Cluster Sampling Research Articles

Groundwater suitability assessment for irrigation and drinking purposes by integrating spatial analysis, machine learning, water quality index, and health risk model.

An in-depth understanding of nitrate-contaminated surface water and groundwater quality and associated risks is important for groundwater management. Hydrochemical characteristics and driving forces of groundwater quality and non-carcinogenic risks of nitrate were revealed by the integrated approaches of self-organizing map analysis, spatial visualization by geography information system, entropy and irrigation water quality indices, and human health risk model. Groundwater samples were categorized into two clusters by SOM analysis. Cluster I including three samples were Ca-SO4 type and cluster II of remaining 136 samples were Ca-HCO3 type. Hydrochemical compositions of two cluster samples were dominated by water-rock interaction: (1) calcite and gypsum dissolution for cluster I samples and (2) calcite dissolution, silicate weathering, and positive cation exchange for cluster II samples. Nitrate contamination occurred in both cluster I and II samples, primarily induced by agricultural nitrogen fertilizer. The EWQI results showed that 90.97% in total groundwater samples were suitable for drinking purpose, while the IWQI results demonstrated that 65.03% in total groundwater samples were appropriate for irrigation purpose. The HHR model and Monte Carlo simulation indicated that the non-carcinogenic nitrated risk was highest in children. Exposure frequency was the most sensitive factor (86.33% in total) influencing the total non-carcinogenic risk, indicated by sensitivity analysis. Compared with the two clusters of groundwater, surface water has a shorter circulation cycle and lower ion concentrations resulting in better water quality. This study can provide scientific basis for groundwater quality evaluation in other parts of the world.

Ownership and use of insecticide-treated nets in Myanmar: insights from a nationally representative demographic and health survey

BackgroundMalaria poses a substantial public health threat in Myanmar, indicating the need for rigorous efforts to achieve elimination of the disease nationwide by 2030. The use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) forms part of a pivotal strategy for preventing transmission. This study explored the ownership and use of ITNs in Myanmar and identified factors associated with non-use of ITNs.MethodsHousehold datasets from the 2015–2016 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey were utilised, which encompassed all household members except children under the age of five. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including simple and multiple logistics regression models and Pearson correlations, were employed for analysis. All analyses, taking the two-stage stratified cluster sampling design into account, used weighting factors and the “svyset” command in STATA. The ownership and use of bed nets were also visualised in QGIS maps.ResultsAmong the 46,507 participants, 22.3% (95% CI 20.0%, 24.5%) had access to ITNs, with only 15.3% (95% CI 13.7, 17.1%) sleeping under an ITN the night before the survey. Factors associated with the non-use of ITNs included age category (15–34 years—aOR: 1.17, 95% CI 1.01, 1.30; 50+ years—aOR: 1.19, 95% CI 1.06, 1.33), location (delta or lowland—aOR: 5.39, 95% CI 3.94, 7.38; hills—aOR: 1.80, 95% CI 1.20, 2.71; plains—aOR: 3.89, 95% CI 2.51, 6.03), urban residency (aOR: 1.63, 95% CI 1.22, 2.17), and wealth quintile (third—aOR: 1.38, 95% CI 1.08, 1.75; fourth—aOR: 1.65, 95% CI 1.23, 2.23; fifth—aOR: 1.47, 95% CI 1.02, 2.13). A coherent distribution of the ownership and use of ITNs was seen across all states/regions, and a strong correlation existed between the ownership and use of ITNs (r: 0.9795, 95% CI 0.9377, 0.9933, alpha < 0.001).ConclusionsThis study identified relatively low percentages of ITN ownership and use, indicating the need to increase the distribution of ITNs to achieve the target of at least one ITN per every two people. Strengthening the use of ITNs requires targeted health promotion interventions, especially among relatively affluent individuals residing in delta or lowland areas, hills, and plains.

Abilities analysis of problem-solving process awareness for elementary school students with different problem-solving performances

Background: Awareness is core ability in problem-solving process, but related performance analysis of problem-solving process awareness for elementary school students is still under study. It is one of the research gaps. This research summarizes problem-solving process awareness dimensions of translation and implementation to study. Former includes recognition and representation, and latter includes strategy and execution, review and check. Objective: According to the results of the literature analysis and research gap, this study aims to explore the problem-solving process awareness ability for elementary school students with different problem-solving performances by utilizing related instruments. Method: This research utilized two instruments of problem-solving process awareness and problem-solving to assess process awareness and problem-solving performances each for elementary school students. There were 389 elementary school students in Chiayi of Taiwan were selected by using stratified and cluster sampling to collect and analyze data. The single-factor multivariate mean test and η 2 effect size value, Roy-Bargman step-down F test and simultaneous confidence interval test were carried out. The analysis above which was conducted by SPSS for Windows. Result and conclusion: It is found that there were significant differences in performances of problem-solving process awareness for students with different problem-solving abilities after adequate data analysis. The performances are considerably different in translation and implementation awareness for students with differing word problem solving ability that translation awareness included recognition and representation awareness, and implementation awareness included strategy and execution, review and check awareness. So, conclusion is listed as follows. It is that students with different problem-solving performances have real differences in translation, implementation and overall awareness of problem-solving process corresponding to research problem.

Physical Activity and Climacteric Symptoms Among Premenopause Women

Women experience physical changes before menopause. Women experience climacteric conditions caused by decreased reproductive hormones, so they experience the climacteric period. Climacteric is 4-5 years that occurs before menopause. Women experience problems during the climacteric period, such as hot flashes, sleep disorders, mood swings, and increased osteoporosis. Physical activity with conscious body movements produced by skeletal muscles requires energy expenditure. Physical activity includes all activities, with the intensity to help climacteric symptoms. This research aimed to identify the correlation between physical activity and climacteric symptoms. This research design used an analytical study with a cross-sectional approach. The sample was 72 women of premenopausal age, and it was obtained by cluster sampling. The research instrument was a questionnaire. The data analysis was the Kendal Tau test. The results of this study were 44.86 ± 3.041%, and the average number of children in this study was 2.76 ± 1.157%, elementary school education level was 47.2%, unemployed was 81.9%, respondents who did not use contraception hormonal and non-hormonal as many as 86.1%, respondents who did high physical activity were 93.1%, and respondents who did not have climacteric symptoms were 97.2%. The results of the Kendal Tau test showed a value (ρ value = 0.000), so there was a relationship between physical activity and climacteric symptoms in premenopausal women. In conclusion, physical activity has a relationship with climacteric symptoms in premenopausal women

Contribution of Non Governmental Organisations Projects Intervention on Social Economic Growth in Rural Areas. A Case of World Vision Rwanda 2019-2022 Kivuruga Sector, Gakenke Disrtict, Northern Rwanda.

This research is basically done to assess contribution of Non-Governmental Organizations projects intervention on socio economic growth of in rural areas a case study of World Vision Rwanda project in Kivuruga sector. This study had the following specific objectives: to find out the contribution of NGOs on socio economic growth in Kivuruga sector, to elaborate socio economic impacts of NGOs in rural areas especially in Kivuruga sector, to identify the relationship between activities of WVR and socioeconomic growth of its beneficiaries in Kivuruga sector and to give suggestions and recommendation on NGOs activities in rural areas. Due to financial means, time constraints and the need of precision of results, it was impossible to study all population. Target population of this study was 127 beneficiaries of World Vision Rwanda project in Kivuruga sector. A sample of 56 respondents was selected and cluster sampling was used for selecting groups, or clusters, of participants from the population. The clusters were chosen based on distribution of World Vision Rwanda project’s respondents in cells. The study also employed purposive sampling as the sampling technique. Questionnaire, interview and a documentation research were used as tools of data collection. The statistical analysis of the collected data was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). This study assessed the Contribution of WVR in socio-economic growth where the findings indicated that great extent and very great extent make 73.2%. Therefore, the WVR played a big role in economic growth of Rwanda especially in Kivuruga Sector. As conclusion, it has been revealed that the capacity of the beneficiaries to cover basic expenditure and need (such as food, clothing, transport, education and housing, etc.) has been improved over the program/project period. Likewise, the programs executed by WORLD VISION Rwanda have enabled beneficiaries to engage in small businesses, different income generating activities, developing markets through a systems approach and market linkage, promote and increase the saving practice. As a result, beneficiaries of the programs have their source of income and they become self-reliance and empowered. The recommendations to future action planners are to improve livelihood, socio-economic conditions and then to reduce poverty the participation of women.

Entrepreneurial Motivation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how entrepreneurial motivation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Motivation competence would result to an increase of 0.639 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between motivation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial motivation competence explained 29.9% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should have a strong mission and vision that is shared with all employees. This will help to create a shared sense of purpose and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. Investing in training and development will help to increase employee motivation.

Association between modified youth healthy eating index and nutritional status among Iranian children in Zabol city: a cross-sectional study

Diet quality in childhood and adolescence can affect health outcomes such as physical and cognitive growth and preventing chronic diseases in adulthood. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between diet quality using the modified youth healthy eating index (MYHEI) with socioeconomic factors and nutrition status in 7–12-year-old children in Iran. This descriptive-cross-sectional study was performed on 580 students in Zabol, Iran, selected through multistage cluster sampling. The diet was assessed through the 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and eating behaviors. Then, the MYHEI scoring system was used to calculate the diet quality. In addition, we used the WHO growth indices, such as weight to age, height to age, and body mass index (BMI) to age ratios, to evaluate nutrition status. The mean total MYHEI score in children was 56.3 ± 11.2. Among children with the highest MYHEI score quartile, the number of girls was significantly higher than boys (p = 0.001). The prevalence of underweight, stunting, and wasting was 25.3%, 17.4%, and 21.7%, respectively. The prevalence of underweight (OR: 2.2; 95% CI 1.26, 3.90, p = 0.001) and stunting (OR: 3.2; 95% CI 1.65, 6.14, p = 0.006) were significantly lower in the higher MYHEI score quartile compared to the lower quartile. The overall diet quality of most children should be modified. Therefore, to improve the children’s health and nutrition status, it is necessary to perform nutritional interventions such as training and promotional programs, especially in schools.

Incomplete tuberculosis reporting and registration to the surveillance system in southwestern China of Yunnan Province: an inventory survey

BackgroundThe real-world tuberculosis (TB) surveillance data was generally incomplete due to underreporting and underdiagnosis. The inventory study aimed to assess and quantify the incompletion of surveillance systems in southwestern China.MethodsThe inventory study was conducted at randomly selected health facilities (HF) by multi-stage stratified cluster sampling. The participants were included in the period between August of 2020 in province-level and prefecture-level HF, and in the period between June to December of 2020 in other categories of HF respectively. The clinical committee confirmed medical records were matched to the National Notifiable Disease Reporting System (NNDRS) and the Tuberculosis Information Management System (TBIMS) to define the report and register status. The underreporting and under-register rates were evaluated based on the matched data, and factors associated with underreport and under-register were assessed by the 2-level logistic multilevel model (MLM).ResultsWe enrolled 7,749 confirmed TB cases in the analysis. The province representative overall underreport rate to NNDRS was 1.6% (95% confidence interval, 95% CI, 1.3 − 1.9), and the overall under-register rate to TBIMS was 9.6% (95% CI, 8.9–10.3). The various underreport and under-register rates were displayed in different stratifications of background TB disease burden, HF level, HF category, and data source of the medical record in HF among prefectures of the province. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.57 for the underreporting null MLM, indicating the facility-level cluster effect contributes a great share of variation in total variance. The two-level logistic MLM showed the data source of medical records in HF, diagnostic category of TB, and type of TB were associated with underreporting by adjusting other factors (p < 0.05). The ICC for under-register was 0.42, and the HF level, HF category, data source of medical records in HF, diagnostic category of TB and type of TB were associated with under-register by adjusting other factors (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe inventory study depicted incomplete TB reporting and registering to NNDRS and TBIMS in southwestern China. It implied that surveillance quality improvement would help advance the TB prevention and control strategy.

Influence of ultra-processed food in the diet of South Indian young adults: an explanatory mixed method study.

To determine the contribution of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) to overall macronutrient intake and their association with anthropometric measurements, and to explore the perceptions regarding UPF consumption among young adults in Puducherry, India. This study included 630 participants from three colleges selected using multistage cluster sampling. Following the demonstration of portion estimation, dietary data from previous day were collected using a Google Form-based tool. The participant's anthropometric measures were taken. Food items were classified into NOVA groups and intake analysis was performed using DietSoft software. The participants with low and high consumption were identified and focus group discussions were conducted in each group using criterion sampling. Of all the participants, 178 (28.3%) were overweight or obese. UPF contributed 9.3% of total energy intake and 2.8% protein, 9.9% fat, and 9.9% carbohydrates. The most consumed UPFs were biscuits, wafers (25%), and potato chips(16.2%). No significant association was found between anthropometric measures and UPF consumption. Qualitative findings revealed four major themes, further explained using the socio-ecological framework. UPF consumption in the region was lower than that reported in other global and Indian studies. While our study did not find a significant association between UPF consumption and anthropometric measures, there is a concerning shift from traditional diets to increased UPF reliance, driven by convenience and commercial factors. Addressing this is crucial for healthier choices and combating non-communicable diseases during this pivotal life stage.

Home Anxiety Assessment and Influencing Factors among Adolescent Athletes in Yantai City

Objective: To understand the prevalence of home-related anxiety among adolescent athletes during the novel coronavirus pandemic and to ascertain the factors influencing this anxiety. Methods: We employed cluster sampling to select 1150 adolescent athletes (aged 8–18 years) from six sports training schools in Yantai City, Shandong Province. Mental health status was assessed and recorded. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression were used to analyze the factors contributing to athletes’ anxiety. Results: The survey revealed a COVID-19 infection rate of 38.23% (437 individuals) with an anxiety score of 40.98 ± 8.20 and an anxiety detection rate of 11.29% (129 individuals) during the COVID-19 epidemic. Female athletes exhibited a higher anxiety rate of 14.40% compared to 8.40% in male athletes. Multivariate analysis identified female gender as a risk factor for anxiety (OR = 1.64), while participation in aquatics emerged as a protective factor (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 1.08–2.48). Professional training duration exceeding three years increased anxiety risk (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.67–5.58), as did not seeking help during difficulties (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.33–5.01). Interestingly, parental care was linked to increased anxiety risk (OR = 2.44, 95% CI 1.34–4.44), while care from friends was protective (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.36–1.01), which was possibly due to the pressure associated with parental expectations. Conclusions: Adolescent athletes, particularly females and those with extended training durations, exhibit a heightened susceptibility to anxiety. This study also highlights that athletes who proactively seek assistance during challenging situations tend to experience lower anxiety levels. Additionally, a lack of COVID-19 infection and the involvement of concerned parents contribute to reduced anxiety among these young athletes.

Access to drinking safe water and its associated factors among households in East Africa: a mixed effect analysis using 12 East African countries recent national health survey

BackgroundMore than half of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces limited access to safe drinking water. Unimproved water sources can pose risks to the health of entire households, particularly women and children. Despite the fact that East African countries have some of the poorest drinking water infrastructures globally, there is a lack of published data on this issue. Consequently, the objective of this study was to examine access to safe drinking water and its determinants among households in East Africa, utilizing recent nationally representative data.MethodsThis study analyzed data from recent demographic and health surveys conducted in 12 East African nations between 2011 and 2022. Data were gathered from 204,275 households. A stratified two-stage cluster sampling method was employed, with enumeration areas serving as the main sampling units and households serving as the secondary sampling units. Binary and multiple multilevel logistic regression were used to examine the relevant factors associated with the use of different sources of drinking water in the region. In binary regression and multiple regression, P values of ≤ 0.2 and < 0.05, respectively, were used to determine the statistical significance of variables in the final model.ResultsApproximately 72.62% (95% CI = 72.43, 72.83) of households have utilized improved sources of drinking water. Household heads aged 25–35 years (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.14), 36–45 years (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.14), and > 45 years (AOR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.14), those with secondary/higher education (AOR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.20–1.29), and individuals in wealth index categories of poorest (AOR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.16, 0.18), poorer (AOR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.19, 0.22), middle (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.24, 0.27), and richer (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.34, 0.38) were associated with improved sources of drinking water. Additionally, female household leaders (AOR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.20, 1.26), > 30 min of time taken to access the water source (AOR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.95, 2.05), improved toilet facilities (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI = 2.19, 2.31), rural residence (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.42, 0.45), high community wealth (AOR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.13–1.51), community media exposure (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.15, 1.51) were associated with improved sources of drinking water, respectively.ConclusionApproximately three-quarters of the population in East Africa has access to improved drinking water, although the quality of water in the region is still considered poor. It is important for relevant organizations to collaborate in order to improve the quality of drinking water, with special attention given to high-risk groups such as communities with high poverty and low literacy rates, poor households, and rural residents. Strengthening women’s empowerment and increasing mass media exposure can also play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of improved drinking water sources in East Africa.

Tourist Preferences, the Use of Social Media, and Travel Behaviours among Youth in Malaysia

The tourism sector in Malaysia plays a significant role in driving economic development, with particular emphasis on the youth travel market. The influence of social media on young individuals' travel preferences and behaviours is of considerable importance. However, there still needs to be more understanding of the specific relationship between tourist preferences, social media use, and travel behaviour among youth in Malaysia. This study aims to determine the relationship using a quantitative research design. A cluster sampling technique was used to select a sample of youth in Malaysia. Data were collected through an online survey and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics Pearson Correlation. The study showed that social media significantly affects young travel behaviour, social media use, and tourist behaviour in Malaysia. The tourist preferences (min=4.352), use of social media (min = 4.005) and travel behaviour (min = 4.238). Pearson Correlation was used to determine the significant relationship between tourist preferences, the use of social media and travel behaviour. The results showed that travel behaviour was positively and significantly correlated with tourist preferences (r = 0.6282, p &lt; 0.01) and the use of social media (r = 0.540, p &lt; 0.01). These results contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between tourist preferences, social media use, and travel behaviour among youth in Malaysia. The findings are also expected to interest tourism marketers and policymakers in developing strategies to attract and retain youth travellers.

An empirical study on the relationship between rider recreational specialization, individual-environment fit, and heart flow experience

The aim of the study is to create and validate a model of the relationship between specialization in leisure activities, the individual's adaptation to the environment and the heart flow experience. In order to clarify the role of the individual's adaptation to the environment in the relationship between specialization in leisure activities and the heart flow experience. The study utilized purposive sampling, cluster sampling, and random sampling. Using questionnaires and interviews to survey 525 cycling enthusiasts. Descriptive analysis, model construction and testing of the constructed path relationships were conducted using SPSS 20.0 and Amos 20.0. The results indicate that the model of the relationship between recovery specialization, individual-environment fit and heart flow experience has a good overall fit. The model shows good reliability and validity. Cyclists' recreational specialization has a statistically significant effect on individual-environment fit (β = 0.38, P < 0.001). The fit between individual and environment has a statistically significant influence on the heart flow experience (β = 0.39, P < 0.001). The fit between individual and environment serves as a mediating variable between recreational specialization and the heart flow experience, with the path showing statistical significance (β = 0.15, P < 0.001). Recreational specialization has a statistically significant effect on the heart flow experience (β = 0.30, P < 0.001). And the overall path of the effects of recreational specialization of cyclists on the fit between individual and environment is (β = 0.45, P < 0.001), with the path showing statistical significance. ConclusionThe stronger the recreational specialization of cyclists and the greater the fit between individual and environment, the stronger their heart flow experience. The fit between individual and environment plays a partially mediating role.

Entrepreneurial Innovation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. The purpose of the study was to evaluate how entrepreneurial innovation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Innovation competence would result to an increase of 0.622 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between innovation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial innovation competence explained 31.2% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should invest in technological innovation to enhance their growth. Investing in the latest software and hardware solutions can help increase productivity, streamline operations, and improve customer service. Additionally, investing in technology can help micro and small enterprises stay competitive in the global marketplace.

Entrepreneurial Motivation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how entrepreneurial motivation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Motivation competence would result to an increase of 0.639 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between motivation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial motivation competence explained 29.9% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should have a strong mission and vision that is shared with all employees. This will help to create a shared sense of purpose and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. Investing in training and development will help to increase employee motivation.

#1427 Comparison of METS-IR and HOMA-IR for predicting new-onset CKD in middle-aged and older adults

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as a mounting public health issue worldwide; therefore, prompt identification and prevention are imperative in mitigating CKD-associated complications and mortality rate. We aimed to compare the predictive powers of the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) for CKD incidence in middle-aged and older adults. Method This study used longitudinal prospective cohort data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. A total of 10,030 participants, aged 40–69 years, residing in the Ansung or Ansan regions of the Republic of Korea, were recruited between 2001 and 2002 through a two-stage cluster sampling method. We compared the predictive powers of METS-IR and HOMA-IR for CKD prevalence and incidence, respectively. CKD prevalence was measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), and the indices’ predictive performance for CKD incidence were assessed using Harrell's concordance index and time-dependent ROC curve analysis. Results A total of 9261 adults aged 40–69 years at baseline and 8243 adults without CKD were included in this study. The AUCs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of HOMA-IR and METS-IR for CKD prevalence at baseline were 0.577 (0.537–0.618) and 0.599 (0.560–0.637), respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.337). The Heagerty's integrated AUC for METS-IR in predicting CKD incidence was 0.772 (95% CI 0.750–0.799), which was significantly higher than that of HOMA-IR (0.767 [95% CI 0.742–0.791], p = 0.015). Conclusion METS-IR surpassed HOMA-IR in predicting CKD incidence and was as effective as HOMA-IR in predicting CKD prevalence. This implies that METS-IR could be a valuable indicator for early detection and prevention of CKD among Korean adults.

Suicide among Reproductive-Age Women in Northwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background. Suicide is one of the global burdens of morbidity and mortality in all reproductive-age women population groups across the world. It is one of the most significant contributors to the global burden of illness and a cause of morbidity. This study is aimed at finding out how it occurred and what risk factors were related to suicidal ideation and attempts among women in the reproductive-age group. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted using a multistage cluster sampling technique to get a total of 590 study participants from March to April 2021. Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed in bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20. Variables with a p value &lt;0.05 were declared to be associated risk factors with the outcome variable. Results. A total of 590 of the 598 sampled women participated, with a response rate of 98.7%. A one-month prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt was 2.9% (95% CI: 1.5%, 4.4%) and 2.5% (95% CI: 1.4%, 3.7%), respectively. Intimate partner violence (AOR=4.69, 95% CI: 1.53, 14.45), depression (AOR=3.11, 95% CI: 1.11, 9.85), and history of mental illness (AOR=5.18, 95% CI: 1.55, 17.32) were associated risk factors for suicide ideation. Anxiety (AOR=3.55, 95% CI: 1.17, 10.81), being unmarried (AOR=4.39, 95% CI: 1.49, 12.87), and history of mental illness (AOR=7.95, 95% CI: 2.42, 26.15) were associated risk factors for suicide attempts. Conclusion. SI and SA are prevalent in reproductive-age women. Intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, a history of mental illness, and being single were associated factors. This implies that providing relevant information, education, and continuing support is very crucial for reproductive-age group women to decrease the incidence and risk factors of suicide.

Effectiveness of a school-based Life Gatekeeper Training Program on suicide prevention in China: protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundWith suicide as a leading cause of death, the issue of children and adolescent suicide risks is in the spotlight today. To empower teachers in primary and secondary schools to serve as gatekeepers and to ensure the safety of children and adolescents, the systematically tailored and localized Life Gatekeeper suicide prevention program was designed for Chinese schools.ObjectiveWith the ultimate goal of preventing child and adolescent suicide, we aim to outline a research protocol for examining outcomes of the recently created standardized school-based Life Gatekeeper program in reducing teachers’ stigma, increasing their knowledge, willingness to intervene, and perceived competence.MethodsParticipants will be recruited from eligible primary and secondary schools. Cluster sampling will be used to randomly assign each school to either the intervention group or the control group. The primary outcomes are stigma against suicide, suicide literacy, perceived competence, and willingness to intervene with suicidal individuals, which will be measured using the Stigma of Suicide Scale, the Literacy of Suicide Scale, and the Willingness to Intervene Against Suicide Questionnaire, respectively. Measurements will be taken at four time points, including pre-intervention, immediately after the intervention, 6-month follow-up, and 1-year follow-up.ConclusionsThe current study features innovative implementation in the real world, by using a randomized controlled trial design to examine the effectiveness of a school-based gatekeeper program among primary and secondary school teachers, following a sequence of defined and refined steps. The research will also investigate the viability of a school-based gatekeeper program for primary and secondary school teachers that could be quickly and inexpensively implemented in a large number of schools.

The Mediating Role of Health-Promoting Lifestyle in the Relationship between Physical Activity Level and Anxiety in Adults of Sistan and Baluchistan Province

Background: The purpose of the study was to investigate the mediating role of health-promoting lifestyle in the relationship between physical activity level and anxiety in adults of Sistan and Baluchistan. Methods: The method of research was descriptive and its design was of the correlation, which was carried out by the field. The statistical population included adults (15 years old and above) among them 360 people in the cities of Saravan, Chabahar, Zahedan, and Soran by Cluster sampling were selected. To collect the data, the standard health-promoting lifestyle questionnaires of Walker et al. (1997), Spielberger's anxiety (1970), and IPAQ Physical activity were used. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling with AMOS. Results: The results showed that physical activity has a direct and significant effect on the health-promoting lifestyle, the effect of physical activity on anxiety was negative and significant, effect of health-promoting style on anxiety was observed to be negative and significant. The results showed an indirect and significant effect of physical activity on anxiety through a health-promoting lifestyle. Conclusion: Findings show the importance of a health-promoting lifestyle as a mediator in reducing anxiety; therefore, improving lifestyle will facilitate the effect of physical activity on reducing anxiety.

From classroom to entrepreneurship: the link between educator competencies, entrepreneurial literacy and entrepreneurial behaviour in higher education

PurposeThe aim of this study is to examine the relationship between educators' professional competence, pedagogical competence and the entrepreneurial behaviour of students in higher education as well as the role of entrepreneurial literacy in mediating these variables.Design/methodology/approachThe study involved a sample of 361 students from several universities in Indonesia. A probability sampling method approach with cluster sampling was applied to collect the data, which aims to ensure the representation of each region in Indonesia. The data were retrieved through self-administered questionnaires and structural equation modelling was employed to analyse the relationship between each variable.FindingsThe results revealed a positive and significant relationship between educator competencies and students' entrepreneurial behaviour: professional competence (β = 0.26, p &lt; 0.001) and pedagogical competence (β = 0.27, p &lt; 0.001), indicating that higher educator competencies levels were associated with greater students' entrepreneurial behaviour. The mediation analysis showed that entrepreneurial literacy was partially mediated for professional competence (LL = 0.42; UL = 0.460, p &lt; 0.008) and fully mediated for pedagogical competence (β = 0.021; β = 0.375, p &lt; 0.058).Research limitations/implicationsA study solely concerned with a specific group of educators and students in a particular region as well as a cross-sectional study, may lead to generalisations of the findings. Future studies could expand the sample size and include a more diverse group of participants to increase the external validity of the results.Practical implicationsIt offers valuable insights for educational institutions, policymakers and educators themselves, who can use the findings to design effective entrepreneurship education programmes and initiatives.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the field of higher education by emphasising the importance of educators as catalysts for entrepreneurship and by providing guidance on how to enhance their competencies and literacy in fostering entrepreneurial behaviour among students.