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The objectives of this study were to measure the level of farmers’ perceptions on psychological, socio-cultural and economic aspects, and to analyze the economic losses during foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks. This study was conducted in Bantul District, Yogyakarta, during the period of July-September 2023. A total of 148 farmers affected by FMD were surveyed by a purposive sampling method using a questionnaire and the data were analyzed using the ordinal logistic regression method. The result showed that farmers’ perceptions of FMD outbreaks of psychological, socio-cultural and economic attributes were in the high category. The majority of farmers experienced low economic losses (47.30%). Age and livestock ownership (p<0.01), formal education, and informal education (p<0.1) had a positive effect on the level of farmers’ economic losses, while only farming experience (p<0.01) had a negative effect. Pseudo R-Square value of 33.9% or the level of economic losses, is influenced by farmers’ age, farming experience, livestock ownership, as well as formal and informal education. Reaction in the field of opportunity: the highest level of economic losses in the low category is 0.997%. This study shows that FMD handling carried out by farmers is good enough to prevent the impact of large economic losses on cattle farmers in Bantul Regency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) rail project on Thailand's logistics and supply chain operations using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Pearson's correlation analysis reveals a negative correlation of −0.3354 for economic factors and a positive correlation of 0.3179 for logistic performance, indicating a moderate to strong negative correlation with the EEC line's progress. Survey results show that 62.30% of respondents live in urban areas of Chonburi or Rayong. Transportation preferences indicate that 72.13% use a single mode, mainly private cars, with public transport rarely used (1.64% daily) and typical travel times of 30 minutes to an hour for 60.66%. Awareness of the HSR project is low, with over 57% unfamiliar, but 54.10% strongly agree on its importance for regional economic growth. Feasibility studies show 54.10% find it highly feasible to use HSR, expecting benefits in job creation, tourism, and business opportunities. Environmental and social concerns suggest affordable pricing, targeted job creation, and support for vulnerable groups to ensure social equity. Recommendations include improving transport integration, fostering economic and social equity, and prioritising environmental sustainability to support Thailand's long-term development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the socio-economic conditions of entrepreneurs that influence the growth of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in the South Andaman District. In this study, a scheduled questionnaire-based survey research design was used, and a sample of 344 small business owners was collected for analysis. The data were processed using SPSS, and chi-squared test was applied for statistical analysis. The study's findings revealed that factors such as entrepreneurs' business experience, income levels, the number of working employees and ownership of house property significantly impact the growth of enterprises in the island region. However, factors like business location and sector of enterprises were found to be statistically insignificant in determining MSEs' growth in the island region. The study suggests that policymakers and local administrations should enhance support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in island regions by implementing policies such as island capital investment subsidies and island transport subsidies for MSEs. As a result, small businesses play a pivotal role by contributing to local employment, production and investment opportunities in the island region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates whether the choice of a financial cooperative is influenced by sustainable savings decisions through deposits or shares. The moderating influence of digital financial services (DFS) and an individual's reason for joining a financial cooperative are also investigated. Data are gathered from a cross‐sectional sample of 334 respondents drawn from 86 savings and credit cooperative societies (Saccos) in Kenya. The final sample comprises of 46 deposit‐taking (220 respondents) and 40 non–deposit‐taking (114 respondents) Saccos. Two‐sample tests, correlation and logistic regression analyses are performed to establish the factors influencing Sacco choice. Consistent with the mutual incentives and lifecycle theories, the findings reveal that an individual's choice of a financial cooperative is influenced by individual, as well as socio‐economic and environmental factors. The study finds that the desire to mobilize sustainable deposits is a more important consideration compared to building shares when choosing a Sacco. We further find that DFS are important in choosing a Sacco owing to the increased engagement and transparency associated with them. Other factors influencing Sacco choice include marital status, income levels and household location. The results help inform the focus by Sacco managers, regulators and policy makers in terms of the growth incentives to consider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multimorbidity (MM), the co-existence of two or more chronic diseases, is not just a medical condition but a significant public health concern for many developing countries, including Bangladesh. The limited information on MM among the older population in Bangladesh has driven us to conduct this study, which is of utmost importance for healthcare professionals and policymakers in formulating effective healthcare strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected two public medical college hospitals with a sample of 566 hospitalized elderly patients aged 60 years and above. Respondents' clinical information on chronic conditions was obtained from hospital reports, and socio-demographic data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the associations among the variables and covariates of MM. Result: MM of the elderly varied substantially by socio-demographic, lifestyle, and economic attributes. Higher age, widowhood, lower education, use of tobacco, and greater economic dependency are conducive to heightened MM likelihood among the elderly. More specifically, females have higher rates of MM than males (64.18% vs. 54.17%). The higher the age, the higher the chances of MM [OR: 1.03; 95% CI 1.04–1.06]. Similarly, economically dependent individuals have higher MM than independent older adults [OR: 3.12; 95% CI 1.88–5.17]. Smoking cigarettes, bidis, tobacco, and other intoxicants (snuff, pan, and pan masala) have a higher likelihood of MM for both males and females. Urban and non-Muslim elderly also have lower odds of MM than their counterparts. Our findings, which highlight the variations in MM based on different socioeconomic and lifestyle determinants, underscore the urgent need for further exploration of determinant-specific variations. This will enable the development of effective preventive measures and specific clinical and public health strategies for targeted prevention and intervention. As revealed by our study, the 'lifestyle factors'-centered systematic treatment strategy should be prioritized in the care of elderly patients with multimorbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents new data derived from pollen, starch and radiocarbon samples that were collected from six Aboriginal earth (oven) mounds and middens on the Calperum and Pike floodplains, Murray-Darling Basin (MDB), South Australia (SA). Analyses of these samples were undertaken in order to enhance our understanding about the Holocene lifeways of Aboriginal people living in this region. The results from these analyses, combined with published data about the mounds' contents, relevant ethno-historical information and climate data, allow us to infer that Aboriginal people adopted, in this region, an innovative food production system about 3800 years ago. Further, we argue that the timing of the change suggests this was in response to adverse El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) related weather patterns and consequently fluctuations in both terrestrial and aquatic food resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is devoted to the problem of updating measures for preventing criminal offenses in the field of housing construction, as well as their analysis and systematization. It classifies preventive measures related to crime into specific groups applicable in housing construction to modernize previously formulated prevention strategies by researchers, which can also be applied to this field. The grouping and enhancement of the «arsenal» of preventive measures will facilitate the future development of tactics and strategies for preventive activities against crime in the housing construction market at both regional and national levels. The study of a significant body of literature related to both the criminological aspects of preventing criminal offenses in the field of housing construction and adjacent areas has made it possible to propose a grouping of general social and specialized criminological preventive measures across seven key areas: political, legislative, socio-economic, organizational and managerial, educational and cultural, ideological, and doctrinal prevention. Furthermore, due to the extensive and multifaceted nature of the housing construction sector, where criminal offenses are committed by both construction companies and officials from government bodies or local authorities, the organizational and managerial group of preventive measures has been suggested to be divided into those applicable to construction companies and those relevant to the state as a whole, as well as to officials (including those from local governments) specifically. At the same time, as a conclusion, it is noted that there is a need to search for and propose new measures that will significantly improve the existing «arsenal» of preventive measures against crime in the housing construction market and enhance the effectiveness of activities aimed at preventing and combating criminal offenses in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the correlation between demographic, socio-economic, and lifestyle factors with e-cigarette use, cigarette smoking, and dual use is essential for targeted public health interventions. This study examines the prevalence of these behaviors in Scotland and identifies the associated factors. We conducted a repeated cross-sectional analysis of the Scottish Health Survey data from 2017 to 2021, leveraging data from 12,644 participants aged 16 and older: 2271 cigarette smokers, 687 e-cigarette users, 428 dual users, and 9258 never users. Weighted prevalences were calculated by age group, sex, and survey year, followed by weighted multinomial logistic regression to explore associated factors. The overall prevalences were 72.0% (95% CI 70.9–73.1) for never users, 18.9% (95% CI 17.9–19.9) for cigarette smokers, 5.5% (95% CI 5.0–6.1) for e-cigarette users, and 3.6% (95% CI 3.2–4.0) for dual users. From 2017 to 2021, cigarette smoking declined from 21.7% (95% CI 19.6–23.9) to 13.1% (95% CI 11.5–15.0), e-cigarette use from 6.5% (95% CI 5.4–7.8) to 4.8% (95% CI 3.6–6.4), and dual use from 3.7% (95% CI 2.9–4.6) to 2.7% (95% CI 1.9–3.7). Age was a critical factor, with the 25–34 age group more likely to use e-cigarettes (p = 0.007) and the 35–44 age group more likely to engage in dual use (p = 0.006) compared to the 16–24 age group. Males had higher odds of e-cigarette use than females (p = 0.031). White individuals had higher odds of using e-cigarettes (p = 0.023) and being dual users (p = 0.017) compared to non-whites. Previously married individuals had higher odds of dual use than singles (p = 0.031). Larger household sizes were linked to reduced odds of all three behaviors (p = 0.001). Rural residents were less likely to use e-cigarettes compared to urban residents (p = 0.025). Higher education correlated with lower odds of all three behaviors (p = 0.001). Manual occupation increased the likelihood of dual use (p = 0.042). Lower income and higher deprivation significantly increased the odds of all three behaviors (p < 0.001). Excessive alcohol consumption was associated with increased odds of the three behaviors (p < 0.001). Poor sleep quality correlated with increased odds of dual use (p = 0.002) and cigarette smoking (p < 0.001). Adherence to physical activity guidelines was associated with reduced odds of all three behaviors (cigarette smoking p < 0.001, e-cigarette use p = 0.031, dual use p = 0.016). In conclusion, this study showed a decline in the prevalence of cigarette smoking, e-cigarette use, and dual usage from 2017 to 2021 in Scotland. Significant associations with demographic, socio-economic, and lifestyle factors highlight the need for targeted public health interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Climate change and continued development in the wildland--urban interface (WUI) have increased risks to property and infrastructure from destructive wildfires. Aims. A better understanding of the factors associated with building survival will promote resilience of WUI communities. Methods. We studied factors associated with the likelihood that a building burned during the 2019 McKinley fire in the Alaska boreal forest, USA. We examined the potential influence of both ecological or socio-economic factors on building loss. Key results. The probability of a building burning was significantly associated (P < 0.001) with a building burning nearby (within 30 m). Having less flammable deciduous cover nearby (within 100 m) improved survival. Buildings with lower value on larger parcels were more likely to burn, as were buildings with larger perimeters. Other important factors associated with burning included the number of buildings both nearby (within 30 m) and within the property parcel boundary. Conclusions. Our results suggest that social and ecological factors contribute to building survival, indicating that a comprehensive social-ecological approach would provide the most effective support to WUI communities with wildfire risks. Implications. A comprehensive approach that integrates social, economic, and ecological factors is important in understanding building loss in WUI wildfires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is a developing country that has growing responses in the demand of livestock products by increases with population dynamically. In Punjab, Cholistan is an arid and hottest place which considered as notable supply line for mutton and livestock products. The main source of income of nomad pastoralists of Cholistan desert is the livestock rearing including sheep, goats, cattle and camels. Basically, desert of Cholistan is divided into two parts includes greater and lesser Cholistan. Majority of families with their animals are residing in "Toba", it is a source of fresh water made by during natural rainy season is self-made ponds. This study pertains to livestock management practices and marketing pattern in greater and lesser regions of Cholistan desert. For this purpose, field survey was conducted for data collection from representative families residing in the 24 randomly selected "Tobas". A total of 384 households were interviewed through the semistructured questionnaire. Population of cattle and donkey were significantly higher observed in greater Cholistan as compared to lesser Cholistan at household and Toba levels. Camel population was significantly higher reported in lesser Cholistan than the greater Cholistan. Numbers of sold animal were higher (622) in lesser Cholistan compared with greater Cholistan (790). Peak milk production, total milk production and total milk sold liters/day of cattle was significantly higher in greater Cholistan as compared to lesser Cholistan. Simialry, peak and total milk production (liters per animal/day) of camel was more in lesser cholistan as compared to greater Cholistan. Higher percentage of female involvement in livestock was observed more in greater Cholistan as compared to lesser Cholistan. It is concluded that the livestock is the main source of income in region of Cholistan. The scarcity of feed availability and conventional livestock trade methods are the main obstacles to the development livestock production and subsequent improvement in the livelihoods of the farmers. This study will helps in the planning for efficient and sustainable improvements in livestock economy of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transboundary freshwater fish are critical for both biodiversity and community well‐being but face alarming overexploitation in shared rivers. Such rivers greatly aid the livelihood and nutrition of local people on both sides of shared borders. However, a lack of understanding of resource dynamics and utilization patterns hinders sustainable management of resources. We investigated spatiotemporal fish assemblages along the River Atrai, a transboundary river between India and Bangladesh. The socioeconomic status of fishers was quantified from personal interviews and group discussions to estimate the exploitation trajectory of piscine resources. Fish assemblages varied significantly among locations and seasons. Species diversity was highest downstream and lowest upstream. Spatiotemporal fishery exploitation aligned with fish diversity among sites and seasons, with fishers preferring to fish in downstream areas during the post‐monsoon season. Fishers were economically weak, with limited sources of income. Therefore, adequate integrated management plans should be implemented to ensure resource resilience in a transboundary pocket, sustainably supporting the livelihood of concomitant fishers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper aims at identifying the underlying factors that differentiate the local people's demographic and socio-economic characteristics, which influence their sense of place (SoP) toward different types of cultural heritage sites in different urban regions. Design/methodology/approach: The paper draws on the sequential explanatory design, using quantitative and qualitative methods, respectively, to investigate the research themes in-depth. A total of 201, 207 and 228 questionnaires were collected on religious, non-religious/memorial and historic commercial buildings, respectively, at two different quarters in Historic Cairo, followed by 20 semi-structured interviews with a representative sample of local people in each quarter. Findings: The authors found an apparent similarity in the significant characteristics that influence the local people's SoP levels toward the different historic buildings at the same quarter and a notable variation between both quarters. Also, many factors determine the local people's influential characteristics on their SoP toward the different cultural heritage sites (e.g. the sites' distance from the person's residence/workplace, economic value, people's awareness about its history, type of activities and targeted gender, feeling of stability and regions' characteristics) Practical implications: Identifying these underlying factors and priority local groups can assist policymakers in ensuring a sustainable management/conservation of the different cultural heritage sites. Originality/value: The paper demonstrates the causality of a significant correlation between local people's characteristics and their SoP levels toward the different types of historic buildings, apart from their religious symbolism or historical value, using the sequential explanatory design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Multimorbidity (MM), the co-existence of two or more chronic diseases, is not just a medical condition but a significant public health concern for many developing countries, including Bangladesh. The limited information on MM among the older population in Bangladesh has driven us to conduct this study, which is of utmost importance for healthcare professionals and policymakers in formulating effective healthcare strategies. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected two public medical college hospitals with a sample of 566 hospitalized elderly patients aged 60 years and above. Respondents’ clinical information on chronic conditions was obtained from hospital reports, and socio-demographic data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the associations among the variables and covariates of MM. Result MM of the elderly varied substantially by socio-demographic, lifestyle, and economic attributes. Higher age, widowhood, lower education, use of tobacco, and greater economic dependency are conducive to heightened MM likelihood among the elderly. More specifically, females have higher rates of MM than males (64.18% vs. 54.17%). The higher the age, the higher the chances of MM [OR: 1.03; 95% CI 1.04–1.06]. Similarly, economically dependent individuals have higher MM than independent older adults [OR: 3.12; 95% CI 1.88–5.17]. Smoking cigarettes, bidis, tobacco, and other intoxicants (snuff, pan, and pan masala) have a higher likelihood of MM for both males and females. Urban and non-Muslim elderly also have lower odds of MM than their counterparts. Our findings, which highlight the variations in MM based on different socioeconomic and lifestyle determinants, underscore the urgent need for further exploration of determinant-specific variations. This will enable the development of effective preventive measures and specific clinical and public health strategies for targeted prevention and intervention. As revealed by our study, the ‘lifestyle factors’-centered systematic treatment strategy should be prioritized in the care of elderly patients with multimorbidity.

Background: Childhood obesity is a complex condition resulting from an inter play of genetic predisposition, environmental factors and socio-economic status. The prevalence has been increasing all over the world, probably due to economic transition and rapid urbanization as well as globalisation. This relationship should be well established for Improved Health Planning in Gombe State and Nigeria. Objectives: To establish the prevalence of Childhood Obesity and it`s relationship with the Socio-Economic Status of Parents and guardians. Methodology:Anthropometric measurements of children and adolescents in both public and private schools from primary to secondary levels were taken and their BMI calculated. The socioeconomic statuses of their parents, as well as the lifestyle of the children were assessed. Results: Overweight and obesity were more prevalent in children whose parents belonged to the middle and upper socio-economic class; these children had televisions and computers in their rooms and were driven to school Conclusion: The picture is completely the reverse of what is obtainable in the developed and industrialised nations where overweight and obesity are more prevalent in children of the lower socio-economic class. Authors` contribution: The first author is the lead researcher and is a staff of Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe while the second author, a staff of University of Maiduguri is the first supervisor who gave guidelines and made corrections. The second and the third authors are members of staff of the University of Melbourne in Australia; the third author provided a template on which the questionaire was based while the fourth author who is also the second supervisor, is a tutor of the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology; she facilitated the acceptance of the proposal and the sponsorship for the research. The research was carried out in Gombe, the capital of Gombe State in North Eastern Nigeria

Background: Socio- economic factors are known to affect health quality, disease occurrence as well as health-seeking behaviors in several ways. Objectives: To determine the influence of socio-economic factors on awareness of cancer, health- seeking behaviors among parents of children with cancer in a developing country and occurrence of cancer using Burkitt lymphoma as index malignancy. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that involved children with cancer seen over a 2-year period in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Information was obtained by interview through administration of a questionnaire and retrieval of clinical data from patients’ case notes. Results: The caregivers of 91 children (46 boys, 45 girls) were interviewed including 86 biological parents. Majority (84.6%) of the children belonged to the low socio -economic classes 3-5; 45 of 86 parents (52.3%), more likely in parents from higher socio- economic classes, were aware of cancer but only 7 (8.1%) knew it could occur in children. There was no association between Burkitt lymphoma and socio-economic class. Twenty-eight (30.8%) parents of the 91 children visited alternate sources of health care, most commonly traditional healers, followed by religious centers. There was no association between visits to such centers and the parents’ socio-economic status or with presentation with metastatic disease. Conclusions: Awareness of childhood cancer is low among this cohort of parents; their socio- economic status seems to impact on this level of awareness but not on their health-seeking behaviors for their affected children. Focused health education is needed to increase childhood cancer awareness and appropriate health- seeking behavior among the population studied.

The impacts of climate change on forest ecosystems are profound and far-reaching, influencing not only the physiological responses of individual trees but also the ecological services and overall health of forests worldwide. This review synthesises current knowledge on climate change's physiological and ecological implications for forest health, underscoring forests' critical role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity maintenance, water cycle regulation, soil conservation, disaster risk reduction, and climate regulation. Forests, covering about 31% of the Earth's land area, are vital carbon sinks and pivotal in sustaining biodiversity, with over three-quarters of terrestrial biodiversity residing within them. Climate change, characterised by rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events, poses significant threats to these ecosystems. These include altered forest structure and function, degradation of soil quality, changes in phenology, increased pest attacks, and heightened susceptibility to wildfires, all of which compromise the forests' ability to deliver essential ecological services. The physiological responses of forests to changing climatic conditions—such as variations in photosynthesis rates, respiration, and water use efficiency—play a key role in determining their health and capacity to support biodiversity and ecosystem services. Changes in abiotic factors like temperature, moisture, O2 and CO2 levels directly affect these physiological processes, subsequently influencing forest productivity and resilience. The review highlights the importance of understanding these dynamic interactions to develop effective forest conservation and climate change mitigation strategies. Moreover, the review delves into the multifaceted impacts of climate change on various ecosystem services provided by forests, including biodiversity support, water cycle regulation, soil conservation, and climate regulation through carbon sequestration. As climate change continues to alter these vital ecosystems, understanding their physiological responses and the consequent effect on ecological services becomes imperative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian textile industry, a significant contributor to economic growth, is interconnected with trade, gender and environment. However, it generates significant waste, particularly for women, who bear a disproportionate burden of environmental degradation, given their positioning within the textile manufacturing chain. Trade policies that promote sustainable practices and gender equality can mitigate environmental risks and provide economic opportunities for women. Initiatives like fair trade and eco-labels can ensure women's labour is valued and environmental standards are upheld. Policies that promote women's access to resources, such as land and credit, can contribute to more sustainable and equitable economic development outcomes. India is promoting sustainable trade practices to minimize environmental impacts, including stringent environmental regulations, eco-friendly products and circular technologies. This thematic review of literature study analyzes existing studies on the Indian textile sector, focusing on female workforce, employment types and the relationship among gender, trade and environment. The main finding is the ambiguous linkage among trade and the socio-economic condition of female employees in the Indian textile sector, given its environmental underpinnings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aims to examine the impact of the digital economy on sustainable development during international financial crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the current war between Russia and Ukraine. To do this, we collected an annual dataset from 1990 to 2022 for twenty-eight developed and twenty-five developing countries, to identify links between environmental, socio-economic, and proxy indicators of the digital economy. We estimate these links using the Within and GLS methods and use the Hausman (1978) test for individual effects to determine the nature of these links. Our results show that the digital economy has made a positive and significant contribution to sustainable development. For developing countries, mobile technologies have positive and significant effects on sustainable development, whereas, in developed countries, these effects are less elastic. The Internet has a positive and significant effect on the Human Development Index. While trade openness plays a driving role in environmental performance, it has a negative impact on equitable and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of AI in various sectors most especially robotic lawyers in the legal system by some developed countries, has made tasks seamlessly achievable. Uganda has also had its fair share and benefits from the use of AI in various sectors, including the legal sector as it concerns virtual proceedings and virtual meetings. Although, the trending concept of robotic lawyers seems to enhance legal practice, however, the Uganda legal and socio-economic nomenclature, seem to pose restrictions. Concerning this, the study examines the legal and socio-economic issues concerning robotic lawyers practicing in Uganda. The study adopts a doctrinal method, data obtained from primary and secondary sources of material were analyse through a descriptive and analytical approach. The study found that the incorporating of robotic lawyers in Uganda, will provides several prospects. However, there are legal and socio-economic challenges, such as non-legal recognition, and challenges of maintaining and updating robotic lawyers, and it may result in a high level of unemployment. The study concludes and recommends that the concept of robotic lawyers is a welcome development. However, could incorporate robotic lawyers as a means of consultation for legal advice, storage of information, drafting of legal documents, and predicting and analysing legal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In the present research, we are going to propose a novel model to maximize the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) crude oil profit considering various influential variables. It is well known that the unbalanced distribution of oil in some countries along with market power causes the dependence of the economy on oil revenues. Hence, the sensitivity of countries with oil-dependent economies to the oil price and oil supply shocks is high. OPEC members control more than half of the world's known oil reserves. Therefore, awareness of the optimum oil supply of each member country according to proper influential variables is crucial. In this regard, this study uses linear integer optimization and also panel data models to investigate the behavior of the OPEC concerning selected socio-economic variables. Reported results point out that the oil price cannot be the only factor affecting the OPEC oil supply, but also the political, social, and cultural variables should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined slum residents' daily activities for survival, their implications on the environment, and the health of the inhabitants. The narrative design based on the qualitative methodology was deployed among 23 participants for an in-depth qualitative interview. The findings show various socioeconomic activities, such as processed and unprocessed food stuff; unskilled and unskilled labor, undertaken by the slum residents to fend for themselves. Such activities tend to negatively impact the environment in which people live as well as the health of the residents. The findings should be carefully applied to other slum communities with similar characteristics across all contexts. The outcome of the study provides city administrators with practical evidence of environmental pollutants occasioned by slums’ socioeconomic activities and their health implications in a developing country context. The novelty of this research lies in its application of two theoretical frameworks to examine the same slum phenomenon, emphasising the impact on the ecology and health of residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the transition from agriculture to tourism, ethnic villages are facing issues of "misalignment" and "disequilibrium" between economic growth and cultural heritage conservation. Previous research has often isolated the effects of cultural heritage conservation or socio-economic development, neglecting their reciprocal influences within the coupling coordination. This study addresses this gap by assessing 43 villages in Leishan County, quantifying the preservation status of the cultural landscape (PSCL) and socio-economic level (SEL) using a comprehensive evaluation model and revealing the coupling coordination relationship between PSCL and SEL in each village with the coupling coordination degree (CCD) model. Spatial autocorrelation and the geographical detector model reveal the spatial agglomeration characteristics and influential factors of the CCD. The results highlight three findings. (1) The majority of villages (93%) are in a moderate imbalance stage or a serious imbalance stage, underscoring an urgent need for targeted policies. (2) Spatial autocorrelation analysis exposes significant clustering, with the northwest corner exhibiting the most pronounced high-value aggregation, which contrasts with the southern region's low-value clustering. A 'low–high' clustering pattern is observed in the northern region, while the southwestern corner presents a 'high–low' distribution. (3) Key determinants affecting the CCD include the tourism revenue, tourist volume, resident participation in tourism, village hollowing level, and number of historical buildings. The interactions between driving factors show non-linear and two-factor enhancement effects. This study concludes with policy recommendations advocating for context-specific strategies to enhance the CCD, emphasizing the importance of aligning cultural preservation with economic progress in ethnic villages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, this study sought to evaluate the impact of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), a Conditional Cash Transfer programme, on enhancing maternal health awareness, utilisation patterns, and perceived health benefits among expectant and nursing mothers. Method: To acquire further in-depth understanding, a mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative interviews with 200 beneficiaries and a quantitative survey. Sociodemographic factors, knowledge of PMMVY, benefit use, and satisfaction levels were all included in the study. Result: There is a substantial information gap about PMMVY (62% ignorant). Although 59% of respondents were satisfied with the plan, the causes of their discontent were also investigated. For many (53%), the monetary benefits had a favourable impact on health outcomes; the money was spent on medications and food. Conclusion: To close the knowledge gap, the study emphasises the necessity of focused awareness efforts and enhanced communication. Modifying interventions to target needs and fortify family support can improve PMMVY's capacity to improve maternal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study used repeated cross-sectional data from three national surveys in Vietnam to determine tobacco smoking prevalence from 2010 to 2020 and disparities among demographic and socioeconomic groups. Methods: Tobacco smoking temporal trends were estimated for individuals aged 15 and over and stratified by demographic and socioeconomic status (SES). Prevalence estimates used survey weights and 95% confidence intervals. Logistic regression models adjusted for survey sample characteristics across time were used to examine trends. Results: Tobacco smoking prevalence dropped from 23.8% in 2010 to 22.5% in 2015 and 20.8% in 2020. The adjusted OR for 2015 compared to 2010 was 0.87, and for 2020 compared to 2010 was 0.69. Smoking decreased less for employed individuals than unemployed individuals in 2020 compared to 2010. Smoking was higher in the lower SES group in all 3 years. Higher-SES households have seen a decade-long drop in tobacco use. Conclusion: This prevalence remained constant in lower SES households. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the specific challenges faced by lower-SES smokers and emphasizes the importance of further research to inform effective policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IDHS 2017 showed the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) infants in Indonesia is 7%. LBW can increase the risk of mortality, morbidity, and growth disorders. The survival of LBW infants can be influenced by socioeconomic factors. The purpose of this study is to analyze survival time differences of LBW infants based on socioeconomic factors. This research is a non-reactive study using secondary data from the IDHS 2017. Survival analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method and analysis of differences in survival curves using the Log Rank method. The independent variables in the study include parents' occupation, household wealth index, mother's education, and father's education. The measured event is infant mortality within one year. Mother's education (p value=0.069) has no difference in the survival time of LBW. The parent's occupation (p value=0.013) has a difference in the survival time of LBW. The probability of survival is 99% in LBW with non-working mothers. There is a difference in the survival time of LBW based on the household wealth index factor (p value=0.000) with the probability of survival for LBW born in the lowest wealth index family is 90%. Differences in the survival time of LBW have been found in the parents' occupation and household wealth index variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the socio-economic aspects of crab fisheries in Maginti Island, West Muna Regency. Data collection was carried out from March 2021 to December 2023. The data collected were the socio-economic aspects of crab fisheries, including the level of community education, the number of fishermen, income from crab fishing, crab production 2017 - 2023, crab prices during 2017-2023, and the crab trade supply chain. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with stakeholders, including 62-74 fishermen, three local collectors, and two district-level collectors. Interviews were directly conducted with an open-ended question system based on data needs. Data analysis was carried out with a descriptive-quantitative approach. The study results showed that in the social aspect, crab fishermen's education is dominated by elementary school (S.D.) graduates, namely 61.29% in 2017 and 60.81% in 2023. In the economic aspect, most fishermen have a net income ranging from 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 IDR/month, which was affected by fluctuations in BSC prices. Crab prices from fishermen to collectors tend to fluctuate throughout 2017-2023. The average price of crabs per kg was 32,083.33 IDR in 2017, 36,166.67 IDR in 2018, 30,750 IDR in 2019, 23,750 IDR in 2020, 64,666.67 IDR in 2021, 31,083.33 IDR in 2022, and 44,791.67 IDR in 2023. Price fluctuations occurred since BSC fisheries in Maginti Island are part of the global fisheries supply chain that reaches the international market to America, China, and others. Fluctuations in the global BSC prices not only affected the prices locally but could increase fishermen's income by up to 11.25% which is >2,000,000 IDR/month from 2017-2023. The increase in income indicates that BSC fisheries in Maginti Island have supported the implementation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs), specifically SDGs-1, namely no poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Watersheds are areas that hydrologically have the capacity to drain water, conservation areas, drain water gradually, maintain water quality and reduce mass discharges, and can also be utilized for socio-economic purposes. Improper management and over-utilization of natural resources in the watershed can lead to damage and criticality of the surrounding area. As is the case with the Poleang watershed, due to population growth and activities to fulfill economic needs, it is able to change the function of forests in the Poleang watershed area to other uses that can reduce the quality of the Poleang watershed, therefore monitoring and evaluating watershed management performance is needed. Watershed monitoring and evaluation is carried out to assess watershed support capacity based on the watershed monitoring and evaluation method according to PERMENHUT RI No. P.61/MENHUT-II/2014. In this study, the performance of the Poleang watershed was analyzed by assessing the performance of the watershed based on its socio-economic carrying capacity. Based on the results of the analysis of socio-economic carrying capacity parameters, it was found that social criteria in the form of population pressure on agricultural areas were in the high category, from economic criteria it was found that the population welfare index was in moderate condition, and institutions through the existence and enforcement of laws in the good category. Based on the assessment of the condition of these three criteria, the socio-economic carrying capacity of the Poleang watershed is in the good category with a value of 83.75. which means that the socio-economic conditions of the community are classified as good with the current condition of the Poleang watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assesses the effectiveness of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and its impact on the socio-economic status of beneficiaries in selected municipalities of Nueva Ecija, Philippines. A mixed methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative methodologies within a triangulation design. The study involved 340 respondents from four municipalities of varying income classes. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distribution, ranking, weighted mean, and One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), while qualitative data were analyzed using in vivo coding and thematic analysis. The results reveal differing levels of program effectiveness across the municipalities and significant impacts on the socio-economic status of beneficiaries.The findings suggest that while the 4Ps program has positively impacted the socio-economic conditions of beneficiaries, there is a need to refine its implementation strategies to ensure more uniform benefits across different municipalities. Enhancements to the 4Ps program's implementation could further improve its effectiveness in poverty alleviation across various municipalities in the Philippines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted from February to July 2023. This study aims to find out the socio-economic characteristics of farmers involved in vegetable cultivation in Palpa, Nepal. The specific objectives of the study were identifying the socio-demographic character of farmers, profitability of vegetable farming, study the perception of farmers towards increasing yield and technical services received and assess the problems associated with vegetable farming. A semi-structured interview schedule was designed for the vegetable growers. The survey was conducted by face-to-face method. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected through field survey, KII, whereas secondary data was collected through published journals, research articles, annual reports of PMAMP, AKC and government organizations. Information collected from the different sources was coded, analyzed, and tabulated using SPSS, MS-Excel, and descriptive statistics. The gross revenue, net revenue, BC ratio was found highest. According to survey the most important problem on cultivation was disease and insect followed by the problem of irrigation facilities, quality of seed materials, technical knowledge and training and lastly labor facilities. Also, the major problem in marketing was unsatisfactory price followed by no access to market, lack of technical knowledge about post-harvest loss, transportation and storage facilities. Farmers of Palpa has the strong perception on increasing yield and income after the implementation of the project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundImproving joint intra-household decision-making by spouses is a promising solution to improve child-feeding practices. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the status and barriers of intra-household joint decision making on child feeding in rural districts of South Ethiopia from the perspectives of primary caregivers and key individuals.MethodsA mixed-method study was conducted from July 15 to September 15, 2023 in three randomly selected rural districts: Arba Minch Zuria, Mierab Abaya, and Chencha, in Southern Ethiopia. We employed a cross-sectional study design to collect quantitative data. A computer generated random number technique was used to include 25% of the total kebeles from each district. A total of 20 kebeles; 8 from 32 kebeles of chencha, 6 from 24 kebeles of Mierab Abaya, and 6 from 24 kebeles of Arba Minch Zuria were included. A total of 1,479 women with their children aged 6–23 months were recruited from family folder of the health extension program using a simple random sampling technique. A descriptive qualitative study design was used to collect data from 51 focus group discussants and 12 key informants. Trained health professionals collected the data using a structured and pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire and semi-structured interviewer guide for quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Univariate analysis was used to determine the frequency and percentages while Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the associated factors. The odds ratio with a 95%CI was computed to assess strength of the association. The principles of saturation were adhered during the qualitative data collection. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data in themes and subthemes, using ATLAS.ti version 23.ResultsOverall, more than two-thirds (69.2%) of the intra-household decision-making regarding child feeding were found to be jointly decided by the spouses. Women with formal education (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.37–2.46), husband involvement in child feeding (AOR = 2.23, 95%CI: 1.70–2.92), having fewer than or equal to three children (AOR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.11–2.04), women aged 25-34 years (AOR = 1.57, 95%CI: 1.19–2.07) and 35-49 years (AOR = 2.14, 95%CI: 1.38–3.33) were significantly associated with joint decision-making regarding child feeding practices. Moreover, large family sizes, large age gaps between husbands and wives, and gender inequalities were identified as barriers to women’s engagement in intra-household decision making based on qualitative analysis.ConclusionIn the rural districts of southern Ethiopia, joint intra-household decision making regarding child feeding was found to be satisfactory. Maternal education, husband’s involvement in child feeding, mother’s age, and number of children were independent variables that significantly influenced women’s engagement in joint intra-household decision making on child feeding. Interventions targeted at improving women’s engagement in decision-making should consider the following sociocultural barriers: extreme age differences between couples, large family sizes, and detrimental gender-oriented norms.

The objectives of this study were to measure the level of farmers’ perceptions on psychological, socio-cultural and economic aspects, and to analyze the economic losses during foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks. This study was conducted in Bantul District, Yogyakarta, during the period of July-September 2023. A total of 148 farmers affected by FMD were surveyed by a purposive sampling method using a questionnaire and the data were analyzed using the ordinal logistic regression method. The result showed that farmers’ perceptions of FMD outbreaks of psychological, socio-cultural and economic attributes were in the high category. The majority of farmers experienced low economic losses (47.30%). Age and livestock ownership (p

This study examines the impact of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) rail project on Thailand’s logistics and supply chain operations using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Pearson’s correlation analysis reveals a negative correlation of −0.3354 for economic factors and a positive correlation of 0.3179 for logistic performance, indicating a moderate to strong negative correlation with the EEC line’s progress. Survey results show that 62.30% of respondents live in urban areas of Chonburi or Rayong. Transportation preferences indicate that 72.13% use a single mode, mainly private cars, with public transport rarely used (1.64% daily) and typical travel times of 30 minutes to an hour for 60.66%. Awareness of the HSR project is low, with over 57% unfamiliar, but 54.10% strongly agree on its importance for regional economic growth. Feasibility studies show 54.10% find it highly feasible to use HSR, expecting benefits in job creation, tourism, and business opportunities. Environmental and social concerns suggest affordable pricing, targeted job creation, and support for vulnerable groups to ensure social equity. Recommendations include improving transport integration, fostering economic and social equity, and prioritising environmental sustainability to support Thailand’s long-term development goals.

The study aimed to analyze women’s roles in stabilizing their families to improve their conditions during the pandemic. Women have encountered setbacks as they take care of their families in the wake of the pandemic that has adversely affected people’s livelihoods. It employs qualitative research methods and a descriptive study design to ascertain the role women play in improving the welfare of their families during the pandemic. It employs online survey questions and virtual interviews to collect data from a sample size of 100 randomly selected women. The study reveals that women play essential roles in enhancing the hygiene and cleanliness of their homes and children throusgh sanitization and regular washing of hands. They also take leadership and headship of the family following the incapacitation of their spouses by the COVID-19 disease; provide for the family’s basic needs, and provide psycho-social support as caregivers to their affected and infected family members. There is also a need to assist women struggling to protect the interest of their family and their livelihoods during the pandemic to emancipate them from the hurdles that have for a long time hindered them from realizing improved living standards.

To restore the degraded watersheds, the government of Ethiopia has recently introduced and adopted participatory natural resources management (PNRM) in different regions of the country. This study aimed at investigating the effects of the various independent variables derived from demographic, socio-economic, biophysical, institutional, and cognitive factors on the perceptions and the attitudes of local people towards the PNRM introduced in the Jemma Watershed, North Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia. Semi-structured questionnaire comprised of closed- and open-ended questions was developed and administered to a total of n = 420 random households in five purposely selected Kebeles of the Jemma Watershed. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression techniques were used to analyze and interpret the household survey data. The descriptive results revealed that majority of the respondents (92.19%) agreed that they had the responsibility to protect and manage the natural resources in the Jemma Watershed. Consequently, about 83% of the respondents had already accepted the PNRM program introduced in the study watershed. The results of the multiple linear regression models revealed that several independent variables derived from demographic, socioeconomic, institutional, and cognitive factors had significant effects on the perceptions of the local people towards ‘the concept of PNRM’ (68% variance explained), ‘the presence of PNRM practice’ (61% variance explained), and ‘the problems with the existing PNRM system’ (72% variance explained). The study further uncovered that several independent variables derived from demographic, socioeconomic, institutional, and cognitive factors significantly affected the attitudes of the local people towards ‘managing the natural resources through participatory approach’ (63% variance explained), ‘having the responsibility to protect and manage the natural resources’ (75% variance explained), and ‘accepting the concept and the practice of the PNRM’ (65% variance explained). As there are still some respondents who are yet unsure to fully accept PNRM, creating public awareness on the PNRM and integrated watershed management program and practice is crucial to alleviate the problems of deforestation and land degradation, thereby enhancing the sustainable use of the natural resources in the Jemma Watershed.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant global health issue, leading to high rates of sickness and death worldwide. In Thailand, there are over 3 million patients with the COPD, with more than a million patients admitted to hospitals due to symptoms of the disease. This study investigated factors influencing the incidence of acute exacerbations among COPD patients in Thailand, including the spatial autocorrelation between socioeconomic and environmental factors. We conducted a spatial analysis using Moran’s I, Local Indicators Of Spatial Association (LISA), and spatial regression models, specifically the Spatial Lag Model (SLM) and the Spatial Error Model (SEM), to explore the relationships between the variables. The univariate Moran’s I scatter plots showed a significant positive spatial autocorrelation of 0.606 in the incidence rate of COPD among individuals aged 15 years and older across all 77 provinces in Thailand. High-High (HH) clusters for the COPD were observed in the northern and southern regions, while Low-Low (LL) clusters were observed in the northern and north-eastern regions. Bivariate Moran’s I indicated a spatial autocorrelation between various factors and acute exacerbation of COPD in Thailand. LISA analysis revealed 4 HH clusters and 5 LL clusters related to average income, 12 HH and 8 LL clusters in areas where many people smoke, 5 HH and 8 LL clusters in areas with industrial factory activities, 11 HH and 9 LL clusters associated with forested areas, and 6 LL clusters associated with the average rice field. Based on the Akaike information criterion (AIC). The SLM outperformed the SEM but only slightly so, with an AIC value of 1014.29 compared to 1019.56 and a Lagrange multiplier value of p

Soil degradation is a pressing issue in Nepal. The interrelation between soil degradation and nitrogen deficiency often creates feedback loops that exacerbate both problems. Further, there are debates as to whether sharecropping poses challenges to sustainable soil management. This study examines the comparative likelihood of sharecroppers and non-sharecroppers to adopt minimum or no-till, use of crop residues, incorporate fertiliser in the soil or deep placement of fertiliser, use compost and organic fertiliser, and adopt good water management practices. This study also investigates whether there are differences between adoption drivers/barriers of sharecropper and non-sharecroppers Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) models are estimated. The results show that being a sharecropper is associated with a decrease in the likelihood of adopting no-tillage/minimum tillage and incorporating fertiliser rather than broadcasting. However, being a sharecropper is associated with a greater likelihood of adopting organic fertiliser, compost and crop residues. The main differences between the determinants of adoption among sharecroppers and non-sharecroppers are that older farmers were more likely to adopt certain practices for sharecroppers but not for non-sharecroppers. There are also differences in the adoption of no-tillage/minimum tillage and incorporation of fertiliser for non-sharecroppers between male and female farmers. However, for sharecroppers, male-headed farms were less likely to adopt most practices. Labour size, subsidy for synthetic fertiliser, and awareness of the soil/environment linkages also influenced adoption differently across sharecroppers and non-sharecroppers. Contrary to assertions that sharecropping acts as a barrier universally, the findings suggest that Nepalese sharecroppers' adoption of soil management practices is more context-dependent than uniformly hindered.