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Purpose: Content analysis of school websites may reveal the degree to which schools value physical education (PE) and physical activity (PA). We used the approach to quantify Maryland's private school websites' PE/PA content and associations with school characteristics. Method: The analytic sample (n = 387) was examined for mention of PE-/PA-related content (e.g., curriculum, dosage, intramurals). Associations between content and school characteristics (e.g., grade levels offered, religious orientation) were examined using Pearson's chi-squared test. Results: PE (∼75% of school websites) was mentioned most frequently, and PA images and PE curriculum (∼30% each) were mentioned least frequently. Elementary and Catholic school websites were proportionately less and more likely, respectively, to mention various PE/PA content. Discussion/Conclusion: Representation of PE/PA content among Maryland's private schools surpassed that found in previous studies. Nonetheless, relative omission of some content may allude to PE/PA being less valued compared with other academic subjects. Follow-up with stakeholders may help elucidate factors that influence content gatekeeping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The psychological study of resilience has increasingly underscored the need for children and families to access material and psychological resources to positively adapt to significant stress. Redistributive policies—policies that downwardly reallocate society's social and economic resources—can offer economically disadvantaged families sustained access to these resources and mitigate the harmful impacts of adversity. This conceptual article builds upon and integrates insights from psychological and policy research to develop a unifying multilevel resilience framework, which we call the Social Determinants of Resilience. We examine four U.S. redistributive policies that have been extensively studied for their effects on child and family outcomes as case studies: (1) Medicaid expansion; (2) the Earned Income Tax Credit; (3) childcare subsidies; and (4) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Informed by a scoping review of each policy, we propose that redistributive policies promote children's resilience through three mechanisms by (1) increasing families' resource and service access; (2) reducing family stress; and (3) enhancing adaptive cognitions, emotions, behaviors, and interpersonal processes that protect against the development of psychopathology and promote positive mental health outcomes. Highlighting current evidence for these resilience mechanisms as well as gaps in knowledge, we conclude by setting a multidisciplinary research agenda that can leverage this conceptual framework to advance the science on how redistributive policies enable children and families to thrive. Public Significance Statement: Policies that support economically disadvantaged families such as Medicaid expansion, the Earned Income Tax Credit, childcare subsidies, and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program mitigate adversity and promote children's resilience. This article proposes a conceptual framework for how psychological and policy research on resilience can be integrated to identify the mechanisms through which these policies promote the human capacity to thrive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By recognizing the role of animals as restoration drivers, we have a unique opportunity to combine climate and biodiversity policy frameworks and meet targets synergistically. About 25% of forest restoration projects could benefit from animals contributing to both frameworks. In 50% of projects, active actions are needed to improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual assault rates are increasing with ride-shares. Sexual violence data are often underestimated due to sexual violence cases going unreported and can lead to negative health outcomes. There is no research on the phenomenon of sexual assaults among ride-share users. This manuscript investigates sexual assaults from two ride-share companies and the policies/procedures in place to prevent sexual assaults. The data from two ride-share companies' previous Safety Reports were compared to see an increase in sexual assaults. The researchers looked at policies and regulations that ride-share companies have to prevent sexual assault. There is a call for research to investigate more in-depth the sexual assaults that have occurred including demographic data, geographic location, global positioning system failure, and the effectiveness of the criminal background checks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescence is a crucial phase of growth and development in the life course, and healthy nutrition is essential during this period. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions regarding the implementation of relevant nutrition policies for adolescents in Sri Lanka. The study is qualitative, employing a "phenomenology" approach. The study was conducted in the central province of Sri Lanka, with participants including adolescents (n = 18), public health inspectors (n = 3), parents (n = 12), canteen owners (n = 3), schoolteachers (n = 3), and principals (n = 3). Data were collected through interviews and analyzed using the framework analysis method. Results indicated that adolescents' awareness of relevant policy statements is poor. Implementing nutrition policies related to adolescents in school settings and at the community level remains insufficient. In conclusion, future research should further evaluate the overall implementation of nutrition policies directed at adolescents. This will help policymakers to enhance and improve relevant policy guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To facilitate the use of the mounting evidence on how human health is inextricably linked to the health of the planet and the urgent need for measures against the escalating triple planetary crisis, the WHO has developed a repository of systematic reviews on interventions in the area of environment, climate change and health (ECH). This commentary introduces the repository, describes its rationale and development, and points to potential future evolutions. The repository aims to provide a user-friendly tool for quickly finding systematic reviews and meta-analyses on specific ECH topics. The spreadsheet includes details on each systematic review, such as population, intervention type, control group, outcomes, and location, among other information. This supports effective assessment of the available evidence, potentially informing policy decisions across various sectors. The repository is a resource for anyone interested in the interlinkages between health and environment and is also targeted at decision makers, intervention implementers and researchers in order to identify priority issues and support evidence-based action. Furthermore, it can be used to identify areas in need of greater research. Additionally, systematic reviews of intervention effectiveness are often used for setting general guidelines and standards, for choosing the most promising intervention in a certain situation and for calculating the disease burden attributable to a specific environmental risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance computing (HPC) has become a strategic resource that drives innovation and economic growth. In addition, it is important to educate a workforce with advanced computational skills to maintain economic competitiveness. In this project, we studied 133 domestic and international university HPC centers to understand the status of HPC. Diverse operating models have been identified and analyzed. To explore the need for and challenges associated with HPC within Wisconsin, faculty and students within the University of Wisconsin System and personnel in local industries were surveyed; in addition, we engaged in conversations with university leaders and officials from government agencies. A strong need for HPC resources has been identified, as well as several serious challenges. A state-wide initiative, the Wisconsin Big Data Alliance, which requires legislative support, is recommended as the platform to foster public–private partnerships, drive scientific and technological innovations, and promote workforce development, leading to an efficient usage of computing resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GeSec: Revista de Gestao e Secretariado is the property of Sindicato das Secretarias e Secretarios do Estado de Sao Paulo (SINSESP) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Due to the lack of connecting facilities, residents in the Gampong Blang Mirou and Kumba Kec. Bandar Dua have to travel via another route. Although proposals to the district government are submitted every year, a response was received in 2018. In 2018, the construction of the Blang Mirou--Kumba steel truss bridge was carried out using the DAK budget, the tender process for this development package used a budget of 14 billion Rupiah. The purpose of this research is to determine and analyze the increase in social interaction and economic growth as a result of the construction of the bridge connecting Gampong Blang Mirou - Kumba District. Bandar Dua Kab. Pidie Jaya. The method used is descriptive qualitative. The data sources used are primary data and secondary data. The research uses data obtained through interviews, observation, and documentation. Based on the results of the research and findings in the field, the conclusion is that the implementation of this policy can provide practical implications for the people of Pidie Jaya Regency, especially the people of Gampong Blang Mirou and Gampong Kumba as well as the Pidie Jaya Regency Government so that social interaction between the regions and the regional economy both increases. An interesting finding was that when the road was widened to build a connecting bridge, the community gave their land for free without having to be compensated by the government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the right to food policies, justice and sovereignty in Nigeria. The main areas of concentration were: introduction, meaning of food policy, some food policies in Nigeria, types of policies, audit of right to food policies in Nigeria, past policy articulations (1900 - 1999), food policy articulation and policy thrust in 2003, food policy legislations, sovereignty of food and agricultural development among many others. The study indicated that food policy is a public declaration that conveys the decisions to pursue a specific course of action aimed at improving food production practices, ensuring output growth and the overall development of the food sector. Some food policies in Nigeria are; food crop production policy, livestock production policy, food commodity storage policy among others. The study identified three types of polices namely; position declaration, policy statements and discussion papers. Past policy articulations are: Timber/non timber policy 1937, food policy 1946 and food policy for the western region 1952. Some policy legislations were identified, namely: adulteration of produce ordinance No.67 of 1917; 29 of 1920, 8th November 1917, Weight and measurements Act No. 32 of 1974 to June 1975 and River Basin Development Authorities Act No.35 of 1st October, 1986. Some inventory of right to food sovereignty strategies in Nigeria includes: Sovereignty strategy formulations, commodity boards, National Accelerated Food Production Project (NAFPP), National Livestock Development Project (NLDP), Operation Feed the Nation (OFN) and Green Revolution among very many others. One major problem of food policy implementation is lack of a well-defined programme. In conclusion, Right to Food Policy, Justice and Sovereignty Implementation means money spent, laws enforced, employees hired, plan of action formulated and carried out successfully for the development of the Nigerian food sub-sector. But the problem with Nigerian food policies is the structure among which is the absence of central coordinating members. Also, the study recommended that there is the need for government to set institutions that will monitor the planning and execution of food polices projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human mobility is not a conjunctural element, it is part of the construction of a society and it will go through different phases throughout its history. Faced with this social reality, the narratives that are constructed and that seem to be imposed tend, ignoring data, to criminalise migrants, supporting restrictive regulations and policies based on security and the externalisation of borders. The challenge lies in dismantling these narratives and favouring discourses and policies based on human rights that emphasise the dignity of the person. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Avoid–Shift–Improve framework has been used since its conception in the 1990s to help decision-makers prioritize action towards environmental sustainability in the transport sector. The core of the framework establishes a clear priority of action among the three main strategies that give it its name, thus highlighting the prominent role transport demand reduction should have within policy discussions. However, although its general formulation allows for a fruitful application to other sectors, the approach and its definitions have rarely been extended beyond transport. In particular, the energy sector could significantly benefit from an application of its methodology since the prioritization of energy demand reduction over energy efficiency would be in line with an optimized path towards decarbonization. This paper outlines a theoretical application of the A-S-I framework to the energy sector that allows the categorization of energy policies in terms of Avoid, Shift, or Improve strategies. Moreover, the paper presents an analysis of several energy policies databases to evaluate to what extent policies are addressing energy demand reduction, shift to less-carbon-intensive energy sources or energy efficiency. The results of the study show that most energy-related policies seem to support improving efficiency in current technology (18–33% of policies, depending on the database that is considered) and shifting towards low-carbon sources (28–48% of policies) more than reducing or altogether avoiding energy demand in the first place (6–22% of policies). Further research is recommended to strengthen the results, especially by evaluating the significance of each policy in terms of committed investment, as well as to understand the main factors that contribute to Avoid-type policies being under-represented in the energy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although grief can have a profound effect on the workplace, the long-term lived experience of working after bereavement remains under researched. But how is grief experienced at work? And to what extent does this experience vary according to type of loss and form of work? Drawing on data collected through a qualitative online survey (n = 220), this article provides a sociological exploration of experiences of work after bereavement. The article will argue that while grief can be silenced in the workplace, work can also provide an important source of relational connection for bereaved individuals. It concludes by reflecting on the need to move beyond linear approaches to grief and work, highlighting the important intersection of social relations and place. By analysing experiences through a relational lens, this article seeks to offer an original contribution to the sociology of work, and to grief theory as applied in the workplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The primary objective of this project was to develop a comprehensive COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions' index for the province of Québec (QCnPI-Index). The resulting database systematically categorizes, multiple non-pharmaceutical interventions implemented in the 17 administrative regions (AR) of the province of Québec to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the form of an index. Data description: Data represent interventions and groups of interventions implemented during the COVID-19 period in Québec. They are a compilation of policies, guidelines, and governmental interventions related to COVID-19, considering temporal and geographical dimensions. Data were collected for all 17 AR of Québec using dates as unit of analysis, from March 2020 to April 2022. They were first collected and then coded by an interdisciplinary research team to form the foundation of the QCnPI-Index. Contribution: This quantitative instrument offers the necessary granularity for nuanced spatial and temporal studies within the province of Québec, using AR, for instance, as unit of analysis. With this database, pre-, during-, and post-COVID periods can thus be better analyzed. Additionally, the innovative methodologies employed for data collection, coding, and weighting offer valuable insights that may have broader applications in public health, epidemiology, and other research domains. The QCnPI-Index could be instrumental for public health, epidemiology, and transportation researchers investigating the multifaceted impacts of non-pharmaceutical interventions on various societal domains, such as road safety, alcohol and cannabis consumption, and/or mental health, in the province of Québec. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing and serving allergen-free meals continue to be challenging for food service establishments due to the associated costs and complexity of menu items. Our study assessed food allergy policies and procedures in independently owned restaurants (n = 103) within the Orlando metropolitan area in Florida. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation HR 5030-038 from the Division of Hotels and Restaurants requires all food service managers and employees to know and name the top 8 major allergens and describe common food allergy symptoms. In total, 71 restaurants accommodated customers who have food allergies. Further, 25 restaurants reported having written food allergy policies and procedures, 63 did not, and 5 did not know. Approximately one half (49) of the owners, operators, and managers did not receive food allergy training. Of the training provided, 27 restaurants offered training in English and 20 restaurants offered training also in Spanish. Food service establishments will benefit from developing and implementing food allergy policies and procedures to serve food safely to customers who have food allergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology innovation in prefabricated buildings (PBs) is an important way to realize transformation upgrading and green development for the construction industry. The existing literature focuses on the influence of different types of policies on PB development while ignoring the importance of technology innovation. In addition, there are still inconsistent conclusions in the evaluation of the influence of policies on technology innovation. Using the difference-in-differences method and panel data from 2011 to 2020 covering 25 provinces of China, this study investigates the mechanism and impact of five different technological and economic policies on PB technology innovation. The results show that technological support policy, land supply policy, fiscal subsidy policy, and preferential tax policy have a significantly positive impact on PB technology innovation. However, financial policy has no significant effect on PB technology innovation. This paper not only makes theoretical contributions to PB policy research, but also provides the government with a more precise and effective policy toolbox to promote technology innovation in the PB industry or other industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research question: This article addresses the need to develop a comprehensive understanding of research on the formation and content of youth sport policies by presenting a review of studies across the period from 2000 to 2020. The review examined the scale and scope of these studies, collective research findings, and theoretical and methodological approaches utilised. Research methods: Compatible approaches to research synthesis were utilised. Scoping review methods supported searching within 31 relevant journals. Scoping review techniques augmented by those of 'meta-study' were used to analyse the 71 articles that were identified through the review. The definition of youth sport policy research through inclusion/exclusion of articles was determined Results and Findings: Youth sport policy research was dominated by studies in Europe and North America. There was also a predominance of qualitative methods, with studies being collectively limited in their utilisation of theory. Forty-four percent of studies examined policies focused on schools, with similar proportions (between 17% and 20%) addressing policies for welfare and safeguarding, community-based participation, and high-performance sport. Youth sport policy goals were often found to overlap and be influenced by other policy agendas, with health being a prominent policy concern. Implications: Besides the need for a wider geographical spread, improved theoretical underpinning and expanding quantitative methods should be priorities for future youth sport policy research. Extending normative analysis and study of democracy and inclusion in youth sport policy-making should also be pursued, especially as young people appear commonly excluded from these processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the long-term relationship between factors affecting people's livelihoods after tourism investment in the tourism sub-region south of the Red River in Vietnam. The study used survey data and multiple linear regression econometric models from the three provinces of Ninh Binh, Nam Dinh and Thai Binh in the South Red River tourism subregion from February 2023 to August 2023. Research results show that all eight factors are statistically significant and impact people's livelihoods. These seven factors have a positive impact while one factor harms their livelihoods. The three factors that have the most positive impact on livelihoods are (1) employment in the tourist destination, (2) local government policies and (3) agricultural land quality. The remaining factors such as (4) social culture, (5) infrastructure, (6) jobs outside tourist destinations and (7) social welfare have the same impact but less impact. Meanwhile, the factor that harms their livelihoods is the amount of agricultural land. In addition, employers in the tourism destination and local government policies continue to have an important impact on the livelihoods of the local population to assess the sustainability of the impact factors while less impact variables are excluded. The research results are the basis for proposing recommendations to diversify people's livelihoods after tourism develops in the southern Red River tourism sub-region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar power is energy from the Sun that is converted into thermal or electrical energy. China, the USA, and India have the world's richest solar energy sources. India receives solar radiation with an average intensity of 200 MW/km2 and 250–300 sunny days a year. The solar radiation in India varies from 4 to 7 kWh/m2/day, with 2300–3200 sunshine hours yearly, depending on the region. Badhla Solar Park, Jodhpur, India, is the world's largest solar plant, with 2.25 GW of installed capacity. Solar energy is the best alternative electricity source used explicitly in the agricultural sector. In the farming sector, the consumption of solar energy has been increasing. The major issues were the installation costs, low availability of technicians, and poor quality of panels. The focus on skill development equips the workforce to drive innovation, efficiency, and sustained growth in the renewable-energy field. With the support of international collaboration and a skilled workforce, India's progress in solar energy development is a boon for the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although flexible working has expanded rapidly, especially during the pandemic, biased views against flexible workers – namely, flexibility stigma - are still prevalent and returning. Flexibility stigma hinders worker's take up of flexible working arrangements and can make flexible working arrangements result in negative outcomes for worker's well-being and productivity. This study examines how national cultural and policy contexts shape flexibility stigma levels within a country. We use a multilevel approach using the Eurobarometer dataset of 2018, covering 28 European countries, matched with national level aggregate data on policy and culture. Results show that in countries with a more work-life balance work culture and egalitarian gender norms, we see less prevalence of flexibility stigma. Similarly, in countries with generous family-friendly policies, workers are less likely to have negative perception towards flexible working. Finally, stronger bargaining positions of workers, may it be through stronger union power or through better labour market conditions, helps remove stigmatised views around workers who use flexible working arrangements. This study evidences the importance of contexts that shape views around flexible working, to help us better understand policy changes needed to ensure better flexible working practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the practice of standard agreements in insurance contracts, policyholders require legal certainty. In other words, after signing the policy, the insured actually has less legal certainty because the insurance company generates more revenue from the content or format of the agreement. The aim of legal certainty for insurance policyholders is questioned because of the unequal position between the insurance company and the policyholder regarding the standard agreement. This study examines the legal certainty surrounding the losses of insurance policyholders in non-payment scenarios as defined by Law Number 8 of 1999 concerning Consumer Protection, as well as the challenges of legal certainty regarding non-payment scenarios involving the losses of insurance policyholders as defined by Law Number 8 of 1999 concerning Consumer Protection. This study uses normative juridical techniques, with research conducted through literature review and secondary data analysis. In this case, insurance policyholders are customers who utilize insurance services and, in running their business, are entitled to legal certainty from anything that can harm them. The legal certainty offered to customers who use insurance services or policyholders is explicitly stated in Law Number 8 of 1999 concerning Consumer Protection, particularly by making maximum efforts to guarantee legal certainty for policyholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The difficulties faced by youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) and their families as they move into adulthood are widely documented. The aim of the paper is to explore the current situation in terms of transition processes and outcomes in four countries (the US, UK, Australia and Czech Republic) and identify commonalities and differences that help elucidate what might determine different outcomes. Two research methods—expert knowledge and rapid literature review—were combined to identify sources from which information on transition policy, processes, support practices and outcomes was extracted and synthesised. This review identified gaps in the research evidence including inadequate collection and use of data to drive policy and determine effectiveness, limited evidence‐based models or frameworks for successful transition. There was little transition research that included the voices of young people with IDD. More research is necessary to study the practices of highly successful programmes, and to explore the impact of transition programmes and disability support services on a broader range of outcomes, capturing the experiences of young people themselves and identifying factors that determine successful outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a literature review of academic articles in the educational sciences published in the International Journal of Inclusive Education between 2013 and 2023, focusing thematically on the political, social, and conceptual-theoretical dimensions of inclusive education. Its aim is to explicitly connect educational sciences and sociology by examining research outputs in the field of inclusive education arising from educational sciences, which address the reproduction of inequalities and discrimination at the systemic social level. It focuses on the question of the societal and political implications of the concept of inclusive education. In doing so, it highlights the barriers at the societal level to the implementation of inclusive education in the form of the dominant deficit-focused perception of children experiencing educational difficulties; the lack of transdisciplinary and intersectoral cooperation; and neoliberal values such as competitiveness and individualism leading to the segregation of children with poorer educational outcomes. It concludes by pointing out some problematic aspects of the concept of inclusive education for a broader social and political change. Additionally, it argues that the implementation of inclusive education can only be sustainable if it includes broader social change beyond the field of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), due to their superior performance, have been vastly applied in electronic, auto, and other industries, resulting in the generation of an increasing amount of spent LIBs. What's worse, LIBs contained potentially toxic substances, including heavy metals, toxic and flammable electrolyte containing LiBF4, LiClO4, and LiPF6. Conventional disposal of spent LIBs via landfill or incineration exerts tremendous pressure on the environment. It was necessary to adopt efficient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly approaches to valorizing spent LIBs, which could not only alleviate the shortage of rare resources by recycling valuable elements such as Cu, Li, Mn, Ni, Co, and Al, but also eliminate the pollution of harmful components in batteries and realize the recycling and sustainable industry related to consumer electronics and electric vehicles (EVs). Given this, this paper summarized the recycling technologies of spent LIBs, including pyrometallurgy (melting reduction and roasting methods) and hydrometallurgy (leaching, precipitation, extraction, ion-exchange, electrochemical, sol-gel methods), and electrolyte recycling (organic solvent extraction and supercritical extraction methods). Pyrometallurgy technologies had relatively decent metal recovery rates but were associated with high energy consumption and atmospheric emission issues. Hydrometallurgical technologies were more environmentally friendly and efficient in recovering spent LIBs, although disposing of the wastewater generated from the process remained a challenge. In addition, the different industrial processes and various countries' related policies of recycling spent LIBs were investigated. In the end, the outlooks and future directions of recycling spent LIBs were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at assessing why women's sport is not included in the Brazilian decision-making agenda, in addition to show some alternatives to overcome this condition. Six female sport stakeholders were interviewed. The interviews were carried out in 2022, transcribed and analysed by using Bardin's Content Analysis (2011). It was concluded that women's sport does not enter the decision-making agenda due to the fact that it is not considered a political problem and because there are no women's political movements in Brazil. As alternatives, it is essential to have representativeness of women in sport, especially in leadership positions, visibility on the topic, and to create policies, plans and projects aimed at women's sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition towards net‐zero carbon emissions is increasingly defined by the emergence of green hydrogen as a pivotal technology. This review article explores the policies and geopolitical strategies of G20 nations in navigating the Green Hydrogen Revolution. Green hydrogen, produced through renewable energy‐powered electrolysis, promises to decarbonize sectors traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. This article examines how G20 countries are positioning themselves within this transformative energy landscape, emphasizing policy frameworks, investment trends, and technological advancements. Geopolitical implications, including international cooperation, competition, and energy security considerations, are analyzed to understand the evolving global dynamics of energy transition. By mapping out the diverse approaches of G20 nations, this article provides insights into the complex interplay between domestic policies and global energy strategies in achieving sustainable development goals and addressing climate change challenges in the 21st century. This article is categorized under:Climate and Environment > Net Zero Planning and DecarbonizationPolicy and Economics > Energy TransitionsSustainable Development > Goals [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National Sport Organizations are increasingly expected to modernize their management practices and comply with governance principles. This research developed, validated, and applied a questionnaire to assess the modernization process of Brazilian Olympic NSO's. The first stage established the components of modernization based on a review of academic literature. Next, these components were used to create a questionnaire to audit Brazil's 35 Olympic NSO's. Data collection involved gathering and analysing material from organizational policies, strategies, and websites. Results suggest that most Brazilian Olympic NSO's have a moderate - weak adherence to modernization aspects of management. NSOs that present a high stage of modernization tend to present better practices of governance. In Brazil, it appears that the government and Brazilian Olympic Committee are sources of pressure for NSO's to modernize their management and governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of pesticide use in global and Indian agriculture, focusing on the mounting food security challenges due to population growth and the increased demand for food and fiber crops. While pesticides are crucial in mitigating losses due to pests, diseases, and weeds, increasing apprehension regarding their adverse effects on human and environment health necessitates a critical examination of their usage patterns. Despite India's relatively low per-hectare pesticide usage of 0.4 kg compared to China's 1.83 kg, issues with pesticide residue contamination in the food chain require urgent attention. Additionally, significant regional disparities in pesticide application highlight the need for more uniform and sustainable agricultural practices. Therefore, this study examines the evolving trends in global and Indian pesticide application, providing a comprehensive analysis of the shifting dynamics across various Indian states and crop varieties. Furthermore, it analyzes various pesticide categories and their respective market shares, providing insights into production and export patterns. Our research also explores regulatory frameworks aimed at optimizing pesticide use while minimizing detrimental effects on human health and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the development of a comprehensive model for evaluating the level of readiness of buildings for digital transformation during the pre-construction phase. The proposed model utilizes structural equation modeling (SEM) and includes a full list of key factors for achieving success. This tool is designed to support industry stakeholders in assessing operational efficiency in terms of digital transformation readiness in the pre-construction phase (DTRPC) and analyze the effectiveness and limitations of DTRPC across various management levels. Key success factors were identified through interviews with experts and a review of the relevant literature. These variables were then validated through two rounds of the 8 Delphi technique, which included the input of 13 highly qualified experts. Finally, an online questionnaire was disseminated to industry professionals, who assessed the factors' relative levels of significance. Questionnaire responses were collected from a sample of 300 individuals from different professional fields. SEM was then used to quantitatively analyze the relationships between the various components of the DTRPC success factors. The goal was to determine the impact of each construct on the overall level of readiness. The model underwent a thorough evaluation to determine its strength and stability across several parameters, including accuracy, conformity to multivariate normalcy, and reliability and validity. A hypothesis analysis was also conducted. The collected data were used to develop the proposed DTRPC model, consisting of 30 essential performance indicators grouped into four categories. The use of SEM uncovered a significant correlation between the operational indicators of these critical factors and the construct groups, as well as the influence of effective DTRPC constructs on overall project performance. This research expands the current knowledge by identifying important indications for evaluating the success of the DTRPC model and using them to create a comprehensive global SEM that can be used as a tool for measuring readiness at the pre-construction stage. This has the potential to provide essential assistance to organizations, project managers, and policymakers in making informed decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Universitas, Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas is the property of Universidad Politecnica Salesiana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Youth participation in agriculture across Africa remains notably low, failing to reflect significant investments made in the sector. Much of the discussion to date on factors affecting rural youth participation in agriculture has occurred in the absence of robust and compelling evidence. As a result, most policy decisions rely on misconceptions about youth intentions and involvement in agriculture, leading to ineffective strategies for increasing their participation. This study aims to examine the factors influencing rural youth participation in agriculture, particularly in the context of smallholder farming. A pre-tested, structured questionnaire collected data from 200 youths (aged 15 to 35 years) across three districts of Mashonaland East Province in Zimbabwe. Both inferential and descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the data. The findings indicate that the future of agriculture and food security in the study areas is uncertain, with more than 70% of the youth surveyed indicating they do not anticipate engaging in agriculture during the next five years. The factors associated with youth participation in agriculture were found to be multifaceted, encompassing demographic, economic, psychological, educational, and technological dimensions. To enhance youth involvement in agriculture, the study recommends a shift from the traditional siloed approach to an interdisciplinary strategy that includes comprehensive planning, investment, and decisionmaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is gaining prominence as a serious public health challenge in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region, with an alarming rate of increase in its prevalence. Countries in the region have shown commitment to curbing the rise of obesity by establishing policies, strategies, and action plans. This paper summarises the current situation and strategies undertaken to combat obesity and related chronic diseases. Although a range of policies and strategies have been developed, including national nutrition action plans, community intervention programmes, fiscal measures, nutrition labelling to promote healthier choices, countries in the region are struggling to make significant progress toward halting the scourge of obesity. It is imperative to strengthen existing health systems with a paradigm shift from a focus on "sick care" to and enhancing nutrition initiatives to support obesity prevention. A comprehensive and coordinated approach is essential, one that emphasises high-level coordination across all levels of government and multiple sectors, and a unified plan rather than fragmented initiatives. For strategies to be effective and sustainable, they must address the fundamental environmental determinants of poor dietary choices and nutritional inequalities. A more holistic approach is clearly needed to improve the entire food environment, which in SEA countries must include the multitude of eating places where large segments of the population "eat out" everyday to meet their energy and nutrient needs. There is a recognised need for more comprehensive measures to promote healthy eating among school children and ensure a supportive environment for lifelong healthy habits. This paper calls for a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach that combines changes to the fundamental food environment and accompanied by systematic monitoring and surveillance systems to achieve long-lasting health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the myth of marginality and irrelevance, Africa has always played an important role in international politics. The slave trade, the struggle for territorial acquisition and control and the subsequent colonial period, the proxy wars of the Cold War and the growing importance of the continent’s natural resources demonstrate how important Africa was and is to the wider global political economy. States and international organizations have defined areas of strategic interest in their main strategies. Africa is seen as an area of strategic interest for a number of actors of the international scene, such as the UN, the EU, the World Bank, BRICS, and the USA, Russia, China, Japan or the Arab states of the Middle East. This paper presents a realistic research of Africa’s importance to the EU and means to mutually exploit one each over for a win-win output. The research is presented in an analysis built on three phases: better understanding of African profile as provider of resources and consumer of security, identified European strategic interests in Africa and the EU-AU cooperation framework as expressed in documents and political leaders’ narratives.

Abstract Objectives The primary objective of this project was to develop a comprehensive COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions’ index for the province of Québec (QCnPI-Index). The resulting database systematically categorizes, multiple non-pharmaceutical interventions implemented in the 17 administrative regions (AR) of the province of Québec to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the form of an index. Data description Data represent interventions and groups of interventions implemented during the COVID-19 period in Québec. They are a compilation of policies, guidelines, and governmental interventions related to COVID-19, considering temporal and geographical dimensions. Data were collected for all 17 AR of Québec using dates as unit of analysis, from March 2020 to April 2022. They were first collected and then coded by an interdisciplinary research team to form the foundation of the QCnPI-Index. Contribution This quantitative instrument offers the necessary granularity for nuanced spatial and temporal studies within the province of Québec, using AR, for instance, as unit of analysis. With this database, pre-, during-, and post-COVID periods can thus be better analyzed. Additionally, the innovative methodologies employed for data collection, coding, and weighting offer valuable insights that may have broader applications in public health, epidemiology, and other research domains. The QCnPI-Index could be instrumental for public health, epidemiology, and transportation researchers investigating the multifaceted impacts of non-pharmaceutical interventions on various societal domains, such as road safety, alcohol and cannabis consumption, and/or mental health, in the province of Québec.

Purpose. The Programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI), launched by the EU (European Union), represents a financial instrument with the objective of addressing a range of policy analysis areas, as follows: (I) social protection and innovation; (II) social exclusion and social policies; (III) living and working conditions; and (IV) employment, job conditions, mobility, and social entrepreneurship settings under the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+). Objectives. Therefore, the current research aims to structure and analyse in a comparative framework a wide range of EU policies and governance applied to the EaSI reports launched in the period 2015-2022, considering the policy context, key actors, policy content, legal instruments, implementation and governance structures and impact assessment of societal challenges, the role of human factors and the need for social innovation. Methodology. The analysis utilises both quantitative and qualitative methods, building on the comparative legal analysis and developing a triple evaluation: social, economic and political. In order to monitor and review the policy outcomes contained in the EaSI reports, the current study will use the Text-Based Diagramming of the programme Mermaid v10.9.0 Live Editor. Results and findings. The results of the analysis will evaluate and measure the extent to which the three EaSI reports launched in the period 2015-2022 have met the requirements of social innovation by assessing the policy and governance implementation mechanisms and tracking the relevance of two determinants: EU societal challenges and human factors. Conclusion. The framework of the EaSI reports provides the evaluation findings on multi-level policy and strategy approaches and summarises the findings and broader perspectives of the three reports on the effectiveness of social innovation governance. The research findings highlight the societal challenges in the EU, the interdisciplinary circumstances and the evidence-based interplay between the policy framework and the adaptability of multi-level governance.

The article seeks to explore the historical progression of inclusive education in the United Kingdom. Given the growing population of students with Special Education Needs (SEN), it becomes crucial to reinforce the principles and teaching methods associated with inclusive education. While the number of students receiving special education in the UK is increasing day by day, concepts such as legislation, rights, and inclusion gain more and more importance for students receiving special education. Hence, it could be crucial to reassert the principles and teaching methods that form the foundation of the UK education system and to ensure that the government follows through on its dedication to introducing inclusive education. A systematic literature review method was used in the study. All the documents needed to understand the implications of the historical development of inclusive education in the UK have been accessed online. Inclusion criteria: It is the evaluation of the regulation considering mainstreaming education policies, laws and articles. Exclusion criteria: documents regarding inclusive education but not legislation, policies and laws. Plus, articles on inclusive education interventions and teaching methodologies were also excluded. It is expected that the article will provide an analytical perspective on legislation by establishing a vision of inclusive education in the UK for other countries as well.

This article uses document analysis to review the content of the policies available on the library websites of 119 academic member institutions of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) for policies that address viewing legal visual (video or images) pornography on computers within library spaces. The authors seek to answer the question: How do ARL member libraries address the viewing of legal online pornography by adults in their library spaces as noted in policies or guidelines on their website? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of covid-19 on library services as perceived by international students and scholars at Kent State University, a medium-sized public research university in the mid-west, in the United States. A second general purpose was to increase awareness of library resources and services among the international student population. The study used a self-reported questionnaire (Qualtrics survey) to find out the use of library services and resources by international students' pre-pandemic and during the pandemic. Using google analytics, the study also compared visits of the library website from pre-pandemic and during the pandemic by the general student population. The author also obtained statistics from various library departments to compare pre-pandemic and pandemic usage. Additionally, informal interviews were conducted by the author to find out librarians' perceptions of how Covid-19 impacted their services and policies. The survey results showed a general lack of awareness of library resources and services among the international student population both pre-pandemic and during the pandemic. The usage statistics and reports from the librarians revealed a high impact of the pandemic on Interlibrary Loan (ILL), circulation, acquisitions and instruction services, but a modest/minimal impact on reference services and visits to the library website. Recommendations include increased marketing efforts and outreach to the international student population and by extension to all students especially long-distance students or online-only students. The study also highlights the importance of open access, consortia, and Institutional repositories and the role they play in enhancing equitable access to information. The study encourages libraries to leverage new technologies that would improve services while also advocating for policies that would help bridge the digital divide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study employed a qualitative research approach using a phenomenological research design since the lived experiences of educational psychologists in Masvingo Province were scrutinized with the intention of establishing the extent to which educational psychologists matched the laid down specifications pertaining to their professional operations during a high inflationary environment. Three males and two females were purposely selected and in-depth interviews were utilized. Four themes emerged from the study: (a) vital roles, successful, and unsuccessful experiences, (b) diverse views on major policy documents, (c) barriers in rendering support services, and (d) perceived solutions. Results indicated that policy documents are outdated and need revision. Human and material resources were viewed a barriers to performance and perceived solutions included multidisciplinary team work, decentralization and increasing the number of psychologists, training of psychologists and reduced continuous professional development points. Educational psychologists focused more on diagnostic and behavioral consultations in urban schools. They distributed schools in urban areas depending on psychologists' place of residences. Rural schools were minimally assessed with little provision of intervention, prevention, and health promotion services. The results provide important implications for resource provision and policy formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the influence of Thai government policy perceptions on the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Transitioning to EVs is vital for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change, aligning with global sustainability goals. This study addresses gaps in understanding how multidimensional perceptions of government policies influence EV adoption intentions in emerging markets, particularly in Thailand. A questionnaire was distributed to 3770 respondents across Thailand between January and March 2024. The survey assessed multiple dimensions of government policy, including commitment and efficiency, welfare, communication, policy effectiveness, and tax benefits. Using statistical techniques such as Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), second-order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM), this study validated the constructs of government support perception and examined their influence on EV adoption intentions. The findings highlight that tangible government policies, particularly those improving EV infrastructure and providing clear regulatory support, alongside effective communication about these policies, significantly influence public willingness to adopt EVs. The results also emphasize the critical role of perceived government commitment and fiscal incentives in shaping consumer decisions. Based on these insights, this study recommends prioritizing the expansion of EV infrastructure, enhancing the visibility of government commitment, and improving direct financial incentives to accelerate EV adoption. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on EV adoption in emerging markets and offer practical implications for policymakers seeking to promote sustainable transportation solutions.

Abstract Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) constitutes a major threat to global health. While antimicrobial misuse or overuse is one of the main drivers for AMR, little is known about the extent to which antibiotic misuse is due to a lack of national government-led efforts to enforce rational use in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods To assess antimicrobial stewardship and national implementation measures currently in place for optimizing antimicrobial use and for slowing the spread of AMR, we invited public health experts from 138 LMICs to participate in a Global Survey of Experts on Antimicrobial Resistance (GSEAR). Key coverage measures, as reported by experts, were compared across countries and also juxtaposed with estimates collected in the 2020-21 World Health Organization-organized Tripartite AMR Country Self-Assessment Survey (TrACSS). Results A total of 352 completed surveys from 118 LMICs were analysed. Experts in 67% of the surveyed countries reported a national action plan (NAP) on AMR, 64% reported legislative policies on antimicrobial use, 58% reported national training programs for health professionals, and 10% reported national monitoring systems for antimicrobials. 51% of LMICs had specific targeted policies to limit the sale and use of protected or reserve antibiotics. While 72% of LMICs had prescription requirements for accessing antibiotics, getting antibiotics without a prescription was reported to be possible in practice in 74% of LMICs. On average, country efforts reported in TrACSS were substantially higher than those seen in GSEAR. Conclusions In many LMICs, despite the existence of policies aimed at slowing down the spread of AMR, there are still significant gaps in their implementation and enforcement. Increased national efforts in the areas of enforcement and monitoring of antibiotic use as well as regular monitoring of national efforts are urgently needed to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use in LMICs and to slow the spread of AMR globally.

Abstract Migration policies have a significant impact on population health, particularly for individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). These policies not only determine who is allowed to enter a country but also influence which immigrants can access services provided by the government. Some countries continue to impose restrictions on HIV-positive individuals, justifying these measures as necessary to protect public health and mitigate healthcare and economic concerns. However, these restrictions lack a valid public health rationale. Due to social, economic and political constraints, restrictive migration laws hinder access to HIV prevention, care and treatment services for immigrants living with HIV. Immigrants face numerous challenges in accessing medication, adhering to treatment regimens and benefitting from HIV preventive efforts. This situation increases the risk of HIV infection and adverse health outcomes due to limited access to preventive programmes, social stigma and engagement in risky behaviours. Additionally, these restrictive migration rules negatively affect immigrants’ mental health. To improve the health of both immigrants and host communities, inclusive and evidence-based migration policies that address healthcare through public health and human rights lenses are required.

[Objective] The limit of exploitable energy resources on land and near-shallow offshore, the modern social demand for clean energy, and the more serious pollution and higher greenhouse gas emissions from fossil energy production and consumption activities relative to renewable and clean energy have made the development of deep-far offshore wind power a key area in the new round of energy revolution. Examining the relevant policies and laws in China from the perspective of scientific and technological innovation, discovering the problems and proposing solutions to them could provide guarantees of policies and laws for promoting high-quality development of China’s deep-far offshore wind power. [Methods] Taking the paradigm of the science of field law, and employing logic and normative analysis methods, this study examined the effect and efficiency of promoting and safeguarding scientific and technological innovations in the policies and laws for China’s development of deep-far offshore wind power. [Results] We found that the lack of drive of science and technology in the current policies and laws is manifested in three aspects. (1) The lack of policy guidance in terms of strategic position and planning system; (2) The lack of legal protection, which is manifested in the status of scientific and technological innovation in legislative orientation, and the connectivity of the laws on deep-far offshore wind power to the general legal system on scientific and technological innovation; (3) The lack of procedural synergy and substantive synergy between policies and laws. [Conclusion] In order to address or these deficiencies, the following approaches could be employed: (1) Enhancing the strategic status of deep-far offshore wind power, with basic policies guiding the direction of scientific and technological innovation and supportive policies as complement, while formulating relevant development plans in time; (2) Specifying the core status of scientific and technological innovation on deep-far offshore wind power in relevant laws and strengthening the connectivity of the laws on deep-far offshore wind power to the general legal system on scientific and technological innovation; and (3) Strengthening the synergy among policies and laws in terms of both procedure and substance.

In this study, the sources of microplastics in the environment, the ways of human exposure to microplastics, how to deal with them, and the policies and laws of different countries in this regard are discussed. Most of the microplastic pollution comes from textiles, tires and urban dust, which make up more than 80% of the microplastics in the environment. The human body is exposed to microplastics through eating food containing microplastics, inhaling microplastics in the air, and skin contact with these particles in products, textiles, or in dust. The main route of human exposure to microplastic particles in human diet is food and drink. Microplastics can enter food during food processing, storage, transportation and packaging process. Airborne microplastics are an underestimated hazard, potentially reaching deep into human lungs because they can pass through the defensive respiratory system. Humans may also be exposed to microplastics through skin contact, following the atmospheric fallout, in this case hair follicles, sweat glands or damaged skin are all ways of entry. Some researchers have suggested burning plastics and recovering the resulting energy. Nevertheless, plastic recycling is considered a more efficient solution because this method reduces the amount of plastic waste produced as opposed to burning.