Infrastructure Issues Research Articles

Coping strategies for household water insecurity in rural Gambia, mediating factors in the relationship between weather, water and health

Abstract Background Rural communities in low- and middle-income countries, such as The Gambia, often experience water insecurity periodically due to climate drivers such as heavy rainfall and reduced rainfall, as well as non-climate drivers such as infrastructural issues and seasonal workloads. When facing these challenges households use a variety of coping mechanisms that could pose a risk to health. We aimed to understand the drivers of water insecurity (climate and non-climate), the behavioural responses to water insecurity and the risks these responses pose to the health of communities in rural Gambia and map these findings onto a conceptual framework. Methods We interviewed 46 participants using multiple qualitative methods. This included in-depth interviews and transect walks. A subset of 27 participants took part in three participatory pile-sorting activities. In these activities participants were asked to rank water-related activities, intrahousehold prioritisation of water, and the coping strategies utilised when facing water insecurity. Results Multiple strategies were identified that people used to cope with water shortages, including: reductions in hygiene, changes to food consumption, and storing water for long periods. Many of these could inadvertently introduce risks for health. For example, limiting handwashing increases the risk of water-washed diseases. Deprioritising cooking foods such as millet, which is a nutrient-dense staple food, due to the high water requirements during preparation, could impact nutritional status. Additionally, storing water for long periods could erode water quality. Social factors appeared to play an important role in the prioritisation of domestic water-use when faced with water shortages. For example, face-washing was often maintained for social reasons. Health and religion were also key influencing factors. People often tried to protect children from the effects of water insecurity, particularly school-aged children, but given the communal nature of many activities this was not always possible. Many people associated water insecurity with poor health. Conclusions To reduce the risks to health, interventions need to address the drivers of water insecurity to reduce the need for these risky coping behaviours. In the short term, the promotion of behavioural adaptations that can help buffer health risks, such as water treatment, may be beneficial.

Innovation through the implementation of technology in the context of school education: a systematic review

While the central role that technology currently plays in the different domains of society is acknowledged, it is pressing to understand how it also affects the compulsory education setting. The increasing technological richness of the world influences everyday life and brings about higher expectations for schools to take a lead in shaping competent citizens for the twenty-first century. The aim of this article is to advance knowledge of how innovation is taking place in schools when it admits the implementation of technology as a fundamental dimension. This review draws on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and covers the period 2017–22 to identify 30 studies for inclusion. The analyses suggest that innovative practices are highly diverse in nature and that they target different disciplines and levels of compulsory education. Innovation is sensitive to place, historicity and time. It is often delayed by infrastructure issues (first-order barriers) and beliefs (second-order barriers), while among its key drivers are leadership, support networks and professional development.

The Challenges of the Kurikulum Merdeka Implementation in 3T Area

This study investigates the challenges of implementing the Kurikulum Merdeka in the disadvantaged, remote, and outermost (3T) areas of Maluku. The significance of this research lies in addressing the geographic, infrastructural, and educational accessibility issues in these 3T areas, which can hinder the effective implementation of the Curriculum. The research employs a descriptive qualitative methodology. The study engaged 40 respondents, including school principals, teachers from both public and private schools, training facilitators, and assistant program implementers. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews and were then analyzed to identify recurring patterns, problems, challenges, and obstacles faced during implementation. The results indicate that despite their dedication to implementing the curriculum, nearly all schools struggle with the execution of the Kurikulum Merdeka. The main challenge identified is the inadequacy of teachers in designing and carrying out learning activities as required by the curriculum. This issue arises from various factors, including limited access to technology, insufficient training for principals and teachers, shortcomings in the mentoring mechanisms, and a lack of digital literacy among educators. Consequently, the government's mandate to implement this curriculum in all schools should be preceded by comprehensive preparation. Emphasis should be placed on enhancing teachers' capabilities through training sessions and workshops focused on planning, executing, and evaluating learning activities. Additionally, providing sufficient facilities and fostering a supportive learning environment are essential aspects that must be addressed. Keywords: implementation, Kurikulum Merdeka, disadvantaged, remote area

Perceived Risk Assessment Criteria for Public–Private Partnership Projects in the Water and Sewage Sector: Comparison of Perspectives from Iranian Public and Private Sectors

This research used the SWARA approach to analyze risk assessment criteria for public–private partnership (PPP) projects in Iran’s water and sewage sectors to identify and prioritize the most significant elements influencing project success from public and private viewpoints. Key results show that the public sector considers “risk probability” to be the most important aspect, highlighting the requirement for stability and predictability in project outcomes. In contrast, the private sector prioritizes the “ability to predict and discover risk”, emphasizing efficiently anticipating and managing uncertainty. Furthermore, this study revealed five common major risk characteristics, including “risk manageability” and “uncertainty of risk”; however, their rankings differ per industry, demonstrating various risk prioritizing methodologies. This study is unique in that it focuses only on Iran’s water and sewage infrastructure, an area historically neglected in PPP research, providing a rare investigation of sector-specific hazards as well as the interaction between public and private interests in a developing country environment. The paper makes specific suggestions, calling for more openness, improved communication, and the use of sophisticated risk management techniques to bridge the gap across sectors. These findings not only add to the scholarly knowledge of PPP dynamics in emerging countries but also provide practical recommendations for governments and private investors navigating Iran’s infrastructure issues.

T’ah kóó hóniidló, we’re still HERE! Mining legacies, Indigenous health and innovative solutions

In the world today, there are many unknowns especially with rising environmental concerns. However, one of the most important is an irreplaceable and shared resource, water or as the Diné (Navajo) refer to as, Tó. Throughout the world many Indigenous communities are facing water challenges, from lack of and access to adequate infrastructure, water rights, climate change and water contamination issues due to a variety of sources including anthropogenic sources like mining, especially, on the Navajo (Diné) reservation. This article aims to bring forth awareness of the long-standing water contamination issues in Diné communities and to shed light on innovative solutions being developed through current research efforts. Specifically, Dr. Tsosie’s research aims to optimize a handheld point of use filter unit with a filter casing design that is customizable to a community and/or household through an easily removable and exchangeable cartridge system. Despite all the challenges and legacies of mining faced by not only Diné communities but many Indigenous communities, We Remain and We Are Still Here.

Nurses' experiences and teaching suggestions regarding electronic patient record systems: qualitative method study

AimThe study was conducted to determine nurses' experiences with electronic patient record systems and their suggestions for incorporating them into undergraduate nursing education. BackgroundThe integration of computers into healthcare represents one of the most significant developments of the 21st century. Understanding nursing professionals' experiences with electronic patient record systems and the innovations they seek in teaching can provide effective methods for training future users. DesignQualitative, cross-sectional, interpretive phenomenological design. MethodsThe study was conducted with 12 nurses. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using semi-structured interview questions and analysed using content analysis. ResultsNurses' experiences were categorised into two main themes: using and teaching the Electronic Patient Record System. Participants reported difficulties related to inadequate physical infrastructure and software issues in the clinical setting. On the other hand, nurses acknowledged that electronic patient record systems enabled them to collect accurate, complete and traceable data, improved the quality of care and saved time for care. It was identified that nurses required training on these systems during their undergraduate education, especially learning from their colleagues. Participants suggested that teaching should involve the development of demo software. ConclusionsUsing electronic recording systems in hospitals enhances care management and facilitates documentation. Nurses recommend that students and practising nurses receive theoretical and practical training to adapt effectively to hospital systems. The development of demo software was proposed as a valuable educational tool.

Water Disconnections and NWSC Performance in Iganga Municipality, Uganda

This study investigates the relationship between water disconnections and bills receivable management at the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) in Iganga Municipality. The research uses a mixed-methods approach to analyse customer perceptions regarding disconnections and their impact on revenue recovery. The findings indicate a positive correlation between the disconnection of water services due to non-payment and the financial performance of the NWSC, with the corporation recovering over 100 billion UGX annually from disconnections and reconnection fees. Despite a total billing of 3,049,102,366 UGX for the last financial year, the NWSC managed to collect only 2,728,709,173 UGX, resulting in a collection efficiency of 91%. However, infrastructure issues, economic uncertainties, and customer financial hardships affect overall revenue collection efficiency. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhanced customer engagement, improved infrastructure, flexible payment options, and the use of technology to optimize billing and revenue collection processes

The Longlasting Program Keluarga Harapan as Conditional Cash Transfer in Indonesia: The Existing Problems and the Policy Recommendations

Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) is a conditional cash transfer program in Indonesia that requires beneficiaries to meet certain requirements such as school attendance and health checks. Adopted from similar models in Latin America, PKH aims to reduce short-term poverty and invest in the health and education of future generations. Since its launch in 2007, PKH has operated in various regions with different poverty and infrastructure issues. PKH faces several challenges, including mistargeting of beneficiaries and burdensome bureaucracy for the poor. To address this, improvements to the targeting system and simplification of document procedures are recommended. The program has also contributed to reducing stunting through improved nutrition and health education, although health facilities need to be improved. In the education sector, PKH has succeeded in increasing school enrollment and attendance, but has not significantly reduced child labor. In terms of livelihoods, PKH encourages beneficiaries to shift to non-agricultural jobs, although often only casual labor. This study uses descriptive and explanatory designs to describe and explain the evolution of the PKH policy from 2007. Descriptive design is used to describe policy changes that occurred during the period, while explanatory design is used to explain the factors that influence policy changes and their impact on program effectiveness. The results found that there were problems with PKH facilitators including insufficient numbers, high workloads, and low salaries, which affected their effectiveness. To improve the performance of facilitators, new recruitment, regular training, and increased salaries and working conditions are recommended.

Stabilization strategy of normal and chrome tanning effluent mixed subsoil: a novelty to enhance the soil characteristics

Soil stabilisation is a unique method to effectively and accurately find a solution to the issues caused by loose subsoil. This research investigates the problems of uncontrolled industrial effluent disposal, mainly from tannery enterprises, which presents severe environmental problems in emerging nations due to soil properties changing and large regions being unfit for cultivation and human habitation. The study uses Atterberg's limits, sieve analysis, and direct shear testing to examine the effects of untreated tannery effluents on soil parameters. The findings show that the soil's shear strength, moisture content, and flexibility have all significantly decreased. Lime and waste stone powder were added to lessen these impacts, and this improved soil stability was shown by an increase in the values of all the variables. For efficient soil remediation, the study suggests using waste stone powder and lime in the following proportions: 0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%. Combining lime stabilisation methods with industrial by-products like slag and fly ash opens up new possibilities for enhancing the geotechnical characteristics of polluted soils. This study emphasises how important it is to use customised geotechnical design techniques to handle soil contamination issues in infrastructure and foundation projects, especially in areas where the leather industry predominates.

Foreign Experience of Using Electronic Commerce Systems in Joint Stock Companies

Joint-stock firms' worldwide e-commerce growth is crucial to national economies, and Uzbekistan's strategic emphasis on the digital economy is expected to spur significant expansion. The country's e-commerce participation is still mostly domestic, despite advantageous conditions like internet availability and government assistance. This highlights a substantial knowledge gap in utilizing overseas markets. This study investigated international e-commerce models and their implementation in Uzbekistan using both theoretical and empirical approaches. The findings imply that although e-commerce infrastructure is growing, progress is being hindered by infrastructural and regulatory issues. Through improved digital trade, addressing these problems could promote global competitiveness and support sustainable economic development, both of which are in line with the "Digital Uzbekistan 2030" vision.

THE ROLE OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN SECURING BANKING TRANSACTIONS IN AFRICA

<p>The rise of digital financial services in Africa has highlighted the growing need for secure and efficient banking systems. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized and immutable nature, offers promising solutions to address the security challenges inherent in traditional banking infrastructures across the continent. This study explores the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing the security of banking transactions in Africa by minimizing fraud, ensuring data transparency, and facilitating cross-border payments. The research examines how blockchain can revolutionize banking in Africa by providing secure transaction validation, improved customer privacy, and increased trust in financial institutions. Furthermore, it addresses the current barriers to blockchain adoption in African banks, such as regulatory challenges, technological infrastructure, and financial inclusion issues. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for integrating blockchain into the banking sector, emphasizing its capacity to foster financial innovation, increase transaction security, and drive economic growth across Africa.</p><p><strong>JEL:</strong> K24, L86</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Infrastructure Limitations in School Libraries: Case Study of the ‘Thenmarachchi’ Education Zone, Sri Lanka

School libraries play a vital role in education globally. However, Type-3 elementary schools in the ‘Thenmarachchi’ education zone, in Sri Lanka, face infrastructure challenges. The study examines the infrastructure barriers impeding the functionality of school libraries in the ‘Thenmarachchi’ zone. Employing mixed methods, it investigates the impact of these limitations on libraries and proposes remedies. Social engagement and partnerships with NGOs have emerged as promising solutions to overcome infrastructure challenges affecting school libraries in the zone. Prioritizing investments in these areas, alongside addressing critical infrastructure issues, is crucial to empowering students and enhancing education.

Enhancing Statistical Infrastructure to Improve Economic Census Efficiency

With the continuous development of the economy and societal progress, the economic census, as an important aspect of national statistical work, is directly influenced by the quality of grassroots infrastructure. This paper thoroughly discusses the importance of strengthening the statistical foundation to improve the efficiency of economic census work, analyzes the existing issues in current infrastructure and census processes, and proposes corresponding solutions. By enhancing the professional training of grassroots statisticians, updating data collection technologies, and optimizing workflows, the aim is to significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of the economic census, providing strong support for the healthy development of the national economy and informed decision-making.

Dental teachers' perceptions about the status of geriatric dentistry in the dental curriculum: A qualitative exploration in the Indian context.

The increasing geriatric population in India needs special attention from the oral health workforce. This study explores dental teachers' perceptions of the status of geriatric dentistry in the dental curriculum and the challenges of implementing geriatric dentistry curriculum in the present dental training sector in India from the trainers' (teachers) perspective. We utilised a qualitative approach, and four focus group discussions were conducted with/among various levels of academic teachers-Heads of Departments (n = 8), Board of Study members (n = 7), Deans (n = 5), Lecturers and Associate professors (n = 8). All discussions were audio-taped and transcribed. Data was analysed thematically, and coding was done using an inductive approach. Consensus on themes was achieved through deliberations. Three themes were identified-Unique challenges in managing geriatric patients (bordering on Dental care, Attitude, Awareness, Social issues and dependency on family); Current issues with provision of geriatric care (Curricular concerns-Teachers' training, Students' training, Instructional content, timing of delivery; Students' and trainers' attitudes; Infrastructural issues) and Strategies for advancement (Sensitisation of policymakers, Collaboration with other agencies, Modification in course design, Improved educational strategies and Shift in patient care delivery). Trainers perceived a strong need to develop geriatric competencies among dental students. A geriatric dentistry curriculum based on local needs could ensure the success and sustenance of change. Introducing specialisation in geriatric dentistry would ensure quality oral care for the rising geriatric population. Innovative teaching strategies, interdisciplinary training and the use of newer technologies could aid in improved teaching of geriatric dentistry.

Trends and future directions of artificial intelligence applications in Iranian livestock production systems

Abstract In recent years, the global quest for livestock intensification driven by ever-increasing demands for animal food products raised concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and public health. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technologies such as remote sensing, Internet of Things (IoT), computer vision, and data-driven modeling has become a hotspot in livestock farming that could facilitate animal monitoring, disease detection, feed optimization, and health management. This review includes an assessment of these topics and research done in Iran so far, proposing future steps for the deployment of AI-powered technologies in farm applications. The Iranian livestock sector already seeing benefits from AI advancements and information technologies, however, most studies focused on model development without applications or deployment for the industry. Significant work is needed to address the limitations and challenges namely lack of data, economic feasibility, ethical concerns, infrastructure issues, and regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, reported AI-based methods and approaches have some inconsistencies in Iran that hinder validation. Looking forward, AI could create a new era in the livestock sector of Iran that not only copes with upcoming challenges but also boosts the circular economy making this country a pioneer in the region. However, tackling some potential limitations accompanying AI application in the Iranian livestock sector warrants the multi-disciplinary collaboration of veterinarians, computer scientists, animal nutritionists, agri-engineers, and governmental organizations.

Optimizing IT Project Management in Ukraine's Aviation Sector: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Insights

The Ukrainian aviation industry is undergoing digital transformation; however, the pace remains behind global and European standards due to several challenges. These include limited funding, a lack of skilled IT professionals, and a slow rate of modern technology adoption. The research, titled "Optimizing IT Project Management in Ukraine’s Aviation Sector: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Insights," addresses the urgent need for improvements in IT project management to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and technological advancement within the aviation sector in Ukraine. This article analyzes the sector's current challenges, including insufficient government and private sector investment, internet infrastructure issues, and a shortage of IT specialists. It also identifies opportunities in areas like automation, digitization, and the potential for public-private collaborations. The study's primary objective is to develop and evaluate an optimal IT project management framework tailored to Ukraine’s aviation industry. This framework aims to optimize resource usage, integrate modern technologies like AI, automation, and cybersecurity, and improve global competitiveness. Furthermore, the research offers a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of Ukraine’s aviation IT landscape, benchmarking it against European standards. A substantial gap exists between Ukraine and Europe regarding IT investment and automation, with European countries leading in adopting AI-driven systems, enhanced cybersecurity, and automated business and customer service processes. To bridge this divide, the study proposes an optimized IT project management model focused on strategic priorities such as investment in skill development, strengthening public-private partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity, implementing agile work methods, and supporting innovation through government initiatives. In conclusion, the study underscores that enhancing IT project management in Ukraine’s aviation industry is crucial for maintaining global competitiveness and improving operational efficiency. The proposed model offers actionable insights to address current challenges while capitalizing on new opportunities, thereby ensuring resilience in the face of ongoing global digitization and technological advancements.

Public Transport Delay Prediction using Deep Learning

A system of trains, buses, subways, ferries, and other vehicles that are accessible to the public is referred to as public transportation, also known as public transit or mass transit. These networks are usually run by private or public organisations are made to efficiently transport large numbers of people in urban and suburban areas. It usually operates on set schedules and routes and has a listed fare for each journey. Long wait periods and lengthy travel times resulting from delays are two problems that frequently plague public transportation services. There are several things that can cause a delay in public transport, such as an excess of passengers, heavy traffic, accidents, and other unforeseen circumstances. The availability of a more accurate delay prediction for public transportation might increase users’ confidence and their willingness to pay more for transit services. Over the past two decades, a number of studies on prediction algorithms for transportation data have been proposed. Most of the work is on machine learning model development, focusing on delay prediction and taking into account several factors such as weather conditions and infrastructure issues. This paper proposes a deep learning model to predict public transportation delays using data from public transportation and the weather. The results obtained from this research work are compared with several other existing works. Our experiment has demonstrated that the deep neural network (DNN) is the best model to predict transit delay compared to several other machine learning and deep learning models.

Efficient energy consumption in hybrid cloud environment using adaptive backtracking virtual machine consolidation

Virtualization is the process of sharing physical machine resources into multiple Virtual Machines (VMs) for the effective utilization of resources. The major issues are in handling physical resources such as high demand of resources, infrastructure issues and operational issues. Also violating Service Level Agreement (SLA) is another problem to lead the violations. In this case, VM consolidation method is used to migrate the VMs and optimize the efficient way to use the resources. So we get minimized energy consumptions. Existing methods has increased energy consumption and overhead issues. In this paper we propose adaptive backtracking methods to provide VM consolidation based on less energy consumptions. We use Adaptive Hill Climbing and Pursuit algorithms to consolidate the VMs and use the VMs with efficient energy consumption. We implement this simulations using Matlab in Hybrid Cloud Environment. The performance factors are obtained with less energy consumption and compare the results with existing methods. Overall our proposed system is achieving 95% of accuracy index with lower energy consumption such as 28%, 30% and 32% with multiple VMs consolidations.

Unveiling the Subterranean Heritage: A Case Study of the Underground City of Kukës, Albania

Abstract This paper investigates the viability of conserving and repurposing Kukës’ underground city, which was built as a system of civil defence tunnels during the communist era in Albania. Beneath contemporary Kukës, the underground complex, which houses administrative offices and hospitals, is an important but underutilized historical and architectural asset. This study assesses the architectural elements, historical value, and present state of the tunnels using an extensive methodology that includes expert interviews, public consultations, on-site inspections, and archival research. Results highlight the site’s dual significance as a historical landmark and a possible center for innovation and tourism. The research offers strategic proposals for reviving the tunnels to strengthen the local economy, maintain cultural identity, and increase tourist attraction, drawing on foreign case studies. By promoting the inclusion of Kukës’ underground city in larger regional development projects and considering both community goals and pragmatic concerns, the article adds to the current conversations in urban planning and cultural preservation. Sustaining and repurposing Kukës’ underground city has various benefits, including enhanced cultural tourism and economic resurgence that encourage sustainable growth, the paper points out. Still, challenges like deteriorating infrastructure, security concerns, and accessibility issues must be overcome. Urban planners and politicians can apply the research’s practical implications by using it to develop a model for cultural preservation that aligns with modern social and economic goals. A sense of shared identity and legacy among the local community’s members is fostered by the initiative, which has significant social implications as well. The study has some drawbacks, including the need for significant funding and the potential for opposition from groups who do not recognize the advantages of these kinds of initiatives. To summarise, this research highlights the potential of adaptive reuse to bolster the sustainability and resilience of urban ecosystems by offering useful guidance and strategies that may be used to comparable initiatives worldwide.

Digital Communication Technologies in Public Administration: A Study of Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Delta State

This study investigates the role of digital communication technologies in enhancing public administration using Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education as a case study. The objectives were on exploring the impact, finding out the opportunities and identifying the challenges of digital communication technologies. Through a comprehensive analysis of survey data from 146 respondents, the study explores various dimensions of digital communication technologies' influence on citizen engagement, consumer behaviour, and public service delivery. The findings reveal positive perceptions of digital technologies among respondents, highlighting their potential to improve citizen engagement, streamline public service delivery, and overcome traditional barriers to communication. Despite challenges such as limited infrastructure and connectivity issues and infringe of privacy, respondents recognize the transformative impact of digital technologies on public administration processes. Based on the findings, two key recommendations emerge: first, governments should prioritize investment in digital infrastructure to expand internet access and enhance digital literacy among citizens. Second, capacity building and training programs should be implemented to equip public administrators with the skills needed to effectively leverage digital tools for service delivery and citizen engagement. This study underscores the importance of embracing digital communication technologies in public administration and provides valuable insights for policymakers, administrators, and practitioners seeking to harness the full potential of digitalization in governance.