Abstract: Plastic pollution is a critical issue in rapidly developing cities. A nuanced understanding of consumer behavior related to single-use plastic (SUP) usage is therefore essential for effective interventions, in light of the global plastic treaty. This study conducts a survey of 1,492 participants across five Asian cities to analyze SUP consumption and disposal patterns amid the post-COVID “new normal”. Results reveal significant inter-city differences: Shanghai and Harbin demonstrate high overall SUP usage despite lower consumption of plastic shopping bags; Hanoi and Depok exhibit lower total consumption but distinct product preferences, such as elevated use of plastic shopping bags and party cups; and Phnom Penh recorded the highest consumption of plastic shopping bags, bottles, and straws. Plastic shopping bags were the most used item in all cities, ranging from 18 to 34 bags weekly, with no significant differences by urban versus rural areas, age, or gender. Conversely, urban areas showed higher usage of plastic take out containers, cutlery, coffee cups, and party cups. The COVID-19 pandemic has notably reshaped SUP consumption trends. Moreover, over half of SUPs were disposed of without proper separation. These findings underscore that reducing SUPs requires flexible, phased, and region-specific interventions to build a resilient circular economy.

Abstract: This comprehensive analytical literature review examines Saudi Arabia's multifaceted approach to combating violence, extremism, and terrorism through a systematic analysis of diverse academic research. Drawing on more than 30 scholarly studies, the review explores five critical dimensions of the Kingdom's counter-terrorism strategy: (1) security and law enforcement measures, including sophisticated intelligence capabilities, technological surveillance systems, rigorous border controls, and specialized counter-terrorism units; (2) innovative deradicalization and rehabilitation programs such as the internationally recognized "Counseling and Care" initiative that provides psychological counseling, religious re-education, and vocational training for former extremists; (3) counter-ideological efforts promoting moderate Islamic interpretations through religious institutions, educational curriculum reform, and strategic media campaigns; (4) international cooperation through active participation in global coalitions and regional initiatives like the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC); and (5) targeted socioeconomic development programs addressing underlying grievances that may contribute to radicalization. The literature consistently validates Saudi Arabia's comprehensive approach while acknowledging ongoing challenges in a dynamic security environment. The evidence generally affirms the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia's integrated strategy in mitigating terrorism within its borders and contributing significantly to global counter-terrorism initiatives, though future research should examine long-term impacts and address the continuously evolving nature of terrorist threats in the region.

Abstract:

In the digital era, the rapid acceleration of change necessitates that organizations cultivate adaptability as a core capability. To maintain a competitive edge, businesses must develop agile structures that facilitate continuous learning, foster innovation, and enable dynamic responses to shifting market conditions. Digital transformation and globalization have intensified the need for leveraging data, automation, and advanced analytics as strategic assets, reinforcing information’s central role in the knowledge economy. This study advances research on knowledge transfer by investigating the critical factors influencing the dissemination of managerial know-how within organizations. Utilizing the DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) method, the research systematically maps the causal relationships between key enablers and constraints, offering a more nuanced understanding of how managerial knowledge flows in technology-driven business environments. By identifying the most influential drivers, this study provides actionable insights for enhancing knowledge transfer efficiency and optimizing organizational adaptability.CCS Concepts: Mathematics of computing • Applied computing ➝ Machine learning, social and behavioral sciences ➝ Digital economy.

Abstract: This paper examines the diversity of financial instruments available to family farms across different regions globally, highlighting the challenges and opportunities these instruments present. Family farms, which play a crucial role in global food security and rural economies, often face unique financial constraints and risks that necessitate specialized financial solutions. The study analyses various financial products, including traditional loans, microfinance, grants, insurance schemes, and innovative digital financial tools, assessing their accessibility, effectiveness, and impact on farm sustainability and growth. By comparing case studies from diverse geographical contexts, the paper identifies best practices and common pitfalls in the financial support systems for family farms. Furthermore, the research underscores the importance of tailored financial instruments that address the specific needs of family farms, advocating for policies that enhance financial inclusion and resilience. Findings: The findings suggest that a multifaceted approach, which incorporates a mix of financial instruments and supportive policies, is essential for fostering the sustainability and development of family farms worldwide. The research proposes several innovative financial instruments aimed at stimulating and supporting family women within the context of circular economy initiatives. In general, the conclusions highlight the role and importance of financial instruments in supporting the transformative potential of family farms and in fostering their sustainable and inclusive growth. Practical Implications: The practical implications of the research highlight the transformative potential of family farms through innovative financial instruments and outline actionable steps for investors, decision-makers, and other stakeholders to capitalize on these opportunities. By embracing innovation, collaboration, and sustainable business practices, family farms can contribute to a more resilient, efficient, and inclusive ecosystem. Originality/Value: The originality and value of this research lie in its holistic approach to addressing pressing challenges at the intersection of technology, sustainability, finance, and the circular economy. It focuses on innovative financial instruments, practical applications, and multidisciplinary-oriented tools for supporting sustainable family farms, contributing to the objectives of sustainable development.

Abstract: We proposed a moderation of transformational leadership based on the theoretical underpinning of Meyer, Becker, and Vandenberghe to address why the relationship between organizational commitment and employee efficiency varies. A sample of 163 junior sailors in the Sri Lanka Navy responded to a survey. The findings reported that the affective and normative commitment of junior sailors was positively associated with their work efficiency. However, the study did not report a significant relationship between senior sailors’ transformational leadership and junior sailors’ work efficiency and a moderating effect of the relationship between junior sailors’ organizational commitment and work efficiency. Given the significant roles of both affective and normative components of commitment, the study provides valuable insights into how to increase the work efficiency of junior sailors in the Navy. The absence of a moderating role of transformational leadership between junior sailors’ commitment and work efficiency reflects the context-specific nature of transformational leadership.

Abstract:

In the context of rapid advancements in financial technologies and the evolving demand of the digital economy, this study explores the transformative impact of FinTech and artificial intelli-gence (AI) on the banking sector, with a particular focus on payment systems. By examining inno-vative financial instruments and AI-driven solutions, the research investigates how these technol-ogies enhance efficiency, security, and customer experience in banking operations. The study evaluates the integration of AI in payment systems, including its role in predictive analytics, fraud detection, and personalization, while aligning with global trends in digital transformation and sustainability. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the analysis highlights scalable and resilient strategies that address emerging challenges in the financial ecosystem. The findings provide a comprehensive framework for leveraging AI and FinTech to drive the evolution of banking services, supporting the transition toward a more innovative, digitalized, and sustainable financial future.

Abstract:

The need for a sustainable economy has grown as technological advancements increasingly influence economic and social structures. This study investigates the role of FinTech and artificial intelligence (AI) in fostering sustainable development by facilitating green initiatives and promoting social responsibility. The research hypothesis posits that FinTech enables better access to financing for economic and social development projects, while AI enhances decision-making processes critical to the implementation of these initiatives. Through a qualitative approach, the study analyzes the interactions between FinTech, AI, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), exploring whether their relationship is bilateral or unidirectional. The findings suggest that both technologies play a significant role in supporting sustainability, with FinTech providing the necessary financial tools and AI optimizing decision-making. Furthermore, the study identifies barriers, such as regulatory challenges and technological gaps, that hinder the full integration of these technologies into sustainable development practices. It also highlights facilitators, such as policy support and technological innovation, that accelerate their adoption. The conclusions emphasize the transformative potential of FinTech and AI in achieving robust economic growth, reducing inequalities, and fostering a new cultural approach to resource management and societal responsibility.

Abstract: Cost accounting is essential for healthcare providers in order to adequately document, measure and evaluate costs of services within different activities. This role has a long history, from rudimentary resource management in the medieval religious hospitals through to modern and increasingly sophisticated methodologies attempting to meet the demands of contemporary health care (Carroll & Lord 2016; Finkler 1994). This paper reviews the history of healthcare cost accounting and key innovations that have influenced modern practices.In the Middle Ages cost accounting was more about controlling necessities like food and medicine in religious establishments (Carroll & Lord, 2016). The emergence of public and private hospitals in the 18th and 19th century lead to more sophisticated methods for assuring transparency, as well as efficiency in administrative processes (Malmmose & Lydersen). The Industrial Revolution and the advent of modern medicine in the early 20th century added layers to healthcare, so hospitals adopted cost centres from manufacturing as well at Taylorism principles (Finkler & Ward,1999).During the late 20th century, methodologies like absorption costing and Activity-Based Costing (ABC) helped to narrow down costs in tracking of particular operations (Kaplan & Porter,2011). The Balanced Scorecard (BSC), introduced in the 1990s by Kaplan and Norton, is credited with integrating financial and non-financial metrics into strategic evaluations within healthcare. Information technology (IT) and artificial intelligence (AI), progressing in the 21st century, allow this model to use [real time] data with improved accuracy of cost analytics and resource optimization (Kulkarni et al., 2019; Lan et al.,2022).They improved decision-making in the healthcare sector, assisting service providers slash costs and enhance quality amidst escalating complexity. This is an area that will warrant further exploration in subsequent research given AI's ability to increase savings, as well as safeguard data and make it easier for new technologies to be implemented within health care organizations.

Abstract: This paper is to investigate the pivotal role of the Saudi Heritage Commission in the preservation and promotion of Saudi heritage and culture, both locally and internationally. By addressing the research question, "How does the Saudi Heritage Commission contribute to the preservation and promotion of Saudi heritage?" I explore three sub-questions focusing on local preservation strategies, international cultural promotion efforts, and the measurable impacts of these initiatives. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, It examines various strategies employed by the Commission, including community engagement, technological integration, and cultural diplomacy. The findings reveal a multi-faceted approach that successfully enhances global awareness of Saudi culture while promoting cultural pride and economic benefits. However, challenges such as resource allocation and authentic representation persist, highlighting the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation. This study contributes to the understanding of cultural heritage preservation and offers insights for similar initiatives worldwide.

Abstract: The adoption of transitional bee hives in Ethiopia faces several challenges, including lack of awareness, high costs, limited access to credit, and limited distribution channels. Traditional hives are preferred by many beekeepers, who are not be aware of the benefits of transitional hives. The high cost of acquiring and maintaining hives also poses a barrier for small-scale beekeepers. Inadequate infrastructure and transportation systems further complicate the adoption process. Government and NGOs are working to raise awareness, provide training, and improve financing and distribution channels, aiming to increase adoption and improve honey production.

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted urban socio-economic development by limiting the movement of people and resources. As key hubs of talent, culture, and innovation, university fringe areas play an important role in driving economic and cultural growth. While previous research has focused more on urban vitality, there is relatively little research on the recovery of urban vitality in university fringe areas, and its driving mechanism has not been analyzed yet. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the influence mechanisms of urban vitality recovery in the university fringe areas using both linear and nonlinear models. The results reveal that: (1) The recovery of urban vitality in university fringe areas follows a distinct pattern where central urban areas with greater openness recover more rapidly, while university fringe areas farther from the city center with stricter management experience slower recovery. (2) The Student_Population, School_Area, All_POI_Density, and Opening_Hours exhibit a more pronounced linear relation-ship. Recovery effects also express significant spatial heterogeneity. (3) Both university Open-ing_Hours and School_Area show a nonlinear positive relationship with urban vitality recovery of university fringe areas. This relationship is characterized by slow growth at lower values, rapid acceleration once a critical threshold is reached, and eventual stabilization at higher values. This study offers targeted strategies for urban planning, fostering more responsive and adaptive urban governance that aligns with the evolving needs of urban development.

Abstract: The concept and practice of ’livelihood’ has undergone various stages in the development of Western countries. Its core has always focused on eradicating rural poverty and promoting rural development. This study utilizes the entropy value method to measure the comprehensive development level of the livelihood sustainability of farm households. Additionally, the Theil index is used to measure the presentation income gap, and multiple linear regression is utilized to test the impact of the livelihood capital sustainability of farm households on the presentation income gap. Results showed that the the sustainability of farm households’ livelihood capital has a significant negative impact on the urban-rural income gap. In other words, improving the livelihood capital of farm households can significantly reduce the urban-rural income gap. Accordingly, it is proposed that efforts be made to enhance the sustainability of farm households’ livelihoods, and to increase the contribution of the sustainable enhancement of farm households’ livelihood capital to narrowing the rural-urban income gap.

Abstract: The issue of suicide has garnered considerable attention in refugee scholarship, where research examines how unique forced migration and resettlement challenges exacerbate risks and vul-nerabilities to suicide. However, there are gaps in understanding the social and cultural factors shaping the lived experience of suicide in refugee communities. Using the example of Afri-can-background young people in Australia, this paper presents a collaboration among two aca-demics and two South Sudanese youth advocates to explore the sociocultural factors impacting suicidality through reflexive discussions and collaborative poetry. This combined approach of-fered a unique and nuanced conceptual and methodological framework to contribute culturally specific narratives to critical suicide studies and challenge western-centric and biomedical per-spectives on suicide. The process highlighted (i) the lack of dialogue about suicide in the South Sudanese community, and (ii) an absence of community-based support structures to address sui-cide. This paper provides useful insights on the culturally specific context of suicide, adding ref-ugee perspectives to the discipline of critical suicide studies.

Abstract: This essay examines the complex interplay between human rights developments in Saudi Arabia and the country's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to modernize its social, economic, and political landscape. The research question posed is: How are human rights being addressed within the framework of Vision 2030? The goal of the essay is to provide a qualitative analysis of the reforms and policies emerging under Vision 2030, highlighting both advancements and ongoing challenges. Key discussions include historical human rights perspectives, specific strategies aimed at enhancing women’s rights and labor rights, and the implications of legal reforms. The essay draws upon a range of scholarly sources to underscore the intricate relationship between human rights improvements and socio-economic objectives in Saudi Arabia. The main conclusions suggest that while significant strides have been made, particularly in women's empowerment and labor rights, substantial obstacles—rooted in cultural norms and institutional practices—persist. Ongoing international scrutiny and a robust domestic dialogue on human rights remain critical for the success of these reforms. The essay ultimately advocates for sustained efforts to uphold human rights as a cornerstone of the Vision 2030 agenda.

Abstract: This case study examined performance of rural cassava SMEs managed by small scale farmers in Busia and Kisumu Counties in the lake region of Kenya. Formal survey, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used to collect data from farmers and stakeholders in the region. The data were analysed descriptively using proportions (percentages and proportions), means and standard deviation and inferentially, using statistical tests of significance. The findings revealed gross inefficiencies in the management of cassava SMEs. Grass-root SMEs lack professional managers and exhibit inadequate organizational, quantity and quality management, high operational costs, lack of trust from farmers, inadequate financing, weak technical, agribusiness skills and weak linkages with markets. The findings challenge promotion of farmer-led organizations in rural areas to perform additional roles such as processing and marketing functions beyond their core business which is production. To remain relevant in a competitive value chain, grass-root farmer-led SMEs need to be re structured into viable economic entities with clear market-orientation. Ordinary smallholder farmers should specialize in producing sufficient quantity and quality of agricultural commodities, while processing and marketing functions are taken up by professional entrepreneurs. This study recommends an entrepreneur model rather than farmer-led SMEs as potentially best suited in creating efficiency in the cassava value chain in the lake region of Kenya.

Abstract: This paper systematically examines Chinese academic discourse that concurrently addresses Indonesia and Timor-Leste, analysing 137 articles from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and indexed by the Chinese Social Sciences Citation Index (CSSCI). The analysis reveals significant publication trends, particularly during periods of heightened geopolitical and economic engagement, such as the global expansion of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It identifies predominant themes such as economic cooperation, security concerns, and historical-cultural dynamics. The findings highlight China’s strategic interests and leadership aspirations in Southeast Asia， providing insights into how Chinese scholars perceive and articulate China’s strategic interests and diplomatic efforts in the region involving Indonesia and Timor-Leste.

Abstract: Abstract. The remarks by the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution on the toll of the famines that afflicted occupied Iran in World War I and World War II indicate a desire to incorporate these calamities in Iran’s national narrative and collective memory. His criticism of famine historiography and stated toll numbers, and the unfolding catastrophic famine in Gaza, justify and necessitate a fresh look at each famine’s historiography and toll. This article re-estimates the toll of each famine by including many overlooked and neglected primary sources and in ways not previously done. It builds a trajectory of Iran’s demographic development from 1810 to 1944, and derives the toll of each famine. The World War II famine and typhus epidemics had claimed 5.5 million. World War I famine was also more deadly, though the 1869-73 famine was not far behind. At least 15.5 million Iranians died in the two world wars, a fact nowhere reflected in the history of the conflicts. Iran’s 1944 population of 12 million was unchanged from that of 1850 and a century of population growth obliterated

Abstract: The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals call for the eradication of poverty, and China has proposed the Rural Revitalization Strategy based on the achievements of its poverty alleviation efforts in 2020. As a vital component of this strategy, the impact of land transfer on farmers' income growth has become a hot topic in both theoretical and practical sectors. This paper utilizes data from the CFPS database for the years 2010-2018 to construct OLS regression models and a Heckman two-stage model to analyze the effects of land transfers on the incomes of different types and sources among farmers. The empirical results show: First, land transfers do promote income growth among farmers, but the effect is primarily positive for those transferring out land, with negligible impact on those acquiring land. Second, the impact of land transfers varies between different types of income for transferees and transferors. Wage income contributes up to 88.26% to the income growth of transferors, a significantly higher rate than the decrease in business income; however, the increase in business income for transferees does not offset the decline in wage income, leading to no significant change in overall income. Further sensitivity analysis using the Heckman two-stage model confirms the robustness of these findings. The conclusions of this study provide theoretical and empirical evidence to optimize land transfer policies, enhance participation in land transfers, and ultimately achieve the mission of rural revitalization.

Abstract: Telecommunication infrastructure, as a technology-intensive industry, provides fundamental support for informatization construction. This paper empirically studies the impact of telecommunication infrastructure construction on economic and social innovative development using provincial panel data from China spanning from 2009 to 2022. The research findings indicate the following: (1) Telecommunication infrastructure significantly promotes innovation in terms of R&D investment, knowledge output, and application output. (2)At various stages of telecommunication technology development, the impact on innovative development varies. Iterative updates in telecommunication technology drive higher R&D expenditures, facilitating better utilization of innovation outcomes in industries. (3) There are regional disparities in the influence of telecommunication infrastructure on economic and social innovative development. In the eastern regions, telecommunication infrastructure construction primarily promotes mobile communication, with clear spillover effects. In contrast, in western regions, it mainly facilitates fixed communication networks. Therefore, in the new development stage of China, further strengthening telecommunication infrastructure construction provides a new impetus and space for economic and social innovative development. It is essential to persistently advance the coordinated construction of mobile and fixed communication infrastructure to achieve regional development coordination.

Abstract: This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of food security in Sudan by adopting a unique approach of Hesitant Fuzzy Entropy (HFE) analysis to discern the key determinants influencing food security levels and aligning the findings with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) framework. The research utilized a dataset comprising 32 crucial variables related to food security assessment. Employing entropy values, weight coefficients, heatmaps, and scatterplots, the analysis aimed to unravel the intricate distribution of food security levels among Sudanese individuals in our study area. The study reveals that approximately 26% of the Sudanese population in our study region is poised to experience food security, with an additional 24% categorized as marginally food secure. Moreover, an estimated 35% are expected to confront moderate food insecurity, while 15% are projected to face severe food insecurity between January and June 2024. Anticipations for the period from January 2024 to June 2024 project more than 15 million individuals to encounter IPC Phase 3 and fall under moderately or severely food insecure levels. These findings emphasize the urgent need for both short-term humanitarian aid and long-term strategies to address Sudan's deepening food insecurity crisis.