI development, deployment, and clinical use. These instruments support compliance and ethical integrity while promoting transparency and accountability. Conclusions: The structured questionnaires can serve as practical tools for health technology assessments, public procurement, accreditation processes, and training initiatives. By aligning AI system design with regulatory and ethical standards, they contribute to building trustworthy, safe, and innovative AI applications in healthcare. Full article

Sport in Spain during the dictatorship of Francisco Franco (1939–1975) underwent significant evolution across three distinct political phases: autarky, the technocratic stage, and late Francoism. Each of these periods was characterized by different approaches and uses of sport within the regime’s political structure. In the early years, sport was primarily employed as a tool for propaganda and social control, aligning with the authoritarian values of the state. Subsequently, with the rise of technocrats in the 1960s, reforms were implemented to promote the structural development of the sports system, fostering its modernization and the creation of specialized institutions. Finally, in the late Francoist period, sport became an instrument for international projection, as Spain increased its participation in international competitions and hosted sporting events. This entry analyzes the primary governmental initiatives for the organization and promotion of sport during the Franco regime, with particular attention to the administrative roles played by figures such as José Antonio Elola-Olaso and Juan Antonio Samaranch in the evolving structure of the Spanish sports system. Through an analysis based on documentary sources, it provides a comprehensive overview of Francoist sports policies, their objectives, and their impact on Spanish society. In this regard, sport under Franco’s rule was not only a means of political control but also laid the foundation for the later professionalization and globalization of Spanish sport. Full article

This study aims to explore how the macro-geopolitical economic cooperation policy is connected with student mobility in higher education at the micro level. Since the internationalization of higher education and student mobility, which mainly occurred in universities at the institutional level, the relationship between macro governmental goals and economic strategies tends to be less emphasized. Also, the factors influencing student mobility focus more on their characteristics. Therefore, this study investigates how student mobility in higher education has been changed according to the New Southern Policy (NSP) in South Korea, especially focusing on the policy targeted in ASEAN regions. Also, we describe trends of student mobility according to different characteristics of a university under the policy. The findings of this study indicate that when formulating and implementing policy, it is imperative to acknowledge the limitations of a macro-level, strategic approach, even when considering a multitude of factors. Furthermore, this study suggests that macroeconomic policies may exert unanticipated impacts on areas that have not been explicitly addressed. Full article

Amid accelerating globalization and urbanization, regional revitalization has become a key policy direction for countries to address regional decline. Among these, social capital and community empowerment can significantly promote regional development. Social capital emphasizes how trust, norms, and reciprocity facilitate collective action, while community empowerment focuses on improving residents’ participation and autonomous decision-making capacity. Existing research primarily focuses on cases from Europe and America; there is no in-depth exploration of the interaction between regional revitalization and social capital in Taiwan. Notably, systematic studies are lacking regarding the mechanisms through which University Social Responsibility (USR) programs engage and promote community development. This study takes the Wanli and Jinshan districts in northern Taiwan as case study examples. We employ action research and qualitative research methods to analyze the role of social capital and community empowerment in regional revitalization. This paper reviews how internal trust and cooperation within a community build bonding social capital. It explores how USR programs promote collaboration between communities and external resources through bridging social capital. The findings indicate that bonding social capital can enhance community cohesion and support regional revitalization efforts; bridging social capital can introduce academic, corporate, and governmental resources, providing technical and financial support for community innovation. The participatory mechanism of USR programs not only fosters civic awareness development but also offers a cross-organizational cooperation platform for regional revitalization, enabling communities to integrate internal and external resources more effectively. The results of this study indicate that bonding and bridging social capital can achieve complementary effects through USR programs, further promoting community empowerment and regional development. This study deepens the application of social capital theory in regional revitalization. It provides an empirical basis for policymakers and academic institutions to optimize the planning and implementation of future USR programs. While the study focuses on a geographically bounded set of cases and employs an exploratory qualitative design, these choices enabled a rich, context-sensitive understanding of how regional self-governance and community capital may be strengthened in practice. Future research could extend this line of inquiry by examining additional locales, adopting longitudinal perspectives, and integrating mixed-method approaches, thereby further amplifying the robustness and applicability of the propositions advanced here. Full article

Advanced driving technologies have the potential to transform the transportation sector. Specifically, the progress of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has caught the interest of governmental authorities, industrial groups, and academic institutions, with the goal of improving the driving experience, effectiveness, and comfort while also improving safety and flexibility and lowering vehicle emissions. Considering these facts, the purpose of this study is to assess the possible effects and advantages of AVs under diverse traffic situations in urban and rural environments. Knowledge of traffic behavior inside a certain road network is made easier by traffic microsimulation. PTV VISSIM (Verkehr In Städten—SIMulationsmodell) is among the microsimulation software programs that has attracted great interest because of its remarkable capacity to faithfully simulate traffic conditions. This review helps researchers choose the best methodological strategy for their individual study objectives and restrictions while using VISSIM. This research assesses the effect of AVs in different driving behavior and weather conditions in urban and rural situations using VISSIM and introduces traffic safety using the surrogate safety assessment model (SSAM). The study focuses on 10 parameters from the Wiedemann 99 car-following model and speed distribution to establish the correlation between weather conditions and surrogate safety measures (SSMs). The findings could lead to more accurate and authentic models of driving behavior and encourage the automotive industry to further equip AVs to operate efficiently in various environmental and driving conditions. Full article

Ethiopian pastoralist communities are facing a recurrent drought crisis that significantly affects the availability of water and pasture resources for communities dependent on livestock. The increasing intensity, duration and frequency of droughts in the pastoral community in Ethiopia have drawn the attention of multiple stakeholders and increased stakeholder debates on the role of early warning systems (EWSs) for anticipatory action to build climate resilience in the pastoral community. The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), in collaboration with various partners, has developed an interactive web-based digital EWS to provide near real-time information on water and pasture conditions in pastoral and agro-pastoral regions of Ethiopia. In this study, a stakeholder analysis was conducted to identify key stakeholders, understand stakeholder needs, and facilitate collaboration towards sustaining the EWS. The stakeholder analysis revealed the roles and information needs of key actors engaged in livestock water and pasture monitoring and early warning systems aimed at improving the pastoral communities’ resilience. The analysis showed a pressing need for access to real-time information on water and pasture availability and seasonal climate forecasts by local communities for effective and optimal resources management. Local and national governments need similar data for evidence-based decision-making in resource allocation and policy development. International and non-governmental organizations (INGOs) require the same information for efficient humanitarian responses and targeted development interventions. The private sector seeks insights into market dynamics to better align production strategies with community needs. An EWS serves as a vital tool for development partners, facilitating improved planning, coordination, and impact assessment. It also emphasizes the importance of proactive collaboration among stakeholders, including local communities, government bodies, INGOs, and academic and research institutions. Enhanced communication strategies, such as partnerships with local media, are essential for timely information dissemination. Ultimately, sustained collaboration and adaptive strategies are crucial for optimizing the impact of an EWS towards improving the livelihoods and resilience of pastoral communities amid climate variability. Full article

This study investigates the moderating role of finance, accounting, and digital disruption (FADD) in the relationship between auditing and sustainability (AS) and financial reporting and ESG integration (FRESGI) through the triple-helix perspective. Drawing on data from 200 experts across corporate, academic, and governmental sectors in Kosovo (2024–Q1 2025), the research applied advanced statistical techniques, including EFA, CFA, and moderation analysis using SPSS and AMOS, to explore both direct and interaction effects. The results reveal that FADD significantly enhances ESG integration, with strong direct effects observed in the corporate sector (β = 0.259, p < 0.001) and public institutions (β = 0.281, p < 0.001). However, the moderation analysis shows that the government dimension of FADD (FADD_2) negatively influences the relationship between corporate sustainability practices (AS_1) and ESG reporting, indicating limited coordination across sectors. These findings highlight the need for aligned, sector-specific strategies that harness digital innovation and financial transformation to strengthen sustainable auditing and reporting practices. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and academics working to advance ESG integration across complex institutional ecosystems. Full article

This study aims to investigate how sustainable innovation (SI) influences the relationship between internal audit effectiveness (IAE) and sustainability auditing (SA) practices in Libya’s public sector, providing valuable insights into its implications for public finance governance and financial regulation. Additionally, it examines how audit standards and principles (ASPs) on SA practices emphasising their role in enhancing transparency, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance, and overall financial oversight. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was employed, collecting 500 valid responses from financial and governmental institutions in Libya. Hierarchical regression and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) were used to evaluate the relationships among IAE, SI, ASP, and SA practices, with robustness checks ensuring the reliability of findings. The findings demonstrate that IAE significantly reinforces SA practices, improving ESG accountability and reporting. SI positively moderates this relationship, indicating that innovative processes and tools strengthen the impact of effective internal audits on sustainability outcomes. Although ASP contributes to SA practices, its influence is more pronounced when combined with robust internal audit functions and sustainability initiatives. The results underscore the need to integrate innovation and transparent regulatory frameworks to optimise sustainability auditing and public finance management. While the study is confined to Libya’s public sector—potentially limiting broader generalizability—its insights may inform policy reforms and risk management strategies across diverse regulatory environments. Future research could include comparative analyses to investigate variations in other emerging or developed markets. This study adds to the literature by linking SI and ASP with internal audit frameworks, offering fresh perspectives on enhancing SA practices and ESG compliance in public finance settings. Full article

This study assessed the interplay between economic development, rule of law, social inequalities in education, and sustainable development in Central and Eastern European countries. Grounded in the theoretical background of sustainable development, this study examines how governmental efficiency, transparency, economic development, and social capital function as key drivers of SDG goals in CEE countries. The analysis draws on three theoretical models: the economic theory of sustainable development, institutional frameworks emphasizing good governance and sustainable development, and the role of social capital in shaping SDG dynamics. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the following research directions: i. the impact of economic development on the sustainable development index; ii. the relationship between the rule of law and the achievement of SDG goals; and iii. the relevance of social factors in sustainable development. Using a quantitative research design based on both linear and nonlinear regression models, we estimate that the interplay between governance and education is strongly related to an increased SDG index. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on sustainable development, offering insights into the particularities of Central and Eastern European social and economic development. This study provides evidence for scholars and policy-makers interested in sustainable development, highlighting the importance of institutional transparency and education in enhancing social and economic development. Full article

Floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems can play an important role in energy transition. Yet, so far, not much is known about the effects of FPV systems on water quality and ecology. A sun-tracking FPV system (24% coverage) was installed on a shallow drinking water reservoir. We observed for the first time that benthic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), which can deteriorate water quality, developed massively under the FPV system, while macrophytes and benthic algae, such as Chara (stonewort), mostly disappeared. Calculations of light availability explain this shift. The natural mixing of the water column was hardly affected, and the average temperature of the reservoir was not altered significantly. Biofouling of the water-submerged part of the FPV system consisted mostly of a massive attachment of Dreissena mussels, which affected water quality. Water bird numbers and concentrations of faecal bacteria were similar after the installation of the FPV system. Especially in shallow, transparent water bodies, there is a significant risk of FPV systems promoting the growth of undesirable benthic cyanobacteria. Overall, these new insights can aid water managers and governmental institutions in assessing the risks of FPV systems on water quality and the ecology of inland waters. Full article

Maintaining genetic diversity is vital for biodiversity and livestock sustainability, with monitoring serving as a prerequisite for conservation strategies. As an initial step for developing future strategies, we analysed the genetic diversity and conservation priorities of 16 chicken breeds managed by a government institute in this study. The breeds were classified as native or locally adapted per FAO definitions and grouped by origin (i.e., governmental or private farms). Genetic diversity, assessed through observed and expected heterozygosity, inbreeding coefficients, and linkage disequilibrium, was high in native breeds from government institutions, such as Chungnam White Korean Native (CNW) and Gangwon Black Korean Native (GWL). Private farm breeds, including Hoeungseong-Yakdak (HYD), exhibited lower diversity. Conservation priorities based on contributions to total genetic diversity (HT) and allelic diversity (AT) revealed that locally adapted breeds, such as Cornish (S) and White Leghorn, significantly contributed to HT. Native breeds, such as CNW and Hyuin black, had higher contributions to AT. Combined assessments indicated that S, CNW, and GWL have the highest conservation priorities. Despite lower rankings, unique breeds such as HYD require targeted conservation owing to their distinctiveness. In conclusion, Korean chicken breeds such as S, CNW, and GWL are vital for maintaining genetic diversity among government-managed breeds. Full article

Extreme heat, a leading cause of weather-related morbidity and mortality, particularly affects vulnerable populations such as older people, increasing their risk of stroke. There is a gap between scientific knowledge and policy implementation, particularly regarding climatic risk factors for stroke. This study aims to identify knowledge barriers and enablers and formulate recommendations. We held eight focus groups of participants aged ≥ 60 years (N = 56), a workshop with 36 public health policy experts and stakeholders, and six in-depth interviews with experts. Three main themes emerged: (1) risk perception and responsibility attribution, revealing varying awareness of climate change risk for stroke and complex personal, cultural, and institutional responsibilities; (2) barriers to climate change adaptation, including knowledge gaps, environmental maladaptation, and insufficient governmental resources; and (3) enabling factors and adaptive solutions, highlighting individual coping strategies, education, and collaborative policy interventions. Focus group participants demonstrated diverse adaptive behaviors, while policymakers emphasized interagency collaboration and targeted knowledge dissemination. Older individuals demonstrated limited knowledge about climate change and its health risks. National policies lack effective communication. There is a critical need for knowledge dissemination, coping tools, and solutions for healthcare providers and at-risk groups, particularly regarding the health implications of climate change. Full article

This study examines how media outlets perceive and frame environmental issues, focusing specifically on South Korean news reporting on the Fukushima wastewater release. Using computational text analysis methods and formal statistical testing, this research investigates ideological polarization in media framing and its implications for risk perception. Statistical analyses provide significant evidence that progressive media emphasized environmental risks, public health concerns, and governmental accountability, whereas conservative media highlighted political actors, institutional governance, and diplomatic considerations. Media polarization peaked before policy implementation but moderated afterward. After implementation, moderate newspapers exhibited ideological convergence toward the center, accounting for a substantial portion of the observed positioning shifts, while strongly partisan outlets maintained or slightly intensified their prior positions. These results suggest that ideological polarization is most prominent in the early stages of contentious environmental policies but moderates as empirical scrutiny replaces speculation, with varying effects across ideological groups. This study provides insights into the temporal dynamics of media polarization and its role in shaping risk perception during policy implementation and regulatory oversight. Full article

Foodborne diseases (FBDs) represent a significant public health concern, particularly in regions like Central America and the Caribbean (CAC), where surveillance gaps due to a lack of resources, knowledge, and technical abilities hinder control over outbreaks. This review investigates the bacterial pathogens responsible for FBDs, their prevalence, management challenges, and prevention strategies. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines, focusing on bacterial FBDs in CAC from 2000 to 2024. PubMed and Google Scholar were used as primary databases, supported by other sources to identify relevant studies. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies focusing on bacterial pathogens, prevalence, risk factors, and surveillance practices. Out of the 509 studies initially identified, 35 met the inclusion criteria. The most prevalent pathogens were Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Campylobacter spp., and Aliarcobacter spp., with contamination often associated with poultry, eggs, and vegetables. Key challenges included inadequate surveillance systems, limited resources, and inconsistent reporting practices. A more significant investment in pathogen monitoring, documentation, and education, along with technologies like whole-genome sequencing (WGS), is crucial. Institutional and governmental funding is vital to improve surveillance and strengthen regional risk analysis. Full article

Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) has been widely recognized as the key strategy for supporting farmers in adapting to climate change. The success of EbA requires a cohesive alignment from the national level to community implementation. However, harmonized efforts from central governments to local farmers remain underexplored in the literature on climate change and adaptation, especially in the context of mountainous areas of Vietnam. This study applied multiple qualitative research methods, including 12 key informant interviews, six focus group discussions, and 18 in-depth interviews to explore the varying perspectives of EbA between government officials and farmers, and how these perspectives influence their involvement in governmental initiatives. Using matrix coding visualization in NVIVO, this study revealed notable differences in perceptions of EbA between government officials and farmers, which in turn impact EbA practices at the commune level. This study also found factors affecting EbA practices, including knowledge, economic priorities, institutional support, labor shortages, limited market access, and funding inadequacies. The policy implications drawn from this study are necessary for bridging top-down policy with local realities, to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of EbA. Furthermore, this paper contributes to the EbA literature by highlighting the need for context-specific adaptation strategies to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of EbA practices in vulnerable communities. Full article