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Background: This study aimed to examine the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and optimal movement behaviors including sufficient moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA), regular leisure-time PA, and less sedentary behavior. Methods: We used data from the Japanese Study on Stratification, Health, Income, and Neighborhood conducted in 2012. Activity patterns and SES were measured using International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short-Version and other self-administered questionnaires. Activity pattern outcomes assessed were sufficient total volume of moderate-to-vigorous PA (≥150 min/wk), regular leisure-time PA (≥1 d/wk), less sedentary time (≤4 h/d), and optimal movement behaviors (meeting all criteria). SES variables were equivalized annual income, educational attainment, and occupation. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounders. Results: We included 731 men and 852 women. Lower income levels were associated with less leisure-time PA among men and women (men, odds ratio [OR]: 0.60 and 0.65 for Q2 and Q1 [lowest], respectively; women, OR: 0.53 and 0.56 for Q2 and Q1 [lowest]). Lower SES groups associated with less sedentary time (men, OR: 1.82 for blue-collar; women, OR: 1.44 for Q1 income level, 1.61 and 1.53 for junior college, technical school, and high school/junior high school, respectively; 1.89 for unemployed). SES was not significantly associated with optimal movement behavior in both sexes (in men, OR for those with high school or junior high school education vs those with university or graduate school education = 0.81 [0.43–1.53]). Conclusion: Activity patterns varied by SES, with lower income associated with less leisure-time PA and white-collar workers associated with more prevalent sedentary behavior among both sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Effective physical activity (PA) interventions are needed to counter the insufficient and declining levels of PA in youth. These require an updated, comprehensive planning framework that consolidates recent decades of progress in promoting PA in young children, children, and adolescents. Effective PA interventions require program planning and conceptual model development that target a coordinated and multilevel set of age-specific PA determinants. Accordingly, this paper presents a comprehensive planning framework that researchers can use to design intervention research to promote PA in youth. Methods: The first author conducted targeted searches through Google Scholar to compile PA models/frameworks/guides applicable to youth, a comprehensive set of PA determinants, and determinant-linked strategies to promote PA focusing on review articles. The information was summarized in tables, synthesized, and used to create a planning framework, all of which were reviewed by coauthors. Results: The APPLE Framework for Planning PA Opportunities for Youth (APPLE = Age, PA focus, Place and time, Leverage relevant influences and strategies, and ensure Enjoyable PA opportunities) incorporated all core elements from targeted reviews to create a comprehensive planning framework. The APPLE Planning Framework has a set of questions/prompts that guide the intervention planning process and conceptual model templates to organize planning efforts for designing intervention research. Conclusions: The APPLE Framework for Planning PA Opportunities for Youth will enable researchers to develop comprehensive conceptual models to guide the design of PA interventions for youth. Future research should refine the model and its components to enable PA intervention research in youth to move forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the past few decades, there has been a significant increase in the number of refugees worldwide. Every individual deserves access to the fundamental right to health, and migration can have a substantial beneficial or detrimental effect on one's health. Foreign invasions and political instability in Afghanistan affected neighboring countries with the large influx of refugees. Discrepancies in quality of life between the host and refugee populations may lead to health inequalities. Investigations in Pakistan on the quality of life of Afghan refugees were scarce despite more than four decades of refugee status. Therefore, this study was initiated to assess the sociocultural determinants influencing health-associated quality of life among Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Methods: The Punjab province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province refugee populations were selected as the study population for cross-sectional research based on the inclusion criteria of majority refugee representation and female participation. Quantitative research methodology with pre-validated WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires was used for data collection via multi-stage probability sampling techniques. We collected data from 1,185 study participants and applied univariate and bivariate analyses. Inferential analyses included independent t-tests and ANOVA. Results: The average scores for the entire sample of Afghan refugees were highest for the social domain (58.78 ± 22.74), followed by the physical domain (53.29 ± 19.46), the general health domain (50.44 ± 20.10), the environmental domain (48.43 ± 16.30), and the psychological domain (46.52 ± 14.78). Age, marital status, family setup, mother language, number of years in the host country, residence type, family monthly income, access to health care, current health status, chronic health illness, substance abuse (smoking), cultural compatibility, linguistic barriers, and social inclusion were non-significant with all the subdomains in the inferential analysis using the independent t-test and analysis of variance. Conclusion: The Afghan refugees' average scores across all health-associated quality-of-life domains were lower than Pakistan's host population and the standard cutoff criteria (< 60 indicates poor quality of life). The development of a national policy to include refugees in health insurance programs seems essential to improve the health-associated quality of life among Afghan refugees in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep disorders are highly prevalent and linked bidirectionally to stroke as risk factors for stroke to worsen the outcomes. To date, most of the studies on post-stroke sleep were conducted in Western countries. Quality of sleep among stroke patients is masked by other physical and medical complications and limited attention is given in Ethiopia. To address this gap the current study aims to estimate the incidence of poor sleep quality and its determinants among stroke survivors in Northwest Ethiopia. A prospective cohort study was conducted in three public referral hospitals from June 2022 to December 2022. The study included 403 stroke survivors at the three-month follow-up. We conducted analyses of bivariable and multivariable logistic regression to look into the relationship between the outcome and the explanatory variables. Statistics were given as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, with a significance level of p < 0.05. The overall incidence of poor sleep quality was 50.1%, with a mean Global Sleep Quality (GSQ score) of 5.15 (SD ± 0.16). According to Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) data, the mean sleep hour was 6.15. History of alcohol consumption, complications during admission, and time between the onset of symptoms and hospital arrival were predictors of sleep quality. Sleep quality was observed in half of stroke survivors. The study’s findings point to the significance of screening for sleep quality following a stroke and further research is needed including admitted and non-admitted stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This research paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the determinants influencing organisations decisions to adopt crowdsourcing. By synthesising existing literature, it seeks to identify critical factors that act as enablers or inhibitors in the adoption process and propose a framework for understanding crowdsourcing adoption within organisational contexts. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed a systematic literature review methodology to examine the determinants influencing organisations' decisions to adopt crowdsourcing. The review encompassed research articles from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, spanning 2006 to 2021. Additionally, morphological analysis was conducted to categorise the identified determinants into three distinct contexts: technological, organisational and environmental. This methodological approach facilitated a comprehensive exploration of the factors shaping crowdsourcing adoption within organisational settings, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon across different dimensions. Findings: The study identifies 12 determinants influencing crowdsourcing adoption, categorised into technological, organisational and environmental dimensions. These determinants include technological compatibility, organisational readiness, top management support, crowd readiness and availability of third-party platforms. While some determinants primarily act as enablers, others exhibit dual roles or serve as inhibitors depending on contextual factors. Research limitations/implications: The findings offer valuable insights for scholars, practitioners, and organisational leaders seeking to leverage crowdsourcing as a strategic tool for innovation and competitiveness. The assessment scale of drivers and barriers developed in this research offers a systematic approach for evaluating the factors influencing crowdsourcing adoption, providing a nuanced understanding of innovation adoption dynamics. Theoretical implications include advancements in morphological analysis methodology and a nuanced understanding of innovation adoption dynamics. Managerial implications highlight strategies for enhancing organisational readiness, leveraging leadership support and mitigating adoption risks. Overall, the study provides a foundation for future empirical research and practical guidance for organisations planning to adopt crowdsourcing initiatives. Originality/value: This research contributes significantly to crowdsourcing by presenting an integrated and theoretically grounded framework. By consolidating adoption determinants from diverse contexts, this study clarifies the understanding of crowdsourcing adoption. The framework offers practical value to managers and decision-makers, equipping them with a structured approach to assess and navigate the challenges associated with effectively adopting crowdsourcing. As such, this study contributes to advancing crowdsourcing practices and supports more informed managerial decision-making in innovation and knowledge sourcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to examine the determinants that influence housing prices in Dammam metropolitan area (DMA), Saudi Arabia, by using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model. The study considers determinants such as building age (BLD AG), building size (BLD SZ), building condition (BLD CN), access to parking (ACC PK), proximity to transport infrastructure (PRX TRS), proximity to green areas (PRX GA) and proximity to amenities (PRX AM). Design/methodology/approach: The AHP decision model was used to assess the determinants of housing prices in DMA, using a pair-wise comparison matrix to determine the influence of the investigated factors on housing prices. Findings: The study's results revealed that building size (BLD SZ) was the most critical determinant affecting housing prices in DMA, with a weight of 0.32, trailed by proximity to transport infrastructure (PRX TRS), with a weight of 0.24 as the second most influential housing price determinant in DMA. The third most important determinant was proximity to amenities (PRX AM), with a weight of 0.18. Originality/value: This study addresses a research gap by using the AHP model to assess the spatial determinants of housing prices in DMA, Saudi Arabia. Few studies have used this model in examining housing price factors, particularly in the context of Saudi Arabia. Consequently, the findings of this study provide unique insights for policymakers, housing developers and other stakeholders in understanding the importance of building size, proximity to transport infrastructure and proximity to amenities in influencing housing prices in DMA. By considering these determinants, stakeholders can make informed decisions to improve housing quality and prices in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the high prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women in Nigeria and the dire health implications, this study assessed the multilevel factors associated with the severity of IPV (SIPV) among ever-partnered women (i.e., ever-married or cohabited) in Nigeria. The 2018 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey (712 women) was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple ordinal logistic regression. Results show that 19.7%, 17.7%, and 62.6% of women experienced more severe, less severe, and no severe IPV, respectively. At the individual level, the odds of more severe IPV (MSIPV) were higher among women whose male partners drank alcohol (compared to those whose male partners did not). At the household/ relationship level, the odds were lower among childless women (than non-childless women with male children). The odds of MSIPV were higher for those exposed to interparental violence (than the unexposed) and as the male partner’s control score increased. Male partner’s dominance in household decisions was negatively associated with more severe IPV. At the community level, the odds of MSIPV were lower for women in communities with high support for wife-beating (than communities with low support). Compared to the North-Central region, the likelihood of MSIPV was greater among women in the North-East. This finding may help interventions for protecting and preventing women from experiencing IPV in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, the existing knowledge on family structure is based on small-scale studies or research before 2000 and indicates remarkable changes from the widely perceived notion of the family system in the country. The present study assesses the trends, patterns, and determinants of family structure in India using large-scale nationally representative National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) data over the last three decades (1992/93–2019/21). Data from all five rounds of NFHS were analyzed, keeping the family structure as the dependent variable and several socio-economic characteristics as independent variables. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed using Stata. In the last three decades, single-person, nuclear pair, lineally extended, and lineally broken extended families had increased, while nuclear, supplemented nuclear, broken nuclear, and collaterally extended families had declined in the country. Gender, schooling, caste, and religion of the household head, wealth status of the household, household ownership of agricultural land, place of residence, and region of the household were significantly associated with the prevalence of single person, nuclear pair and collaterally extended family in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers face yield risks due to various factors, including climate change and extreme events, and it is being advocated to adopt climate-smart agriculture practices, including crop diversification and crop insurance. While both options provide numerous benefits, the adoption rate is observed as low, and thus, several studies identified determinants separately. These options could substitute or complement each other, and higher benefits could be derived from adopting them together. However, a dearth of studies examine the causal association among climate-smart agriculture strategies. This study addresses this gap, i.e., investigates to what extent crop insurance acts as an instrument for the diversification of crops so policies can be designed to promote combined options. This study employs logit and ordered logit models by taking the 70th (2012–13) and 77th (2018–19) rounds of the National Sample Survey Office dataset. The following observations are reported: (i) the adoption of crop diversification has declined from 49% in the kharif season of 2012–13 to 38% in the same season in 2018–19, and a similar result is also reported for several states; (ii) in particular, the adoption rate has plummeted among the smallholders; (iii) as expected, crop insurance is noticed as one of the major instruments; (iv) other determinants are household size, land size, irrigation facility, and access to various government policies such as access to Mahatma Gandhi national rural employment Guarantee scheme, and soil health card, and access to input dealer, and radio and television; (v) surprisingly, access to agricultural extension and awareness of minimum support price have negative effects. In terms of policy recommendations, this study advocates designing policies to promote a bundle of options, e.g., low insurance premium rates for farmers who opt for crop diversification. Further, it is suggested that agricultural extension services be restructured, minimum support prices be announced, and the market for various agricultural outputs be fostered. Such assessments are imperative as increasing the adoption of climate-smart agriculture options is one of the most important priorities in the current policy arena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence and to examine their relative influence (i.e. the influence of each factor) on entrepreneurial emergence. Design/methodology/approach: A survey design with a questionnaire instrument administered to 250 business owners selected randomly from a cross section of businesses was used. The data were analyzed using the descriptive method, pairwise comparison, Kendall's W test and Mean Rank Statistics. Findings: This study showed that the level of influence of sociocultural factors on the decision to own a business by an individual in Africa varies by factor. Family background is the factor that has the highest influence, whereas religious values has the least influence. Altogether, nine most significant factors influence the choice of business ownership in Nigeria and in Africa generally. These include family background, unemployment, family values, inadequate income, job displacement, stock of social capital, role models, social networks and lack of social security, in that order. Originality/value: Although some scholars may have explored sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence, there is no study on their relative influence on entrepreneurial emergence, at least not in the context of Africa or Nigeria in particular. This study extends previous studies by examining the relative influence of the factors, using Nigeria as a reference for Africa. A focus on their relative influence is a new perspective on the study of sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Low back pain (LBP) is a widespread health problem that poses a severe economic burden on both affected patients and the societies in which they live. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between depression and low back pain among patients seen at an orthopedic clinic and determine the association with physical disability. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the orthopedic clinics of Al-Badaya General Hospital in the Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia. All patients with LBP seen in the clinic between April and June 2024 were included in the study. A questionnaire was administered that collected demographic information, asked about medical history and behaviors, and included the Arabic-validated version of the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9; depression). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify correlates of depression. Results: A total of 365 patients were included in the study. Age ranged between 18 and 85 years, with a mean of 47.9 years (55.6% female). The overall prevalence of depression was 56.2%; 40.3% was mild, 13.2% moderate, and 2.7% moderately severe or severe based on PHQ-9 cutoff scores. Patients with moderately severe/severe depression had the highest disability score, while those with no depression had the lowest disability score. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that with each unit increase in disability score, there was a 20% increase in depression (adjusted odds ratio = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.14-1.26, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Depression, although mostly mild, was common in this clinic sample of orthopedic patients with chronic LBP and was frequently associated with disability. Disability can be a serious complication of chronic LBP and is often closely linked with depression. As a result, patients with chronic LBP seen at orthopedic clinics in Saudi Arabia (and likely other Middle Eastern countries) should be screened for depression and managed accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child marriage continues to be a substantial issue of both societal and public health significance within India, characterized by a complex interplay of factors contributing to its persistence. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the regional disparities of child marriage in the context of India. This study explores child marriage prevalence across population sub-groups within a specific region of India. Utilizing the latest available data from the National Family Health Survey (2019–2021), and employing bi-variate and multivariate analysis to examine the differential patterns and factors of child marriage among women aged 20–24 years in India at a regional level. Substantial regional variations in child marriage are found in India. The highest prevalence is found in the eastern region (37.3%) and lowest in the northern region (16.3%) (2019–2021). Further, the eastern region has highest child marriage prevalence across all population sub-groups with an exception of the northeastern region where Muslim women have high prevalence of child marriage (45%). The results also demonstrate that the southern, western, northeastern, central and northern regions have lower odds of child marriage than the eastern region (0.85, 0.76, 0.81, 0.50, and 0.47 times, respectively), even after controlling for selected socio-economic characteristics. The present study suggests that India must develop targeted interventions based on identified regional disparities in child marriage prevalence, focusing on eastern regions with higher prevalence. Area-specific programs informed by the survey findings need to be implemented to reduce the rate of child marriage and empower vulnerable population sub-groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ensuring comprehensive and quality healthcare access is necessary to promote good health and well-being and to secure health equity. Barriers to healthcare access result in unmet health needs. Moreover, there is limited empirical evidence on specific types of barriers to women's general health-seeking in India. This study investigates women's perceived household-level, logistic, and facility-level barriers to healthcare access and its individual, household, and community-level determinants. Methods: The study used data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), with a total sample of 108,785 women aged 15–49 drawn from the state module of the survey. The primary outcome variables were household, logistic, and facility-level barriers to healthcare access. A set of individual, household, and community-level predictors was assessed using multivariate binary logistic regression due to the dichotomous nature of the outcome variables. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) was used to present the regression results. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test and ROC curve statistics were carried out to enhance the robustness of the analysis and validity of the model. Results: The study found a considerable proportion of women (84%) with at least one perceived barrier to accessing healthcare, with significant inter-state variations. Facility-level (55%) and logistic barriers (51%) were the predominant obstacles to healthcare access. Women aged 35–49, with higher education levels, exposed to mass media, working in professional/technical/managerial/clerical jobs, access to bank accounts, having mobile phones, and from rich households had lower odds of perceived household, logistic, and facility-level barriers to healthcare access. Conclusion: Most women perceive barriers to healthcare access, though a wide inter-state variation exists. Facility-level barriers such as the unavailability of drugs and healthcare providers are major concerns to healthcare access. Distance to health facilities continues to be a logistic barrier, along with getting money for treatment at the household level. Illiteracy, non-exposure to mass media, working in the agricultural sector, no access to a bank account and a mobile phone, rural residency, and poor wealth status are significant factors adversely affecting the perceived barriers to healthcare access. The findings recommend strengthening the existing health system and increasing health literacy among poor, less educated, and rural women to reduce disparity in healthcare access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several studies have indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on nurses' psychological and physical quality of life (QoL), as well as on their professional well-being. The literature also indicates that perceived stress, resilience, social support, the psychosocial work environment and professional identification may be determinants of these variables. However, no studies have examined how these determinants may influence nurses' psychological and physical QoL or professional well-being throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the influence the influence of perceived stress, resilience, perceived social support, the psychosocial work environment and professional identification on Portuguese nurses' professional well-being and physical and psychological QoL throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: For this longitudinal study, data were collected through self-administered questionnaires focused on QoL, professional well-being, and sociodemographic characteristics. The data collection spanned three distinct time points, from November 2021 to June 2023. Data Analysis was conducted by utilizing random-intercept linear regression models. Results: A total of 555 responses were analyzed at all of the measurement points (340 responses at T0, 122 at T1, and 93 at T2), and compared to those at T0, physical and psychological QoL increased at T2. Perceived stress and support from colleagues diminished at T2 compared to T0. During the COVID-19 pandemic, participants who reported low perceived stress, high resilience, high social support from supervisors, high social support from colleagues, and/or high job satisfaction tended to report greater professional well-being and physical and psychological QoL. Conclusions: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, perceived stress consistently negatively influenced nurses' professional well-being and physical and psychological QoL; moreover, resilience and job satisfaction were consistently significant positive determinants of all outcomes. These insights highlight the need for targeted interventions to reduce stress, enhance resilience, and foster job satisfaction among nurses, thus ultimately improving their QoL, professional well-being and effectiveness in health care delivery, particularly during high-stress periods such as pandemics. Future research should explore how these stressors and protective factors influence nurses' QoL and professional well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual violence, a global concern, disproportionately affects women. In Kenya, over 40% of women experience intimate partner violence, reflecting a pressing need for understanding and addressing this issue. Sub-Saharan Africa faces a 18.7% prevalence with deep-rooted determinants like unequal power relations and cultural practices. Consequences from unwanted pregnancy to trauma hinder development goals. This study focuses on sexual violence among Kenyan women aged 15–49, aiming to inform policies and contribute to a safer, more equitable society. Methods: This study analyzed 2022 Kenya Demographic Health Survey data. It used a two-stage cluster sampling method, surveyed 32,156 women aged 15–49, examined determinants of sexual violence, and employed statistical analysis to identify significant predictors. Results: This study revealed several significant factors associated with the risk of sexual violence among women in Kenya. Educational attainment emerged as a key determinant, with women holding primary or secondary education showing higher odds of experiencing sexual violence compared to those with higher education. Desire for children also played a significant role; women whose partners desired more children had higher odds of experiencing sexual violence compared to those with mutual or differing desires for children. Domestic violence exposure was strongly associated with sexual violence, as women who experienced domestic violence had 8.69 times the odds of experiencing sexual violence. Additionally, partner alcohol consumption increased the likelihood of sexual violence, as did cultural attitudes, with women who believed that a wife's refusal of sex justified physical violence facing higher odds of sexual violence. Conclusions and recommendations: This study identifies key factors, including education, domestic violence, alcohol consumption, and cultural attitudes, that increase sexual violence risk. Recommendations include education, addressing domestic violence, promoting healthy relationships, and challenging harmful norms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Irreversible blindness is the natural history of untreated glaucoma; however, a significant proportion of those receiving treatment are still blind. This study sought to identify the determinant factors responsible for blindness from glaucoma among those receiving treatment. Method: This retrospective cohort study collected data via chart review of glaucoma patients (N = 231) who attended eye clinics at a large government-owned or a privately owned health facility in Enugu, Nigeria, between October and December 2023. Visual acuity was used to determine whether the eyes met the criteria for blindness. The sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of glaucoma patients who were blind (105) and patients without blindness (126) were compared. Data analysis was performed via the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 26. Binary logistic regression was used to identify determinants of blindness. Results: The records of a total of 231 glaucoma patients were reviewed. One hundred and five (45.5%) patients were blind in at least one eye. The mean age was 61.1 ± 13.9 years (patients without blindness) and 63.6 ± 10.6 years (blind patients). Those living in urban areas (AOR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.24–0.99), those with no visual impairment at presentation (AOR = 0.005, 95% CI = 0.000–0.055, p < 0.0001), those with mild to moderate visual impairment (AOR = 0.125, 95% CI = 0.06–0.277, p < 0.0001), and those with presenting IOP < 22 mmHg (AOR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.09–0.546, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with a lower risk of blindness from glaucoma. However, being non-hypertensive was associated with a higher risk of blindness from glaucoma (AOR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.16–4.18, p = 0.043). Conclusion: Among patients receiving treatments for glaucoma, living in non-urban areas, presenting with severe visual impairments, presenting with IOP > 22 mmHg, and being non-hypertensive increased the risk of blindness. Improving access to glaucoma care in non-urban areas, increasing awareness creation on screening for early detection and patient counseling may be profitable steps towards reducing vision loss from glaucoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global supply chains are facing many changes after the COVID-19 pandemic. This change impacts the way each supply chain measures its key performance indicators and determinants for its competitiveness. Aquaculture supply chains (SCA) play an essential role in global trading and fluctuated significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many aquaculture supply chains from emerging countries faced disruption. Therefore, after the COVID-19 pandemic, these supply chains have changed their measures and determinants to improve global competitiveness. This paper examines the change in this measure and determinants of the aquaculture supply chain in Vietnam, one of the world's top 10 biggest exporting countries of aquaculture products. The paper reviews the list of measures and determinants of the aquaculture supply chain before and after the COVID-19 pandemic from the literature. It forms the framework under the shade of Resource-Based View theory. A total of 38 interviews with managers and CEOs of 36 enterprises and two government agencies in the aquaculture supply chain in Vietnam were conducted to explore the strategic changes in the measures of determinants to cope with the new circumstances of current global trade. The findings contribute to enriching the theory in the new VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) business environment after the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, SCA should be defined by supply chain virtues that are associated with the new business environment, such as SC resilience, SC sustainability, SC reliability, SC integration, etc. This finding implies a new horizon for RBV applications, highlighting their adaptability. It suggests that the measures defining competitive advantage in the new business environment should extend beyond the traditional tangible and intangible resources under business certainty. They should also encompass those that differentiate the firms and their supply chain during business turbulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the prevalence and determinants of family planning services uptake among women of reproductive age (15 to 49 years) in the Yendi municipality in the northern region of Ghana. A health facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 reproductive-aged women, sampled from 6 randomly selected health facilities in the Yendi municipality. The child welfare clinic (CWC) served as the point for the sampling of study respondents. Data was collected with questionnaires adapted from previously validated tools. Data was analysed using SPSS v27 in descriptive and inferential statistics. More than half of the respondents (54.3%) said they had ever used a family planning method and almost half of them said they were still using a family planning method. The desire to control pregnancy was a key factor for wanting family planning (79.3%). Most respondents (80.6%) had high knowledge of family planning services and injectables (37.1%) and condoms (24.7%) were the preferred family planning methods. The significant sociodemographic determinants of family planning uptake were religion (Christians (aOR: 7.51; 95%CI: 1.48–38.00:; p = 0.015), traditionalist (aOR: 12.1; 95%CI: 1.90–78.36; p = 0.009)), education (secondary education (aOR: 84.99; 95%CI: 20.02–360.84:; p = 0.000), tertiary education (aOR: 158.74; 95%CI: 33.71–747.52; p = 0.000), no formal education (aOR: 11.83; 95%CI: 2.10–46.76:; p = 0.000)), occupation (farmers (aOR: 12.30; 95%CI: 3.21–47.03; p = 0.000)), and marital status (married (aOR: 0.13; 95%CI: 0.03–0.57; p = 0.007)). Factors that made women less likely to use family planning were unfriendly service providers (aOR: 2.33; 95%CI: 1.28–4.21; p = 0.005), fear of side effects (aOR: 2.19; 95%CI: 1.19–4.05; p = 0.012), and lack of knowledge about available FP services (aOR: 0.45; 95%CI: 0.26–0.77; p = 0.004). Though the knowledge of family planning was high, current uptake of family planning services was modest and there are still sociodemographic and health-related barriers to family planning utilization. Highlighting the need for training programs and policy interventions to improve uptake, reduce financial barriers, and foster a supportive environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Temporary abstinence campaigns (TAC) are a promising approach to reduce alcohol consumption. This study examined changes in (at-risk) alcohol consumption and determinants of alcohol consumption among Belgian adults participating in the Tournée Minérale Campaign (TMC, Belgian TAC). In addition, moderating effects of age, sex, education level, successfully refraining from alcohol during TMC, risk drinking, drinking levels and binge drinking were investigated. Methods: TMC is a fully automated mass media prevention campaign challenging Belgian adults to refrain from alcohol during the month February. This study includes a baseline, post- (four weeks after TMC) and follow-up (six months after TMC) test using online recruitment and an online questionnaire. Participants were self-selected by signing up on the TMC website. Repeated measures ANCOVAs were used to examine changes over time in alcohol consumption (log transformed due to skewness) and determinants among TMC participants (n = 8,730, 48.4 ± 12.9 years old, 37.4% males) who filled in all three measurements. Moderation effects were assessed for age, sex, education level, successfully refraining from alcohol during TMC, risk drinking, drinking levels and binge drinking at baseline. McNemar tests were used to examine the change in prevalence of risk drinking and binge drinking. Results: TMC participants showed a significant decrease in weekly alcohol consumption (mean exp(x)-1) and CI) from baseline (6.2 [6.4,6.7]) to post (4.2 [4.1,4.3], F = 22.0, p <.001 d = -2.4 [-2.4,-2.3]) and from baseline to follow-up (5.1 [4.9,5.2], F = 24.2, p <.001, d = -1.5 [-1.5,-1.4]), and an increase from post to follow-up (F = 21.1, p <.001). In the short term (from baseline to post), the decreases were stronger among older, male and lower educated TMC participants, those successfully refraining during TMC, higher risk drinkers and binge drinkers. In the medium term (from baseline to follow-up), changes in alcohol consumption were moderated by education (stronger among lower educated) and risk drinking (increase in lower risk drinkers and decrease in higher risk drinkers). Participants' baseline drinking level moderated changes in alcohol consumption. Both short and medium term increases in alcohol consumption were observed among those with a low drinking level (those who drank 0 to < 4 glasses at baseline), while short and medium term decreases were observed among those with higher drinking levels, i.e. those with moderate (≥ 4 to ≤ 10 glasses), high (> 10 to ≤ 17 glasses) and highest (> 17 glasses) drinking level at baseline. A reduction in the proportion of risk drinkers and binge drinkers and changes in determinants of alcohol consumption (e.g. attitudes towards drinking less alcohol and habit of drinking alcohol) were observed among TMC participants. Conclusions: TMC participants reported favourable changes in (the underlying determinants of) alcohol consumption in the short and medium term. Higher level drinkers appear to be especially attracted to participate in TMC and to experience the strongest decreases in alcohol consumption. However, without comparison with a control group of non-participants or comparison points, we cannot simply attribute the changes over time to participation in TMC. Future research with a stronger study design is needed to rule out possible bias (e.g., selection bias, seasonal effects or regression to the mean) and to examine mechanisms and longer term effects of TACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the determinants of academia-industry collaboration (AIC) in the context of Bariloche, Argentina, and provides valuable insights into collaboration dynamics in a developing economy. Using a quantitative research approach, data was collected through a survey administered to academic researchers in Bariloche. The survey included questions on researcher characteristics, organizational attributes, and disciplinary norms, which were then tested through eight hypotheses related to factors influencing AIC. Data analysis, including descriptive and inferential statistics, revealed significant relationships between independent variables (e.g., prior career experience, organizational affiliation, disciplinary norms) and researchers' involvement in AIC. The study's limitations, such as reliance on self-reported data and non-probabilistic sampling, are acknowledged. Nevertheless, the findings contribute to the understanding of AIC in Bariloche and have implications for promoting effective academia-industry partnerships. Future research should consider longitudinal studies and explore additional factors to inform evidence-based policies in developing economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic effects of educational mismatch include its negative impact on economic growth, which is due to the inefficient allocation of resources it generates. The main causes of this phenomenon need to be determined to correctly implement policies to avoid such mismatches. This paper investigated the determinants of educational mismatch from a gender perspective by analysing its sectoral heterogeneity among the four key productive branches within the tourism sector. We employed a multinomial logit model using data from the 2018 Spanish Wage Structure Survey. The results highlight the higher probability of male overeducation in the hospitality industry and the predominance of female overeducation in the other services analysed. Likewise, there was a lower probability of male undereducation in the transport and other complementary services sectors. As a result of these findings, we propose various corrective measures to redirect specific training efforts for each of these groups, thus promoting gender equality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro and small enterprises (MSEs) play a crucial role in Ethiopia's economy. Measuring the technical efficiency of enterprises is thus of interest to various stakeholders. This study measured and estimated technical efficiency using a stochastic frontier and a maximum-likelihood approach to measure factors that determine the efficiency of enterprises. The study relied on primary data from a sample of operators collected through survey questionnaires. A multistage sampling technique was utilized to select respondents, and cross-sectional data were collected from 357 operators. The results show that operators' technical efficiency is roughly 72.3%, indicating that with existing technology, there is room to raise efficiency levels by an average of 28.1%; other factors remaining constant. The results from maximum likelihood estimation show that education level, experience level, initial investment, business plan, government support, MSE location, and motivation significantly and negatively affect technical inefficiency. In contrast, variables like other sources of income affect technical inefficiency positively. The study suggests that governmental support is crucial, with an emphasis on providing sufficient initial funding. Moreover, there is a need to offer training in business plan development and to facilitate an increase in educational standards. Additionally, careful consideration should be given to selecting optimal operational locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Post-hemithyroidectomy hypothyroidism is a recognized complication, though its incidence and risk factors remain variably reported. This study aimed to determine the incidence of hypothyroidism post-hemithyroidectomy, identify associated risk factors, and assess temporal changes in thyroid hormone levels. Methods: This retrospective analysis examined the records of 192 euthyroid patients who underwent hemithyroidectomy between January 2019 and May 2023. Thyroid function was assessed preoperatively and at 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to evaluate the time to hypothyroidism onset and identify significant predictors. Results: At 1 month postoperatively, a higher incidence was observed in elderly patients (>65 years; 31.11%) and those aged 56–65 years (29.54%), compared to younger age groups (7.69% in patients aged 18–35 years). The incidence decreased over time, with 14.06% and 10.94% of patients being hypothyroid at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Severe obesity was associated with the highest hypothyroidism rates across all follow-up periods, particularly at 1 month (50.00%). Elevated BMI was also associated with increased risk, particularly in overweight patients (HR = 2.368, 95% CI 1.016–5.523). Patients undergoing left-sided hemithyroidectomy had a higher incidence of hypothyroidism at 12 months compared to right-sided hemithyroidectomy patients (15.63% vs. 6.25%, p = 0.037). Cox regression analysis confirmed diabetes and BMI (overweight) as significant predictors of hypothyroidism. Conclusions: Hypothyroidism is a common complication following hemithyroidectomy, particularly in elderly and overweight patients. The significant early onset of thyroid dysfunction underscores the need for routine postoperative monitoring, especially within the first year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite several benefits, the crop insurance adoption rate is observed as low in India. Numerous studies have, therefore, enquired about the reason behind low adoption, and further, a few cross-section studies have estimated its impact on farmers' well-being, and the findings are mixed in nature. Using data from both rounds of the India Human Development Survey (IHDS), i.e. 2004–2005 and 2011–2012, this study aims to identify the major determinants of adoption and to evaluate its impact on farm households' well-being. In the case of the former, we find the major determinants, namely, education of the household head, livestock ownership, outstanding debt, landholding, membership in credit groups, access to several government benefits, and previously experienced disasters. Employing a difference-in-difference (DID) model for the latter, we observe that crop insurance improves farmers' well-being, i.e. per-capita consumption expenditure was 12–28% more for the insured farmers between 2004–2005 and 2011–2012. Hence, this study advocates for further scaling up crop insurance adoption in India as it supports the farmers to diversify risks and smoothening consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of industrial land layout is a significant feature of changes in urban land use types during rapid urbanization. However, the theoretical studies investigating the evolution mechanism behind industrial land are scarce. This study developed a dynamic theoretical framework examining the relationship between government and market forces. Furthermore, this study examined the determinants of industrial land evolution in Xi'an from 1994 to 2019 by using a logistic regression model. The results showed that industrial land area increased from 55.02 km2 to 126.63 km2 from 1994 to 2013 but later rapidly reduced to 106.61 km2 in 2019. The spatial distribution of industrial land exhibited significant deindustrialization and suburbanization during park-orientated agglomeration and showed a shift from large-area small-patch to multi-center large-patch agglomeration. Factors such as development zone policies, land prices, agglomeration benefits, land supply, and transportation infrastructure are key determinants of suburbanization, while land prices and agglomeration benefits are key determinants of deindustrialization. This study reveals the mechanisms driving industrial land evolution and offers guidance in improving the rationality of urban land layout and achieving industry–city integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Substance use remains a public health threat with serious effects. It may be predicted by complex factors ranging from family to psychosocial disparities. We examined the magnitude of substance use and its influence on families among adolescents from Gitagata Rehabilitation Center. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 57 adolescents was conducted. Results: Our findings revealed that the proportion of substance users was higher (42 of 57 teens) than the proportion of non-substance users. Socio-demographic influences such as occupation, age and residence significantly increased the odds of substance use at p <.05. Adolescents who experienced domestic violence were more likely to be substance users [OR = 3.56; 95%CI (1.12–11.3)] than those who did not experience domestic violence. Children who were not neglected by their families were less likely to become substance users than neglected children [OR = 0.05; 95% CI (0.01–0.29)]. Adolescents from low-functioning families were more likely to be substance users [OR = 5.18; 95% CI (1.58–16.95)] than those from proper-functioning families. Those who were not properly monitored by their parents were more likely to use drugs [OR = 5.62; 95% CI (2.52–12.5)]. Conclusion: A multidisciplinary team is required to step up efforts to inform parents about their responsibility in lowering the likelihood that their children may use drugs by enhancing parental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During public health emergencies, studying the travel characteristics and influencing factors of shared bicycles during different time periods on weekdays can provide valuable insights for urban transportation planning and offer recommendations for bike-sharing systems (BSS) affected by such events. Utilizing bike-sharing data, this study initiated the analysis by scrutinizing the spatial flow patterns in the core area of Beijing, employing network indicators within the framework of complex network theory. Subsequently, influencing factors associated with bike-sharing trips were pinpointed using the exponential random graph model (ERGM). Using COVID-19 as an example, it examines the impact of public health emergencies on bike-sharing during multiple time periods. Supported by the network analysis method, our findings revealed that the majority of travel activities occurred between adjacent areas. Throughout weekdays, a consistent level of travel activity was observed, exhibiting distinct patterns during daytime and nighttime. The period from 4:00 to 8:00 emerged as the peak time, characterized by heightened traffic and temperature changes. Morning commuting extended until 8:00–12:00, followed by a transition period from 12:00–16:00. The most active travel time, encompassing various purposes, was identified as 16:00–20:00. Additionally, the presence of hospitals and train stations amplified travel within the pandemic-affected area. Finally, variants of ERGMs were employed to assess the influence of finance, shopping, dining, education, transportation, roads, and COVID-19 on bike-sharing activities. The road network emerged as the most critical factor, exhibiting a significant negative impact. Conversely, COVID-19 had the most pronounced positive influence, with transportation stops and educational institutions also contributing significantly in a positive manner. This research provides valuable transportation planning insights for addressing public health emergencies and promotes the effective utilization of bike-sharing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, in ~50% of epilepsy cases, the underlying cause remains unknown, despite the fact that various disease pathways may contribute to the condition. Nearly 80% of people with epilepsy live in low- and middle-income countries and the risk of premature death in people with epilepsy is up to three times higher than that for the general population. Identifying the determinants of epilepsy is important for applying evidence-based interventions to achieve a better outcome. However, this information is scarce in a country with limited resources like Ethiopia. Objective: This study aimed to assess the determinant of epilepsy among outpatients in Dawo public health institutions, from 29 February to 15 April 2023. Method: An institution-based unmatched case-control study design was used, involving 61 cases and 122 control study subjects, who were selected using a consecutive sampling technique from public health institutions in Dawo. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. The data were coded, entered into EpiDATA version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 20, for further analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to determine the percentages and frequency distributions. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the determinants of epilepsy, and a variable with p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 61 cases and 120 controls were included in the study, with an overall response rate of 98.90%. The majority of participants, 38 (62.3) of the cases and 63 (52.5) of the controls, were farmers by occupation. A family history of epilepsy (AOR = 13.71 95% CI 3.030–22.006), history of febrile seizure (AOR = 14.57 95% CI 2.930–24.522), history of head injury (AOR = 6.853 95% CI 1.780–16.402), and non-use of latrine were found to be determinants of epilepsy (AOR = 0.028 95% CI 0.008–0.040). Conclusion and recommendations: The current study identified a family history of epilepsy, a history of febrile seizures, head injury, and unavailability of latrines as independent predictors of epilepsy in the study area. The information that adverse febrile seizures increase the risk of epilepsy suggests that a significant proportion of epilepsy cases in Dawo district could be prevented through improved maternal, neonatal, and child care. It is recommended that the Dawo Health Office, along with relevant stakeholders, focus on addressing this issue at various levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting is frequently associated with complications of which shunt-related infections are the most common. However, controversies still exist regarding the underlying factors. This study comparing peri-operative skin preparation agents was aimed at determining which factors among previously documented determinants of shunt infection are implicated in our practice setting. Fifty-four patients with hydrocephalus were allotted into two groups (Group I had pre- surgical skin preparation with povidone– iodine while Group II had pre– surgical skin preparation with 2% chlorhexidine gluconate-alcohol prior to VP shunting). The same brand and dose of prophylactic antibiotics were administered in both groups at induction of anaesthesia. Similar irrigation fluid constituted with similar antibiotics at the same concentration was used in both groups. Chhabra brand of VP shunt system as well as the same types of sutures was used for both groups. The patients were followed up over 6 months for VP shunt infection. Analysis of the data collected was done and p-value was set at ≤ 0.05. Of the 54 patients, 14 (25.9%) patients developed post-operative infections, with 9(64.3%) in Group I and the remaining 5(35.7%) in Group II. The infection rate for Group I (9 out of 30) was 30.0% while the infection rate for Group II (5 out of 24) was 20.8%. There was however no statistically significant difference in the rates of infection between both groups (p = 0.445). The occurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection was not found to be dependent on choice of the skin preparatory agent, cadre of the operating surgeon, duration of surgery, patients' gender, or body mass index (BMI). Findings from this study support previous recommendations that the choice of skin preparation agent for pre-operative skin antisepsis in VP shunting should simply be based on other factors such as the surgeon's preference, sound knowledge of the agent itself, its efficacy and cost. Type of study: Clinical research. Level of evidence: Level II. Highlights: Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting is frequently associated with complications of which shunt-related infections are the most common. Findings from this study support previous recommendations that the choice of skin preparation agent for pre-operative skin antisepsis in VP shunting should simply be based on other factors such as the surgeon's preference, sound knowledge of the agent itself, its efficacy and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports an investigation of the determinants of femicide using the context of Ecuador as case of study. To do so, we use official data spanning 2018 to 2022 from the National Survey on Family Relations and Gender Violence against Women in Ecuador with a dataset revealing 1,325 femicides and violent deaths of cisgender women and girls. Using a probit regression model, we find that several variables related to perpetrators' such as level of education, employment status, and variables related to the crime itself such as location emerge as pivotal factors in understanding femicide incidents. This study contributes to a more profound comprehension of femicide's multifaceted determinants, emphasizing the dynamic nature of these factors. The research aids in the development of evidence-based policies to address this societal issue effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of electric vehicle (EV) demand in Korea is closely tied to the challenge of optimal charging station placement. Despite the quantitative increase in charging stations, their uneven spatial distribution remains a significant issue, as highlighted by several related studies. This research analyzes the factors influencing the location of public electric vehicle fast-charging stations (PEVFCSs) in Korea's Seoul Metropolitan Area (SMA). Our analysis reveals that the SMA has yet to implement a systematic urban planning approach for PEVFCS placement. Interestingly, traffic volume is negatively correlated with PEVFCS location, contrary to expectations. Through a comprehensive diagnosis of the current situation, we offer valuable insights and lessons learned from the SMA experience. These findings contribute to the development of plausible policies for more effective PEVFCS distribution in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) have the highest HIV prevalence in Uganda. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been recommended as a key component of the HIV combination prevention strategy. Although patient initiation of PrEP has improved, continuation rates remain low. This study evaluated PrEP continuation among FSWs and explored potential determinants of PrEP adherence within a public referral hospital in urban Uganda. Methods: We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed method study at Kiruddu National referral hospital in Uganda. Secondary data on socio demographic characteristics and follow up outcomes of at least one year was collected for all FSWs who were initiated PrEP between May 2020 and April 2021 and data analyzed on July 15,2023. We used Kaplan–Meier survival analysis to evaluate continuation on PrEP from time of initiation and follow-up period. The capability, opportunity, and motivation to change behaviour model was used to explore perspectives and practices of FSWs (n = 24) and health care providers (n = 8) on continuation on PrEP among FSWs, using semi structured interviews. The qualitative data was deductively coded and analyzed thematically, categorizing the themes related to PrEP continuation as facilitators and barriers. Results: Of the 292 FSWs initiated on PrEP, median age was 26 years (interquartile range, 21–29), 101 (34.6) % were active on PrEP, 137 (46.9%) were lost to follow-up, 45 (15.4%) were no longer eligible to continue PrEP, eight (2.7%) were transferred out and one (0.3%) had died. Median survival time on PrEP was 15 months (Interquartile range IQR, 3–21). The continuation rates on PrEP at six (6) and 12 months were 61.1% and 53.1%, respectively. Facilitators of PrEP continuation included awareness of risk associated with sex work, integration of PrEP with other HIV prevention services, presence of PrEP Peer support and use of Drop-in centers. The barriers included low community awareness about PrEP, high mobility of sex workers, substance abuse, and the unfavorable daytime clinic schedules. However, the quantitative findings from the multivariable Cox Proportional Hazards Model did not align with the reported findings for the qualitative evaluation. Conclusion: Continuation on PrEP remains low among FSWs. Interventions for PrEP continuation should address barriers such as low community awareness of PrEP, substance abuse and restrictive health facility policies for scale of the PrEP program among FSWs in Uganda. Integration of PrEP with other services and scale up of community PrEP delivery structures may improve its continuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The WHO considers anemia in pregnancy a severe public health issue when prevalence surpasses 40%. In response, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine anemia among pregnant women in Egypt, focusing on its prevalence, determinants, and associated complications. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search for studies published between January 1, 2010, and August 18, 2024, to identify studies from Egypt reporting on anemia in pregnant women, including its prevalence, associated determinants, and complications. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model to estimate pooled prevalence, odds ratios (OR), and standardized mean differences (SMD). Sensitivity analyses and publication bias were performed. All statistical analyses were conducted using R software. Results: Eighteen studies met the eligibility criteria with a total sample size of 14,548. The overall prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 49% (95% CI: 42–57), with no significant difference between Upper and Lower Egypt (P = 0.66). The sensitivity analysis demonstrated the absence of influential outliers and Egger's test indicated no evidence of publication bias (P = 0.17). Anemia prevalence was significantly higher in the third trimester (65%) compared to the second trimester (47%) (P = 0.03). Among anemic pregnant women, most cases were mild (47%) and moderate (47%). The determinants of anemia among pregnant women included being over 30 years old (OR: 1.95), residing in rural areas (OR: 1.76), illiteracy (OR: 1.93), birth spacing < 2 years (OR: 2.04), lack of iron supplementation (OR: 2.59), presence of intestinal parasites (OR: 1.38), antenatal visits < 5 (OR: 5.27), multiparity, and low income, all with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Regarding dietary determinants, a low intake of meat, vegetables, fruits, and high tea consumption was consistently associated with a higher risk of anemia. For neonatal complications, infants born to anemic mothers had significantly lower Apgar scores, gestational ages, and birth weights (P < 0.05), with birth weight being the most adversely impacted (SMD = -1.3). Conclusions: This meta-analysis shows 49% anemia prevalence in pregnant Egyptian women, indicating severe health concern. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at addressing the key determinants identified in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metabolic syndrome has become a major public health problem worldwide and is attributable to the spread of different non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary artery diseases, stroke, and permanent or temporary disabilities. It is not a single disease entity but encompasses different risk factors. However, there were inconsistencies among previously conducted primary studies, hence this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled prevalence and determinants of metabolic syndrome among type2 diabetes patients in Ethiopia. Method: First-hand studies about the metabolic syndrome among adult type 2 diabetic patients in Ethiopia were searched through known and international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochran Library) and search engines (Google and Google Scholar). Data was extracted using a standard data extraction checklist developed according to Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The I2 statistics are used to identify heterogeneity across studies. Funnel plot asymmetry and Egger's tests were used to check for publication bias. A random effect model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among non-insulin-dependent patients in Ethiopia. The STATA version 11 software employed for statistical analysis was conducted using STATA version 11 software. Result: The overall pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome among type2 diabetic patients in was 54.56% [95%CI (43.73, 65.38), I2 = 97.0%, P = 0.001] using NCEP-ATP III, 48.32% [95%CI (42.1, 54.44), I2 = 97.0%, P = 0.001] IDF diagnosis criteria, 47.0[95%CI(27.01–66.99)], I2 = 97.5%, p = 0.001 using WHO and 59.37%(95%CI(47.21–71.52), I2 = 91.2%, p = 0.001 using harmonized diagnosis criteria respectively. This meta-analysis identified several significant predictors of metabolic syndrome among type 2 diabetes patients in Ethiopia. The odds of having metabolic syndrome was reduced for females (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.35–0.87) compared to males. However, the odds of metabolic syndrome increased with alcohol intake (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.03–2.01), the odds of living in urban areas(AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.55–2.88), and the odds of having a diabetes duration of six or more years since diagnosis (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.17–7.41) were significant predictors. Conclusion: The pooled prevalence was considerably high among type 2 diabetic patients in Ethiopia. The pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome varies as per the diagnosis criteria used with the highest observed in harmonized diagnosis criteria. Being female, being rural residency, alcohol intake, and duration of diabetes since diagnosis were significant predictors of metabolic syndrome among type 2 diabetic patients in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Existing evidence suggests a lower uptake of cervical cancer screening among Indian women. Coverage is lower in rural than urban women, but such disparities are less explored. So, the present study was conducted to explore the self-reported coverage of cervical cancer screening in urban and rural areas stratified by socio-demographic characteristics, determine the spatial patterns and identify any regional variations, ascertain the factors contributing to urban-rural disparities and those influencing the likelihood of screening among women aged 30–49 years factors residing in urban, rural, and overall Indian settings. Methods: We did a secondary analysis of the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey in India (2019-21) data with a sample size of 3,48,882 women. The coverage of cervical cancer screening was estimated using sampling weights. Urban-rural differences were compared using the chi-square test. Spatial patterns were analysed using aggregated district-level data, and the contribution of different independent variables to the urban-rural disparities was estimated using multivariate decomposition analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted using STATA 17 to obtain the significant factors of reported screening in urban and rural areas. Results: The nationwide coverage of cervical cancer screening was 2.0% (95% CI: 1.9-2.0). The urban (2.4%; 2.3–2.5) participants had higher screening coverage than their rural (1.8%; 1.7–1.8) counterparts. Moran's I statistic confirmed the presence of spatial dependence and geographical gradient. Decomposition analysis depicted small urban-rural differences in the screening coverage of 0.60% (0.4–0.8). Endowment and coefficient contributed to 88.15% and 11.85% of the disparities. Compositional changes were contributed majorly by regional differences, low education, scheduled tribes, and having living children > 2. Higher odds of having screening were associated with older age (AOR 1.45, 95% CI: 1.03–1.28), higher education (1.32; 1.13–1.55), higher age of first intercourse (1.60; 1.43–1.79), married (1.25; 1.08–1.45) and diabetic (1.39; 1.17–1.65) women, and those from South India (6.76; 5.90–7.75). The odds were lower among Muslims, scheduled tribes and participants using hormonal contraceptives. Conclusion: There are significant urban-rural disparities in cervical cancer screening uptake that can be attributed to regional variation, educational inequalities, tribal groups, socio-economic inequalities and parity, necessitating the need to comprehensively design tailor-made advocacy initiatives and simultaneously address the broader determinants of health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is advocated that smallholder coffee farmers' characteristics and perceptions strongly affect the use and selection of climate variability/change response mechanisms. Therefore, we investigated the climate change/variability perceptions and determining factors of the selection of smallholder coffee farmers' adaptation strategies over the period 1992--2022 in Mattu woreda, Ethiopia. This study used cross-sectional research design as the data was collected from different groups (adaptor and non-adaptor) at a time. A sample of 325 coffee farmers were randomly selected for a self-administered questionnaire supplemented with face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions. A multinomial logistic regression model was used for statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that 79% of coffee farmers are conscious of the prevailing climate change and related consequences on coffee growth, production, productivity, and quality. Coffee farmers practiced planting coffee under shade, close spacing, mulching, and irrigation, developing an adaptable coffee variety, developing disease and heat-tolerant varieties, changing the location and planting date, and pruning as strategies to lessen the influence of climatic change on coffee production. However, most coffee farmers prefer to plant coffee under shade and pruning. The selection of climate change/variability adaptation strategies among coffee farmers is significantly influenced by age, family size, coffee farm experience, land holding size, income of HHs, distance to coffee farm plots, access to climate information, and training and TLU (P < 0.05). Therefore, provision of climate information, extension services, and seed varieties to farmers, and improving social and physical infrastructures are recommended to better adapt and mitigate the effect of climate change/variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the key determinants of European banks' profitability by analyzing the return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), net interest margin (NIM), and the risk-adjusted measures of profitability, RAROAA and RAROAE, across 34 European countries during the period from 2013 to 2018—a time characterized by economic recovery and significant regulatory reforms, including the implementation of Basel III standards. Using the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach and data of 3076 European banks, the research addresses the complex interplay between internal (bank-specific) factors and external factors, including macroeconomic and industry-specific factors. The results show that profitability is positively associated with a higher capital adequacy, liquidity risk, and income diversification, but not for risk-adjusted profitability ratios. Credit risk, management efficiency, and excessive size have a negative effect on all studied profitability measures. Macroeconomic conditions, in particular, GDP growth and inflation, also have a significant impact on profitability. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions aiming to enhance profitability while maintaining the stability of the European banking sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for CHD in western and Asian population. It has been found to be associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, including tobacco smoking, lack of physical activity, and alcohol consumption. High- and low- and middle-income countries have shown increasing trends in the prevalence of hypertension. A facility based cross sectional study was conducted in a health care facility of Srinagar, Kashmir (India) which aimed at assessing the prevalence and determinants of hypertension, including age, education, occupation, monthly family income, BMI, family history of hypertension, smoking, physical activity, psychosocial stress. Materials and Methods. 450 people aging 20 years and above (both male and female) attending a health care facility in Srinagar Kashmir (India) were interviewed for sociodemographic data including age, education, occupation, monthly family income, family history of hypertension, psychosocial stress, smoking habits, and physical activity. They were also examined for BP; and height/weight (to estimate (BMI). Frequencies and Pearson’s chi-square test [with 5% significance level] were implemented to estimate determinants of hypertension Results. Our analysis yielded that out of 450 subjects, 280 (62.22%) were normotensive whereas hypertension was prevalent among 170 (37.78%). Hypertension was highly prevalent in 50-64 years (66.15%) and > 64 years (56%) with post graduation or more qualification (66.67%) and subjects with no formal education (44.95%). Housewives and self employed subjects (70% and 69.77% respectively), subjects with monthly family income of Rs 10000-20000 (91.30%) had highest prevalence The prevalence of hypertension in relation to BMI of >30 was 45.03%, The association of hypertension with family history of hypertension was highly significant with prevalence in such subjects as 83.62%, The prevalence of hypertension was very high in current smokers (86.46%) and in subjects with tedious physical activity (76.11%). In this study psychosocial stress has indicated significant association with hypertension though the prevalence was high in subjects whose response was ‘no’ (69.23%) as compared to those subjects whose response was ‘yes’ and ‘to some extent’ where prevalence rate was almost equal (33.60% and 33.77% respectively) Conclusion: The high prevalence of hypertension in the study population might be attributed to their poor knowledge, poor dietary habits, household smoke inhalation, and inadequate lifestyle habits, stress, poor dietary habits, poor working conditions, and lack of access to health services. Thus there is dire need of life style modifications and health behaviour interventions to be operated at every community, public places, offices, industries schools to curb the problem at infancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates operational and production determinants that significantly influence small-scale transitioning to commercial farming among female agripreneurs, the implications for food security and gender equality with various elements impacting the commercialization of agricultural production in emerging economies. A quantitative research design was used in this research. This study was conducted in the emerging economic zone, the Vhembe district of Limpopo province where agricultural activities dominate. A purposive sampling was used to select 149 female agripreneurs. Structured questionnaires were handed to the participants during the in-person interview sessions. The study results reveal that the sample was dominated by elderly agripreneurs who primarily relied on permission to occupy arrangements for land security. The study findings exhibit that operation determinants such as type of farming and record keeping were positive contributors towards commercialization among female agripreneurs. Meanwhile, production elements such as commodity types regressed the commercialization effort among female agripreneurs. The study findings imply that policy tools should advocate for land security among female agripreneurs as they enhance the implementation of their long-term agricultural plans. The study findings suggest that emerging female agripreneurs should be made aware of various farming types that propel commercialization within a shorter period due to their lifecycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the institutional, macroeconomic and firm-specific determinants of financial leverage in Vietnam and provides new evidence from the dynamic panel fractional estimator. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a panel dataset of 859 Vietnamese firms from 2008 to 2022 and employs three estimators: Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), System Generalized Method of Moments (SysGMM) and Dynamic Panel Fractional (DPF), with DPF being particularly suitable for handling fractional dependent variables and the dynamic nature of financial leverage. Findings: The results confirm the dynamic nature of the financial leverage model, with firm-specific factors, institutional factors and macroeconomic factors playing significant roles in shaping firms' financing decisions. The DPF estimator highlights the positive impact of stock market development on leverage. This study contributes to the literature by providing new evidence on the determinants of leverage in Vietnam, using the DPF estimator for more accurate estimation and revealing the significant impact of the size of the banking sector, the size of the stock market, the stock market development index, the financial development index and the corruption perception index on leverage. Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature by providing new evidence on the dynamic nature of the financial leverage model and the impact of institutional, macroeconomic and firm-specific factors on financial leverage in the context of Vietnam. The use of the DPF estimator allows for a more accurate and reliable estimation of the determinants of leverage, considering the fractional nature of the dependent variable and the persistence of capital structure decisions over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With its presence, which can create inefficiencies, uncertainties and risks, information asymmetry poses a significant challenge to successfully managing the agri-food supply chain (AFSC). Understanding the variables that influence information asymmetry is crucial for devising more effective strategies to mitigate it. This study, therefore, explores the variables that influence information asymmetry in the AFSC. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative analysis was conducted, relying on semi-structured interviews with 17 experts representing different actors in the AFSC (e.g. seed producers, retailers, etc.) in Germany. The collected data was analysed using the GABEK® method. Findings: The study confirms that the influencing variables derived from the existing theory, such as price performance, digitalisation, environmental, process and quality measures, contribute to information asymmetry. It further reveals new variables that associate with information asymmetry, including documentation requirements, increasing regulation, consumer behaviour, incorrect data within the company as well as crises, political conflicts and supplier–buyer conflicts. Furthermore, the study shows that supply chain actors counteract asymmetry by focusing on social behaviour and monitoring suppliers through key performance indicators, employees and social aspects. Research limitations/implications: The study was limited to the universal influence of the variables on information asymmetry in the AFSC, making the magnitude of the influence and its context-specific nature unexplained. Originality/value: This study is one of the very few that examines information asymmetry across the AFSC from the perspective of different actors, providing a more overarching and deeper understanding of information asymmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Pediatric primary care (PPC) is a common treatment site for pediatric mental health, but it is currently unable to meet the needs of all teen patients, particularly those with minoritized identities and/or marginalized experiences. Digital mental health (DMH) low-intensity treatments (LITs) can increase mental health screening and care capacity in PPC, but how this is done successfully without burdening providers, patients, or families is unclear. This paper presents a pre-implementation study aimed at understanding the implementation context (PPCs in Chicago, IL) for a specific DMH LIT. Method Using a mixed-methods design, quantitative data from an online survey of providers assessed current DMH practices in PPC, and qualitative interviews with Pediatricians and Pediatric Psychologists examined implementation determinants for a specific DMH LIT. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and interviews were analyzed using rapid qualitative assessment. Results Survey reports (n  =   105) and interviews (n  =   6) indicated low current use of DMH. Providers in PPC clinics voiced multiple reasons for low usage and low perceived feasibility, including: Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) Inner Setting Domain (PPC clinic workflow, responsibility and ethical considerations, patient privacy and confidentiality), CFIR Outer Setting Domain (hospital and healthcare system factors), CFIR Innovation Domain (DMH design), and a cross-cutting theme of safety. Conclusions Provider-reported low feasibility for integrating DMH in PPC is a call to action to partner with interdisciplinary colleagues and identify how such settings can ethically and seamlessly deliver digital evidence-based and accessible screening and care prior to implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is the largest turbot farming in the world, where germplasm source security is closely related to national security. To further promote the sustainable development of the turbot aquaculture industry, the China Marine Fish Industry Technology System team has developed a new variety of fast-growing turbot (hereinafter referred to as new varieties) in 2012. However, the promotion effect of new varieties has not reached the expectation, requiring research on the adoption behavior analysis of new varieties. Based on 272 turbot farmers, this study conducts theoretical analysis of framework of new varieties adoption, uses the binary Logit regression model to analyze the determinants of new varieties adoption behavior based on the perspective of heterogeneity. Heterogeneity means that farmers have certain differences, including differences in age, farming scale and enterprise form. Findings indicated that the adoption behavior of new varieties was affected by farming scale, education level, farming years, risk preference, channels of obtaining information, training effect, and government incentives. The adoption behavior of new varieties is group heterogeneity. The causes of low adoption rate of new varieties are farmer's lower risk preference, lower benefit of communication and limited government incentives. The results indicated that new varieties are more likely to be adopted in enterprises, young adult, and large-scale farmers groups. Policy implications from this research included strengthen government incentives for the promotion of new varieties, constructing the systematic and long-term training system and constructing the farmerscentered promotion system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Graduates' employability has been recognised as a complex and multidimensional phenomenon in the theoretical literature. However, some critics have emerged around the lack of relation between structural, contextual and individual dimensions that have been acknowledged as relevant for the understanding of graduates' employability. This study aims to map empirical research, grounded on a scoping and integrative review of the research published to date on the determinants of graduates' employability and offer a wider perspective of the knowledge produced across different disciplinary fields, and theoretical and methodological approaches. Design/methodology/approach: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol for Scoping Reviews, a systematic and extensive search of the literature was carried out and 74 studies focusing on the determinants of graduates' employability were selected through inclusion and exclusion criteria. Then, data were extracted, analysed and interpreted with quantitative and qualitative techniques. Findings: The results evidence that multiple factors mainly related to higher education attributes, educational arrangement, personal and interpersonal attributes, and socioeconomic conditions predict the odds of obtaining a job after graduation. This review also demonstrates some fragmentation of knowledge produced in this field and identifies a lack of an integrative approach, calling for more multidisciplinary research that might favour a more comprehensive knowledge of graduates' employability. Originality/value: By considering the different factors together, from individual and contextual levels, the present review offers an original and clearer overall picture of what is currently known and what is still unresearched about the determinants of graduates' employability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to identify a combination of clinical, demographic, and patient competence determinants of patients’ communication with doctors and nurses in an international sample of cancer patients. Methods: For our cross-sectional study, cancer patients assessed their communication with their doctors or nurses at the start of their treatment. Patients completed EORTC communication questionnaire QLQ-COMU26 to assess ten areas of communication with their doctor or nurses plus another item to assess how competent they felt when communicating with professionals. Bivariable analyses and multivariable linear regression models were performed separately for each QLQ-COMU26 area. Results: Included in the study were 988 patients from 15 centres in 13 countries (five cultural areas). Higher age was related to higher level of communication in eight QLQ-COMU26 areas. Males reported higher level of communication in three areas. Lower levels of studies and higher level of perceived competence when communicating with professionals were related to higher level of communication in the ten QLQ-COMU26 areas. Communication was of a higher level with nurses than with doctors in four areas. Having received previous treatment with the same doctor or group of nurses was related to higher communication levels in seven areas. Lack of comorbidity was related to higher communication levels in two areas. Various differences in determinants were found among tumour sites. Conclusion: Our regression model has shown several relationships between communication and the demographic and clinical variables that may help identify patients at risk of poor communication. Future studies could focus on communication at diagnosis and in follow-up, and on areas such as assessing the particularities of communication between patient and professionals in relation to cancer type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to examine the various internal and external factors affecting the financial stability of Indian Commercial Banks. The aim is to improve the effectiveness of the Indian banking system in facilitating the transmission of monetary policy and to strengthen its resilience in the event of a banking crisis. Design/methodology/approach: A panel data regression analysis is employed on unbalanced panel data of Indian commercial banks including public sector, private sector and foreign sector banks for the period of 2005–2022. Findings: This study revealed that Indian banks with higher profits and high capitalization are more stable than others. However, banks with large bank size and high management costs are less stable as compared to other banks. In the case of macroeconomic variables, foreign exchange reserves have a significant positive impact on banking stability. Moreover, the unemployment rate has a significant negative impact on the banking stability of India. Research limitations/implications: Research identifies relevant micro and macroeconomic drivers pertaining to India's banking stability, a developing economy. These findings have significant implications and can attract the attention of analysts, regulators, bankers and academicians in this area. Nevertheless, the scope of the study is limited to the variables chosen to evaluate their contribution to banking stability, but other variables may influence Indian banking conditions. Practical implications: Indian banks are advised by the research to place a high priority on profitability, capitalization and effective risk management. Customers and investors should choose banks with strong metrics. The priorities for policymakers should be preserving robust reserves and tackling unemployment with focused initiatives. Adopting digitalization can improve banks' customer service and operational effectiveness, which is important for overcoming economic obstacles. These tactics provide doable measures to improve the resilience and stability of the banking industry in India and other emerging nations. Originality/value: This research differentiates from the rest by focusing solely on the Indian banking system, in contrast to previous ones that often treated India as part of a bigger part like the BRICS or South Asia continent. It acknowledges the need to comprehending the unique traits and difficulties faced by the Indian banking system. Moreover, the current study distinguishes itself by focusing on the combined impact of microeconomic and macroeconomic indicators in the Indian context, unlike earlier research that concentrated on assessing the effects of individual variables. The current study also investigated new variables like corporate governance and foreign exchange reserves in the context of Indian banking which have not been explored by existing literature. Research is also crucial in the context of the analysis's time frame, since it captures the period of economic transformation that included demonization, implementation of GST, major mergers and global COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives. Traditional dietary patterns are being abandoned in Mediterranean countries, especially among younger generations. This study aimed to investigate the potential lifestyle determinants that can increase adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents. Methods. This study is a cross-sectional analysis of data from five Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain, Portugal, Egypt, and Lebanon) within the context of the EU-funded project DELICIOUS (UnDErstanding consumer food choices & promotion of healthy and sustainable Mediterranean Diet and LIfestyle in Children and adolescents through behavIOUral change actionS). This study comprised information on 2011 children and adolescents aged 6–17 years old collected during 2023. The main background characteristics of both children and parents, including age, sex, education, and family situation, were collected. Children's eating (i.e., breakfast, place of eating, etc.) and lifestyle habits (i.e., physical activity level, sleep, and screen time) were also investigated. The level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the KIDMED index. Logistic regression analyses were performed to test for likelihood of higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Results. Major determinants of higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet were younger age, higher physical activity level, adequate sleep duration, and, among dietary habits, having breakfast and eating with family members and at school. Parents' younger age and higher education were also determinants of higher adherence. Multivariate adjusted analyses showed that an overall healthier lifestyle and parents' education were the factors independently associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Conclusions. Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents living in the Mediterranean area is part of an overall healthy lifestyle possibly depending on parents' cultural background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a predominant cause of vision impairment globally. Understanding risk factors is crucial for effective planning. The aim of this study is to comprehensively investigate the risk factors in the Indian population contributing to the increased incidence of DR, which is a potentially sight-threatening complication among diabetic individuals. A comprehensive literature search was done on PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases for epidemiological studies reporting risk factors in the adult Indian population in the English language. Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) critical appraisal tools were used to assess the quality of the included studies. Analysis was performed using R studio. I2 statistic was used for the assessment of heterogeneity. Results are expressed as odds ratio (OR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) along with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Overall, 20 studies enrolling 4,12,421 patients with 1,04,104 DR-positive and 3,08,317 DR-negative adults were analyzed. Being male (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.11–1.72), intake of insulin (OR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.02–4.14), higher HbA1c levels (MD: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.06–0.94), higher random (MD: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.10–0.55), and fasting blood glucose levels (MD: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.10–0.93) were found to be significantly associated with increased risks of DR among diabetic patients, while age, body mass index, hypertension, lipid profile, and smoking status did not indicate any association with DR. Good glycemic control remains the most important modifiable risk factor to reduce the risk of progression of DR and vision loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The percentage of food waste generation has increased in Indonesia for 20 years, with 80% of food waste coming from households. This can cause various significant negative impacts on the environment, economy and social. Various factors affect the production of household food waste. This study aims to analyze household food waste based on its quantity, type, and determinants. This study uses some secondary data from primary research conducted by Swamilaksita (2024) with a cross-sectional design. The study sample of 110 households was selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Food waste data was obtained through direct measurement using the SNI 19-3964-1994 method. The entire data was analyzed descriptively, while multiple linear regression analysis was carried out to determine the determinants of household food waste. This study showed that the average amount offood waste was 318.4 g/HH/day and 76.7 g/cap/day. The cereal group was the most discarded food group, followed by vegetables and fruits group. Only three variables were proven to be statistically significant (p-value<0.1) affect the average amount of household food waste, namely the number of household members (p=0.000), mother work as civil servant/private employee (p=0.049), and purchasing and spending behavior (p=0.084). The conclusion was there is an average amount of food waste in units per household and per capita, with the dominant food group is the cereal group, as well as the determinants of household food waste, including number of household members, mother work as a civil servant/private employee, and purchasing and spending behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, is one of the most prevalent conditions among adolescents and young females globally, significantly affecting academic performance, quality of life, and social interactions. Despite its high prevalence, dysmenorrhea has been rarely investigated in Saudi Arabia, resulting in a scarcity of national data. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, severity, and determinants of dysmenorrhea among females in Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study included 1026 participants recruited from various regions of Saudi Arabia using a convenience sampling technique. Data collection was conducted using a validated, self-administered online questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to evaluate the prevalence, severity, and associated symptoms of dysmenorrhea. Additionally, multiple logistic regression was employed to identify the determinants of dysmenorrhea within the sample. The analysis was performed using R software. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea among the sample was 87%, with a mean pain score of 6 ± 2.2. Common menstrual cycle-associated symptoms included mood swings (79%), abdominal bloating (60%), diarrhea (32%), and constipation (26%). Factors associated with an increased risk of dysmenorrhea included Saudi nationality (OR = 1.96, p = 0.032), employment (OR = 1.75, p = 0.034), and a history of gynecological surgeries (OR = 1.81, p = 0.045). Conversely, multiparity was associated with a reduced risk of dysmenorrhea (OR = 0.36, p = 0.046). Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent among Saudi women and is accompanied by significant menstrual symptoms that adversely affect quality of life. Understanding its determinants and associated symptoms is essential for improving management strategies and mitigating its impact on women's lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]