Abstract:The Georgian medical sector operates within a complex entrepreneurial framework where business structures, particularly holdings, play a dominant role. This paper examines the development and operational mechanisms of holdings in the medical field, analyzing their influence on market competition, pricing strategies, and state-business relations. The study highlights the monopolistic tendencies, cartel agreements, and elite lobbying practices that shape the sector. Additionally, it evaluates the state's regulatory inefficiencies and the economic and social consequences of medical business consolidation. Drawing comparisons with European regulatory practices, the paper advocates for a more structured and transparent approach to price regulation and market competition in Georgia’s healthcare industry.
Abstract:The labor protection policies that policy makers implement to regulate the labor market are critical to labor productivity and unemployment rates. The theory generally holds that employment protect8on ra8ses the costs of layoffs for f8rms. Policy makers consider at the theory framework that it is possible to protect employment and reduce unemployment with Employment Protection Legislation (EPL). There 8s a large l8terature descr8b8ng the effects of str8ct EPL on employment and unemployment rates across countr8es. However, 8t 8s d8ff8cult to be prec8se about the est8mates of the effects of employment protect8on on youth unemployment and labour product8v8ty. The aim of this article is to investigate whether EPL is an important determinant of labor productivity and unemployment rates (unemployment and youth unemployment) in OECD countries during the period 2004-2019 using panel data analysis. The results show that EPL can reduce labor productivity by affecting employment decisions in the labor market.
Abstract:The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TTIR; Middle Corridor (MC)) presents significant potential, as it may evolve into a reliable and competitive route compared to traditional routes and contribute to substantial economic development and trade facilitation. The present research aims to realize the tangible benefits of MC to Georgia from the perspective of Georgian stakeholders, identify gaps and areas for improvement, and transcend the mere transit economy status. This research was conducted through consultations with stakeholders, including logistics companies, ports, rail, and state entities, all of which possess extensive experience in MC. Research shows that Georgia's strategic location, a key transit point between Asia and Europe, plays a crucial role in the MC and can further strengthen its geopolitical position. MC offers Georgia unique economic growth opportunities, benefiting from increased trade flows and potential investments in infrastructure. This research identifies the challenges facing MC, which extend beyond Georgia's control, necessitating active participation from all countries along the route to uniformly develop infrastructure. Success depends on comprehensive coordination among parties, complete digitalization of the corridor, and a transparent pricing structure. This research describes the various initiatives taken by Georgia. Such initiatives include active engagement in digital projects led by the World Bank, UN, TRACECA, CAREC, and the construction of a deep-sea port in Anaklia, among others.
Abstract:Handball is a high-intensity team sport characterized by rapid gameplay, requiring agility, coordination, and strategic decision-making. It integrates fundamental motor skills such as running, throwing, and jumping with complex movement patterns that enhance both physical and cognitive performance. The sport’s dynamic nature demands a combination of strength, speed, endurance, and technical precision, making it an effective means of developing overall athletic ability. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the training process and performance development of a high school handball team. Specifically, the research examines whether the pandemic negatively influenced athletes' physical preparedness and sports performance over a six-month training period conducted as part of the physical education and sports curriculum. The study sample consisted of 18 male students, born between 2007 and 2008, who actively participated in the training program. The findings indicate that the pandemic did not have a detrimental effect on the athletes’ performance. A comparative analysis of pre- and post-training assessments demonstrated an improvement in key performance indicators. Based on the arithmetic mean values derived from centralized data tables, the 50-meter sprint performance showed an enhancement, with the mean time decreasing from 7.9 seconds in the initial assessment to 7.8 seconds in the final assessment, reflecting a 0.1- second improvement. Additionally, the standing long jump results improved by 5 cm in the final evaluation compared to the initial test. Technical execution speed also exhibited positive changes, with a recorded improvement of 0.9 seconds between the initial and final assessments. These results suggest that the structured training program implemented during the study period contributed to enhanced physical performance, despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended training periods is recommended to validate these findings and explore additional performance parameters.
Abstract:The FIFA World Cup's cultural impact extends beyond sporting achievement, fundamentally transforming host nations through complex social and institutional dynamics. This study examines these transformative mechanisms, with particular emphasis on Qatar 2022 as the first Middle Eastern host nation, analysing how mega-sporting events influence cultural evolution while preserving indigenous values. Through systematic historical analysis of five World Cup tournaments (2002-2018), the research identifies patterns of cultural impact and transformation across multiple societal dimensions. The findings reveal three primary vectors of cultural transformation: institutional reform initiatives, social integration processes, and strategic international perception management. Comparative analysis of previous hosts - South Korea/Japan (2002), Germany (2006), South Africa (2010), and Brazil (2014) - demonstrates how nations leveraged the tournament to address historical grievances, reshape global narratives, and catalyse domestic social reform. Each case study reveals distinct approaches to cultural transformation, from Germany's confrontation with historical legacy to South Africa's post-apartheid reconciliation efforts. Qatar's preparation introduces novel paradigms for balancing traditional cultural preservation with international standards, particularly evident in labour rights reform, infrastructure development, and cultural diplomacy initiatives. The research identifies critical success factors for cultural transformation through mega-sporting events: sustained institutional commitment to reform, strategic integration of cultural elements in infrastructure development, and proactive management of international perceptions. Qatar's experience provides insights into how host nations can challenge stereotypes while maintaining cultural authenticity. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of mega-sporting events as catalysts for cultural change, extending beyond sports management to international relations and cultural diplomacy. The findings establish a framework for analysing how such events facilitate cultural transformation while preserving host nation identities. Results indicate that successful cultural change requires sustained commitment beyond the tournament timeframe, with significant implications for future host nations and international sporting organizations.
Abstract:Aim: This investigation examined the role of sports management in promoting talented youth football players to professional teams in Qatar, specifically evaluating talent development strategies, transition support mechanisms, and organizational challenges. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative survey assessed talent discovery, development, transition support, and challenges in promoting youth players in Qatar football. Validated questionnaires were administered to 117 professionals (97.4% male; 82.9% players, 19.7% coaches, 10.3% administrators). The instrument evaluated three domains on 5-point Likert scales after content validity assessment by experts. Results: Talent development frameworks showed positive implementation (3.91±1.07), with highest agreement for competitive exposure (74.4%) and sports-educational environments (73.5%). However, transition support mechanisms demonstrated lower effectiveness (3.27±1.56), particularly in first-team integration (55.6%) and player-coach communication (54.8%). Primary organizational challenges included transfer regulations (70.1% agreement), external pressures (65.8%), and educational program provision (59.9%). Infrastructure adequacy showed minimal concern (44.4%), reflecting successful facility development. Professional experience exceeding 10 years characterized 53% of respondents, providing robust experiential insights into system effectiveness. Conclusion: While Qatar has established comprehensive talent identification frameworks, significant gaps exist in youth-to-professional transition support and organizational integration. Key recommendations include implementing standardized monitoring protocols, enhancing youth-professional team integration, and strengthening psychosocial support systems. Success requires coordinated interventions at structural, policy, and operational levels while leveraging Qatar's advanced infrastructure. These findings contribute to understanding talent development challenges in emerging football nations while providing evidence-based recommendations for enhancing development pathways.
Abstract:Ensuring workplace safety while maintaining operational efficiency is critical in high-risk industrial settings such as aluminum casting. This study investigates the implementation of the enhanced 5S+S methodology—comprising Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, and Safety—in an aluminum casting factory over three years (2021–2023). The primary objective was to assess its effectiveness in improving occupational safety, operational efficiency, and employee engagement. The methodology was systematically introduced across the foundry, machining, and other departments, with quantitative safety performance indicators—including Accident Frequency Rate (AFR), Accident Severity Rate (ASR), and Combined Risk Index (CRI)—evaluated annually. Additionally, employee perception surveys were conducted in 2020 (pre-implementation) and 2023 (post-implementation) to assess changes in workplace satisfaction across four key domains: physical working conditions, health and safety improvements, training effectiveness, and management responsiveness. Statistical analysis revealed significant reductions in AFR, ASR, and CRI, with the foundry department—historically the highest-risk area—demonstrating the most substantial improvements. Blue-collar employees reported statistically significant enhancements in workplace satisfaction, while white-collar employees maintained consistently high satisfaction levels. The findings emphasize the transformative potential of integrating safety into Lean manufacturing frameworks, reinforcing the 5S+S methodology as a powerful tool for reducing workplace hazards, increasing employee engagement, and promoting sustainability in industrial environments. By embedding safety within structured Lean practices, this study contributes to the growing body of research on sustainable manufacturing, occupational health, and continuous improvement strategies in high-risk workplaces.
Abstract:Tip60 is identified as HIV-1-encoded transactivator Tat interacting protein, 60 Kd. The crucial role of Tip60 on cell signaling is a main reason for its targeting by the HIV-1- encoded transactivator Tat. Tip60 was subsequently identified as a specific member of the MYST (Moz-Ybf2/Sas3-Sas2-Tip60) family of nuclear histone acetyltransferases (HAT). Yes Associated Protein (YAP) is both localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus where it regulates gene transcription. YAP is identified as a key determinant of their functions in Hippo signal transduction pathway. To better understand the biological function of YAP, the characterization of the proteins which interact with it is required. With WW domain of YAP ligand specificity information, the specific motif ( 406LPPY409) which can bind to the YAP WW domain is recognized. Thereafter, we demonstrated for the first time that the motif interacts with WW domain of YAP, resulting in the direction of chromatin decondensation by Tip60 HAT activity and its co-transactivator role. Further, we noticed that the acetylation on 494 and 497 lysine residues of YAP by Tip60 is also enhanced through these protein interactions, when DNA damage is introduced. Thus, our observations suggested a new sight on the molecular role of YAP as a co- transactivator to direct Tip60 binding site on the chromatin with its WW domain interaction.
Abstract:This study aims to compare density-adjusted radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric intensity-adjusted arc treatment (VMAT) techniques with patient treatment plans. Plans were made using linac-based 8-field IMRT and dual-arc VMAT techniques that generate X-rays at 6MV energies using the Treatment Planning System (TPS). The two planning techniques were compared with the dose winding and homogeneity index (HI) and the conformity index (CI) values in the planned target volume PTV 56, PTV 76 structures. In critical organs, V50, V25, and V15 (dose volts) values for the rectum were analyzed for bladder V50, V40, and V20, values for femur heads and V50, and V10 for femur heads. The treatment times, segment numbers, and monitor unit (MU) values of the plans obtained with both techniques were compared. Close dose conditions were obtained for IMRT and VMAT techniques and target volumes. The calculated Hi and CI values for PTV 76 be similar in both methods. All critical organs can be kept below dose limitations with both planning techniques. In general, close results were obtained with both methods in terms of organ doses at risk. However, a significant difference has occurred between the two techniques regarding the V50 values in the rectation. The number of segments and MU derived from plans created by the VMAT technique was higher than plans created by the IMRT technique, but the treatment time was shorter. Compared to the 8-field IMRT and VMAT techniques used in prostate cancer radiotherapy, similar dosimetric results have been achieved in both PTV conditions and critical organ protections. Regarding treatment time only, the IMRT technique of VMAT has a distinct advantage.
Abstract:Background: The Salzburg Seminar group held in San Diego Conference 2024., on caregiving and monitoring processes gathered experts to explore advancements in caregiving practices, one of the discussed topics focusing on the integration of AI and telemedicine technologies. These innovations aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery, particularly in managing chronic conditions and elderly care. Main Goal The main goal of this review is to evaluate the impact of AI and telemedicine on caregiving monitoring processes. By synthesizing insights from the conference proceedings and conducting a systematic review of literature from Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed, this review aims to highlight key findings and expert recommendations on how these technologies can enhance caregiving practices. Methodology: The review included a qualitative analysis of discussions and presentations from the San Diego Conference, supplemented by a structured search of academic databases using keywords related to AI, telemedicine, monitoring, and caregiving. Relevant studies were reviewed to identify current trends and advancements in the field. and telemedicine improves monitoring accuracy, fosters proactive healthcare interventions, and increases patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Integrating AI and telemedicine into caregiving represents a significant shift toward proactive and personalized healthcare. This review emphasizes the transformative potential of these technologies in improving health outcomes and enhancing the caregiving experience. It also calls for continued research and implementation to fully realize their benefits in clinical practice.