Development Goals Research Articles

The Impact of Vaccination Status on Anthropometric Indices of Growth Among Children: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Childhood immunization programs in underdeveloped nations can improve children's growth and nutritional status and prevent growth delays while protecting against infectious diseases and meeting growth norms. This study aimed toassess the impact of vaccination status on the anthropometric indices of children aged 12-18 months at an Expanded Programme on Immunization vaccination center and compare the anthropometric indices of growth in children with complete and incomplete vaccination statuses. Methodology This study was conducted at the rural health center in Kala Shah Kaku, Pakistan, from November 2023 to December 2023. Children aged 12-18 months were enrolled and their vaccination status was recorded. Height and weight were measured using World Health Organization growth charts. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The mean age of the 110 children who visited the vaccination site for this study was 16.36 months ± 2.415. There were 28 (25.5%) stunted children. In the study, 17.6 (16%) participants were underweight, and 15.95 (14.5%) were wasted. Of the children, 79% had received all recommended vaccinations. A statistically significant(p < 0.05) association was foundbetween vaccination and nutritional status. Conclusions This study emphasizes the significance of vaccination in promoting child health and nutrition, reducing stunting risk, and ensuring equitable access to vaccination services and comprehensive healthcare interventions. This can help mitigate the malnutrition burden and promote optimal growth, contributing to global health and development goals.

Economic and Business Pathways Towards Sustainability: A Comprehensive Exploration

Sustainable and inclusive economic development constitutes a multifaceted and intricate domain, wherein economists grapple with divergent interpretations. The consensus remains elusive regarding the precise delineation of sustainability and inclusiveness within this context. However, it may be construed as the conscientious orchestration and execution of economic endeavours aimed at advancing prosperity and development while concurrently upholding the enduring equilibrium across economic, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions, not only for present individuals and societies in their entirety but also for the preservation of ecosystems and the perpetuation of environmental integrity for posterity. Present economic advancement often exacts tolls upon forthcoming generations. This exposition endeavours to delineate the dilemmas, quandaries, and hurdles confronting environmental sustainability and sustainable economic progression. Within the profit-driven capitalist paradigm, production mechanisms frequently exploit natural reservoirs deemed lucrative in the immediate term, with scant regard for long-term ramifications. Hence, the realization of sustainable economic development necessitates judicious policy frameworks aligned with the attainment of the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals. The prime objective of this paper is to furnish a comprehensive overview of the foundational tenets, theoretical underpinnings, and pragmatic applications pertinent to sustainable and inclusive economic development. It delves into the theoretical constructs underpinning guiding principles, and delineates strategies for surmounting impediments to economic advancement, particularly against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and prevailing global military conflicts. Moreover, it scrutinizes the repercussions of these phenomena on international trade, investment dynamics, and overall developmental trajectories. The paper accords particular emphasis to the dynamics of energy provision, sources of energy, ecological footprints, governmental stewardship, and methodologies for curbing pollution, drawing insights from contemporary scholarly contributions disseminated across various mediums including academic journals, newspapers, periodicals, doctoral dissertations, news agencies, online platforms such as YouTube, and webinars. The study proffers a compelling recommendation encapsulated in the imperative that economic development must be entrenched in sustainability, predicated upon the prudent utilization of extant natural endowments. Thus, it advocates for a harmonious equilibrium between the exigencies of the present epoch and the imperatives of future generations. Received: 28 March 2024 / Accepted: 26 June 2024 / Published: 8 July 2024

Addressing Ethical Issues in Contemporary International Education &amp; Development

Abstract Empowered by global movements like Millennium Development Goals (mdg s), Sustainable Development Goals (sdg s), and Education for All (efa), the field of international education policy continues to help improve educational access and quality for millions of children and adult learners worldwide, including those affected by extreme poverty. However, often times the way that educational policy and programming is conducted in global South does not always reflect the positive ideals behind these goals. This piece examines ongoing trends of unethical partnerships, policies, and practices in contemporary international education. Reflecting legacies of neocolonialism and ethnocentricity, these problems can create a toxic development culture and minimize authentic collaboration at all levels. Yet, through engaging in a dialogue about these issues, we may begin to make valuable changes that help foster true partnerships and more effective, sustainable change for those most in need.

Evidence of health system resilience in primary health care for preventing under-five mortality in Rwanda and Bangladesh: Lessons from an implementation study during the Millennium Development Goal period and the early period of COVID-19.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to disruptions of health service delivery in many countries; some were more resilient in either limiting or rapidly responding to the disruption than others. We used mixed methods implementation research to understand factors and strategies associated with resiliency in Rwanda and Bangladesh, focussing on how evidence-based interventions targeting amenable under-five mortality that had been used during the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) period (2000-15) were maintained during the early period of COVID-19. We triangulated data from three sources - a desk review of available documents, existing quantitative data on evidence-based intervention coverage, and key informant interviews - to perform a comparative analysis using multiple case studies methodology, comparing contextual factors (barriers or facilitators), implementation strategies (existing from 2000-15, new, or adapted), and implementation outcomes across the two countries. We also analysed which health system resiliency capabilities were present in the two countries. Both countries experienced many of the same facilitators for resiliency of evidence-based interventions for children under five, as well as new, pandemic-specific barriers during the early COVID-19 period (March to December 2020) that required targeted implementation strategies in response. Common facilitators included leadership and governance and a culture of accountability, while common barriers included movement restrictions, workload, and staff shortages. We saw a continuity of implementation strategies that had been associated with success in care delivery during the MDG period, including data use for monitoring and decision-making, as well as building on community health worker programmes for community-based health care delivery. New or adapted strategies used in responding to new barriers included the expanded use of digital platforms. We found implementation outcomes and strong resilience capabilities, including awareness and adaptiveness, which were related to pre-existing facilitators and implementation strategies (continued and new). The strategies and contextual factors Rwanda and Bangladesh leveraged to build 'everyday resilience' before COVID-19, i.e. during the MDG period, likely supported the maintained delivery of the evidence-based interventions targeting under-five mortality during the early stages of the pandemic. Expanding our understanding of pre-existing factors and strategies that contributed to resilience before and during the pandemic is important to support other countries' efforts to incorporate 'everyday resilience' into their health systems.

Barriers to water, sanitation, and hygiene in Sub-Saharan Africa: a mini review

ABSTRACT Inadequate access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is a worldwide issue which affects many developing countries. The establishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) intends to address the need for additional provision of WASH. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has one of the lowest levels of access to water and sanitation. Certain inequalities exist between regions as well as between rural and urban populations. This paper reviews the literature on the barriers of WASH in SSA. The barriers are categorized as follows: institutional, economic, political, and geographical. Subsequently, this review examines the coverage of WASH services in SSA during the era of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and under the current SDG period attempting to illustrate its progress in reaching SDG 6 targets. The findings of this paper are as follows: the region needs to make accelerated progress in meeting the targets, and there are also ongoing disparities between urban and rural populations. Recommendations are also provided which include the national development agenda to prioritize WASH, establishing a clear institutional framework for WASH, and increasing WASH finance.

Techno-economic potential of plasma-based calcium looping for CO2 capture and utilization in power-to-liquid plants

Sector coupling plays a crucial role in reducing CO2 emissions. The usage of renewable energies in Power-to-Liquid (PtL) processes is one option to link the energy, transport and chemical sectors. In addition to the sectors mentioned, other industries such as the cement industry need to be coupled for decarbonization. The BlueFire research project focuses on the investigation of an innovative process, plasma-based calcium looping. This process has the potential to serve as a fundamental component of a PtL plant by absorbing CO2 from the environment and converting it into the syngas component carbon monoxide. It is furthermore an option for electrification of the important process of calcination in the cement industry. In this study, a techno-economic analysis is carried out to evaluate the potential of the plasma-based calcium looping. Integrated in a PtL plant to produce marine diesel, scenarios for the years 2020 and 2050 as well as different process schemes are defined in order to investigate the effects of different optimizations. In 2050, the integration of the plasma-based calcium looping is estimated to increase the PtL efficiency from 25 % to 32 %. This leads to net production costs (NPC) of 2.5 EUR/L marine diesel. By illustrating the techno-economic potential, further development goals can be set to achieve NPC below 2.0 EUR/L. This can be achieved in the presented process setup with plasma efficiencies of 45 % at conversions of 65 %. The investigations allow statements regarding the system integration and the degree of optimization of the plasma-based calcium looping.

Sustainability Mindshift: Incorporating the Systems Perspective

AbstractThe pursuit of sustainability is a noble undertaking and unarguably ‘a good thing’. The concept can hardly be denied as something good for future societal well‐being. However, beyond a superficial acknowledgment of the inherent ‘goodness’ of sustainability, there is much to be gained through reframing sustainability as an engineered byproduct, subject to trade‐offs, from an underlying system as opposed to a ‘development goal.’ A Mindshift is a change in assumptions, beliefs, and ways of thinking about something. In pursuit of a sustainability Mindshift, following an introduction and discussion of the sustainability landscape, three challenges for sustainable systems development are explored. The first Mindshift challenge examines sustainability as a byproduct of an underlying system. Thus, the focus is shifted from sustainability as a goal to sustainability as a purposefully designed outcome from an engineered system. The second Mindshift challenge explores sustainability through the lens of Systems Theory. Systems Theory is a set of axioms (taken‐for‐granted ‘truths’) and propositions (system concepts, laws, and principles) that govern systems’ behavior, structure, and performance. The implications of Systems Theory have profound implications for how we view sustainability. The third Mindshift challenge suggests that sustainability can be enhanced through the purposeful identification, assessment, and resolution of violations of system propositions (pathologies) spanning system design, execution, and development. Thus, sustainability is a ‘systems‐engineered byproduct’ resulting from an underlying system and developed by addressing systems‐based disparities (pathologies) in the system. The paper closes with a capsule of Mindshift challenges for sustainability and their implications for supporting the INCOSE SE Vision 2035.

Psychological mechanism of language cognition to "awaken" artificial intelligence.

The study of artificial intelligence needs tracing back to the working mechanism of the human brain, and based on simulating brain cognition activity, information technology is the most widely influential technology. Language cognition is the core and foundation of human cognition. Biolinguistics' core problem about brain mechanisms (a psychological mechanism) is related to the development of human language cognition in that the cognitive process of humans is from the construction of mediation and language is the very cognitive mediation. The logical law of human language cognition algorithm is about the process of human cognitive psychology that is from the neurological stage, the psychological perception stage, and to the cognitive stage of symbols, which makes psychological certainty account for the connection from mental content to language meaning. Language cognition is where the "awakening" of artificial intelligence begins. First of all, humans produce mental images based on sensory perception and categories. The referential functions of mental images extend the human cognitive scope. Then, categorization is realized through the mediation of mental images. At the time the category is formed, the symbol is required. Language is involved in the thinking process in the cognitive stage of symbols to realize the construction of the mediation to represent the category abstracted from the concrete things. Above all, human language metacognition is realized from the subject-predicate structure that is the grammatical structure on the surface but is throughout the whole process of human rational knowledge and configures the content of rational knowledge, which is the developmental goal of "awakening" artificial intelligence. The demonstration of this proposition is conducive to providing a theoretical basis for the research of the working mechanism of the human brain stimulated by artificial intelligence. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Exploring the Path to Dance Industrialization: A Case Study of Promoting Chinese Dance Teaching Materials

Purpose – The study presents an in-depth investigation into the industrialization pathways of dance, with a focus on the promotion of Chinese dance textbooks, as a symbol of cultural exchange in the era of globalization. The aim is to explore the potential and methods of industrializing dance while emphasizing its significance for the dissemination of Chinese culture. Design/Methodology/Approach – The paper examines the intersection of artistic creation and commercial operation, proposing a strategy that harmonizes the two through the inductive summary of practical bases and rational thinking, accompanied by forward-looking speculation. It discusses the critical role of Chinese dance textbook promotion in the industrialization of dance and sets specific developmental goals over different periods: short-term (2 years), medium-term (10 years), and long-term (20 years). Findings – By setting stage-specific targets for the dissemination of Chinese dance textbooks, this research not only offers a practical guide to the industrialization of dance but also proposes beneficial strategies and insights for promoting Chinese dance culture. The study articulates detailed promotional strategies across various spectrums like market expansion, unique selling propositions, enrollment diversification, and performance marketing, aiming to widen the influence of Chinese dance textbooks effectively. Research Implications – This paper enriches the theoretical and practical understanding of dance industrialization. By emphasizing Chinese dance as an integral component of Chinese culture, the study advocates for dance education and industrial models, contributing to the diversification of global cultural development. It also anticipates the prospective landscape of promoting Chinese dance textbooks and cultural propagation through industrialization.

Multicultural education and global citizenship: Literature review

The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic exploration of the literature, delving into the realm of multicultural education and global citizenship. It seeks to comprehensively understand these concepts by tracing the origins and evolution of multicultural education, drawing connections to its inception during the Civil Rights Movement, and spotlighting the contributions of influential scholars in this field. The concept of global citizenship is also examined, emphasizing its relevance in an interconnected world and its alignment with the United Nations' development goals. The manuscript identifies the significance of studying multicultural education and global citizenship, including its role in promoting social cohesion, preparing students for an interconnected world, and fostering responsible citizenship. Intersectionality means promoting a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of social issues and advocating for more comprehensive approaches to equity and justice. This review has the potential to contribute to the understanding and implementation of effective multicultural education and global citizenship programs. Overall, this review of the literature aims to address literature gaps and challenges in the field and provide valuable information for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in multicultural education and global citizenship.

Enhancing Food Security through Improved Regional Transportation Infrastructure in ECOWAS

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge for developing nations, prompting initiatives like the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), and Agenda 2030 to prioritise food security. In this context, regional transportation infrastructure is crucial for West Africa's economic development and growth. Notable advancements have reduced transportation times for goods, yet there is an urgent need to establish reliable transport infrastructure to ensure food security. This paper uses qualitative methods and secondary sources to investigate contemporary trends in regional transport infrastructure and its impact on food security in ECOWAS. It analyses challenges, opportunities, and potential strategies for improvement. The paper concludes that a multifaceted approach, including strengthened transportation infrastructure and effective monitoring and evaluation, is essential for addressing food security challenges in West Africa.

Xenophobia In South Africa and the Realities of Actualizing SDG 8

This study dwells on xenophobia and the realities of actualizing the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) eight in South Africa. It argues that since the emergence of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in 2000, which transited to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, there has been a proliferation of literature from scholars of diverse disciplinary orientations. However, none of these studies deal with the phenomenon of xenophobia as a milestone for the attainment of the SDGs in South Africa. This paper, therefore, serves as an intervention to discuss how xenophobia affects the realization/ actualization of the UN’s SDG eight in the area under consideration. Using extant literature and the rational choice theory, it affirms that without peace and partnership with other countries, it would be very difficult for South Africa to attain the UN SDGs it envisages to achieve. To be focused and in-depth in the analysis of the phenomena under consideration the study centers exclusively on the UN SDG eight (even though there are seventeen SDGs of the UN) which hinges on decent work and economic growth. The evidence thrown up led to the major conclusion that the persistent xenophobic attacks and the resultant massive destruction of lives and businesses of foreigners, South Africa’s quest for the full-fledged realization of United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal eight would remain mere paperwork. Given the increasing prevalence of xenophobic attacks in the study area, the paper suggests, among others, the building of meaningful, lasting, and effective partnerships. This entails that xenophobia in the country will be nipped in the bud.

Can China’s rural revitalisation policies be an example for other countries aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs)-1, 2 and 12?

PurposeEver since China’s implementation of the open-door policy in 1978, there has been a remarkable transformation in the nation’s economic landscape. Undesirably, amidst the rapid urban development, the importance of prioritising and nurturing rural development in China has not received unwavering attention. Nevertheless, the Chinese government has embarked on many ventures to bridge the disparities existing amidst urban and rural areas, revitalise the rural economy, and enhance overall productivity. This paper enunciates the role of the Chinese government in prospering rural areas by implementing policies that align with the Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs)- 1, 2 and 12.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a comprehensive methodology encompassing both primary and secondary research techniques to procure valuable insights and reviewed various Chinese government policies pertaining to rural revitalisation.FindingsThe study results demonstrate that throughout the policy implementation, China has contributed to the livelihoods of the rural communities and achieved SDG-1 (ending poverty) by 2030, ten years ahead of Agenda (2030). The country has also substantially improved its rural agricultural system by integrating modern science and technology and aiming to achieve SDG-2 (ensure food security) with the alignment of SDG-12 (sustainable production and consumption). The findings of this research indicate that despite some limitations in China’s rural revitalisation strategy, overall progress is seen in many aspects, particularly in achieving SDG-1, 2, and 12.Research limitations/implicationsThe Chinese government has made significant efforts to promote ecological, social, and economic development in rural areas through various national initiatives such as the “New Countryside” and “Rural Revitalisation” strategies. These initiatives have successfully alleviated poverty, increased food production, and ensured sustainable production and consumption. The discoveries presented within this article possess immense value, as they provide profound insights for policymakers, rural planners, and researchers who are fervently searching for viable solutions to tackle the intricate interplay between rural development and sustainability. Therefore, this study has the potential to greatly benefit policymakers from various nations, as they can adopt China’s rural revitalisation model as a means to successfully achieve SDGs 1, 2, and 12.Originality/valueThis study found that despite numerous initiatives to improve rural landscapes, China’s rural revitalisation approach still poses concerns as local governments are likely to focus on increasing income capacity rather than concentrating on establishing environmental governance.

Factors Affecting Triple Elimination Examination of Pregnant Women in Gorontalo City

Progress big on the health of mothers and child achieved globally between 1990 and 2015 as a result of policy, and system reform in a way comprehensive and initiative programs implemented to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). This research aims to analyze influencing factors inspection triple elimination in the mother pregnant in Gorontalo City. Analytical survey research method with design cross-sectional study. The population is all pregnant women who underwent examinations at the Dungingi Health Center, Gorontalo City, totaling 115 pregnant women. The withdrawal sample used Simple Random Sampling, total a sample of 89 people was calculated with the formula Slovin. Analysis done with linear regression test. The linear regression test obtained variable age and knowledge F count 17.812 and ρ value 0.000, R=0.541 and R Square = 0.293. Conclusions of this research, namely There is the influence of age, education, knowledge, attitudes, motivation, family support, and the role of health workers on triple elimination examinations for pregnant women at the Dungingi Health Center, Gorontalo City. Age and knowledge are the variables that have the most significant influence on triple elimination examinations for pregnant women at the Dungingi Community Health Center, Gorontalo City, amounting to 29.3%. Recommended to the Community Health Center For making triple elimination examinations an integral part of routine antenatal care, holding regular outreach and education programs, and ensuring that community health centers have facilities in the form of test equipment and materials and adequate medical personnel.

A comprehensive review of the physical and mechanical characteristics of agricultural by-products as cementitious alternatives in the production of sustainable concrete

In recent times the construction industry has been more focused on the development of sustainable/green structures to address the Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs) from environmental pollution aspects caused by the production of cement as well as the conventional methods of construction. Investigations have been carried out by incorporation of alternative cementitious materials than cement, possessing pozzolanic characteristics leading to enhanced binding capability within the cement-aggregate matrix and improved compressive strength as per the desired national or international standards. These alternative cementitious materials are not only limited to manufacturing or power industry by-products viz. fly ash, quarry dust, blast furnace slag, etc. but also the by-products of the agricultural industry have been the focus of research as these possess a rich amount of Silica (SiO2) content leading to pozzolanic reactivity during the curing period and contributing to the strength of concrete. The majority of these by-products that are investigated are rice husk ash (RHA), coconut shells, palm oil fuel ash (POFA), and sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA), as a replacement for either cement or aggregate as well as used as admixtures to a certain extent. The present work illustrates an agglomeration of previous research conducted by different authors, thereby elucidating the findings of various agro-waste usage in the production of concrete and investigating their mechanical behavior. Furthermore, specific attention is exemplified towards the behavioral response of paddy straw when used in the cement-aggregate mixture in terms of microstructural and mechanical properties aspects. In this review article, illustrations are made with additional attention to reveal the role of chemical and physical attributes of the agricultural by-products, impacting the characteristics of concrete.

Systems dynamics and casual configurations: Using dynamic pattern synthesis for macroeconomic comparative research

Dynamic Pattern Synthesis (DPS) provides a new longitudinal method for evaluating the impacts of macroeconomic and public policy interventions. Situated within complexity theory and critical realism, it has evolved from the established methods of Cluster Analysis and Configurational Modelling approaches. Dynamic Pattern Synthesis identifies case convergence and divergence (using quantitative techniques), while remaining close to the qualitative uniqueness of each case. In this paper, the DPS approach is used to consider macroeconomic convergence across Sub-Saharan Africa during the Millennium Development Goals, and the possible impacts of IMF interventions in stimulating long-term macroeconomic outcomes. The findings reveal a high degree of economic instability experienced across the region and varying responses to an external shock. The importance of ‘outliers’ and inconsistency in country convergence are also observed. The DPS method highlights the importance of individual country experiences in relation to external shocks. When factoring in IMF interventions, the findings highlight multiple paths to a given policy outcome, rather than a single optimal economic strategy. This opens up the debate on policy issues associated with economic complexity, including how best to create an overall environment of stability that might promote convergence and reduce the instability that undermines planning and investment.

Assessing the Causes of Strategic Realignment in Sahelian States

Since the agreement of the Millennium Development Goals, many of the international community’s foremost stabilisation efforts have unravelled, with cascading instability afflicting neighboring states. Multiple governments and political entities have begun to turn away from long-term Western security partnerships, and realign with actors such as Russia. This realignment has been pursued even though Russia’s offer often appears poorer in objective terms. Jack Watling and Nina Wilén explore the drivers and dynamics of the realignment that has gripped Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.◼

Empowerment Setbacks and Coping Strategies in the COVID-19 Crisis of Female Food Vendors in Tanzania

The Government of Tanzania has established a conducive environment for gender equity, as reflected in the Millennium Development Goals(MDGs). Female food vendors operating in Tanzania's urban settings face multifaceted socio-economic and cultural challenges, with these factors significantly influencing how they are perceived and treated within their communities. This, in turn, can impact their ability to negotiate and make decisions in business settings, particularly during epidemics. However, the Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated the challenges. This study delved into the effects of COVID-19 on food vending businesses and coping mechanisms amidst its raging consequences. The study sequentially employed qualitative and quantitative approaches to gather data from female food vendors using in-depth interviews and questionnaires. Of all the collected questionnaires, 304 were sufficient for descriptive and paired t-test analyses. Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. The findings underscore the significant adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business performance of female food vendors. Indicators such as the number of employees, average daily sales, average daily profit, and daily working capital exhibited statistically significant declines during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. Coping strategies employed by female food vendors included strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols, workforce reductions, trimming daily allowances for assistants, cutting down on working capital, streamlining food items on the menu, and avoiding expensive menu options. The study highlights the negative impact of the pandemic on business performance, emphasizing the need for government intervention through subsidies, especially during pandemics. Additionally, the study recommends business formalization to access subsidies and micro-credits better. Following the analysis, the study offered detailed policy recommendations to address specific issues identified during the research. Additionally, suggestions for further studies are presented, indicating potential avenues for future research to deepen the understanding of the subject matter.

Eco-fertility: examining the climate change-total fertility rate nexus in the context of sustainable developmental goals in a systematic review approach

Abstract Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are paramount as the global community confronts the ramifications of climate alterations, especially its implications on population dynamics. Initial studies suggest an intricate relationship between environmental determinants and reproductive choices. This systematic review elucidates the complex interplay between climate-related challenges and observed global fertility rate variations. A comprehensive search and analysis of literature published in the last 10 years (2013–2023), available in the PubMed database, delineates the relationship between environmental changes and fertility patterns in both human and animal populations. The review highlighted significant effects of climatic fluctuations on reproductive health, manifested as either adaptive or maladaptive responses to environmental stressors. This relationship not only influences population trajectories but may also have complications for the SDGs, specifically those pertaining to health, well-being, and gender equality. The study emphasizes the importance of intertwining demographic insights with ecological considerations. A deeper understanding of the nexus between climate and fertility can augment strategies aimed at global sustainability. The synthesized evidence underscores the urgency for further research, which seeks to seamlessly incorporate eco-fertility perspectives into wider climate and sustainability discussions.

Neonatal mortality in the 2011 JAKIDS birth cohort

ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the mortality in a Jamaican birth cohort over a 3-month period. Data on the outcome of 87.5% of all births in Jamaica between July and September 2011 were used to determine trends in and determinants of neonatal mortality. There were 9650 live births and 144 neonatal deaths yielding a Neonatal Mortality Rate of 14.9/1000 (95% CI: 12.6–17.52/1000) livebirths. One hundred and twenty-one (84%) deaths occurred within the first seven days of life giving an Early Neonatal Mortality Rate of 12.5/1000 (95%CI: 10.4–15.0/1000) livebirths and a Late Neonatal Mortality Rate of 2.38/1000 (95%CI: 1.51–3.57/1000) live births. Sixty-nine (48%) deaths occurred within the first 24 hours. Thirty-eight neonates (26%) died prior to being admitted to a neonatal unit, approximately within 2 hours of life. Maternal age <15 years, decreasing birthweight, prematurity, male gender, multiple gestation and birth by caesarean section were associated with an increased risk of mortality p < 0.05. In order for Jamaica to experience further decline in its Neonatal Mortality Rate to meet the Sustainable Developmental Goal of at least as low as 12 per 1,000 live births by 2030 the focus must be on decreasing mortality in the very low birth weight infants who disproportionally contribute to mortality as well as continuing to implement measures to further decrease mortality in the larger infants.