Fair Practices Research Articles

The sustainable practice of education fairness in China: The influence of college students’ perceptions of senior teachers' support on students’ well-being

The sustainable practice of education fairness in China: The influence of college students’ perceptions of senior teachers' support on students’ well-being

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE ON NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS AMONG MOTHERS ATTENDING MAKINDYE MILITARY POLICE HEALTH CENTRE III, KAMPALA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Background This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of nutritional requirements of children under five years among mothers attending Makindye Military Police Health Center lll, Kampala district. Methodology The study employed a cross-sectional study to address the specific objectives where quantitative and qualitative approach was used to collect data in a short period at Makindye Military Police Health Centre III, Kampala district. Results This study documented that (92%) of the respondents had ever heard about nutritional requirements, (55%) obtained information about it from healthy facility,(93%) reported to know the meaning of exclusive breast feeding, (52%) knew breast feeding on demand,(70%) knew the stopping breast feeding at one year and above,(57%) reported feeding a child three times a day, (83%) knew the relevancy of adding fruits and vegetables on meals, (57%) knew that complementary feeds are introduced after 6 months (57%) preferring diet diversity, (77%) felt its right to exclusively breast feed a child for first 6 months (85%) with good attitude towards balanced diet (58%) feeling bad upon seeing a malnourished child (68%) stopping breastfeeding at 2 years, (70%) think fruits and vegetables are a must daily, (45%) would introduce complementary feeds at (4-6) months ,(65%) exclusively breast fed their children for first 6 months of life,(35%) had breast fed their children for 1 years and (60%) feeding child 3 times a day. Conclusion Women had good knowledge and attitude with poor practices towards nutritional requirements of children under five years even though fair practices. Recommendation MOH, NGOs, and other stakeholders should train an adequate number of service providers and health extension workers on health educating the community about the nutritional requirements of children under five years.

Assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practice of frontline physicians in Egyptian university hospitals regarding pharyngitis and acute rheumatic fever: a cross-sectional study that calls for action

BackgroundAcute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remain major public health issues. Although the primary and secondary prevention of RHD through appropriate management of bacterial pharyngitis and ARF are well-described in the literature, few studies address the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of developing countries. We aimed to evaluate the KAP of the frontline physicians in Egyptian university hospitals regarding pharyngitis and ARF.MethodsWe employed a cross-sectional design between September 1st, 2022, and January 31st, 2023 using a self-administered questionnaire in 21 Egyptian universities. The questionnaire was developed based on previous studies and recent guidelines and included four domains: sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding pharyngitis and ARF. We utilized both online (Google Forms) and paper surveys. Frontline physicians, including interns, residents, and assistant lecturers, were conveniently invited to participate. Furthermore, with the help of participating phycisians in recruiting their colleagues, we utilized the snowball method. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27 software.ResultsThe final analysis included 629 participants, of whom 372 (59.1%) were males and 257 (40.9%) had direct contact with ARF patients. Most participants (61.5%) had a fair knowledge level while 69.5% had a fair level of practice regarding ARF and pharyngitis. Higher satisfactory knowledge levels were noted regarding pharyngitis (17.1% vs. 11.3%; p-value: 0.036) and ARF (26.8% vs. 18%; p-value: 0.008) among physicians dealing directly with ARF cases compared to physicians in departments not dealing directly with ARF cases. Physicians in Cairo region universities had significantly higher levels of satisfactory knowledge about ARF compared to Delta and Upper Egypt region universities (p = 0.014). Delta region universities showed significantly lower levels of practice compared to Cairo and Upper Egypt region universities (p = 0.027). The most frequently recognized barriers against health promotion were low socioeconomic status (90.3%) and lack of adequate public education (85.8%).ConclusionsDespite the fair knowledge and practice levels towards bacterial pharyngitis and ARF among participants, many gaps were still identified that might contribute to RHD prevalence. Educational interventions should be implemented by updating the local guidelines in Egypt for diagnosis and management based on the most recent guidelines.

Anticipating tomorrow: Future trends and predictions in Ayurveda entrepreneurship

The ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, is causing a ripple effect of entrepreneurial opportunities, where the application of traditional knowledge becomes synced with modern business strategies. This article informs readers about the future path and predictions of entrepreneurship in Ayurveda. Factors are discussed which would shape the future. This is being driven largely by the increasing consumer demand for products that are more natural and holistic in the health solutions they provide; the COVID-19 pandemic is an added impetus to the appeal of immunity-boosting Ayurvedic products. Innovations in the area of technological advancements are seen globally in general and within domains of digital health platforms and artificial intelligence, which is fundamentally changing the practice of Ayurveda from a person-centric healing approach to one that is available globally. Innovations are of prime importance in meeting contemporary customer expectations and increasing the impact of the treatment given through Ayurveda. Another important factor of support is from the governmental side through regulatory support, especially the Indian government. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa, and Homeopathy) in India has provided every needed support in promoting research in Ayurveda, its standardization, and the quality and safety of the products. These situations are necessary regulatory frameworks that would build consumer trust and facilitate global acceptance. There is also a growing concern for sustainability and ethics in practices. There is, however, a sea change with the increasing number of entrepreneurs who have adopted eco-friendly sourcing methods and fair trade practices in an effort to make their business models indelibly associated with Ayurveda’s core principles: human beings living in harmony and perfect balance with the rest of nature. The Ayurvedic products and services market is expected to grow manifold with new product developments and growing demand from global consumers increasingly focusing on products broadly categorized under “holistic wellness.” Market expansion, hence, allows several opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop new markets and new product offerings that can cater to the perceived health needs of a broad customer base. With growth and development come challenges such as regulatory roadblocks, market competition, and consumer distrust, which are issues that need to be coped with for sustained business growth. This effectively closes the general outline for the future of Ayurveda entrepreneurship on a trajectory of growth that is both vibrant and sustainable, propelled and achieving completeness by the rainbow of innovation, consumer demand, and a pledge to wholeness in health and well-being. This suggests that Ayurveda entrepreneurship, through harnessing technological developments and reaching the standards of regulators, making sustainable practices its flagship in a world where health will become one of the most valued parts of every life, could fulfill the rich legacy handed down by this ancient science and at the same time serve meaningfully in the future of global healthcare. It provides detailed insight into an emerging area in Ayurveda entrepreneurship with great potential to bring about impactful change and growth in the years ahead.

The Innovative Model of Blockchain Technology and Its Application in Promoting International Fair Trade: Design and Analysis of the IFTBOM Blockchain Framework Model

In this Research, researchers proposed a new framework model for applying blockchain technology, aiming to solve multiple challenges in international fair trade. Through a detailed analysis of the existing trade imbalance and market access restrictions, the paper expounds how blockchain technology can improve the transparency and fairness of trade through its core functions.Globalization and technological progress have promoted the rapid development of international trade, but also brought many challenges. The fair-trade movement tried to provide more fair-trading conditions for small-scale producers in developing countries, but the market acceptance was not high, and consumers' cognition was limited. The purpose of this study is to explore how blockchain technology can promote fair trade practices, especially through real-time monitoring and verification of the fairness of trade activities, and how to deal with uncertainties and data changes in fair trade. The design and implementation of IFTBOM model is expected to significantly improve the global fair-trade environment, especially for small-scale producers in developing countries, and help significantly improve their economic and social conditions. By implementing these policies and practices, we can expect to achieve a fairer and more transparent trade environment in the global context.

A Comprehensive Online Analytical System Coupled with Standardized Data Analysis for the Electrochemical Reduction of CO2

The electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) is a promising way to convert detrimental CO2 emissions into sustainable fuels and chemicals, and thus to achieve a circular carbon economy. 1 Depending on catalyst type and reaction conditions, different gaseous and liquid products can be obtained from the CO2RR, and their production rates vary with reaction time. It becomes thus imperative, for any catalytic performance analysis, to be able to assess the product distribution online during CO2RR. 2,3 However, while gaseous products are readily analyzed online by gas chromatography, liquid products are typically only assessed at the end of the reaction due to the lack of suitable automated liquid sampling and analysis methods. In addition, reaction parameters such as CO2 mass flow rates, temperatures and pressures are seldom recorded, causing the loss of significant information on catalysts, electrodes, and electrolyzers behavior.To overcome these issues, we assemble a comprehensive analytical system coupling online gas and liquid product analysis by gas and liquid chromatography leveraging a special automated liquid sampling valve with electrochemical protocols that assess CO2RR performance, electrolyzer cell resistance and electrode surface area. In addition, we record CO2 mass flow rates, electrolyzer temperatures, as well as gas and liquid flow pressures. 4 To rapidly and reproducibly handle the large and heterogeneous data volume obtained we implement a standardized data pipeline based on our own open-source software,5 which automatically parses the numerous different raw data files, composes a data set following FAIR practices,6 and post-processes and plots the data in a standardized way. We validate the analytical system by carrying out CO2RR at 200 mA/cm2 on Cu gas diffusion electrodes, following the changes in selectivity with reaction time for > 10 gaseous and liquid products, and recording mass flow rates, electrolyzer temperatures and pressures. The modular nature of our analytical system, combined with the standardized data pipeline, allows us to freely increase the number and type of sensors used with minimal impact on the data analysis time, as well as to multiplex our analysis to 8 parallel electrolyzer cells, paving the way for a much deeper and faster understanding of the function of CO2RR catalysts, electrodes, and electrolyzers.

SUSTAINABLE SUPPLIER SELECTION IN INDIRECT PROCUREMENT: BEST PRACTICES AND CASE STUDIES IN ENGINEERING

This systematic review examines sustainable supplier selection in indirect procurement within the engineering sector, focusing on best practices, criteria, and impacts on organizational performance. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the review synthesizes findings from 35 articles published between 2000 and 2023. Key best practices identified include the integration of sustainability criteria into supplier evaluations, the use of lifecycle assessments (LCAs) to gauge environmental impact, and the implementation of carbon footprint analyses. Additionally, the emphasis on fair labor practices and the requirement for suppliers to obtain certifications like SA8000 enhance social sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The evolution of supplier selection criteria to encompass environmental, social, and economic factors reflects a more holistic approach, addressing complex sustainability challenges and driving long-term value and resilience in supply chains. The review also highlights the positive impacts of sustainable procurement practices, such as cost savings, risk mitigation, enhanced brand reputation, and improved operational efficiency. These findings underscore the strategic importance of sustainable procurement in achieving organizational sustainability goals and fostering sustainable development in the engineering sector.

OPTIMIZING HVAC EFFICIENCY AND RELIABILITY: A REVIEW OF MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS

This systematic review examines sustainable supplier selection in indirect procurement within the engineering sector, focusing on best practices, criteria, and impacts on organizational performance. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the review synthesizes findings from 35 articles published between 2000 and 2023. Key best practices identified include the integration of sustainability criteria into supplier evaluations, the use of lifecycle assessments (LCAs) to gauge environmental impact, and the implementation of carbon footprint analyses. Additionally, the emphasis on fair labor practices and the requirement for suppliers to obtain certifications like SA8000 enhance social sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The evolution of supplier selection criteria to encompass environmental, social, and economic factors reflects a more holistic approach, addressing complex sustainability challenges and driving long-term value and resilience in supply chains. The review also highlights the positive impacts of sustainable procurement practices, such as cost savings, risk mitigation, enhanced brand reputation, and improved operational efficiency. These findings underscore the strategic importance of sustainable procurement in achieving organizational sustainability goals and fostering sustainable development in the engineering sector.

Role of Gig Economy Participation in Shaping Worker Economic Security in Indonesia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the role of gig economy participation in shaping worker economic security in Indonesia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In Indonesia, gig economy participation offers flexibility and additional income, aiding financial stability for many workers. However, it also introduces challenges such as income instability, lack of social protections, and limited access to benefits. This situation can lead to significant economic insecurity, especially during downturns. While gig work provides opportunities, it highlights the need for enhanced labor policies and social protections to improve economic security for gig workers. Policymakers should address these issues to better integrate gig workers into social safety nets and ensure fair labor practices. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of job demands-resources (JD-R), social protection theory & human capital theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the gender inequality in the workplace in Japan. Employers and gig platforms should create and integrate financial planning tools and resources specifically designed for gig workers. To address the economic insecurity faced by gig workers, policymakers should implement portable benefits systems that can be carried across various gig jobs.

A Multivariate Effect of Employee Relations on Organizational Performance

The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of employee relations on organizational performance. A study of hospitality firms in Calabar, Cross River State. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of Hiring and selection, training and development, salaries and benefit on organizational performance. Primary data was employed in the study using questionnaire instrument. Simple regression statistical tool was adopted in the study. Based on the analysis of the results, the findings revealed that hiring and selection had a significant effect on performance, training and development had a significant effect on performance, salaries and benefits had a significant effect on performance of hospitality firms in Calabar. The study concluded that good employee relations result in highly committed, motivated and loyal employees in the organizations. In line with the findings, the study recommended that hospitality firms should focus more on implementing fair labor practices and building effective and sustainable employee relations that will ensure their growth and survival. Finally, management should devise other measures in which the employees could be effective in order to achieve effective performance.

The presence of diversity initiatives leads to increased pro-White hiring decisions among conservatives.

Despite the push and pull between pro-diversity advocates and conservative resistance, most organizations have implemented diversity initiatives in an effort to promote equitable and fair organizational practices. Past work has shown that these diversity initiatives may not be as effective as expected and may instead result in unintended negative consequences for the very individuals they are meant to support. In three novel experiments (total N = 3,664), we investigated whether and when the presence of pro-diversity messages in organizational job recruitment materials might facilitate versus hinder the hiring of underrepresented racial minorities. Participant race and political ideology were also investigated as predictors of hiring recommendations. Findings indicate that pro-diversity messages facilitate politically motivated hiring bias. Specifically, in the presence of pro-diversity messages, White and some Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) conservatives tend to display a pro-White shift in their hiring recommendations, whereas liberals tend to display a pro-minority shift. The present research underscores the importance of organizational awareness regarding the potential for hiring managers to react, whether consciously or subconsciously, against pro-diversity efforts because of political ideology. The present research also highlights the need for organizations to move beyond just espousing pro-diversity values and actually investigate the impact diversity initiatives have on hiring, retention, and promotion of diverse employees. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

The powerful influence of connections: exploring the effects of wasta informal networks on human resource development in Kuwait

ABSTRACT This research examines the consequences of engaging with wasta while practicing fair and ethical human resource management (HRM) in organizations in Kuwait. Weak ties have been established to be a powerful positive force for job seekers in the Western world, but in the Middle Eastern context, powerful close connections known as wasta exert a crucial impact on the pursuit of employment. We explore the relationship between wasta, HRM, and human resource development (HRD) in Kuwait using social exchange theory. Based on 24 semi-structured interviews, the study determines that the outcomes identified with wasta in businesses are considerable. Due to its disruption of standard HRM practices, wasta not only influences access to employment but also impacts employees’ professional development and their entire performance throughout their time with an organization. By unpacking this powerful but previously seldom explored phenomenon, this study expands conceptual frameworks on social influence and personal connections in the workplace, particularly regarding wasta. Additionally, it provides recommendations for lessening the undesirable outcomes of wasta and improving employee and organizational evolution in the fair practice of HRM.

The Guanxi mediating role linking organizational justice to contextual performance with age as a moderator.

Guanxi, a distinctive Chinese concept, reflects a shared vision of relationships and connections that include mutual understanding, trust, and a deep bond between individuals. Recognized for its potency in shaping the relationships that facilitate business undertakings and access to key resources, Guanxi is postulated as a potential mediator in the nexus between organizational justice and contextual work performance. The depth of Guanxi, intertwined with Chinese culture and values, may be perceived differently across age groups. Specifically, as Chinese millennials usually interact with global paradigms, generational disparities might emerge in valuing these traditional constructs. This study delves into how the dimensions of Guanxi-Ganqing (emotional connection), Renqing (reciprocity), and Xinren (loyalty)-mediate the relationship between organizational justice and contextual work performance, with chronological age as a moderator. The present study includes a convenience sample of 630 Chinese employees, aged 22-67 years, who participated in a quantitative online survey. The findings endorse the mediation role of Guanxi. The total influence of justice was found to be significant, as well as the indirect impacts, that were statistically salient. Although the age-moderated mediation was not wholly substantiated, the age-specific indirect effects of Renqing and Xinren did present significant variances between millennials and those above 42 years. The relevance of this study extends beyond the academic field, shedding light on the cultural dynamics at play within Chinese organizational settings. By unveiling the relationships between Guanxi, organizational justice, and performance, and by elucidating the age-specific variations therein, this research provides insights for organizational leaders and human resource professionals. Based on these findings, businesses can craft targeted interventions that capitalize on the strengths of Guanxi, ensuring fair practices and enhancing performance across diverse age groups. Further, recognizing the unique attributes and values of different generational cohorts can aid in fostering a harmonious, culturally attuned, and efficient workplace environment.

Assessment of Knowledge and Practice Regarding Psychological First Aid Among Secondary School Students in Erbil City.

Secondary school students in Erbil City face various stressors and challenges that may impact their mental well-being. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practical application of psychological first aid (PFA) among these students. This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 10th to June 25th, 2024, in six high schools in Erbil City, Iraq. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method. Data were collected using two self-structured questionnaires, which included demographic information, a knowledge assessment, and a practical application assessment of PFA. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Frequency and percentage were used for categorical variables, and mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables. Ordinal regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationships between demographic variables and PFA knowledge and practice. Spearman correlation was used to determine the relationship between knowledge and practice. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 412 students were enrolled in the study. The mean scores for knowledge and practice indicated fair levels, with mean scores of 7.66 ± 1.34 for knowledge and 7.01 ± 1.38 for practice. The analysis showed that 11 students (2.7%) had poor knowledge, 161 students (39.1%) had fair knowledge, and 240 students (58.2%) had good knowledge of PFA. In terms of practice, 15 students (3.6%) exhibited poor practice, 237 students (57.6%) demonstrated fair practice, and 160 students (38.8%) showed good practice of PFA. Significant associations were found between several demographic variables and PFA knowledge and practice. Males had higher knowledge scores (estimate = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.20, 2.24, P = 0.02), as did students from families with insufficient monthly income (estimate = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.10, 1.72, P = 0.03) and those residing in urban areas (estimate = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.17, 1.50, P = 0.01). For practice, the occupation of the father was significant, with unemployed fathers associated with lower practice scores (estimate = -1.08, 95% CI: -2.06, -0.09, P = 0.03). The study showed that students had fair knowledge and practice of PFA. To improve these scores, it is recommended that nurses and educators develop targeted interventions and training programs. These should focus on enhancing students' understanding and practical skills in PFA, ensuring they are better equipped to handle psychological distress among their peers.

SUSTAINABILITY IN TEXTILES: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF ECO – FRIENDLY PRACTICES AND MATERIALS

Sustainability in textiles, focusing on eco-friendly practices and materials. The paper examines the multifaceted approaches adopted by the fashion industry to mitigate environmental impact and promote ethical production. It scrutinizes the adoption of eco-conscious practices, such as utilizing organic fibers, recycled materials, and innovative biodegradable textiles. Through an analytical lens, the review evaluates the efficacy of these eco-friendly measures in reducing the industry's carbon footprint, minimizing waste, and conserving natural resources. It delves into the challenges faced in the widespread adoption of sustainable practices, considering issues related to scalability, cost-effectiveness, and consumer adoption. Further more, the review assesses the social and ethical dimensions of sustainable fashion, emphasizing fair labor practices, supply chain transparency, and the empowerment of communities involved in textile production. Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of scholarly articles, industry reports, and case studies, this review critically examines the progress, limitations, and future prospects of sustainability in fashion and textiles, providing insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in advancing eco-friendly practices within the industry.

The Influence of Employee Commitment on the Performance of State Departments in Kenya

The Public Service in Kenya is encountering numerous problems that demand attention to achieve its maximum capability of delivering high-quality services to citizens. The study is to assess the influence of employee commitment on performance of state departments in Kenya. Data obtained was then analysed through descriptive statistics, frequencies and correlational analysis, that the correlation between variables organisational commitment and organisational performance is strong and significant (r = 0.610, p < 0.01), indicating a positive relationship and the findings then presented through tables, bar charts, and histograms. Research limitations are constraints of time and difficulty in gathering information from state department officers. The results revealed that employee commitment improves productivity, service delivery, cost efficiency, and a positive work environment in state departments. Thus, the state departments should implement are to Strengthen Leadership and Management, Employee Engagement, Improve Working Conditions, Promote Employee Well-being, and Implement Fair Policies and Practices.

Strategic Human Resource Management and Employee Engagement in Australia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the strategic human resource management and employee engagement in Australia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In Australia, Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) practices have shown significant impact on employee engagement across various sectors. Studies consistently highlight that organizations implementing effective SHRM strategies, such as performance management systems and supportive leadership styles, experience higher levels of engagement among employees. Leadership, especially through transformational styles, plays a crucial role in inspiring teams and fostering a positive work environment. Aligning SHRM practices with a supportive organizational culture further enhances their effectiveness in promoting employee commitment and productivity. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource-based view (RBV) theory, social exchange theory (SET) & high-involvement management (HIM) theory may be used to anchor future studies on strategic human resource management and employee engagement in Australia. Organizations should tailor their SHRM strategies to align with their unique organizational goals, culture, and employee demographics. Governments can support SHRM and employee engagement initiatives through regulatory frameworks that encourage investment in employee development, fair labor practices, and work-life balance.

Association between Body Mechanics and Perceived Musculoskeletal Problems among Construction Workers of Udupi District, Karnataka, India: A Cross-sectional Survey

Background and Objectives: Construction workers are prone to develop musculoskeletal problems and it is a leading cause for the morbidity due to their work type. This study aimed to assess the body mechanics practice and perceived musculoskeletal problems of construction workers. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2019 and July 2020 among 390 construction workers at construction sites under selected villages of Udupi District, Karnataka by using by proportionate method. Villages were selected using a simple random sampling method and samples were collected by convenience sampling. Samples were mason helpers between 20 and 50 years of age, without any history of chronic musculoskeletal problems. Tools used were demographic proforma, self-reported body mechanics practice questionnaire, and modified Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. Analysis done with descriptive and inferential statistics by using SPSS Version 16.0. Results: Majority 144 (36.9%) of the participants were in the age group between 41 and 50 years. Most 376 (96.4%) of them were men and majority of them 309 (79%) followed fair body mechanics practice and 191 (49%) of the participants had low back problems and were responsible for their activity restrictions. Body mechanic practice of the construction workers was found to be significantly associated with unhealthy practice (P ≤ 0.001) and health problems (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The study concluded that the body mechanic practice of the construction workers was found to be significantly associated with unhealthy practices and health problems. The study recommends that educating construction workers about the importance of following proper body mechanics at the workplace and during day-to-day activities is crucial to prevent musculoskeletal problems and improve quality of life.

Achieving fairness in the food system

AbstractThe challenge of feeding an additional 2 billion people by 2050 is one of the most pressing issues of our generation. The required changes in the current food system must be achieved while reducing the negative environmental impacts of current farming practices on our climate and biodiversity and avoiding deforestation. This formidable challenge must be overcome in a projected climate that is more variable and where extreme weather events are increasingly common. While the green revolution, agricultural land expansion and agrotechnological innovations have significantly increased crop productivity over the last 50 years, the gains in the yields of most major crops have reached a plateau. Moreover, global hunger remains at a record high. Climate change‐associated changes in weather patterns have decreased the yields of major crops. Further land expansion is impossible without severe trade‐offs with biodiversity and climate change mitigation. Wars and pandemics are currently severely disrupting the global agri‐food system, increasing prices and exacerbating food insecurity, with the world's poorest suffering the most. The climate change–social instability nexus will continue to cause additional stress to the agri‐food system. Here, we consider the inequities in the current food system, highlighting the weak interconnection among research, policy and societal action that is hindering mitigation and adaptation efforts. We argue that improved interconnections among research, policy, governance and societal action will unlock the potential to achieve food security while supporting climate change mitigation targets. Our analysis includes specific strategies such as strengthening small‐scale farmers, promoting fair trade practices and reducing food waste to achieve these goals.

An ecological reorientation of the Codex Alimentarius Commission could help transform food systems.

The Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex) has a substantial influence over the structure and operation of food systems by setting international standards that affect the composition, structure and labelling of food. Despite the dual mandates of Codex to protect public health and ensure fair practices in food trade, food systems are increasingly unhealthy and unsustainable. An ecological reorientation of the decision-making elements that influence how Codex sets food standards-particularly mandates, governance and risk assessment-could help transform food systems towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals.