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Nathalie Heinich's book, *Le paradigme de l'art contemporain: Structures d'une révolution artistique*, explores the concept of contemporary art as a paradigm shift in the art world. The book aims to clarify the distinction between modern and contemporary art, which is often blurred in public perception. Heinich uses Thomas Kuhn's theory of scientific paradigms to explain how contemporary art represents a deep change in understanding what art is. She identifies three art paradigms: classical, modern, and contemporary, each representing a significant rupture from the previous one. Contemporary art, according to Heinich, creates an ontological disruption by challenging the traditional boundaries of what is considered art. This often leads to debates and controversies, as contemporary art does not conform to the assumptions, standards, and values of modern or classical art. The book details how contemporary art challenges traditional notions of art, such as permanence, materiality, and the role of the artist. It also discusses the impact of these changes on various aspects of the art world, including exhibition, buying, collecting, storage, conservation, and transportation. Heinich's analysis is grounded in a wealth of examples, incidents, and anecdotes, which she uses to illustrate the profound shift in art practice and theory. The book highlights the importance of narration and discourse in contemporary art, the role of institutions and intermediaries, and the active participation of viewers. It also examines the changing nature of authorship and the emergence of new professions and production systems. The book is written in a clear and objective tone, providing a comprehensive and insightful analysis of contemporary art. It serves as a valuable resource for both general readers interested in contemporary art and professionals seeking a sociological framework for understanding the art world.

This paper explores the evolution of oneiric art through the analysis of five iconic artists—Hieronymus Bosch, William Blake, Francisco de Goya, Odilon Redon, and Salvador Dalí—and their works. The theme of dreams is examined in both Eastern and Western contexts, focusing on Western art from the Renaissance to the 20th-century avant-gardes. The techniques, styles, artistic intentions, and lives of the artists are also discussed. Dreams have been a source of inspiration for artists throughout history, often reflecting personal experiences and societal influences. In Western art, dreams are associated with mythology, religion, and allegory, while in Chinese art, they were less common until the Ming Dynasty. The Romantic movement further developed oneiric art by emphasizing emotions and dreams as essential aspects of life, often depicted with melancholy and individual fantasies. Hieronymus Bosch's works, such as *The Garden of Earthly Delights*, are highly skilled and surreal, often based on biblical stories. William Blake's *Jacob's Ladder* and *Queen Katherine's Dream* showcase his unique interpretations and expressive techniques. Francisco de Goya's *The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters* blends realism and symbolism, critiquing universal follies. Odilon Redon's *Vision* and Salvador Dalí's *Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee around a Pomegranate a Second before Waking* exemplify the Surrealist approach, blending reality and dreams with detailed and realistic techniques. The conclusion emphasizes that oneiric art remains a vital part of Art History, offering insights into historical contexts, cultural influences, and the inner minds of great artists. These artworks reflect the states of mind of their creators, influenced by personal experiences and the political and historical context of their time, providing valuable aesthetic and interpretative value for contemporary artists and art historians.

This paper introduces a framework for positive design, which aims to enhance individuals' subjective well-being. The framework includes three main components: pleasure, personal significance, and virtue. Each component represents an essential aspect of design for happiness, and the paper proposes that a design that explicitly incorporates all three ingredients promotes human flourishing, characterized by personal development, living to one's full potential, and acting in the best interests of society. The authors discuss five characteristics of positive design and contemporary design approaches focused on quality of life, such as nudging, the capability approach, and experience design. They also outline four research challenges to guide future research in this field. The paper emphasizes the importance of designers and researchers working together to design for subjective well-being, providing a framework and research directions to inspire their efforts.

This book, *Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cézanne, and Beyond: Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay*, is a comprehensive catalog of an exhibition curated by Guy Cogeval, Sylvie Patry, and Stéphane Guégan. The exhibition, held at the de Young Museum in San Francisco from September 25, 2010, to January 18, 2011, showcases post-impressionist masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay. The book includes essays by the curators and contributions from other experts, providing insights into the artistic movements and artists of the late 19th century, particularly focusing on the works of Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and Paul Cézanne. It also explores the broader context of Impressionism and its influence on subsequent artistic developments, challenging the traditional view of Post-Impressionism as a simple rejection of Impressionism. The book highlights the complex and interconnected nature of the artistic landscape of the time, emphasizing the diverse and innovative approaches taken by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Pissarro, as well as the younger generation of painters like Seurat, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. The exhibition and the book aim to present a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the fin-de-siècle period, showcasing the rich and dynamic artistic environment of the late 19th century.

This thesis by Spencer Palmer Christensen from Brigham Young University explores the impact of social media use on emotional well-being and interpersonal relationships. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, including a survey with Likert scale questions and short answer questions, to gather data from 627 participants. The results indicate that increased time spent on social media is associated with negative emotional well-being and decreased quality in interpersonal relationships. Emotional well-being mediates the relationship between social media use and relationship quality, suggesting that the more time spent on social media, the more likely emotional well-being will decline, which in turn negatively impacts relationships. The top negative effects of social media use on emotions are frustration, depression, and social comparison, while the top negative effects on interpersonal relationships are distraction, irritation, and decreased quality time with significant others. The study also discusses the implications of these findings and the role of uses and gratifications theory in understanding social media use.

Pierre Bourdieu, a prominent figure in contemporary French sociology, is known for his integration of Marxist, Weberian, and Durkheimian traditions. His work, *La Distinction* (1979), is divided into three parts: "Social Critique of Taste Judgment," "The Economy of Practices," and "Class Taste and Lifestyle." The book analyzes the social construction of tastes and the ethical and aesthetic judgments that emerge from social struggles between different groups. In the first part, "The Construction of Social Taste," Bourdieu argues that cultural practices are shaped by the habitus, a set of durable dispositions formed by one's social environment and individual trajectory. The habitus, rooted in primary socialization within the family, influences how individuals perceive and judge reality and their practices. Different social classes have distinct habitus, leading to varied lifestyles and tastes. The second part, "The Homology Between Social Space and Class Taste," explores how dominant classes maintain their position through a strategy of distinction, defining and imposing a legitimate culture. This involves accumulating symbolic capital, particularly through the purchase of artworks. The book also highlights internal conflicts within the dominant class, such as the struggle for the definition of legitimate culture among intellectuals and artists. The third part, "Class Taste and Lifestyle," examines the small bourgeoisie and the working classes. The small bourgeoisie, characterized by a desire for social advancement, displays a "good will" towards culture, often imitating the practices of the dominant class. The working classes, situated at the bottom of the social hierarchy, are constrained by necessity, leading to simpler and more functional tastes and practices. Bourdieu emphasizes that there is no popular culture but rather fragmented remnants of a more sophisticated culture, reinterpreted through the lens of class habitus. Bourdieu's work challenges the notion that tastes are purely individual and argues for a genetic approach that examines the social production of perception and practice. However, his theories have faced significant criticism, particularly regarding the concepts of habitus, field, strategies, and capital, and the implications for cultural autonomy and class struggle.

Max Horkheimer and Theodor W. Adorno argue that the loss of religious support and the disintegration of pre-capitalist structures have not led to cultural chaos but rather to a homogenization of culture. They observe that film, radio, and magazines form a unified system, with each branch of culture being consistent within itself and all branches being consistent with each other. This homogenization is evident in the aesthetic manifestations of political opposites, the uniformity of administrative and exhibition buildings, and the proliferation of standardized structures. The authors critique the culture industry for its媚俗 nature, where mass culture under monopoly is identical, and the conceptual framework fabricated by monopoly is becoming increasingly transparent. They argue that the culture industry manipulates and retroactively creates needs, using technology to gain power over society. The industry's products are designed to be easily consumed, with no room for spontaneity or individual expression. The authors also highlight the role of the culture industry in reinforcing social hierarchies and the power of capital, where the unity of macrocosm and microcosm confronts individuals with a false identity of universal and particular. They conclude that the culture industry's products are a model of the gigantic economic machinery, and that the industry's aim is to impose its imprint on human beings, both at work and in leisure time.

The article by Ann Swidler challenges the traditional view that culture shapes action by providing ultimate values or ends, arguing instead that culture influences action through a repertoire of habits, skills, and styles, which people use to construct "strategies of action." Swidler develops two models of cultural influence: one for settled cultural periods and another for unsettled periods. In settled periods, culture independently influences action by providing resources for diverse actions, while in unsettled periods, explicit ideologies govern action, but structural opportunities determine which ideologies survive. The paper critiques the traditional model of cultural influence, which assumes that culture shapes action by supplying ultimate values, and offers an alternative model that focuses on the causal role of culture in constructing strategies of action. It suggests that culture's causal significance lies in providing cultural components that are used to construct strategies of action, rather than defining the ends of action. The paper also discusses the limitations of using values as an explanatory variable and proposes new research approaches based on this revised understanding of cultural influence.

Gunter Schuller, a renowned jazz historian and educator, delivered the Tanner Lectures on Human Values at Cambridge University in 1996. In his lecture, "Jazz: A Historical Perspective," Schuller provides an overview of the historical development of jazz, emphasizing its African roots and European influences. He discusses the early forms of jazz, such as ragtime and blues, and how they evolved into a distinct musical style. Schuller highlights the contributions of key figures like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Charles Mingus, and explores the evolution of jazz from a folk and entertainment music to an art form. He also touches on the Third Stream movement, which sought to blend jazz and classical music, and the current state of jazz, noting its diversity and the importance of repertory in preserving its legacy. In the subsequent lectures, Schuller delves deeper into the works and influences of Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus.

This paper explores the Stoic perspective on sustainable development, well-being, and material consumption. It critiques the neoclassical economic theory that links material wealth and hedonic well-being, arguing that this approach has led to the depletion of natural resources and未能实现社会公平与环境正义。文章提出，斯多葛主义的美德哲学，如审慎、自制、勇气和正义，是实现可持续福祉的关键。斯多葛主义强调美德是通往幸福的唯一途径，而非物质财富。文章还讨论了斯多葛主义的集体福祉概念，即“泛爱”（cosmopolitanism），以及其对现代社会的适用性。此外，文章分析了斯多葛主义与现代可持续发展政策的兼容性，认为斯多葛主义的美德价值观可以为设计和推广可持续政策提供新的视角。最后，文章探讨了斯多葛主义对物质服务的理解，认为经济体系应关注物质服务的合理分配，而非单纯追求材料的积累。文章强调，斯多葛主义的美德哲学有助于引导社会朝着更加可持续和公平的方向发展。

The article by Ben Vilhauer explores Kant's theory of free will and moral responsibility, focusing on the incompatibility between determinism and moral responsibility. Kant argues that while determinism is true, we still have moral responsibility, based on a 'fact of pure reason' and the Second Analogy, which posits that all alterations are necessitated by causal laws. However, this raises a problem: how can an agent be the first cause of their actions if they are also the first cause of all events in the deterministic causal sequence? Vilhauer discusses Allen Wood's interpretation, which suggests that agents' choices affect the world by selecting a subset of possible worlds, but this does not fully address the scope of moral responsibility. Vilhauer proposes a solution involving "limited-instantiation-scope (LIS) laws," which would allow agents to be responsible for their own actions without being responsible for all events. This approach maintains our everyday conception of moral responsibility and is compatible with determinism. The article also critiques Henry Allison's "two-aspect" interpretation, which denies the ontological priority of noumena, and argues for a more nuanced understanding of transcendental idealism that retains the ontological priority of noumena.

This paper examines Immanuel Kant's concept of beauty in his philosophy. Kant argues that beauty is a universal phenomenon that transcends personal interest and is based on disinterested interest, subjective universality, purposiveness without purpose, and common sense. He defines beauty in terms of four moments: quality, quantity, relation, and modality. Kant's theory of beauty is seen as a symbol of morality, where the beautiful leads to moral goodness. The paper discusses the implications of Kant's theory, particularly in the context of moral decay in Nigeria, suggesting that his ideas could be therapeutic for societal issues. Despite some flaws in Kant's theory, such as the challenge of disinterested judgment and the difficulty in defining beauty universally, the paper concludes that Kant's concept of beauty remains relevant and can help address moral decadence.

This article, originally published in 1966 as part of a *Festschrift* for Wolfgang Cramer, is a pioneering essay by Dieter Henrich that revisits the work of J.G. Fichte, focusing on his concept of "original insight" (ursprüngliche Einsicht). Henrich's essay, which has been republished and discussed extensively, argues that Fichte's philosophy, particularly his theory of self-consciousness (Selbstbewusstsein), represents a significant contribution to modern philosophy. Henrich emphasizes the systematic importance of self-consciousness as a central issue in modern philosophy and highlights Fichte's role in identifying the unique philosophical problem posed by self-consciousness. Henrich's analysis is structured around three stages of Fichte's evolving theory of self-consciousness: 1. **Absolute Self-Possession (püne simple Ich-posing)**: Fichte posits that the self arises through a pure and simple act of self-posing, emphasizing the active and immediate nature of self-consciousness. 2. **Self-Possession as Self-Posing (püne simple Ich-posing as self-posing)**: This stage introduces the idea that self-consciousness involves a perception of one's own self-posing, recognizing the cooriginarity of knowledge and existence. 3. **Self-Consciousness as an Activity with an Eye (eine Activity mit einem Auge)**: Here, Henrich suggests that self-consciousness is an activity in which an "eye" is inserted, symbolizing the deep fusion of cognition and activity. Henrich's essay also discusses the broader context of Fichte's philosophy, placing it within the trajectory of modern philosophy from Descartes to Kant and beyond. He critiques traditional reflective theories of self-consciousness, arguing that they fail to explain the emergence of self-consciousness. Instead, Henrich advocates for a more comprehensive and adequate description of self-consciousness, one that captures its fundamental nature as both a cognitive and an intuitive phenomenon. The article concludes with a systematic reconstruction of Fichte's three-stage theory of self-consciousness and reflects on the overall consistency and development of Fichte's philosophical system. Henrich's work has had a lasting impact on subsequent research, particularly in the areas of non-conceptual, pre-discursive, and existential certainty of self-consciousness. However, the article's specific interpretations of Fichte's text have been questioned in later scholarship, which has provided more nuanced and detailed analyses of Fichte's works.

This article examines the problem of mind-body interaction in Descartes' philosophy, particularly focusing on the tension between his substance dualism and the causal principle outlined in the Third Meditation. Descartes argued that the mind (res cogitans) and body (res extensa) are distinct substances with different natures, yet he acknowledged their causal interaction. This interactionism has been a source of controversy, as it seems to conflict with the causal principles Descartes himself proposed. The article explores the main objections to this interaction, including general objections to the possibility of interaction between physical and non-physical entities, and specific objections related to the causal hierarchy and containment principles. The article discusses how Descartes responded to these objections, emphasizing that he viewed mind-body interaction as fundamental and irreducible. It also examines the interpretation of Descartes' statements about the containment principle, which suggests that the cause must contain everything in the effect. The article considers whether this principle is compatible with mind-body interaction, given their different natures, and explores various interpretations and reconciliations proposed by scholars. It highlights the distinction between formal and objective reality, suggesting that physical states can contribute to the representational content of mental states without violating the containment principle. The article concludes by noting that Descartes' view of causality, particularly in relation to God as the ultimate cause, provides a framework for understanding how mind and body can interact despite their differences.

The article discusses the keys to achieving early retirement, as advised by several financial experts. Key points include: 1. **Careful Financial Planning**: Experts emphasize the importance of thorough financial planning, considering factors like market volatility, economic changes, and tax policies. They caution against relying on wishful thinking, such as expecting inheritance or a guaranteed income from parents' estates. 2. **Avoid Target-Date Funds**: For those with aggressive goals, experts recommend avoiding target-date funds, which are often overweighted in bonds and international stocks. Instead, they suggest using low-cost, tactical funds that align with one's timeline. 3. **Leverage Debt**: While paying off a mortgage quickly is tempting, experts advise leveraging debt more strategically. If the mortgage rate is low, it's often better to invest the money rather than paying it off early, as the potential returns from investing can be higher. 4. **Stable Investing Approach**: A stable, long-term investing strategy focused on reliable capital appreciation and income is crucial. This approach helps manage costs and provides flexibility in the face of market downturns and lifestyle changes. 5. **Emotional Preparedness**: Beyond financial planning, emotional preparedness is vital. Early retirement can lead to a lack of fulfillment and purpose, as people may miss the structure and identity provided by a job. Experts recommend considering the long-term impact on one's mental well-being. 6. **Realistic Scenarios**: When planning for early retirement, it's essential to run realistic scenarios that account for various unpredictable factors, such as poor investment performance, higher healthcare costs, and changes in tax policies. Overall, the article highlights the need for comprehensive planning and a balanced approach to achieve early retirement successfully.

The 2024 Freelancer Study provides a comprehensive overview of the current and future landscape of freelancing. Conducted through an international survey of 3,424 freelancers and self-employed individuals, the study covers various aspects including financials, working conditions, project work, and shared insights. Key findings include: - **Demography**: 3% of respondents are beginners, 34% had worked as freelancers part-time before becoming full-time, and 42% work with only one client at a time. - **Motivations**: Two-thirds of participants cited the desire for independence as their primary motivation for becoming freelancers, while 34% did so to address changes in personal life situations. - **Economic Situation**: The average hourly rate is €98, with an average net profit of €60,508. Despite rising hourly rates and income satisfaction (64%), the overall economic crisis has dampened optimism. - **Retirement Planning**: One-third of respondents have recently worked in large companies, and 59% rely on investment securities for retirement planning. - **AI and Technology**: 64% of freelancers use AI-based tools to improve efficiency, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and productivity. - **Work-Life Balance**: 70% consider breaks and vacations crucial for work-life balance, and 75% believe AI skills will be indispensable for future success. - **Challenges**: 57% identify project acquisition as their biggest challenge, and 66% complete between two and six projects per year. - **Company Culture**: 49% prioritize equal pay policies, and 57% value sustainable business goals in their clients' corporate culture. The study highlights the evolving nature of freelancing, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, autonomy, and continuous learning in the face of economic and technological changes.

This report, presented in the National Health Statistics Reports, examines the relationship between living alone and feelings of depression among adults aged 18 and older in the United States. Using data from the 2021 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), the study found that 16.0% of adults lived alone, and those living alone reported higher levels of depression (6.4%) compared to those living with others (4.1%). The differences in depression were observed across various sociodemographic characteristics, including age, sex, race, Hispanic origin, and family income. Adults who lived alone and rarely received social and emotional support were nearly twice as likely to report depression (19.6%) compared to those who lived with others and rarely received support (11.6%). However, no significant differences were found in depression levels among those who sometimes, usually, or always received social and emotional support. The report highlights the potential vulnerability of certain groups, such as adults at midlife, men, Hispanic adults, and those with limited social support, to adverse mental health effects associated with living alone.

The article explores the impact of short video formats, such as Shorts and Reels, on the cognitive abilities of Generation Z. It examines the popularity of these formats on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and analyzes the reasons for their success, including simplicity and adaptability to modern societal needs. The study also investigates the phenomenon of "clip thinking" among Generation Z and the differences between active users of digital content and consumers of mixed content (digital and print). The research methods include classification, observation, questionnaire surveys, content analysis, and generalization. The findings suggest that while short videos can be beneficial in certain contexts, excessive consumption can lead to negative effects on cognitive functions and mental health. The article concludes with recommendations for digital detox strategies to help Generation Z manage their screen time effectively.

This booklet, created by a team of mental health professionals and young people, aims to help readers understand and manage anxiety. It explains that anxiety is a normal reaction designed to keep us safe by preparing us to deal with threats. The booklet outlines three core parts of the anxiety response: how we think, how we feel, and what we do. It highlights common symptoms of anxiety and how it can limit daily activities, strain relationships, and restrict social and relaxation time. The booklet identifies several types of anxiety, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias, and discusses the various causes, such as genetics, life events, family factors, and personality traits. To help readers manage anxiety, the booklet recommends Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), which targets the three key parts of the anxiety response. It provides a step-by-step guide to understanding anxiety, learning to stay calm, identifying and challenging anxious thoughts, facing fears, and solving problems. The booklet includes worksheets to help readers track their anxiety, identify anxiety signals, and practice relaxation techniques. The goal is to move from an anxious mindset to a more balanced and helpful way of thinking, enabling readers to cope with anxiety without eliminating it entirely. The booklet emphasizes the importance of setting goals and having a support person to stay motivated and provide guidance. Overall, the booklet offers a comprehensive approach to managing anxiety, encouraging readers to take control of their anxiety and live a fulfilling life.

The article by Brett W. Pelham and William B. Swann, Jr., from the University of Texas at Austin, explores the sources and structure of global self-esteem. They identify three key factors that contribute to people's global self-esteem: (a) their experiences of positive and negative affective states, (b) their specific self-views (conceptions of their strengths and weaknesses), and (c) how they frame their self-views. The framing factors include the relative certainty and importance of positive versus negative self-views and the discrepancy between actual and ideal self-views. The importance of self-views to global self-esteem is qualified in two ways: it only contributes to the self-esteem of those who perceive few talents and those who highly certify their positive self-views. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for both theoretical and therapeutic contexts. They argue that self-esteem is not simply a product of cognitive calculations but is influenced by affective factors and the way individuals frame their self-views. The study also highlights the importance of measuring both specific self-views and the framing of these views, as they can have different impacts on self-esteem. The findings suggest that self-esteem is multiply determined and complex, involving both cognitive and affective components. This has implications for cognitive therapies aimed at improving self-esteem, emphasizing the need to address both cognitive and affective aspects. Additionally, the research underscores the importance of an integrative, idiographic approach to understanding the self, integrating social, developmental, and personality perspectives.

This study investigates the relationship between social network site (SNS) usage and social well-being, focusing on directed communication and content consumption. The authors aim to validate the Facebook Intensity Scale using empirical data, test the generalizability of previous findings to older and international populations, and explore specific activities linked to social capital and loneliness. Directed communication, such as wall posts, comments, and "likes," is found to be associated with greater bonding social capital and lower loneliness. However, it has a modest relationship with bridging social capital, which is primarily influenced by the size of the friend network. Surprisingly, users who consume more content report reduced bridging and bonding social capital and increased loneliness. The study suggests that interventions targeting users who exhibit behaviors associated with loneliness could enhance social well-being. The findings also highlight the importance of understanding the nuanced nature of SNS interactions and their impact on social connections.

The article "Shakespeare’s Legacy in Modern English: A Critical Examination of His Influence on Language and Literature" by Saima Naved, Syeda Amtul Raqeeb, Syeda Humera, and Habab Osman Hassan Ahmed explores the enduring impact of William Shakespeare on English literature and language. The authors highlight how Shakespeare's works continue to resonate globally, influencing contemporary adaptations and maintaining their relevance in academic and cultural contexts. They discuss Shakespeare's contributions to the English language, including the introduction of over 1,700 new words and phrases, and his role in standardizing English grammar and vocabulary. The study also examines Shakespeare's writing style, noting his evolution from stylized early works to more naturalistic later pieces, and his innovative use of language to explore complex human emotions and conflicts. Additionally, the article reviews the influence of Shakespeare on other notable authors and the broader cultural impact of his works, emphasizing his significance in shaping the English language and literary traditions. The authors conclude by highlighting the lasting legacy of Shakespeare's works, which continue to captivate readers and inspire new generations.

In "One Hundred Years of Solitude," Gabriel García Márquez employs magic realism to explore the political and social landscape of mid-1960s Colombia, a period marked by over two hundred thousand politically motivated deaths. The novel blends fantastic elements with reality, creating a world where myths, portents, and legends coexist with technology and modernity. This blend serves to critique the absurdity, denial, and repetitive tragedies of Latin American politics. García Márquez uses the magical realism technique to address themes of war, suffering, and death, often through exaggerated and numerically specific events. The novel's narrative style, characterized by a balanced tone and consistent narration, helps readers accept the extraordinary while questioning the limits of reality. The characters and events in the novel are deeply rooted in Colombian history, reflecting the country's complex political and social dynamics. Through this unique blend of the real and the fantastic, García Márquez offers a critical perspective on Latin American history and culture, making "One Hundred Years of Solitude" a groundbreaking work in the genre of magic realism.

Won-Chung Kim's article "Eating and Suffering in Han Kang’s *The Vegetarian*” explores how Han Kang investigates suffering through the theme of food and eating. The novel *The Vegetarian* delves into what constitutes suffering and the role of carno-phallocentric thinking in it. Suffering in the novel is portrayed as a psychological, physical, and spiritual effect of dietary resistance to male-dominated Korean society. The protagonist, Yeong-hye, undergoes severe disintegration of her personhood as a woman and a vegetarian, her refusal to eat meat leading to physical pain and intense psychological and spiritual distress. The article draws on theories of suffering from Eric Cassell, Emmanuel Levinas, and others to analyze Yeong-hye's suffering, which is characterized by its disturbing nature, passivity, and pure undergoing. Yeong-hye's suffering is also linked to trauma and the disruption of relationships, as she is isolated and ostracized by society for her dietary choices. The novel challenges binaries such as assailant/victim and woman/vegetarian, and explores the intersection of animal and human suffering in a meat-eating culture. Yeong-hye's journey from a meat-eater to a vegetarian and eventually to anorexia reflects her struggle to escape the violent structure of our eating habits and to transform herself from a being that consumes other beings to one that provides food for them. Her suffering serves as a moral claim, prompting readers to reflect on the implications of meat-eating and the violence inherent in our dietary choices.

This paper examines the cultural characteristics of the Jazz Age through the lens of F. Scott Fitzgerald's *The Great Gatsby* and its 2013 film adaptation. It explores themes such as materialism, hegemonic culture, the American Dream, the portrayal of women, and racism. The novel and film highlight the pursuit of material wealth and social status, the dominance of the upper class, and the complexities of the American Dream. The materialistic culture is evident in the characters' obsession with money and status, as well as the luxurious settings and costumes. The hegemonic culture is reflected in the class divisions, the social exclusivity of the upper class, and the moral and legal leniency towards the wealthy. The American Dream is portrayed as both a source of hope and a path to destruction, with Gatsby's relentless pursuit leading to his downfall. The representation of women, particularly Daisy Buchanan and Jordan Baker, reveals the limitations and constraints placed on them by societal expectations. Finally, while not the primary focus, racism is subtly highlighted through the character of Tom Buchanan, who embodies the entrenched racial prejudices of the time. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding these cultural characteristics for gaining insights into historical context and societal changes.

This study examines the traces of Western philosophy in the media's discourse on Islamophobia. Islamophobia, a form of discrimination against Muslims, has become prevalent since the September 11 attacks. While it is often attributed to theological reasons, the study reveals that it has philosophical foundations with a longer history than theological ones. The media plays a crucial role in spreading and reinforcing this fear and prejudice. The study uses document analysis to show that the Islamophobic discourses produced by Western mainstream media organizations are similar to those found in Western philosophy, particularly in medieval and contemporary Western thought. These discourses often depict Islam as a "religion of the sword" and associate it with orientalist images. The study traces the historical development of these negative perceptions from the pre-Islamic period to the present, highlighting the influence of Christian-Western thought and its impact on media representations of Islam and Muslims. The analysis reveals that the media's portrayal of Islam and Muslims is shaped by a combination of economic, political, and ideological factors, contributing to a persistent and widespread Islamophobia.

The article discusses the impact of natural forces, particularly climate change, on the decline of the Roman Empire. Historians have traditionally focused on endogenous factors such as political, economic, and military causes, but recent studies have increasingly emphasized the role of exogenous forces, including climate change. The article reviews the historical debate on the causes of the Roman Empire's decline, highlighting how contemporary concerns influence our understanding of the past. It critiques the idea that natural forces circumscribe human agency and argues that historians should not be biased against environmental determinism. The author examines the evidence for regional differences in economic complexity and population size, suggesting that models explaining the decline should account for these variations. The article critiques the notion that climatic shifts were sole determinants of societal processes, noting that paleoclimatic proxy data are often unreliable and that long-term climate change manifested in variable shifts in temperature and precipitation, not distinct climatic optimums or "dark ages." The author argues that the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and food supply is more complex than some recent studies suggest. While climate change can affect the carrying capacity of the land, it is not the sole factor determining population levels. Societal changes, such as institutional resilience and economic policies, can mitigate the effects of adverse climate conditions. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of considering both exogenous and endogenous factors in understanding the decline of the Roman Empire.

The article by R. I. M. Dunbar explores the evolutionary origins and functions of gossip in human society. Gossip, which primarily involves social topics, is a fundamental aspect of human interaction and is essential for maintaining and bonding social groups. Dunbar traces the origins of gossip to social grooming among primates, which evolved as a mechanism for bonding large social groups. Language, which allows for the exchange of information about social networks, became a crucial tool for managing these groups, particularly in controlling free riders— individuals who benefit from social interactions without contributing equally. Dunbar argues that gossip serves multiple functions, including social bonding, information exchange, policing free riders, and self-advertising. While gossip has acquired a negative reputation due to its potential for maliciousness, its primary role is to facilitate social cohesion and cooperation. The article also discusses the cognitive underpinnings of gossip, highlighting the importance of social cognition, such as theory of mind, in understanding and managing social relationships. In conclusion, Dunbar emphasizes that gossip, in its broad sense, is a central component of human sociality and that the cognitive demands of gossip are what drove the evolution of large brains in humans.

The article "Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage: A Literature Synthesis and Bibliometric Analysis" by Lukas Mueller provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) research and development. The study aims to advance education, innovation, and public dialogue for sustainable development and climate transition, both within Europe and globally. Key aspects covered include: 1. **Introduction**: CCUS is a comprehensive approach to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2, from industrial processes and power generation. The article highlights the importance of capturing CO2 at its source and either utilizing it for industrial purposes or storing it underground. 2. **Methodology**: A mixed-methods approach is used, combining a review of existing literature and a bibliometric analysis. The bibliometric analysis involves analyzing the co-citation patterns of references to understand the relationships between different articles. 3. **Existing Reviews**: The article reviews existing literature, focusing on techno-economic aspects, socio-economic perspectives, and recent developments in Europe. Key findings include the technological readiness levels of CCUS technologies, the challenges in capturing CO2, and the economic and policy dimensions of CCUS. 4. **Bibliometric Analysis**: The bibliometric analysis reveals the most productive journals, countries, and authors in the field. It also identifies research clusters, such as sequestration methods, CO2 capture, and techno-economic modeling. 5. **Techno-Economic Summary**: The article discusses the technological readiness levels of CCUS technologies, the challenges in capturing CO2, and the economic and policy barriers to their widespread adoption. 6. **Socio-Economic Review**: The socio-economic literature is reviewed, focusing on public perception, policy implications, and the economic viability of CCUS. The article notes a research gap in the economic and policy dimensions of CCUS. 7. **Recent Development in Europe**: The article provides insights into the recent development of CCUS projects in Europe, highlighting the increasing number of projects and planned capacity. 8. **Conclusion**: The article concludes by summarizing the current state of CCUS research and development, identifying gaps in the literature, and emphasizing the need for further research and policy support to advance CCUS technologies and their deployment. The study underscores the importance of CCUS in achieving the goals of the European Green Deal and addresses critical challenges such as decarbonization, climate change adaptation, and environmental risks.

The paper introduces the Transformer, a novel sequence transduction model that relies solely on attention mechanisms, eliminating the need for recurrent or convolutional layers. The Transformer is designed to be highly parallelizable and efficient, achieving superior performance in machine translation tasks while requiring significantly less training time compared to existing models. On the WMT 2014 English-to-German translation task, the Transformer achieves a BLEU score of 28.4, surpassing previous state-of-the-art models by over 2 BLEU. On the English-to-French translation task, it sets a new single-model state-of-the-art BLEU score of 41.8 after training for 3.5 days on eight GPUs, at a fraction of the training cost of previous models. The Transformer generalizes well to other tasks, such as English constituency parsing, demonstrating its versatility and robustness. The paper also discusses the architectural details of the Transformer, including the use of multi-head attention, position-wise feed-forward networks, and positional encoding, and provides insights into the benefits of self-attention over recurrent and convolutional layers.

This study evaluates a structured, evidence-based digital program for mild, moderate, and severe anxiety that combines an AI-driven conversational agent with human clinical oversight and user support. The program was designed to maximize engagement and effectiveness by using a structured, evidence-based approach drawing from traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and third-wave approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The study aimed to measure engagement, clinical effectiveness, acceptability, and safety of the digital intervention compared to external comparator groups. **Methods:** - **Participants:** 299 participants were given the digital intervention to use for up to 9 weeks. - **Endpoints:** Effectiveness, engagement, acceptability, and safety were collected before, during, and after the intervention, and at one-month follow-up. - **Comparator Groups:** Propensity-matched real-world patient groups included a waiting control, face-to-face CBT, and typed-CBT. **Results:** - Participants used the program for a median of 6 hours over 53 days. - There was a large clinically meaningful reduction in anxiety symptoms for the intervention group, which was statistically superior to the waiting control and non-inferior to human-delivered care. - The intervention achieved comparable reduction in anxiety symptoms to human-delivered care while significantly reducing clinician time by up to 8 times. **Conclusions:** The study demonstrates that combining AI and human support in a digital intervention can achieve clinical outcomes comparable to human-delivered care, highlighting the potential of technology to scale effective mental healthcare, address unmet needs, and impact quality of life and economic burden globally.

SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, is a company that offers a family of launch vehicles designed to improve launch reliability and reduce costs. Musk, born in South Africa, had a vision to rekindle public interest in sending humans to Mars. Early employees included Tom Mueller, Hans Koenigsman, Gwynne Shotwell, and Chris Thompson. SpaceX operates launch facilities at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Kennedy Space Center, and Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas. The company's headquarters are in Hawthorne, CA, and it also has a Starlink Satellite Factory in Redmond, Washington. The Starbase facility in Boca Chica is dedicated to the production and testing of Starship rockets and the Super Heavy booster. The Rocket Engine Test Facility is located at the SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne. The SpaceX board of directors includes members such as Antonio Gracias, Barry Schuler, Donald Harrison, Garrett Reisman, Kimbal Musk, Steve Jurvetson, and Thomas Mueller. SpaceX has significantly impacted NASA, offering more cost-effective and reliable launch options for astronauts.

This paper examines Richard Feynman's keynote address at the California Institute of Technology in May 1981, where he proposed the idea of a computer capable of simulating quantum mechanics. Feynman, known for his diverse interests and contributions to physics, including quantum electrodynamics and the development of Feynman diagrams, laid the groundwork for the concept of a general quantum computing device. The paper explores Feynman's background, the key aspects of quantum mechanics such as superposition and entanglement, and the historical context of quantum computing. It discusses the challenges of simulating quantum physics with classical computers, particularly in handling probabilities and complex states. Feynman's proposal for a quantum mechanical simulator aimed to address these challenges and open up new avenues for understanding and simulating quantum systems. The paper concludes by reflecting on the significance of Feynman's work and its impact on the field of quantum computing, highlighting the potential for further advancements and the possibility of a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics through quantum computing.

The article reviews the rapid advancements in epigenetics over the past few decades, highlighting its role in linking genetics to the environment and disease. Epigenetics is defined as the study of molecules and mechanisms that perpetuate alternative gene activity states in the context of the same DNA sequence, encompassing both transgenerational and mitotic inheritance. The review discusses the interplay between epigenetics and DNA sequence variation, the implications of epigenetics for cellular memory and plasticity, and the effects of environmental factors on biology, disease, and evolution. It also explores new frontiers in epigenetics, such as the role of noncoding RNAs, DNA methylation, heterochromatin, Polycomb and Trithorax proteins, and 3D genome architecture in regulating inheritance and gene expression. The article emphasizes the importance of epigenetic inheritance across generations, particularly in mammals, and the potential influence of the environment on epigenetic changes. Finally, it highlights the potential benefits of epigenetic research for human health, including the development of personalized precision medicine and the exploration of lifestyle and 'mind–body' interventions.

The paper combines Lyman-α forest (LYA) power spectrum data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) with cosmic microwave background (CMB) data from the 3-year WMAP mission, supernovae (SN) data, and galaxy clustering constraints to derive new cosmological parameters. The authors improve the existing LYA power spectrum analysis by incorporating constraints on the mean flux decrement derived from principal component analysis of quasar continua, which enhances the constraints on the linear power spectrum. They find a tension between the WMAP3 and LYA power spectrum amplitudes at the ∼2σ level, which is partially alleviated by other observations. The results yield σ8 = 0.85 ± 0.02 and ns = 0.965 ± 0.012, with no evidence for running of the spectral index. The limits on the sum of neutrino masses are significantly improved, with ∑mν < 0.17eV at 95% confidence. The analysis also constraints the dark energy equation of state, curvature, and cosmic strings, providing insights into the nature of dark matter and the early universe.

This research investigates the impact of key business factors on the performance of digital games in the market. The study aims to provide a better understanding of the business dimension in game development, which is crucial given the high pressure and competition in the digital game industry. The main contribution of this paper is to empirically examine the influence of key business factors on game performance, demonstrating the interrelationship between these factors and market performance for the first time in the domain of game development. The digital game sector is experiencing rapid growth, driven by social media and increasing internet usage. The industry is expected to reach USD 112 billion in sales by 2015, highlighting the economic potential and the need for effective business strategies. Game development organizations face challenges in improving user experiences, engaging a broad consumer base, updating business models, and incorporating emerging technologies. The study identifies seven key business factors: customer satisfaction, market orientation, innovation, relationship management, time to market, monetization strategy, and brand name strategy. These factors are analyzed for their impact on game performance. The research model includes a theoretical framework that combines existing concepts from game development literature and business models. The model evaluates the relationships between these factors and game business performance. Hypotheses are formulated to test the impact of each factor on game performance. The study uses a survey questionnaire to gather data from game development organizations, with a focus on employee perspectives and organizational strategies. The study employs multiple statistical approaches, including parametric and nonparametric methods, to test the hypotheses. The results show that customer satisfaction, market orientation, time to market, monetization strategy, and brand name strategy have a positive impact on game performance. Innovation and relationship management, however, do not show significant positive relationships. The study provides empirical evidence that key business factors play a significant role in digital game performance, emphasizing the importance of customer satisfaction, market orientation, and time to market in achieving competitive advantage and financial success in the digital game industry.

This thesis aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the internationalization process of the LEGO Group, using the Uppsala model by J. Johanson and J. Vahlne as a theoretical framework. The Uppsala model focuses on the gradual increase in involvement and commitment to foreign markets, emphasizing experiential learning and the role of incremental steps. The research explores how LEGO Group expanded globally, starting from its early days in Denmark to becoming a global leader in the toy industry. The study is conducted through a combination of academic sources, internet research, and data collected from LEGO Group's official website. Despite the company's reluctance to share detailed information, the thesis traces LEGO's internationalization steps, including the establishment of sales offices, production facilities, and partnerships in various countries. The analysis also examines factors and challenges that influenced LEGO's internationalization process, such as crisis management, competition from imitation products, import/export restrictions, and digital adaptations. The thesis concludes by comparing LEGO's internationalization journey with the Uppsala model, highlighting key milestones and insights. It discusses the relevance of the Uppsala model in understanding the complex dynamics of internationalization and the importance of experiential learning in the process. The research underscores the dynamic nature of internationalization and the need for companies to adapt their strategies based on new knowledge and experience.

This essay explores Tesla's international marketing strategy, highlighting its success as the most valuable automotive brand globally. Drawing from articles by Arun and Cezim, the essay provides insights into Tesla's "zero-dollar" marketing approach, which leverages word-of-mouth promotion through innovative product features, direct sales, and the charismatic presence of CEO Elon Musk. The essay also examines how Tesla effectively incorporates the 'STEPPS' model into its marketing strategy, emphasizing elements like Social Currency and Triggers to enhance brand appeal and foster word-of-mouth promotion. Additionally, Tesla's commitment to sustainability aligns with global trends, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility. The essay concludes by offering recommendations for other companies, emphasizing the importance of embracing technological advancements, fostering innovation, strategic planning, deep market understanding, and sustainability. These strategies offer a roadmap for businesses aiming to excel in today's competitive landscape.

The article explores the impact of minimalism on product design, focusing on Muji as a case study. Minimalism, characterized by simplicity, naturalness, and a focus on materials and functionality, has profoundly influenced modern design. Muji, a Japanese brand founded in the 1980s, embodies this minimalist philosophy, emphasizing simple and natural living, the removal of superfluous decoration, and the use of high-purity colors and environmentally friendly materials. The brand's design concept is guided by the principle of "fit," aiming to create products that are simple, natural, and useful. Muji's products are characterized by their minimal form, natural materials, and monochromatic colors, which create a unique and recognizable style. The brand's environmental and human-centered design principles resonate strongly with consumers, contributing to its success and high reputation. The article analyzes Muji's design elements, including shape, materials, and color, and highlights how these elements contribute to the brand's minimalist aesthetic and its impact on product design.

This essay explores Tesla's international marketing strategy, highlighting its success as the most valuable automotive brand globally. Drawing from articles by Arun and Cezim, the essay provides insights into Tesla's "zero-dollar" marketing approach, which leverages word-of-mouth promotion through innovative product features, direct sales, and the charismatic presence of CEO Elon Musk. The essay also examines how Tesla effectively incorporates the 'STEPPS' model into its marketing strategy, emphasizing elements like Social Currency and Triggers to enhance brand appeal and foster word-of-mouth promotion. Additionally, Tesla's commitment to sustainability aligns with global trends, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility. The essay concludes by offering recommendations for other companies, emphasizing the importance of embracing technological advancements, fostering innovation, strategic planning, deep market understanding, and sustainability. These strategies offer a roadmap for businesses aiming to excel in today's competitive landscape.

The chapter "Learning through Practice: Beyond Informal and Towards a Framework for Learning through Practice" by Stephen Billett explores the significance of learning through work in technical and vocational education and training (TVET). It argues that learning through practice, often described as informal or ad hoc, is a central and effective method for developing occupational competence, both historically and in contemporary contexts. The chapter critiques the term "informal" as imprecise and erroneous, emphasizing the structured and purposeful nature of workplace learning. It highlights the strengths of learning in practice settings, such as engagement in authentic tasks, indirect guidance, and close interaction with experts, while also acknowledging limitations, including inappropriate learning outcomes and process constraints. The chapter proposes a comprehensive framework for understanding and promoting learning through practice, focusing on curriculum, pedagogy, and personal epistemology. This framework aims to enhance the effectiveness of practice-based learning by addressing educational purposes, organizing experiences, and supporting learners' engagement. The chapter concludes by discussing policy implications and the need for a science of learning through practice to legitimize and improve this form of learning in TVET.

The chapter discusses the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), a framework that explains how multiple variables interact to influence career development and occupational choices. SCCT integrates elements from earlier career theories, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between personal attributes, learning experiences, and environmental factors. The theory is structured around five models: Interest, Choice, Performance, Satisfaction, and Self-Management. Each model explores how self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and goals influence career development at different stages. Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to perform specific tasks, while outcome expectations are beliefs about the consequences of their actions. Goals, whether choice or performance goals, guide behavior and are influenced by self-efficacy and outcome expectations. The chapter also highlights the role of gender and race/ethnicity in shaping career development and the impact of environmental supports and barriers. Research on SCCT has shown that these social cognitive variables are predictive of career-related outcomes, with self-efficacy being a particularly strong predictor. The theory has been applied to diverse populations, including people of color, women, and individuals with disabilities, and has been used to develop practical methods for promoting optimal career outcomes.

The study investigates the effects of hybrid working, where employees work from home two days a week, on employee retention and performance. A six-month randomized control trial was conducted among 1,612 employees at a Chinese technology company. The results show that hybrid working improved job satisfaction and reduced quit rates by one-third, particularly for non-managers, female employees, and those with long commutes. There was no significant impact on performance reviews or promotion rates over the next two years. Additionally, managers' perceptions of the negative impact of hybrid working on productivity improved significantly after the experiment, converging with non-managerial employees' views. The findings suggest that hybrid working can be beneficial for organizations by reducing attrition and enhancing employee satisfaction without negatively affecting performance.

The article "Does Time Management Work? A Meta-analysis" by Brad Aeon, Aida Faber, and Alexandra Panaccio examines the impact of time management on performance and well-being. The study found that time management is moderately related to job performance, academic achievement, and well-being. It also shows a moderate, negative relationship with distress. Individual differences and contextual factors, except for conscientiousness, have weaker associations with time management. Women's time management skills seem to be improving over time, and the link between time management and job performance has grown stronger over the years. The study challenges the common perception that time management primarily enhances work performance, as it also significantly improves well-being, particularly life satisfaction. The findings provide valuable insights for academics, policymakers, and the general public, highlighting the value of time management in various aspects of life.

The study investigates the relationship between highly processed foods and addictive-like eating behaviors, exploring the roles of processing, fat content, and glycemic load (GL). Two studies were conducted: Study One involved 120 undergraduates, and Study Two used a more diverse sample of 384 participants recruited through Amazon MTurk. The Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) was used to assess addictive-like eating behaviors, and participants rated the likelihood of experiencing problems with various foods. **Key Findings:** 1. **Highly Processed Foods:** Highly processed foods, characterized by added fat and/or refined carbohydrates, were most frequently associated with addictive-like eating behaviors. 2. **Glycemic Load (GL):** Foods with high GL were particularly problematic for individuals with elevated YFAS symptom counts, indicating a strong link between GL and addictive-like eating. 3. **Fat Content:** Higher fat content was a significant predictor of problematic eating, regardless of individual differences. 4. **Individual Differences:** BMI and YFAS symptom count were positive predictors of problematic food ratings, suggesting that individuals with higher BMI and symptoms of addictive-like eating were more likely to experience problems with highly processed foods. **Conclusion:** The study provides preliminary evidence that highly processed foods, which share pharmacokinetic properties with drugs of abuse (e.g., high dose, rapid absorption), are particularly associated with addictive-like eating behaviors. The findings highlight the importance of processing, fat content, and GL in understanding the addictive potential of certain foods.

The article explores the evolving understanding of aging and rejuvenation, highlighting the role of the epigenome in this process. It discusses the discovery that DNA methylation (DNAm) at specific CpG sites can serve as a highly accurate biomarker of age, known as the Horvath clock. This biomarker has been used to define biological age, which is more relevant than chronological age in understanding aging. The article also reviews the concept of programmed aging, where aging is seen as a genetically programmed process, and the idea that aging is driven by an epigenetic clock. The authors propose a bimodular epigenome model, where Module A represents the DNAm clock component and Module B represents the remainder of the epigenome. They discuss the potential of epigenetic rejuvenation as a strategy to reverse or arrest aging by resetting the epigenetic clock. Initial evidence suggests that while the clock can be forced to tick backwards, it only partially rejuvenates the phenotype. The article also explores various methods of cell reprogramming, including the use of Yamanaka factors, to achieve rejuvenation. It highlights the challenges and limitations of these approaches, such as the risk of teratomas in vivo and the need for safe and effective strategies. Finally, the article concludes that while the field of gerontology has seen a shift from viewing aging as an irreversible process to recognizing it as a reversible epigenetic process, more research is needed to fully understand and manipulate the epigenome to achieve rejuvenation.

The study by Xie et al. investigates the role of sleep in metabolic homeostasis in the adult brain. Using real-time assessments and two-photon imaging in live mice, the researchers found that natural sleep or anesthesia significantly increase the interstitial space by 60%, leading to enhanced convective exchange of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with interstitial fluid (ISF). This increased convective flux of ISF improves the clearance of β-amyloid (Aβ), a protein linked to neurodegenerative diseases, during sleep. The findings suggest that the restorative function of sleep may be due to the enhanced removal of potentially neurotoxic waste products that accumulate in the awake central nervous system. The study also explores the role of adrenergic signaling in modulating the interstitial space volume and CSF influx, providing insights into the mechanisms underlying the sleep-wake cycle's impact on brain health.

This comprehensive review by Ilaria Benucci, Claudio Lombardelli, and Marco Esti explores the impact of natural sweeteners on sensory properties, food structure, and their applications in various food sectors. The authors discuss the rise in lifestyle diseases and metabolic disorders due to excessive sucrose and added sugar consumption, leading to a search for alternative sweetening compounds. Natural sweeteners are categorized into non-nutritive (e.g., neohesperidine dihydrochalcone, thamatin, glycyrrhizin mogroside, stevia) and bulk sweeteners (e.g., polyols, rare sugars). The review highlights the use of these sweeteners in bakery, dairy, confectionery, and beverage industries, comparing their effects on textural and sensory properties to sucrose. It also examines the use of natural sweeteners in blends to complement individual compounds and enhance stability and ease of use. The article further discusses the challenges and advancements in extraction and purification techniques, such as microencapsulation, to address issues like aftertaste and bitterness. The review provides a detailed overview of the most popular natural sweeteners, including thaumatin, glycyrrhizin, monk fruit extract, stevia, and neohesperidine dihydrochalcone, along with their applications and market trends. The authors conclude by emphasizing the growing consumer preference for natural, clean-label ingredients and the potential for natural sweeteners to meet this demand.

This study investigates how rapid impressions of opponents' faces influence players' wagering decisions in a zero-sum game with hidden information. Participants made risky choices in a simplified poker task while being presented with opponents whose faces correlated with different levels of trustworthiness. The results show that threatening face information had little influence on wagering behavior, but emotionally positive faces led to significantly longer reaction times and more mistakes. These differences were most pronounced around the optimal decision boundary, indicating that face information is predominantly used when making decisions during medium-value gambles. Participants' increased folding rates against emotionally positive opponents suggest they may have believed these opponents had hands of greater value. The findings suggest that the best "poker face" for bluffing may not be neutral but rather one that conveys trustworthiness. This study highlights the importance of rapid impressions in competitive games, especially when players have little or no experience with their opponents.

This article examines the role of top management teams in the success or failure of entrepreneurial firms. It highlights several key insights: 1. **Team Composition**: Large and diverse teams with a history of working together are more likely to succeed, especially in growth markets. 2. **Strategic Decision Making**: Teams are effective when they are fast, highly conflictual, and maintain good relationships. This "winning trifecta" shapes better strategic decision-making processes. 3. **Simple Rules**: Teams can use "simple rules" heuristics to perform significant activities like new product development and internationalization, which can become the firm's strategy. 4. **Organizational Structure**: Teams should organize their firms at the "edge of chaos" to maintain superior performance, particularly in unpredictable markets. The article synthesizes evidence from four studies, combining statistical analysis, inductive multiple-case methods, and simulation to explore these insights. It emphasizes the importance of top management teams in driving the performance of entrepreneurial firms, highlighting their role in strategic decision-making, learning, and organizational structure.

The paper explores the role of product managers (PMs) in agile companies, focusing on their activities and responsibilities. The study is based on a multiple case study of 17 interviews with 11 PMs from four agile companies. The findings reveal that PMs facilitate continuous product experimentation and innovation, support product teams, and engage in additional activities to achieve optimal product development. The PM activities are categorized into three main groups: product-related activities, team-related activities, and supporting activities. Product-related activities include product discovery, monitoring, and strategic vision creation. Team-related activities involve supporting team delivery, individual follow-up, and process lead responsibilities. Supporting activities encompass acquiring resources, collaborating with other PMs, and engaging internal stakeholders. The study highlights the importance of PMs as continuous links between business needs and software development, emphasizing the need for PMs to involve teams in goal-setting to enhance autonomy and agility. The research provides insights into how PMs can effectively practice their roles in agile organizations, offering guidance for future research and practice.

The article "Situational Strategies for Self-Control" by Angela L. Duckworth explores the concept of self-control and argues that situational strategies can be highly effective in managing impulses and achieving long-term goals. The authors propose a process model of self-control, which organizes strategies into five families: situation selection, situation modification, attentional deployment, cognitive change, and response modulation. These strategies are designed to influence the stages of impulse generation—situation, attention, appraisal, and response—thereby weakening undesirable impulses and potentiating desirable ones. The article highlights empirical evidence from various domains, including substance abuse, eating and exercise, studying, and retirement savings, to support the effectiveness of situational strategies. It also discusses the underlying mechanisms by which these strategies work and suggests that they are indirectly intrapsychic, operating through changes in attention, cognitive appraisals, and response tendencies. The authors conclude by emphasizing the importance of early intervention and the potential for situational strategies to enhance self-control in both everyday and therapeutic contexts.

The article "Game Theory and Their Applicative Importance in the Economic-business Reality: A Valid Tool for ensure the Success of Business Decisions" by Boniello Carmine and Cuozzo Concetta from the University of Salerno explores the application of game theory in economic and business contexts. Game theory, developed in the 1950s, studies strategic interactions between rational agents and has applications in various fields, including economics, business, and computer science. The authors distinguish between cooperative and non-cooperative games. Cooperative games involve players who can agree on moves and the division of profits, while non-cooperative games involve players acting independently without binding agreements. The article highlights the importance of non-cooperative games in economic applications due to their broader applicability and the lack of enforceable binding agreements in many real-world scenarios. The article also discusses different types of games, such as strategic or normal form games and extended form games, and their representations. It provides examples of how game theory can be applied to specific economic situations, such as investment risk and entry threats. For instance, a company can use game theory to decide whether to invest in a new product or not, considering the potential market demand and the associated risks. Additionally, the article covers games with perfect and imperfect information, and differential games, which involve variables that change over time. It emphasizes the importance of game theory in analyzing interactions between subjects and finding equilibrium solutions, such as the Nash equilibrium, which is crucial for achieving business objectives. In conclusion, the article argues that game theory is a valuable tool for businesses to make informed decisions and achieve success in various economic and business contexts.

This article explores the cultural approaches to parenting, emphasizing the deep-rooted beliefs and behaviors that shape how parents care for their children across different cultures. It discusses the philosophical underpinnings and methodological considerations of cultural studies in parenting, highlighting the importance of cross-cultural comparisons to understand the full range of human parenting practices. The article also delves into the universals and specifics of parenting, distinguishing between form (behavior) and function (meaning) within cultural contexts. It concludes by addressing the social policy implications and future directions for research in this field, emphasizing the need to enhance parent and child development through a deeper understanding of cultural influences. The author, Marc H. Bornstein, argues that while there are universal aspects of parenting, such as the necessity of communication, cultural variations in specific practices and beliefs are significant and should be studied to inform effective parenting practices in diverse social groups.

The article provides comprehensive guidance on sleep training for babies, emphasizing that it is a process where the baby learns to fall asleep independently. Pediatrician Noah Schwartz, MD, offers advice on when to start sleep training, typically around four months of age, and the duration, which is generally three to four nights. The article distinguishes sleep training from night weaning, explaining that while they can be done simultaneously, night weaning focuses on ensuring the baby eats during the day to reduce nighttime feedings. Several sleep training techniques are discussed, including the Cry It Out (CIO) method, the Ferber method, the Pick Up, Put Down approach, the Chair method, and Bedtime Fading. Each method has its own benefits and challenges, and parents are encouraged to find the one that works best for them and their baby. Consistency and patience are key, and establishing a bedtime routine can help the transition. The article also emphasizes the importance of trusting one's intuition and seeking professional advice if needed. Overall, sleep training is safe and beneficial for both parents and babies, improving sleep quality and attachment.

This study examines the impact of preschool attendance on early academic achievement gaps using longitudinal data from a nationally representative sample of over 600 twin pairs. The research aims to determine whether preschool reduces inequalities in early academic achievement by providing disadvantaged children with higher-quality learning environments. Key findings include: 1. **Preschool Attendance and Shared Environmental Influences**: Attending preschool at age 4 was associated with reduced shared environmental influences on reading and math skills at age 5, but not on cognition at age 2. These effects were mediated by reductions in achievement gaps related to minority status, socioeconomic status, and parental stimulation. 2. **Socioeconomic Status and Preschool Enrollment**: Lower socioeconomic status was linked to lower rates of preschool enrollment, suggesting that the children who would benefit most from preschool are the least likely to attend. 3. **Longitudinal Analysis**: The study used structural equation models to estimate the contributions of genes, shared environment, and nonshared environment to cognition and achievement scores. The results indicate that preschool attendance significantly reduces the influence of family-level characteristics on achievement, particularly for racial and ethnic minorities, children from lower SES families, and those with less cognitively stimulating parents. 4. **Discussion**: The findings suggest that preschool may help reduce achievement gaps associated with family-level variables, but the equalizing effects may not fully materialize due to lower-socioeconomic status families being less likely to send their children to preschool. Future research should focus on the specific aspects of preschool quality and the long-term persistence of these effects. The study highlights the importance of early childhood education in addressing social inequalities in academic achievement and underscores the need for more equitable access to high-quality preschool programs.

This report explores the potential implications of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into children's environments, focusing on the significant role of the environment in shaping cognition, socio-emotional skills, and behaviors during the first 25 years of brain development. As AI becomes prevalent in educational and leisure activities, it will significantly modify children's experiences, presenting both challenges and opportunities. The analysis is informed by consultations with 15 experts from various disciplines and a comprehensive review of scientific literature on child development and technology interactions. The report highlights that AI experts anticipate transformative changes in leisure activities, education, and human-machine interactions. While AI offers substantial benefits in fostering interactive engagement, it also poses risks, especially during sensitive developmental periods. The authors advocate for proactive international collaboration and increased research to understand how technological innovations affect child development. They emphasize the need for specific child-centered regulations and education to ensure responsible AI use and its potential impacts on children's development. The report begins by discussing the historical context of AI and its rapid advancement, particularly with the release of ChatGPT-3.5 by OpenAI in 2022. It highlights the increasing integration of AI into various sectors and its tangible presence in daily life, often without users being fully aware. The report also delves into the biological and environmental factors that influence child development, emphasizing the importance of sensitive periods and the interplay between genetic and environmental factors. The report examines the current context of AI in children's environments, including entertainment, education, and conversational agents. It discusses how AI is already deeply integrated into these sectors and its potential to enhance cognitive and socio-emotional development. For example, personalized content in streaming services and social media can enrich learning environments, while video games can improve attention and spatial cognition. The report also explores the potential benefits of AI in socio-emotional development, such as enhanced social skills and empathy. The report addresses the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks surrounding AI. It highlights the need for proper regulation and safeguards, drawing on international guidelines and policies. The report emphasizes the importance of safeguarding cognitive, social, and emotional development, particularly in the context of children's specific needs. It also discusses the trade-offs of prolonged screen time, including its impact on vision, sleep, and physical health, and the potential risks of reduced exposure to foundational experiences during critical developmental periods. The report concludes by advocating for a collaborative framework that brings together experts from technology, cognitive neurosciences, and child development. It calls for proactive efforts to design and use technology in ways that foster rather than obstruct children's comprehensive development. The report emphasizes the need for responsible AI use and ethical considerations to ensure a sustainable and ethical future for the next generation.

The study explores the experiences of children and their parents regarding misinformation on social media, focusing on YouTube and TikTok. Children are particularly vulnerable to misinformation due to their developing cognitive and emotional abilities. The research combines a qualitative survey of 87 parents with semi-structured interviews of 12 families. Key findings include: 1. **Content Encountered**: Children often encounter deep fakes, political memes, and celebrity/influencer rumors. 2. **Parental Concerns**: Parents express significant concern about their children's exposure to misinformation, feeling responsible for teaching critical thinking skills. 3. **Educational Role**: Most parents believe schools should teach media literacy and critical thinking skills to help children navigate misinformation. 4. **Developmental Impact**: While most parents see negative impacts on children's development, some believe misinformation can foster critical thinking. 5. **Family Relationships**: Misinformation affects family relationships, especially with grandparents who may have different political views. The study highlights the need for better education and parental guidance to protect children from misinformation and promote healthy digital citizenship.