From demonstrated agency to structural integration: security-trained women and the role of assignment and competence registries in crisis preparedness and national defense

This research aims to analyze the model of the national defense education policy process and its role in supporting national defense. The type of this research is descriptive qualitative research. The data collection technique used in this study is a documentation study by searching for documents related to national defense policy, such as laws, journals, books, monographs, archives, clippings, statistical data, and other materials from relevant sources throughout this research—next, structured interviews and focus group discussions. The data analysis technique used in this research employs an interactive model. The findings of this research are that the model for implementing the national defense education policy at the higher education level is based on 3CS (Competent, Compact, Coordination, and Sustainable), which produces outputs in the form of students who understand, comprehend, and possess the values and attitudes of national defense. National defense education implemented at all higher education levels can foster good character in the nation. To achieve the desired outcomes from implementing national defense policies at the higher education level and to support national defense, adequate preparation is required, especially in determining the implementers of national defense policies. The understanding of national defense awareness by students fosters attitudes and behaviors that instill vigilance in the younger generation in filtering foreign cultural influences entering Indonesia, especially foreign cultures that are not in line with Indonesian national culture.

Regionalization, systems of care design, and quality improvement (QI) registry participation all promote the widespread dissemination of guideline-based evidence into actual practice. As a result, policy statements from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) advocate for the creation of regional systems of care for various time-critical diagnoses, including ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), out-of-hospital cardiac arrest resuscitation, and acute stroke.1–3 Creation of these regional networks requires multidisciplinary collaboration to implement 5 mutually reinforcing core elements4 that build each system: (1) Designation of certain hospitals with special treatment capabilities as Receiving Centers for STEMI, resuscitation, or stroke; (2) emergency medical services (EMS) destination protocols that allow for direct transport of certain patients identified by explicit triage criteria to a designated Receiving Center, thus allowing for bypass of closer hospitals if they lack the needed specialty service; (3) organized interhospital transfer and transport protocols to a Receiving Center for appropriate patients who initially self-present or are mistriaged to a Referral Hospital; (4) communication or telemedicine options to provide real-time expert consultation as needed from a Receiving Center to its associated Referral Hospitals or EMS providers; and (5) participation in a regional and/or national QI registry to track relevant process-of-care metrics and meaningful risk-adjusted clinical outcomes. Within each of the 50 states, unique challenges exist for stakeholders attempting to implement the 5 aforementioned core elements of regional or statewide systems of care. In particular, substantial variation exists with regard to the starting point for these initiatives. For example, some states already have sufficient regulatory authority within their EMS agency or state department of health (DOH) to regionalize care of time-critical diagnoses, whereas other states require new legislation to create coordinated systems. In October 2011, the Advocacy Coordinating Committee of the AHA convened a multispecialty task force to assess the …

The fertility rate in Sri Lanka has gradually declined over the last few decades. While existing literature has explored motherhood and career aspirations, few studies examine these dynamics among university students in Sri Lanka. This study aims to explore how young Sri Lankan female undergraduates perceive motherhood in relation to their career aspirations and life goals, offering a contextually grounded perspective in a Southern setting. The study adopted a mixed-method approach comprising a survey followed by in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The sample comprised 300 female undergraduates from the Arts, Management, and Science faculties at the University of Colombo, including both first-year and final-year students. The study employed a pseudo-longitudinal design to compare differences in perceptions and attitudes toward motherhood across academic disciplines and stages of study. Findings indicate that the value placed on motherhood varies by discipline, with Arts and Management students generally prioritising it more than those in Science. Attitudes also shift between first-year and final-year students, as academic exposure and evolving career aspirations influence the timing and conditions under which motherhood is considered. Career goals, financial stability, and lifestyle preferences emerged as key factors shaping reproductive decisions, while concerns about balancing work and family persist across the sample. The study highlights the complex interplay between societal expectations, personal values, and professional ambitions in shaping young women’s reproductive choices in Sri Lanka. In conclusion, undergraduate perceptions of motherhood are shaped by disciplinary identity and socio-economic positioning, often leading to delayed motherhood due to anticipated role conflicts and financial constraints. Supportive policies, flexible work environments, and community-level interventions are essential to empower young women to navigate career and family while making informed reproductive choices.

Gas sensor can be used to detect, monitor, monitor, analyze and alarm. It has very important application value in industry, national defense, food safety and medical examination. Among the gas sensors, the semiconductor resistance type gas sensor has many advantages, such as high sensitivity, fast response, small size, light weight, easy to carry, and so on. As one of the widely used gas sensing materials, SnO2 has been a hot spot in the research and application in 60s, and it has been developing rapidly. SnO2 is one of the most common gas sensitive materials, with physical and chemical properties of gas detection and stability; reversible adsorption and desorption time is short; low cost, energy saving and other advantages, is widely used in the detection of various gas sensitive devices. However, the disadvantages of high working temperature and poor selectivity of SnO2 make it need to be further improved as gas sensitive material. The gas sensing mechanism of semiconductor gas sensitive material is mostly controlled by the surface, which is embodied in: increasing the specific surface area of the material and enhancing the gas sensing performance. At present, the main method of increasing the specific surface area of the material is nano scale. In this paper, the preparation and gas sensing properties of porous and hollow structure SnO2 are mainly discussed on the basis of particle size. Porous structure facilitates the increase of the specific surface area of the material, providing a larger surface area and volume ratio for the material, which is of great benefit to the diffusion and transportation of the gas being measured. Nano hollow structure has a thin shell; the inner and outer surface provides a high surface area and volume ratio, so that the sensor has a faster response and recovery speed, and higher sensitivity. Using carbon micro spheres as hard templates, the structure of SnO2 was successfully prepared by using different raw materials ratio and hydrothermal conditions. The composition and morphology of SnO2 were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM and so on. The study of gas sensitivity shows that the SnO2 of the hollow classification structure can show good gas sensitivity, which has the advantages of high sensitivity, good selectivity and strong stability.

Crisis preparedness planning work can be characterized as complex and challenging being performed in large public organizations requiring communication and cooperation with many people. This paper reports on a bottom-up study investigating the pre-requisites for efficient crisis preparedness work, as well as motivational factors for implementing crisis preparedness decisions, which might be studied and understood in terms of sense-making, communication, and cooperation. As focus was on the crisis preparedness planners’ need to understand their roles, assignments, and authorities in the crisis preparedness planning process, ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with local and regional crisis preparedness planners at a county council in southern Sweden. Enablers and barriers for implementing crisis preparedness were identified and concerned area such as: assuming the role of expert in crisis preparedness planning in one’s organization and understanding what crisis preparedness is about in relation to the organization’s core tasks; power and attaining enough mandate to be able to perform one’s designated work by, e.g. seeking and finding different networks, stakeholders and partners that can legitimate the planner’s work and enable trust and action; communicating demands and benefits of the planners’ tasks realizing that members and working areas in the organization have different needs, cultures, and use different languages; and managing and delivering risk analysis information from the local to the regional level. For a attaining a comprehensive view of enablers and barriers in the crisis preparedness planning processes and implementation, an organizational top-down perspective will also be needed.

Exploring Subordinates' Perceptions and Experiences with Abusive Leaders in Higher Education: A Qualitative Study

This study aims to analyze the role and challenges in the implementation of the technical functions of the Ministry of Defense in the regions, as well as its contribution to a strong national defense system. In the context of Law Number 3 of 2002 concerning National Defense, this study highlights the importance of synergy between the central and regional governments in managing national defense. Through the literature study method, this study examines various regulations, the role of regional governments, the involvement of TNI units, and the use of technology in supporting regional defense strategies. The results of the study indicate that although there are supportive policies, there are still significant challenges in implementation in the field, including less than optimal coordination between the center and regions, and limited facilities and infrastructure. This study concludes that the integration of formulating regional defense strategies in collaboration between Ministry of Defense, TNI and regional governments is very important to realize a strong, adaptive and resilient national defense system in facing various threats.

<h3>Background</h3> The Enroll-HD project aims to recruit one third of the manifest HD patients living in areas served by study sites. We conducted an audit of REGISTRY study participants at two sites (Manchester and Liverpool) to assess the feasibility of this, and to investigate the effect of geographical and socioeconomic factors on equality of access to the service. <h3>Aims</h3> To determine the number of REGISTRY participants per 100,000 of the population in different areas of North West England, and the relationship of this to distance from study sites and indicators of economic deprivation. <h3>Methods</h3> The total number of living REGISTRY participants and the number of currently active study participants were calculated for each county and borough in north west England. Postcodes were used to assign subjects to census areas (Lower-layer Super Output Areas; LSOAs) and the distribution of LSOAs containing at least one REGISTRY participant was compared to the overall distribution using the Index of Multiple Deprivations (IMD) of the UK Office of National Statistics. <h3>Results</h3> Rates of current REGISTRY participation varied greatly from borough to borough, but was approximately 4/100,000 across most of the region, rising to 6/100,000 when inactive participants were included. The borough with the highest rate of participation was the one most geographically distant (about 3 h travel) from the study sites. LSOAs containing a REGISTRY participant were significantly more likely to have a higher IMD score (more deprived). <h3>Conclusion</h3> If the prevalence of HD is 12/100,000, our findings suggest that the goal of recruiting one third of the available subjects is achievable. Distance from the study site does not appear to be a barrier to access in our region. Given that the primary cause of HD is genetic, the significant relationship with indices of deprivation suggests that HD has a detrimental effect on the socioeconomic status of families, as well as the health of affected individuals.

BackgroundAgainst the background of the international public health emergency related to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in addition to other recent large Ebola epidemics, the issue of transmission due to viral persistence from survivors’ body fluids is becoming increasingly urgent. Clinical research in which body fluids play a role is critical and semen testing programs are part of the suggested response to the outbreak. Broad acceptance and understanding of testing programs and research, often in resource poor settings, is essential for the success and sustainability of clinical studies and an accurate epidemic response. Study participants’ perceptions on the collection of body fluids are therefore relevant for the programmatic planning and implementation of clinical studies.Study aim and methodsIn this qualitative study we aimed to explore the perceptions on bio-sampling in the Sierra Leone Ebola Virus Persistence Study (SLEVP study). We were interested to understand how norms on gender and sexuality related to perceptions and experiences of study participants and staff, specifically, in what way perceptions of the body, on intimacy and on body fluids related to the study process. We purposively sampled former study participants for in-depth interviews and focus-group discussions. We conducted 56 in-depth interviews and eight focus group discussions with 93 participants. In a participatory approach we included study participants in the analysis of data.ResultsOverall the SLEVP study was well perceived by study participants and study staff. Study participants conceived the testing of their body fluids positively and saw it as a useful means to know their status. However, some study participants were ambivalent and sometimes reluctant towards sampling of certain body fluids (especially semen, blood and vaginal fluid) due to religious or cultural reasons. Self-sampling was described by study participants as a highly unusual phenomenon. Several narratives were related to the loss of body fluids (especially semen) that would make men weak and powerless, or women dizzy and sick (especially blood). Some rumors indicated mistrust related to study aims that may have been expressions of broader societal challenges and historical circumstances. These reservations could eventually be overcome by guaranteeing confidentiality and privacy and by comprehensive professional counseling.ConclusionIn the course of the sampling exercise, study participants were often obliged to transgress cultural and intimate boundaries. It is therefore important to understand the potential importance some of these perceptions have on the recruitment of study participants and the acceptability of studies, on a symbolic as well as a structural level. In order to capture any reservations it is necessary to provide plenty of possibilities of information sharing and follow-up of continuous consent.

BackgroundMen who have sex with men (MSM) are a key group for HIV interventions in Malawi considering their high HIV prevalence (17.5% compared to 8.4% among men in the general population). The use of oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) presents a new opportunity for MSM to be protected. We present the findings from a qualitative assessment designed to assess awareness of and willingness and barriers to using PrEP among MSM in Malawi.ObjectiveThe 3 main objectives of this assessment were to determine: (1) awareness of PrEP, (2) factors that influence willingness to use PrEP, and (3) potential barriers to PrEP use and adherence among MSM in order to guide the design and implementation of a PrEP program in Malawi.MethodsAhead of the introduction of PrEP in Malawi, a qualitative study using in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) was conducted in October 2018 in Blantyre, Lilongwe, and rural districts of Mzimba North and Mangochi. With support of members of the population, study participants were purposively recruited from 4 MSM-friendly drop-in centers where MSM receive a range of health services to ensure representativeness across sites and age. Participants were asked what they had heard about PrEP, their willingness to use PrEP, their barriers to PrEP use, and their preferences for service delivery. The data were analyzed using a thematic content analysis framework that was predetermined in line with objectives.ResultsA total of 109 MSM were interviewed—13 through IDIs and 96 through FGDs. Most participants were aware of PrEP as a new HIV intervention but had limited knowledge related to its use. However, the majority were willing to use it and were looking forward to having access to it. IDI participants indicated that they will be more willing to take PrEP if the dosing frequency were appropriate and MSM were involved in information giving and distribution of the drug. FGD participants emphasized that places of distribution and characteristics of the service provider are the key factors that will affect use. Knowing the benefits of PrEP emerged as a key theme in both the IDIs and FGDs. Participants highlighted barriers that would hinder them from taking PrEP such as side effects which were cited in IDIs and FGDs. Key factors from FGDs include cost, fear of being outed, drug stockouts, fear of being known as MSMs by wives, and lack of relevant information. FGDs cited stigma from health care workers, forgetfulness, and community associated factors.ConclusionsDespite having inadequate knowledge about PrEP, study participants were largely willing to use PrEP if available. Programs should include an effective information, education, and communication component around their preferences and provide PrEP in MSM-friendly sites.

In Germany, productivity gains and other factors induce structural changes in agriculture since decades. While the number of farms decreases simultaneously average farm sizes with respect to area and herd sizes increases. Conflicts between agricultural reality and society’s perception will always surface when production methods of large farms become public and significantly divert from the societal expectations mainly if the society still have romantic views from story-books in their mind. In this study societal perception of structural change in agriculture is analyzed using a mixed method approach to identify the main conflicts and to evaluate options to cope with these. In the focus group discussions as well as in the online survey a rejecting or critical attitude towards structural change in agriculture was stated. Structural change in agriculture was often associated with ‘mass production’, ‘mechanization’ or ‘agrarian factories’. Participants requested a restructuring of agriculture towards smaller and more diversified farms; however, most are aware that the technical progress require also adjustments in the agriculture. As expected, results do not provide an easy solution to cope with societal expectations. Responsibility for a better alignment of structural change to societal expectations is seen multi-layered: The government, the farmers, the processing industry as well as the consumers seem to be in demand.

Assessing Supervisory and Motivational Factors in the Context of a Program Evaluation in Rural Haiti

This study analyzed the internal and external landscape, strategic plans, and operational challenges of the Department of National Defense (DND) Arsenal in Limay, Bataan, to provide a holistic crisis management and resiliency plan. The study followed the resilience theory, social control theory, and theory of planned behavior in its research design. Using a qualitative case design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten purposively chosen participants working in five departments, with no restrictions. Interpretative phenomenological analysis and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data, which were supported by field notes and memoing to provide rigor and depth. Results have shown the existence of critical internal problems, such as the lack of organization, which is evidenced by inadequate workforce, sophisticated tools, and training, and location-specific problems; organizational culture, which is highly defined by twice logs and strict security measures; and safety policy, which is well-developed with 24/7 security patrols and on-site nurse services. Externally, there was a high level of trust and confidence among employees in the Arsenal's capabilities to continue operating. Nevertheless, security and health problems were raised that were related to the character of the defense production. The technological implications reflected significant modernization in terms of new drawing and design tools, improved design and process technologies, and well-developed systems of quality assurance, which would guarantee production standards and defense preparedness. The existing strategies are supported by the fact that safety measures are currently grounded in repeated supervisory reminders, high employee compliance, and a shared vision of safety and security. However, bureaucratic problems, particularly a lengthy hiring procedure and the incongruity of duties, inhibit productivity and crisis preparedness. The analysis was applied to develop a tailored crisis management and resiliency strategy based on workforce development, technological advancements, ongoing safety training, and administrative reform. The research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on organizational resilience. It offers overall, practical advice on how to increase the DND Arsenal capacity to respond to disruptions, protect personnel, and continue with national defense.

This study intended to investigate the motivating and/or de-motivating environments for teachers of English as a foreign language (EFL) to conduct action research. Data were generated through a questionnaire, interviews, and focus group discussions. The results showed that there were both motivating and de-motivating factors. The motivating factors were more extrinsic and insignificant, and emanated from impediments which, with the scantily available opportunities, triggered few EFL teachers to be vigilant of their professional practices. On the other hand, the de-motivating factors were pervasive, stemmed from different sources, and ranged from policy to practice, from internal to external, and from individual to institutional – requiring empowerment of EFL teachers and shortening of bureaucratic journeys for endorsing research fund requests. The teachers should also bear proper attitude and commitment, and take initiatives to enhance their practical skills and to deliberate with pertinent stakeholders on creating a favorable environment to conduct action research for the betterment of themselves and their practices.

Purpose: The adoption and use of mHealth is considered as an effective intervention to improve health sector performance in developing countries across the world. Yet mHealth is in the early stage of its implementation in many countries. This study aims to identify the patterns, extent, motivations, and problems of mHealth applications in Bangladesh. Methods: The study was done in Dhamrai Upazila of Dhaka district where 250 mobile-phone users were interviewed to identify their extent and reasons of using mHealth services. Based on literature review and focus group discussion in the study area, the research confined five dimensions or reasons for using mHealth services, six issues for motivational and discouraging factors each. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data using statistical software STATA. Findings: Calling doctor’s private office is top ranked mHealth application. In this connection, 38 percent respondents used at least four types of mHealth applications among five dimensions and 30 percent respondents used all types of mHealth applications. On an average, respondents used near about four types of application where the mean application is3.82 out of 5. Hypothesis testing result shows that male’s mHealth application is higher than that of female. Again, average mHealth application of extended family is higher than that of nuclear family. Both findings are statistically significant at 1 percent level. Regarding the motivational factor of using mHealth application, employed group has ranked time saving’ and unemployed group has ranked ‘accessibility from remote area’ as the most motivational factor. On the other hand, both groups have ranked ‘not reaching focal person timely’ as the most discouraging factor of adopting mHealth. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient reports that, between employed and unemployed group, there exist77 percent resemblance in benefit rank and 94 percent resemblance in problem rank. Proper regulation is essential to have proper coordination among health service providers, seekers and telecommunication service providers.