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Inclusion in recreation and green tourism as a condition for internal human balance on the way to environmental sustainability and legal-administrative regulations : part 1
No full textPURPOSE: The concept of sustainable development refers to the interrelationship of humans
with the surrounding natural environment. Due to the development of technology, increased
productivity and changes in the organization of work, modern people have more
opportunities to implement the concept of sustainable development in the gradually
increasing time allocated to recreation and tourism. The purpose of this review was to
characterize the historical and contemporary thought linking the issue of globally
understood sustainable development with its inalienable condition of an intrinsically
sustainable human being. This article is the first part of the discussion; it will be continued
in the next paper.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research method used was a search based on finding
scientific sources of information linking the concepts of personal and environmental
balance.FINDINGS: A review of popular concepts linking equilibrium at the level of the human
interior to the equilibrium of the environment in a cause-and-effect mechanism proves more
similarities than differences defining various theories.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: All the aforementioned concepts can be part of the philosophy of
human life on the grounds of outdoor recreation and so-called green tourism, considered as
currently popular proposals to return to nature and seek in its balance a chance for personal
balance.peer-reviewe
Panic attacks : attacks of emotional blindness
No full textPanic attacks are complex and overwhelming experiences characterised by intense fear, a profound sense of solitude, and difficulties in recognising and expressing emotions—a phenomenon, denoted by the concept of "emotional blindness”. This emotional aspect is particularly pronounced in individuals with alexithymia- the difficulty in describing and expressing emotions, plays a significant role in the overall development of panic attacks. Addressing alexithymia emerges as a crucial element in treatment strategies, aiming to enhance emotional awareness and regulation for those navigating panic attacks. This paper delves into qualitative research conducted as part of a doctoral study, utilising Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) through eight retrospective interviews. The study offers valuable insights into the nuanced experiences contributing to the complexity of panic attacks, emphasising the importance of Gestalt psychotherapy in their treatment.
Moreover, this study underscores the necessity for a holistic understanding of human experience, emphasising the integration of body, mind, and soul. Together with clinical reflections, it acknowledges acceptance of the authentic self; promoting present-moment awareness. This aligns with the need for a humane approach to panic attacks in a world that might often shift away from human values.peer-reviewe
A Mauritian tribute to Professor Thomas Hylland Eriksen
No full textProfessor Thomas Hylland Eriksen is possibly the main scholar whose work Mauritian social science students encounter closely while studying at university. His contribution to social science scholarship on Mauritian society is colossal. Thomas has particularly focused on ethnicity and nationalism in Mauritius. Apart from his scholarly work on the island society, he was particularly fond of Mauritius, and I often teased him that his island home awaited his next visit. This piece is a reflection on the seminal scholarship that Thomas has left us and his significant contribution to the social science literature and knowledge on Mauritian society. His writings also explored the wider implications of the Mauritian case study which he saw as an example of ‘good practice’ that the world could learn from. In his more recent work on the Indian Ocean island states, he focused on scale in both Mauritius and Seychelles. Apart from his scholarship, the paper also offers glimpses of my experience of working with Thomas the person, his kindness, as a mentor, and the friendship we shared.peer-reviewe
Epitranscriptomics in atherosclerosis : unraveling RNA modifications, editing and splicing and their implications in vascular disease
No full textAtherosclerosis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, driven by complex molecular mechanisms involving gene regulation and post-transcriptional processes. Emerging evidence highlights the critical role of epitranscriptomics, the study of chemical modifications occurring on RNA molecules, in atherosclerosis development. Epitranscriptomics provides a new layer of regulation in vascular health, influencing cellular functions in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages, thereby shedding light on the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and presenting new opportunities for novel therapeutic targets. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the epitranscriptomic landscape, focusing on key RNA modifications such as N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), pseudouridine (Ψ), RNA editing mechanisms including A-to-I and C-to-U editing and RNA isoforms. The functional implications of these modifications in RNA stability, alternative splicing, and microRNA biology are discussed, with a focus on their roles in inflammatory signaling, lipid metabolism, and vascular cell adaptation within atherosclerotic plaques. We also highlight how these modifications influence the generation of RNA isoforms, potentially altering cellular phenotypes and contributing to disease progression. Despite the promise of epitranscriptomics, significant challenges remain, including the technical limitations in detecting RNA modifications in complex tissues and the need for deeper mechanistic insights into their causal roles in atherosclerotic pathogenesis. Integrating epitranscriptomics with other omics approaches, such as genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, holds the potential to provide a more holistic understanding of the disease.peer-reviewe
Book review : Agency, security and governance of small states : a global perspective
No full textAgency, security and governance of small states: A global perspective, edited by Thomas
Kolnberger and Harlan Koff, adopts, as a framework, what its editors deem the vulnerability-
agency paradox for small states: small states are often able to exploit opportunities to develop or
exert their agency in international politics despite—or sometimes because of—the security,
economic, and political limitations they confront. At the same time, taking advantage of these
opportunities can lead to more vulnerability in other areas.peer-reviewe
Technical knowledge as a determinant of ESG implementation in the electric power and transport sectors
No full textPURPOSE: This study examines the role of technical knowledge in the implementation of
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies within the electric power and
transport sectors—two industries critical to sustainable development and subject to
increasing regulatory scrutiny under the European Green Deal.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Based on a survey of professionals from both sectors in
Poland, the research explores ESG awareness, reporting practices, internal communication,
and the involvement of technical personnel in ESG-related activities.FINDINGS: The results reveal a generally low level of ESG awareness and engagement across
both sectors. A substantial proportion of respondents were unaware of whether their
companies produce ESG reports, and many reported a lack of formalized ESG procedures or
access to relevant information. Despite this, most respondents recognize the importance of
ESG for corporate reputation and stakeholder trust, indicating a disconnect between
perceived value and actual practice. Notably, respondents highlighted limited managerial
involvement in ESG initiatives and a lack of systematic practices, such as energy monitoring
or carbon footprint analysis. However, there is strong interest in ESG training, particularly
among technical staff, suggesting an untapped opportunity for capacity building. The study
also identifies a need for improved data standardization and the integration of operational
knowledge into ESG reporting processes.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Recommendations include mandatory ESG training, the
standardization of data collection and reporting, and a stronger role for technical teams in
ESG strategy development. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the importance of leadership
commitment and enhanced transparency toward both internal and external stakeholders.
While ESG implementation remains nascent in the sectors studied, the findings highlight
significant potential for progress. Leveraging technical expertise, improving communication,
and institutionalizing ESG practices can strengthen organizational sustainability,
compliance, and reputation.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The study contributes to the limited literature addressing ESG in these
sectors and offers practical insights for advancing ESG maturity in industrial contexts.peer-reviewe
Sources of inefficient performance of lower-level managers and its impact on team performance
No full textPURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to identify the internal and external sources of
inefficient performance of lower-level managers and to analyse its impact on the team
functioning. Discussing and characterising the uncooperative performance of managers is
aimed at making the factors that negatively affect the manager’s? work and, consequently,
their team, more familiar. The modern working environment of a manager poses a number of
challenges with which they must cope. The proposed changes are aimed at improving the
organisation of the manager's work and improving their performance.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research method used in this article is based on a
review of the literature on the subject and deductive research. Internal and external sources
of inefficiency of the lower-level manager will be identified on the basis of these sources.
Results: The analysis of documents and the collected data can be used to prepare general
recommendations aimed at improving the organisation of the manager's work.RESULTS: The analysis of documents and the collected data can be used to prepare general
recommendations aimed at improving the organisation of the manager's work.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The following proposal includes practical actions that managers can
implement to improve their efficiency, such as enhancing time management, developing
leadership competencies, leveraging technology, fostering proactive problem-solving,
utilising corporate development programs, improving cross-departmental collaboration, and
applying change management techniques. These recommendations are also applicable to
higher-level managers, particularly in organisations undergoing structural shifts, leadership
transitions, or strategic realignments. These propositions help to enhance productivity,
employee engagement, and long-term organisational growth.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The originality of this study lies in its multi-faceted approach, combining
classical management theories with contemporary organizational challenges. It not only
identifies the problems but also suggests practical recommendations for mitigating
inefficiencies, such as leadership development, strategic delegation, and structured
competency alignment.peer-reviewe
Small states and large questions : elections and political participation
Get PDFWhat big lessons can small states teach us when it comes to elections and political
participation? Reflecting on Veenendaal and Corbett’s 2015 article ‘Why small states offer
important answers to large questions’, this article takes democratic experimentation as its
starting point for exploring the impact of the study of small states on our understanding of
democracy. It focuses on three key aspects of democratic innovation in small states: electoral
system reform, cohabitation, and models to increase women’s representation. It also offers
some avenues for future research in an era of significant change for both small and larger states.peer-reviewe
The therapeutic potential of Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula edodes)
Get PDFShiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and recent research has revealed their wide-ranging therapeutic benefits. This review consolidates current studies on shiitake's medicinal properties, focusing on their anticancer, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cardiovascular, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial effects, as well as skincare and cosmetic applications. Key bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, phenols, and polysaccharides, contribute to these health benefits. Shiitake mushrooms exhibit potent anticancer properties by enhancing immune response and inhibiting tumour growth. They reduce oxidative stress, protect liver function, regulate lipids, lower blood pressure, and improve glycemic control. The review concludes that shiitake mushrooms offer a promising natural supplement to conventional therapies, with potential in functional foods and skincare products. Future research should investigate the mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and toxicity of shiitake-derived compounds.peer-reviewe
Development and implementation of a public data repository for photovoltaic systems : case study Malta’s living laboratories
Get PDFThe transition to renewable energy, particularly Photovoltaic systems (PVs), is pivotal in achieving carbon
neutrality goals. However, effective performance monitoring through data sharing remains challenging, especially
in regions with unique environmental conditions. This study addresses these gaps by introducing Malta’s
first public data repository for PVs under the PROMISE project. The initiative integrates high-precision, laboratory-
grade sensors compliant with IEC standards to ensure robust data acquisition and processing. The
methodology builds on international best practices, employing advanced monitoring frameworks to capture
meteorological and system parameters with high temporal resolution. Using three of the ten PV Living Laboratories
in Malta, the system reflects typical installations in a Mediterranean Island Territory climate and the
Maltese context. Data collection and processing adhere to European standards and established practices from
existing public data repositories, ensuring compatibility and interoperability. By leveraging open-source platforms,
the repository enables real-time visualization and the provision of structured historical datasets. Performance
metrics, such as the DC performance ratio, are further employed to highlight the value of data sharing and
collaboration in optimizing system performance and advancing predictive maintenance strategies. This work
establishes a scalable framework for local PV monitoring and data sharing, advancing research and innovation in
renewable energy and promoting Malta’s participation in foreign programs. Future expansions aim to include
additional laboratories, automate data uploads, and integrate Artificial intelligence (AI) driven fault detection
tools, enhancing the system’s utility and reliability.peer-reviewe