Search Results (367)

(1) Background: This article aims to understand the forms and elements through which the inhabitants of the city of Medellin have configured their subjectivity in the context of the application of neoliberal policies in the last two decades. In this way, we can approach the frameworks of understanding that constitute a fundamental part of the individuation processes in which the incorporation of their subjectivities is evidenced in neoliberal contexts that, in the historical process, have been converging with authoritarian, antidemocratic and neoconservative elements. (2) Method: A qualitative approach with a hermeneutic-interpretative paradigm was used. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 41 inhabitants of Medellín who were politically identified with right-wing or center-right positions. Data analysis included thematic coding to identify patterns of thought and points of view. (3) Results: Participants associate success with individual effort and see state intervention as an obstacle to development. They reject redistributive policies, arguing that they generate dependency. In addition, they justify authoritarian models of government in the name of security and progress, from a moral superiority, which is related to a negative and stigmatizing perception of progressive sectors and a negative view of the social rule of law and public policies with social sense. (4) Conclusions: The naturalization of merit as a guiding principle, the perception of themselves as morally superior based on religious values that grant a subjective place of certainty and goodness; the criminalization of expressions of political leftism, mobilizations and redistributive reforms and support for policies that establish authoritarianism and perpetuate exclusion and structural inequalities, closes roads to a participatory democracy that enables social and economic transformations. Full article

The growing urban population has made densification a key focus of urban development. It is crucial to create an urban planning strategy that understands the environmental, social, and economic effects of densification at both the district and city levels. In Switzerland, densification is a legally binding aim to foster housing and jobs within urban boundaries. The challenge is to accommodate population growth while maintaining a high quality of life. Zurich exemplifies this situation, necessitating the accommodation of approximately 25% of the anticipated increase in both the resident population and associated workplaces, as of 2016. This study examined the effects of urban densification on urban forms and microclimates in the Altstetten–Albisrieden district. It developed five densification scenarios based on current urban initiatives and assessed their impacts. Results showed that the current Building and Zoning Plan provides sufficient capacity to accommodate growth. Strategies such as densifying parcels older than fifty years and adding floors to newer buildings were found to minimally impact existing urban forms. Using the SOLWEIG model in the Urban Multi-scale Environmental Predictor (UMEP), this study simulated mean radiant temperature (Tmrt) in the selected urban areas. The results demonstrated that densification reduced daytime average temperatures by 0.60 °C and diurnal averages by 0.23 °C, but increased average nighttime temperatures by 0.38 °C. This highlights the importance of addressing warm nights. The study concludes that well-planned densification can significantly contribute to urban liveability, emphasising the need for thoughtful building design to improve outdoor thermal comfort. Full article

This paper examines interpretations of depopulation in Norse Greenland between the 14th and 15th centuries CE. Using in-depth interviews with 13 experts working on the environmental, social and economic dimensions of settlement and depopulation in Norse Greenland, we examine the different interpretations of decline by experts using the same data. Our analysis reveals a geographical and disciplinary pattern of interpretation that reflects the institutional and disciplinary cultures, successive paradigms, and placed ideas about human–environment interaction. We examine the interplay between data and interpretation to uncover key developments in knowledge of the past and ideas about both the role of climate, ecology and social, economic and political processes in the end of the Norse settlement in Greenland, as well as their wider persistence in the North Atlantic region. In particular, we emphasise the importance of active reflection on disciplinary training, schools of thought, and national narratives in both the interpretation and perceived relevance of the past. Full article

As part of its modernisation and economic diversification policies, Saudi Arabia is building smart, sustainable cities intended to improve quality of life and meet environmental goals. However, involving the public in urban planning remains complex, with traditional methods often proving expensive, time-consuming, and inaccessible to many groups. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into public participation may help to address these limitations. This study explores whether Saudi residents are ready to engage with AI-driven tools in urban planning, how they prefer to interact with them, and what ethical concerns may arise. Using a quantitative, survey-based approach, the study collected data from 232 Saudi residents using non-probability stratified sampling. The survey assessed demographic influences on AI readiness, preferred engagement methods, and perceptions of ethical risks. The results showed a strong willingness among participants (200 respondents, 86%)—especially younger and university-educated respondents—to engage through AI platforms. Visual tools such as image and video analysis were the most preferred (96 respondents, 41%), while chatbots were less favoured (16 respondents, 17%). However, concerns were raised about privacy (76 respondents, 33%), bias (52 respondents, 22%), and over-reliance on technology (84 respondents, 36%). By exploring the intersection of generative AI and participatory urban governance, this study contributes directly to the discourse on inclusive smart city development. The research also offers insights into how AI-driven public engagement tools can be integrated into urban planning workflows to enhance the design, governance, and performance of the built environment. The findings suggest that AI has the potential to improve inclusivity and responsiveness in urban planning, but that its success depends on public trust, ethical safeguards, and the thoughtful design of accessible, user-friendly engagement platforms. Full article

Background/Objectives: Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) are a significant global health burden, contributing to increased healthcare use, absenteeism, and economic strain. While clinical treatments exist, many individuals use traditional dietary remedies such as soup to relieve symptoms. Soup is thought to support recovery through hydration, warmth, nutritional content, and possible anti-inflammatory effects. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of soup consumption on adults with ARTIs, focusing on symptom severity, illness duration, absenteeism, immune response, inflammatory biomarkers, and overall well-being. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in February 2024 across MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, clinical trial registries, and supplementary sources. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, non-randomized trials, and controlled before-after studies evaluating soup as an intervention for ARTIs. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. A narrative synthesis was undertaken due to heterogeneity in study design and outcome measures. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023481236). Results: Four studies (n = 342) met inclusion criteria. Interventions commonly included chicken-based soups with vegetables and herbs. Comparators varied (e.g., no treatment, water, or alternative soup). Findings showed modest reductions in symptom severity and illness duration (by 1–2.5 days). Two studies reported reductions in inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, TNF-α, CRP). No studies reported on absenteeism or well-being. Conclusions: Soup may offer modest benefits for ARTIs, particularly for symptom relief and inflammation. Further well-designed studies are needed to evaluate its broader clinical and functional impacts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Globally, one in eight people live with a mental disorder, with depression being a leading cause of disability. This study aimed to identify sociodemographic factors associated with public belief and perception of mental disorders among adults in Poland. Methods: A cross-sectional study with a self-prepared questionnaire (5-point Likert scale) was administered to a nationally representative quota sample of 1114 Polish adults (March 2025). The computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) method was applied. Results: A cross-sectional survey of 1114 adults found that 23.2% had visited psychiatrists, 15.9% psychotherapists, and 21.1% reported a family history of mental disorders. Most respondents (73.8%) believed employers are reluctant to hire individuals with mental disorders, and 53.8% perceived discrimination. Additionally, 19.4% thought mental health patients receive lower-quality care than those with physical illnesses like diabetes. Respondents from large cities (≥500,000 residents, aOR: 1.67; 95%CI: 1.11–2.51; p = 0.01), with higher education (aOR: 1.62; 95%CI: 1.26–2.07; p < 0.001), or a family history of mental disorders (p < 0.05) were more likely to hold this view. Higher education (aOR: 1.47; 95%CI: 1.11–1.94; p = 0.01), good economic status (aOR: 1.60; 1.06–2.40; p = 0.02), and personal psychiatric experience (aOR: 1.89; 95%CI: 1.24–2.87; p = 0.003) increased belief in treatment effectiveness. Males (aOR: 1.88; 95%CI: 1.36–2.61; p < 0.001) and medium-city residents (aOR: 1.82; 95%CI: 1.01–3.27; p = 0.04) more often perceived mental disorders as a sign of weakness, while women (aOR: 1.74; 95%CI: 1.36–2.22; p < 0.001) and those with affected relatives (p < 0.05) more frequently reported discrimination. Older respondents (p < 0.05), those with higher education (aOR: 1.65), and individuals with a family history of mental disorders (p < 0.05) were more likely to state that employers fear hiring people with psychiatric conditions. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for public health interventions to reduce stigma, improve awareness, and address misconceptions about mental disorders in Poland. Full article

Questioning motherhood as a social mandate has been one of the main objectives of feminism. Motherhood has traditionally been linked to the idea of femininity and the reproductive function, which has led to women being thought of as “compulsory mothers”. However, this idea is currently changing, despite the fact that judgment is exercised on non-mothers. This research is part of a cross-sectional descriptive study, whose objective is to analyze the barriers and incentives to childbearing in the female population. A questionnaire was designed and administered to a representative sample of 318 women who were selected for our analysis, with a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 5%. Results: Economic motives correlate positively with other variables, as well as work motives, the couple’s decision to not want to have children, and not having a stable partner, which suggests that these women have different motives for choosing not to have children. The main conclusions are that social and family pressures appear to have a limited impact on the decision not to have children, suggesting a change in social norms and expectations about the role of women in society, as women continue to gain autonomy and control over their reproductive decisions. Full article

Historical monuments enrich lives by connecting people to their community and heritage. They are key to understanding population movements and local development. This study analyzes how the presence of castles classified as National Monuments or of Public Interest can attract tourists, extend their stay, and motivate local authorities to invest in cultural activities, in particular in low-density areas. Heritage and tourism connect through economic, cultural, social, and territorial goals. They boost local economies, preserve cultural traditions, empower communities, and protect landscapes. Thoughtful planning ensures that regional character is maintained and a balance is struck between growth, preservation, equity, and safeguarding for the future. To evaluate the economic and touristic impact of classified castles in Portuguese municipalities, we started by analyzing the ‘Existence of Castle’ variable against three key factors: tourism flows (number of guests and average stay) and municipal expenditure on cultural activities Additionally, we considered other important explanatory variables from alternative studies, including the following: the number of parishes, maximum and minimum altitude, cultural heritage and sports activity expenses, resident population, density, monthly earnings, commercial firms, Tourism Carrying Capacity, tourism revenues, and overnight stays. Our empirical results reveal that medieval castles generate diverse effects on cultural activities managed by municipalities. Quantile regressions demonstrate that municipalities with fewer resources but with a castle invest more in cultural activities, regardless of how expenditure is measured. Additionally, the presence of a castle attracts more tourists and extends their stay, indicating significant potential for economic and tourist development which is not yet fully realized. Full article

Background: The suicide rate among Iraqis is rising, with many analysts attributing it to political instability, exposure to trauma, economic hopelessness, social stigma surrounding mental health as well as cultural and societal pressures. However, the prevalence of suicidal ideation and associated risk factors in Iraqi youth is unknown, requiring urgent attention and effective public health initiatives. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore rates of suicidal ideation and associated risk factors among female secondary school students in Baghdad, Iraq. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted, utilising quantitative survey data collected in four girls’ secondary schools across Baghdad, Iraq, between August and December 2023. The survey consisted of questions relating to their demographic characteristics (age, gender, school) and a series of measures pertaining to participants’ levels of suicidal ideation, as well as factors commonly identified in the literature as predictors of suicide. Results: Four-hundred and two female participants took part. Participants were aged between 13 and 17 years (M = 15.50; SD = 1.22). In total 11.3% of the students scored in the at-risk range for suicidal behaviour and only 20.1% (n = 91) said they had not had some thoughts of suicide in the previous two weeks. Previous diagnoses of anxiety, high levels of depression and hopelessness, and poor quality of life were significant risk factors for suicidal ideation. On average, students reported moderate levels of depression and high levels of hopelessness. Conclusions: Female Iraqi secondary school students experience high levels of suicidality, alongside several other known risk factors for suicide ideation. However, a limitation of this study is that cross-sectional designs limit causal interpretation. Findings emphasise the importance of developing targeted school-based interventions to support students’ mental health. Increasing research and attention in this area is vital to not only improving the mental health of students in Iraq but also reducing the stigma around mental health and suicide. Future policies should include specific mental health support for those young people affected by conflict, displacement and family loss, integrating trauma-informed care into both mental health and educational services. Full article

This study primarily aims to articulate and analyze the Engaged Buddhism movement’s Indra’s Net Life Community in Korea and the ecological thoughts of its founder, Tobŏp. This study examines Reverend Tobŏp’s ideas, which form the foundation and drive the operations of the community. These ideas are informed by the Hua-yen worldview, expressed in the doctrine of “interdependent co-arising,” as put forth in his writings. This movement offers a new ecological vision beyond today’s neoliberal economic model. This study also suggests that ecologically Engaged Korean Buddhism can provide empowering religious teachings with important suggestions for how religio-ethical values might address contemporary ecological problems. Indra’s Net Life Community has the potential to address the shortcomings in most environmental ethics proposals, which often overlook the importance of “practical participatory projects” to promote ecological justice. Finally, this study argues that the focal point of Buddhist enlightenment is “in this place and in this body, in this world and not some other.” Venerable Tobŏp also emphasizes the present situation through the experience of “the here and now.” However, Indra’s Net and Engaged Buddhism are still works in progress. Full article

Public safety personnel and frontline healthcare professionals are at increased risk of exposure to potentially psychologically traumatic events (PPTEs) and developing post-traumatic stress injuries (PTSIs, e.g., depression, anxiety) by the nature of their work. PTSI is also connected to increased absenteeism, suicidality, and performance decrements, which compromise occupational and public health and safety in trauma-exposed workers. There is limited evidence on the cost effectiveness of proactive “prevention” programs aimed at reducing the risk of PTSIs. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to measure the economic effectiveness of proactive PTSI mitigation programs among occupational groups exposed to frequent occupational PPTEs, focusing on the outcomes related to PTSI symptoms, absenteeism, and psychological wellness. Findings from 15 included studies demonstrate that proactive interventions can yield substantial economic and health benefits, with Return On Investment (ROI) values ranging widely from −20% to 3560%. Shorter interventions (≤6 months) often produced higher returns, while longer interventions (>12 months) showed more moderate or negative returns. Notably, the level at which an intervention is targeted significantly affects outcomes—programs aimed at managers, such as the 4 h RESPECT training course, demonstrated a high ROI and broad organizational impact by enhancing leadership support for employee mental health. Sensitivity analyses highlighted significant variability based on the organizational context, program design, and participant characteristics. The majority of proactive interventions successfully reduced psychological distress and enhanced workplace outcomes, although thoughtful consideration of program design and implementation context is essential. Full article

In the past sixty years the institutions of religious life (perhaps now more broadly and accurately named “consecrated life”) within the Roman Catholic world have experienced something of a crisis. In the midst of this crisis, many have called for a rethinking of the meaning and practice of consecrated life. During this same period, Protestants have grown ever more interested in forms of committed Christian living appropriate to their own traditions. Furthermore, there is indication that changes in the socio-economic conditions surrounding “Non-Western” monastic traditions are giving rise to a degree of rethinking within their circles. In this article I trace what I identify as a “call”—an accumulating expression of the need for an ecumenical theology of consecrated life for the 21st century—through writings published largely within the past sixty years. I review developments in thought and practice from each tradition in turn. Ultimately, I conclude that there is, in fact, a need for some kind of formal ecumenical and interdisciplinary reflection on the meaning of consecrated life, reflection that has remained incomplete at best for five hundred years. Full article

Power cables transmit electricity from offshore wind turbines (OWTs) to consumers. The configuration, design, and optimization of power cables for floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) are subject to various objectives, variables, and constraints. These components are outlined, and existing research gaps that need to be addressed for a more sustainable and robust design for future developments are highlighted. The main aim of power cable configuration design is to optimize performance and minimize costs. This can be achieved through thoughtful consideration of variables like power cable selection, configuration design, and the integration of specialized components and ancillaries. An extensive overview of constraints for power cable configuration design is provided, and the most important ones are identified. The local conditions determine which constraints are of key importance in optimization. Environmental factors like wind, waves, and especially currents significantly influence design processes, introducing uncertainties when comprehensive data are lacking. Marine growth posed a significant challenge in prior FOWT projects and must be considered carefully. Considering the potential impact of climate change is crucial, especially for extreme weather events. Early integration of environmental considerations and assessment of effects on socio-economic impacts is essential for a successful project. The power cable response is also influenced by its inherent limitations, including tension and compression thresholds, curvature constraints, and the necessary minimum fatigue life. A flowchart is provided to aid in choosing variables and constraints in the design and optimization processes. Full article

Cave dwellings in the Loess Plateau and western Henan region are ancient architectural forms that offer significant potential for rural revitalization and cultural heritage preservation. This study examines their role in Mogou Village through field surveys and mathematical analysis, highlighting their contributions to urban–rural integration, rural tourism, and cultural sustainability. Key findings include the mean radiant temperature (MRT) in cave dwellings remaining stable between 22.7–25.9 °C, facilitating lower indoor temperatures in summer. These dwellings maintain an APMV within the Class I thermal environment (−0.5 ≤ APMV ≤ 0.5), achieving a 90% satisfaction rate for thermal comfort. Despite excellent thermal insulation, improvements in ventilation design are necessary. Moreover, cave dwellings attract urban residents, fostering urban–rural integration and rural tourism development. They also preserve cultural heritage through traditional construction techniques and philosophical thought. Preserving local characteristics while protecting traditions is essential for social harmony, economic development, and cultural inheritance, supporting sustainable urban–rural integration. Full article

As a unit, housing is one of the most important elements affected by social, economic, and cultural changes in every period of human history. In all ages, from ancient times to the present, housing has not only met the need for shelter, but also reflected people’s lifestyles and values and the technological developments of the period. Housing architecture emerges as a type of structure that has been continuously evolving in every period and is affected by the changes experienced by societies. In this study, the idea that houses are not only structural products, but the structures that have become homes for humans, is approached and discussed through concepts such as spatial organization, relationality, accessibility, visibility, density of use, depth, privacy, and belonging. The Yenişehir district in Karabük province, which is thought to have been transformed into design by considering these concepts, also constitutes the focus area of the study idea in this sense. The houses located in the Yenişehir district, which was selected because it contains concrete examples of the modernization efforts of the Early Republican Period of Türkiye and is an example of industrial housing production, have been numerically evaluated within the scope of this study with the data obtained from the space syntax analysis and the depthMapX program (v0.8.0). In this way, it raises the question of whether it is possible to create housing settlements for people in the transition from agricultural society to industrial society without disrupting the socio-cultural structure of society. As a result, it has been seen that the houses in Yenişehir are designed functionally and human-oriented, and they also consider the dynamics of society. Full article