Abstract: Mental disorders are among the leading causes of disability worldwide and impose substantial economic costs on individuals, healthcare systems, and national economies. While the clinical rationale for early identification of mental disorders is well established, the economic implications of systematic early screening and detection remain underemphasized in policy discourse. This paper examines the economic advantages of early screening and early detection of common and severe mental disorders, integrating findings from epidemiology, cost-of-illness studies, cost-effectiveness analyses, and health systems research. Evidence consistently demonstrates that delayed diagnosis is associated with increased healthcare utilization, reduced labor force participation, lower lifetime earnings, and higher social welfare expenditures. Conversely, early detection—particularly when integrated into primary care and early intervention services—has been shown to improve functional outcomes and, in many contexts, to be cost-effective or cost-saving from a societal perspective. The analysis supports the conclusion that early mental health screening constitutes not only a clinical priority but also a fiscally responsible strategy for health system sustainability and economic productivity.

Abstract: This paper investigates knowledge in the field of digitalization risk management through bibliometric analysis, in order to provide a critical overview of scientific knowledge and highlight future research directions. The main goal involved bibliometric analysis of publications from 2009-2025 using VosViewer and Biblioshiny - Bibliometrix. The research was conducted following a specific methodology and protocol for the design, planning and data collection for the review process; carrying out the review and bibliometric analysis; and evaluating and presenting research findings. The inclusion of studies in the analysis was carried out in accordance with PRISMA 2020 flow diagram template for systematic reviews. The most important results of the research seem to indicate that the analyzed period was marked by an upward trend in scientific interest, with an increase of publications after 2018-2019 and as a result of the Covid-19. The most productive countries are Germany, Italy, Russia, Ukraine and China. The most prolific institutions are Seoul National University and State University of Trade and Economics. Citations tend to follow the annual publication rate. According to thematic map, risk management is one of the motor themes and, as an element of originality, future research trends in this area include themes such as transformation, systems, resilience and digital risks.

Abstract: Background: Accelerating global population aging underscores the need to identify multidimensional determinants of successful aging. This review synthesizes evidence on social, spiritual, and religious factors that shape well-being, and quality of life in later adulthood. Successful aging is conceptualized as adaptation to age-related challenges through internal and external resources. Emerging research suggests that pet ownership and companion animals promote meaning, purpose, and social connectedness, while spiritual, religious, and contemplative practices support coping, psychological stability, and foster life satisfaction in older adults. Methods: This review of the literature examines the intersection of spirituality, religious practice, meditation, life purpose, and pet ownership as mediating and reinforcing influences on successful aging. This review focused on evidence linking prayer, meditation, chanting, and spiritual and religious participation to psychological, cognitive, and physiological outcomes, as well as literature exploring human-animal relationships in later life. Results: Findings indicate that spiritual and religious practices, companion animal relationships, and contemplative practices support core aspects of successful aging, including emotional well-being, reduced loneliness, enhanced coping, and greater life meaning. Yet, it remains unclear whether these influences act synergistically or independently, and how they shape older adults’ experiences of aging and adaptation to decline. Conclusions: Incorporating spiritual, religious, and contemplative practices alongside companion animals may enhance holistic models of successful aging by supporting emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Future research should explore multidimensional mechanisms to inform interventions that improve quality of life in later adulthood.

Abstract: Rapid urbanization has aggravated the challenges in sustaining the peri-urban rice farming sector. The challenges arising from rapid urbanization are threatening rice farmers in peri-urban areas due to increasing economic and land pressures. This has caused a significant marginalization among rice farmers. In Indonesia, despite contributing 13.28% of the national GDP in 2021, the agricultural sector is dominated by marginal farmers who struggle with poverty and lack of land ownership. This study aims to identify different pathways for marginalization of rice farmers by integrating spatiotemporal land use and land cover (LULC) change analysis, landscape fragmentation metrics, and system dynamics through causal loop diagrams (CLD). Furthermore, the redefinition of the term marginal rice farmers is done by considering the total cultivated rice field and broader factors that contribute to the self-reinforcing loop of marginalization. This study shows that rice farmer marginalization in peri-urban areas is caused by small land size or poverty, and reinforcing feedback between ecosystem service degradation, productivity decline, economic pressure, and land conversion that interact differently across landscape configuration. Moreover, this study enhances the understanding of peri-urban agricultural transformation and provides landscape-sensitive policy insights to support inclusive and resilient agricultural systems by reconceptualizing marginalization of rice farmers as a dynamic socio-spatial process.

Abstract: Sustainable housing finance has emerged as a critical tool for achieving inclusive, resilient, and environmentally responsible urbanization in developing economies, yet access to affordable, climate-resilient housing remains limited. Rapid urbanization, weak institutional frameworks, high borrowing costs, and underdeveloped mortgage markets exacerbate housing deficits, particularly for low-income populations. Recent developments in financial deepening, including the expansion of banking services, fintech innovations, and microfinance programs, provide new opportunities to address these challenges, but integration with sustainability objectives remains uneven. This review synthesizes existing literature and practical experiences to examine innovative mechanisms that can enhance sustainable housing finance, including green mortgages, ESG-linked lending, climate risk-adjusted finance, blended financial instruments, and digital financial technologies. The analysis identifies persistent gaps in the alignment of affordability, environmental sustainability, and financial viability, highlighting the need for context-specific solutions that mobilize both domestic and international capital. Policy frameworks that incentivize sustainable practices, capacity building for financial institutions and developers, and the adoption of data-driven and technology-enabled solutions are emphasized as essential for scaling impact. The review argues that sustainable housing finance should be understood as a strategic nexus of finance, social equity, and environmental resilience capable of accelerating progress toward SDG 11 while stimulating local economic growth.

Abstract: This study investigates a multidimensional "choir–maqām–meaning" model for Qur’anic memorization (hifz) integrated with formal undergraduate education, ana-lyzed through the lens of Qira’at science and cognitive pedagogy. Departing from tra-ditional individualistic methods, this research evaluates the effectiveness of a collec-tive, melodic approach in sustaining student commitment. Utilizing a mixed-methods design at Kırşehir Ahi Evran University, data from a cohort of 20 students were ana-lyzed through open-ended questionnaires, thematic analysis, and descriptive statistics. Findings indicate that despite the high cognitive and physical demands of dual curric-ula, the integration of choir and maqām enhances long-term retention and minimizes phonetic errors while maintaining peak motivation through peer support. Crucially, this research serves as a pilot phase for an expansive interdisciplinary project. By es-tablishing a theoretical and practical foundation, it aims to pave the way for subse-quent neuroimaging stages utilizing fMRI, DTI, and EEG methodologies to investigate the impacts of this model on neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve. Thus, the study of-fers a novel perspective on how specialized religious training can contribute to brain-based learning and cognitive development within the higher education ecosys-tem.

Abstract: This conceptual research note aims to draw the attention of researchers to what the author defines as ‘everydayness’ in tourism. It brings together initial examples of current ‘everydayness’ tourism developments. We posit that leisure travel is no longer necessarily an escape from everyday life but also a way of engaging with it. Unfortunately, this ‘everydayness’ appears to be largely absent from tourism research thus far. Therefore, we aim to encourage a broader, less binary (ordinary/extraordinary), more intertwined tourism perspective where ‘everydayness’ enters leisure and tourism. What is needed is a paradigm shift and an expansion of the tourism concept in the postmodern reality, along with a proposal of methods to research ‘everydayness’.

Abstract: Extended Reality (XR), which includes augmented, virtual, and mixed reality, is gaining prominence in the field of education as a valuable didactic tool. However, its effective implementation requires consideration of classroom diversity, particularly the presence of students with special educational needs (SEN), who may require tailored adaptations. This article presents a literature review of XR-based educational interventions targeting SEN learners, conducted through structured searches in major scientific databases and applying explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria to select and analyze the most relevant peer-reviewed studies. The review examines the pedagogical approaches, types of XR technologies employed, target populations, educational levels, and the skills or competencies addressed, as well as the reported effects on academic performance and learner motivation. The findings show that most interventions focus on the development of daily living, social, and professional skills, alongside domains such as language learning, natural sciences, and attention. Overall, the evidence suggests that well-designed XR experiences tend to improve both students' academic performance and their attitudes toward learning, highlighting XR's potential as an inclusive educational tool for learners with SEN. At the same time, these results underline that successful implementation depends on careful pedagogical planning, informed technological choices, and a deep understanding of students' individual profiles, needs, and interests to ensure truly effective and inclusive use of XR in special education.

Abstract: The European Green Deal places environmental taxation at the centre of decarbonisation policies. Nevertheless, the empirical evidence for its effectiveness as an incentive for capital eco-investments remains limited, particularly at the sectoral level. The present study analyses this relationship through a country-sector panel of seven EU member states and four sectors under NACE Rev.2 for the period 2014-2023. A five-step empirical strategy is employed, comprising: descriptive statistics, correlation analysis with relative indicators, fixed-effects panel regressions, the Granger causality test, and robustness checks. The results demonstrate a clear scale effect - the correlation between the absolute values of environmental taxes and eco-investments is very high, yet following normalisation against the scale of the economy it becomes practically zero and statistically insignificant. The panel regressions likewise establish no statistically significant relationship, and the Granger test does not confirm causality in either direction. The robustness checks confirm this finding. On this basis, the study concludes that environmental taxation in isolation does not stimulate sectoral eco-investments and functions rather as a fiscal instrument without a discernible investment effect. The findings suggest the need for a policy rethink through more targeted revenue use, sectoral differentiation, and the combining of tax instruments with non-fiscal mechanisms for more effective management of transition financial risk.

Abstract: Sexual objectification is the treatment of a person as a body or a collection of body parts that are valued primarily for their sexual appeal. The main purpose of this study was to determine the relevance of sexual objectification to women's health and well-being across the life cycle, from middle adolescence to old age. Additionally, the relevance of age and education to sexual objectification and its association with traditional gender role attitudes was examined. The study was cross-sectional and the sample consisted of 6,112 Spanish women between the ages of 16 and 85, who were assessed using seven questionnaires and scales. The results showed that lower age and lower number of children were associated with greater importance of sexual and physical attractiveness and with a more sexualized image, although there were no differences between adolescent and emerging adult women. Greater importance placed on sexual and physical attractiveness, as well as total sexual objectification, was associated with greater mental distress, lower psychological well-being, lower life satisfaction, and lower self-esteem at every life stage. Greater importance placed on sexual and physical attractiveness was associated with more traditional gender role attitudes among all age groups, except for older women. We conclude that sexual objectification is a threat to women's mental health and well-being.

Abstract: Public participation in planning, though a foundational democratic principle, faces implementation challenges across diverse planning systems worldwide. This study examines participatory planning practice in Ireland and Serbia – two contexts shaped by distinct planning traditions yet confronting similar tensions between democratic ideals and practice realities. Through comparative analysis of four local land-use planning instruments (Development Plans and Local Area Plans in Ireland; Spatial Plans and General Regulation Plans in Serbia), the research investigates how institutional design, power relations, and democratic commitments embedded within planning systems fundamentally shape participatory outcomes. Beyond external pressures such as neoliberalisation and democratic decline, the study demonstrates that the internal dynamics of participation, seen in the quality of dialogue, distribution of knowledge, strength of civic networks, and negotiation of power among stakeholders, ultimately determine whether participatory processes enable genuine democratic engagement or reproduce existing hierarchies. Methodologically, the research triangulates statutory regulations, public hearing documentation, and non-statutory participation records across multiple planning scales. Employing a four-dimensional analytical framework, including informing, consultation, collaboration, and monitoring, the analysis traces information dissemination strategies, consultation mechanisms, collaborative practices, and transparency structures. Findings reveal that, while both systems remain largely at the informing and consulting levels, critical differences emerge: Ireland demonstrates multi-channel, immersive approaches, feedback-oriented consultation, and structured collaborative experimentation, whereas Serbia exhibits statutory-minimal information provision, objection-based adversarial procedures, and exceptional rather than systematic collaboration. The study advances comparative European planning scholarship by identifying how planning cultures, legislative frameworks, and institutional responsiveness generate divergent participatory outcomes even under similar global pressures, offering practical insights for strengthening inclusive urban governance across varied institutional contexts.

Abstract: Feeding and Eating Disorders (FEDs) require integrated and recovery-oriented care models that extend beyond clinical treatment and incorporate supportive environments capable of enhancing psychosocial wellbeing. In this perspective, nature-based and socio-agricultural practices represent promising yet underexplored therapeutic resources, particularly when embedded within a spatial planning framework. This study develops and tests a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based Decision Support System (DSS) that matches the specific needs of individuals undergoing treatment for FEDs with the territorial distribution and characteristics of green and agricultural environments. The research is based on a case study of the FED care center “Il Pellicano A.P.S.” in Perugia (Italy). Demand data were collected through questionnaires administered to patients, while supply data were gathered from 65 agricultural and social farms and gardens. The spatial matching process was implemented in a GIS environment using a multi-criteria approach integrating thematic activities, accessibility, organizational models, attendance levels, spatial capacity, and distance. Results reveal a significant mismatch between demand and supply, with the current system able to satisfy only 37% of expressed needs. The main gaps concern the lack of medium-sized, low-attendance, and freely accessible environments. Beyond the local case study, the proposed DSS serves as a transferable planning support tool for designing personalized therapeutic pathways and integrating green infrastructure, social farming, and healthcare services. The study highlights the strategic role of spatial planning in promoting health equity, social inclusion, and community wellbeing.

Abstract: AI-enabled fitness services rely on continuous collection of activity, physiological, and location data to support monitoring and personalized feedback, which raises persistent privacy and security concerns and ethical tensions regarding data use and user autonomy. Nevertheless, sustained engagement with these services remains common, indicating a divergence between privacy concern and continued use. Using online survey data from 596 adults aged 18 years and above, this study examines AI fitness use from an AI ethics perspective grounded in bounded rationality. A Deviation index is constructed as the standardized difference between privacy concern and risk acceptance. High willingness to use AI fitness services is analyzed using a parsimonious probability-based approach. Logistic regression models examine how the likelihood of high use varies across the Deviation range, while accounting for perceived transparency and safety, measured as Information Control Level, and stated privacy trade-off attitudes. The results show that continued use varies systematically across the Deviation spectrum. Higher Deviation values are not associated with a collapse in use probability. Instead, predicted probabilities change gradually across the observed range. Privacy concern and continued AI fitness use therefore coexist within this adult user sample. This pattern supports a descriptive AI ethics interpretation of privacy satisficing under bounded rationality rather than a binary privacy paradox.

Abstract: The field of international relations faces significant research gaps as traditional frameworks struggle to address emerging challenges in the twenty-first century. This research paper presents a comprehensive qualitative analysis of four priority research domains that require urgent scholarly attention: artificial intelligence governance and global power dynamics, climate security and interstate conflict, digital sovereignty in the Global South, and non-state actors in hybrid warfare. Through systematic literature review and thematic analysis, this study identifies critical theoretical and empirical gaps in existing scholarship while proposing frameworks for addressing these deficiencies.The research employs a qualitative methodology incorporating document analysis, comparative case studies, and interpretive analysis of policy documents and academic literature. Findings reveal that traditional international relations theories, including realism, liberalism, and constructivism, require significant adaptation to address the multidimensional challenges posed by technological transformation, environmental change, and evolving security paradigms. The paper concludes with evidence-based recommendations for future research agendas, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, methodological innovation, and policy-relevant scholarship. This analysis contributes to the ongoing discourse on advancing international relations scholarship in an era of unprecedented global complexity and interconnection.

Abstract: This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and governance frameworks in New Jersey, examining the state's strategic initiatives to become a national leader in AI innovation while ensuring ethical implementation and public trust. Through systematic review of recent developments including the $500 million Next New Jersey Program, establishment of the NJ AI Hub with founding partners Princeton University, Microsoft, and CoreWeave, and implementation of workforce training initiatives reaching over 65,000 -75,000 state employees, we analyze how governance structures can accelerate responsible AI adoption. Our research synthesizes findings from the New Jersey AI Task Force report, academic literature from Rutgers and Princeton, and industry implementations from leading technology providers to develop a multi-layered governance framework tailored to New Jersey's unique public-private-academic ecosystem. Key findings indicate that integrated approaches combining infrastructure investment, workforce development, and ethical guidelines yield optimal outcomes, with 60-70% of New Jersey adults now engaging with AI tools and over 1,200 - 1,500 jobs created in AI-related fields. The paper proposes actionable recommendations for policymakers, including standardized AI procurement protocols, cross-agency coordination mechanisms, and continuous stakeholder engagement strategies. This work contributes to both theoretical understanding of AI governance at the state level and practical guidance for jurisdictions seeking to balance innovation acceleration with responsible oversight, while addressing emerging challenges in agentic AI systems and algorithmic discrimination prevention.

Abstract: The education of gifted individuals has strategic importance today. It aligns directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and it supports inclusive quality education (SDG 4). This study examines theoretical approaches and application models in gifted education with a cross-cultural perspective and the document analysis method is used. International models and the historical development of gifted education in Türkiye are compared. Findings show that gifted education evolved from one-dimensional intelligence tests to holistic models. These models support the affective, cognitive, and psychomotor well-being of students. The applications in different countries are shaped by their cultural values and education policies. Systemic barriers in identification processes prevent equal opportunities in many countries. The Science and Art Centers (BILSEM) and Gifted Education Program (UYEP) offer important institutional foundations in Türkiye. But recent literature shows that these centers continue to face physical and material problems. Students from all socio-economic backgrounds must have fair access to advanced learning. Gifted education is a long-term public policy area. Sustainable gifted education systems require social equity, institutional continuity, and dynamic curriculum structures. Policy implications are presented to build inclusive and sustainable education models from a Türkiye perspective.

Abstract: The art of Buddha carving represents a significant aspect of cultural and spiritual heritage, yet its survival is threatened by modernization, urbanization, and declining interest among younger generations. This study explores the use of Virtual Reality (VR) as an innovative tool for preserving and teaching the intricate craft of Buddha carving. By integrating haptic feedback, realistic tool simulations, and cultural narratives, a VR-based learning environment was developed to replicate the carving process. Expert evaluations highlighted the system’s effectiveness in usability, cultural relevance, and learning potential, achieving high engagement through immersive and interactive features. While the system demonstrated strong potential for democratizing access to traditional craft education, limitations in haptic technology and cultural diversity were noted. These findings underscore the transformative role of VR in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, with implications for broader applications in traditional craft preservation. The study advocates for continued technological advancements and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance the realism and accessibility of VR-based craft education.

Abstract: The European Union aims to achieve the target of 25% of land under organic farming by 2030. Italy reached the share of 18.7% in 2022, although significant regional differences persist. This study analyzes farms’ conversion response in the Lazio region (Italy) to evaluate the effectiveness of higher economic incentives in promoting organic conversion. The agro-economic supply model AGRITALIM is applied to a sample of 587 FADN farms. The model simulates individual farm conversion choice, distinguishing between conversion and maintenance phases, and accounting for conversion costs, yield, and price variations associated with each period. Results show limited effects of increased economic support: the 2023–2027 Common Agricultural Policy reform, characterized by higher support, leads to a 5.1% increase in the area under organic farming, while a 40% increase in financial support generates an expansion of 12%. Farm responses are highly heterogeneous: rural provinces, larger and arable farms are more responsive, while smaller farms and livestock are less likely to convert. These findings highlight the need for integrated policy strategies combining financial support, reduced costs, technical assistance, and improved market access. The methodological approach adopted in this study provides a useful tool for supporting the design of targeted and effective policy interventions.

Abstract: Background: Negative public attitudes promote undesirable stereotypes and stigma in stutterers. Method: To mitigate negative attitudes, 16 international samples of 403 total respondents took the Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes–Stuttering (POSHA–S) before and after interventions and were compared to seven combined control groups with 249 respondents. Investigators sought (a) to replicate an extreme case of regression to the mean, the “crossover” effect reported earlier in larger combined samples where negative changers with high pre-scores ended with low post-scores and positive changers with low pre-scores finished with the high post-scores and (b) to identify POSHA–S items related to attitudes overall change and among negative, minimal, and positive changers. Results: As in previous studies, stuttering attitudes improved in the intervention group but not the control group. Intervention and control respondents demonstrated “crossover” but less than the earlier samples due to lower pre-post correlations. Item contributions to pre-post change and differences among the three changer groups were inconsistent; however, high agreement items by respondents were less likely to vary than items with less unanimous agreement. Conclusion: The “crossover” effect was replicated, and future research should explore its presence in other measures or conditions.

Abstract: Due to the highly anxiety-inducing nature of music aptitude tests or exams, there is a need for a specialized tool to measure adolescents' beliefs about their musical poten-tial. This study aims to develop and validate the Music Aptitude Self-Efficacy Scale (MASES) for adolescent music teacher candidates preparing for aptitude tests. The study group consisted of 383 students (ages 16–18) preparing for the Music Education Department entrance exams at the Education Faculties in Türkiye. Split-sample meth-od was used for Exploratory Factor Analysis (n=199) and Confirmatory Factor Analy-sis (n=184). The EFA results have revealed a three-factor structure: Cognitive-Auditory Competence, Psychomotor- Performance Competence, and Affective Regulation Competence. CFA results, this three-factor model has excellent fit indices (χ2/df = 1.24, RMSEA =. 036, CFI =. has been validated with 976). The scale has high internal con-sistency and composite reliability (Cronbach α =. 87, McDonald's ω =. 92). The criteri-on-related validity analysis revealed significant positive correlations (r = .586) between the MASES and the Questionnaire for Measuring Self-Efficacy in Youths. The findings indicate that MASES is a valid and reliable tool that can be used by music educators to identify student’s self-efficacy levels and to design guidance programs for aptitude tests or exams.