Local Policy Makers Research Articles

Mobile health clinics in a rural setting: a cost analysis and time motion study of La Clínica in Oregon, United States

BackgroundMobile Health Clinics (MHCs) are an alternate form of healthcare delivery that may ameliorate current rural–urban health disparities in chronic diseases and have downstream impacts on the health system by reducing costs. Evaluations of providers’ time allocation on MHCs are scarce, hindering knowledge transfer related to MHC implementation strategies.MethodsRetrospective economic cost was assessed using business ledgers and expert assessments in 2023 US Dollar (USD) from 2022 to 2023. Time motion observational study assessed nurse practitioner (NP) and community health worker (CHW) time allocation and compared them between patients residing in isolated rural areas (hereafter isolated rural patients) and patients experiencing houselessness (PEH) sub-populations. Procedure codes were assessed retrospectively for each patient encounter (n = 1,981) over one year (April 2022 to April 2023). We used statistical significance tests (chi-square and Fisher’s Exact) to evaluate difference across sub-populations.ResultsIntervention start-up and operational costs totaled 275,000USD and 308,000USD, respectively, with the largest allocations to the modified recreational vehicle (RV) unit and labor. NP attributed 32% of time on direct care (mean = 153.00 min (SD = 37.80 min)), 38% on indirect care (186.0 (53.40)), and 21% on MHC tasks (104.00 (23.94)). CHW spent 47% of time on MHC tasks (182.00 (29.46)), 22% on medical care tasks (85.01 (SD 81.97)), and 22% on social needs tasks (87.70 (86.71 min)). NP time allocation did not differ significantly between isolated rural patients and PEH (p > 0.01), but CHW time did (p < 0.01). Of all procedures, 31.3% were vaccinations (N = 438), 27.0% were Covid-19 related (N = 377), 12.8% were outside referrals (N = 179), and 11.8% were point of care testing. Healthcare utilization varied between patient sub-populations, with Isolated Rural patient use dominated by Covid-19 and Influenza vaccines whereas PEH use was dominated by point of care testing (p < 0.01).ConclusionPatient sub-populations require varying provider time in different tasks and variable economic resources for interventions. As local policy makers balance resources and community health needs, a complete understanding of the resources required to operate an MHC and use of provider time is essential for informed decision making and successful implementation in underserved communities.

Civil society organisations and the local politics of migration: how funding contexts matter

Migration studies have highlighted the crucial role of civil society organisations (CSOs) in the local politics of migration. Less explored is the impact of the material conditions under which CSOs operate. And yet CSOs delivering public services to migrant and racialised populations often rely on public funding which has been significantly restructured since neoliberal welfare reforms in many Western countries in the 1990s. This article examines how funding contexts shape the opportunities of CSOs to influence local policymaking on migration and migration-related change from a cross-country and cross-city comparative perspective. Based on the empirical analysis of four cities in France and Germany and a comprehensive dataset comprising interviews, observations and documents, we argue that funding contexts significantly impact on CSOs’ potential to shape local policymaking. They do so by enhancing and restricting (1) CSOs’ access to spaces of policymaking as well as (2) CSOs’ capacities for political engagement. We demonstrate the mediating importance of specific funding structures and politics at both national and local scales as well as the role of state-CSO relations in manifesting and reproducing these funding contexts.

Current Status of Man and Animal Conflict and e-Parihara in Different Forest Ranges of Karnataka

The increasing demand for forest land, habitat disturbance, and fodder shortages have intensified Man-Animal Conflicts (MAC) worldwide. This study analyzes both qualitative and quantitative data to assess the status of MAC in Karnataka, leveraging 2,03,297 geo-tagged conflict cases are reported by the Karnataka Forest Department's (KFD) since 2014 to 2024. Earlier all the MAC records were manually generated and stored as hardcopies, a traditional method of documentation. To implement advance technologies, which makes data tracking easier, KFD decided to design a digital platform, under e-Governance for timely response on conflict issue and its validation. As a result in 2019, a online database was generated, tested its functioning, and launched as e-Parihara website, and a mobile app for the management of MAC, helps to provide ex-gratia relief for various types of damages caused by wildlife. This paper comprehend the real-time data available since 2019, also digitised data from 2014. The e-Parihara mobile app allows forest officials to document geo-tagged conflict cases with photos and geo-stamped damage details. The limitation of this web portal is access restricted to forest officials for proper documentation. The platform ensures transparency and efficiency by integrating real-time SMS notification alerts for both Forest officials and the applicants about claim progress. The study employs a flowchart on automated workflows to process the ex-gratia compensation claims, based on government directives, and generate the official memorandums (OMs). Data analysis includes percentage calculations of compensation claims across species, litmaps supports the constant rise of MAC since 1928–2024. Majority of conflicts caused, involved in various damage types’ viz. crops, properties, livestock and human related issues are elephants. Elephants are responsible for 74.82% of claims and 68.18% of reported incidents, followed by wild boars (11.61% of claims, 10.86% of incidents) and leopards (10.30% of claims, 8.09% of incidents). Gaur (3.69% of claims, 3.27% of incidents), Tigers (3.41% of claims, 1.34% of incidents), and sloth bears (2.5% of claims, 1.18% of incidents), contributed less. This type of information on MAC indicates a pioneering approach to state-wide MAC management, facilitating targeted resource allocation and actionable strategies. It underscores the need for collaboration between local communities, wildlife experts, and policymakers to ensure sustainable wildlife conservation.

Understanding system interdependencies in sustainable paper production from residue grass biomass: Insights from fuzzy cognitive mapping

This research investigates the pulp and paper industry's transition to sustainability by valorizing unused roadside and natural grasses for paper production. Large-scale production from residual grass poses multifaceted challenges, requiring collaboration across stakeholders, from biomass collection to manufacturing. To understand key drivers and barriers within this complex system, experts from various fields, including local farmers, researchers, policymakers, and industry executives were interviewed, leading to the development of a Fuzzy Cognitive Map (FCM). The analysis explores various scenarios to assess how socio-economic, technological, and political factors influence the transition to low-carbon practices. These scenarios highlight the effects of varying levels of technology development, economic conditions, and policy support on the transition's progress and outcomes. Results show that the system is highly sensitive to shifts in socio-economic and political conditions. Political interventions play a crucial role, especially during energy crises and increased public demand for sustainable solutions. Grass-based paper production is seen as a viable pathway, but challenges such as the economic feasibility of emerging technologies remain. We recommend targeted policies to improve the economic viability of grass-based products and optimize biomass allocation between energy and bio-based products, ensuring a more balanced and sustainable transition.

The equivalent value (EV)-based workload assessment of primary healthcare workers in Beijing, China

BackgroundQuantitative methods for estimating the workload of primary healthcare (PHC) workers are essential for improving the performance of PHC institutions. However, measuring the workload of PHC workers is challenging due to the diverse and complex range of services covered by PHC. This study aims to use an equivalent value (EV)-based approach to assess the workload of PHC workers and inform policymakers about the current workload burden in Beijing, China.MethodsThe EV-based workload assessment system was designed by three main steps: identifying the list of essential PHC service items provided by PHC workers, quantifying the EV of each service item, and calculating the corresponding workload for PHC workers and community health centers (CHCs). The study included 18 CHCs, which were divided into three groups based on population density and topography: Group I (eight urban CHCs), Group II (six CHCs in semi-mountainous areas), and Group III (four CHCs in mountainous areas). Data were collected from local health information system, which automatically collected real-time service volume data for 500 PHC service items at 18 CHCs in the sample district in Beijing from 2017 to 2021.ResultsThis study identified 503 essential PHC service items and defined their EVs. The theoretical full-capacity workload per PHC worker was 6024 EVs, serving as the base workload. The actual annual workload per PHC worker was 7240.0 EVs during 2017–2021. The base workload per budgeted position for the three types of CHCs was 6468.6 EVs for Group I, 5268.5 EVs for Group II, and 5038.7 EVs for Group III. Compared with the actual workload of 7702.3 EVs, 6568.3 EVs, and 5979.0 EVs in each group, respectively, all PHC workers in the sample district were overburdened during the study period.ConclusionsThe EV-based method provides a feasible solution for comprehensively assessing the workload of publicly funded PHC institutions in other regions. This study offers valuable insights to help local policymakers understand the workload burden of PHC workers, objectively evaluate their performance, and guide future health workforce planning.

Retrofit information challenges and potential solutions: Perspectives of households, retrofit professionals and local policy makers in the southwest UK

Rapidly scaling up energy retrofit for existing buildings is critical to help meet climate targets. Information is frequently identified as a key barrier to residential retrofit. This paper explores the role of information sharing in accelerating retrofit market transformation, through interviews and photo elicitation with homeowners (N = 9) and two workshops with stakeholders (N = 33) in a local authority retrofit project in Gloucestershire (UK). Findings are thematically analysed and suggestions for future local and national policy action are identified. The research finds that even for engaged, knowledgeable homeowners, accessing appropriate information is still a significant retrofit barrier. Two themes around the nature of information and information delivery are identified and key issues include information overload, a lack of context-specific information and in-person engagement, and a need for trustworthy, local information sources. Local authorities have potential to act as trusted intermediaries for structured, relevant retrofit information but require support from national governments to increase capacity and resources at local levels. National governments also have a critical role in providing clear and consistent messaging and leadership on the importance and benefits of retrofit. Policies around financial incentives are not sufficient alone and must be accompanied by strategies to overcome informational and other barriers if retrofit is to be accelerated in this decisive decade for climate action.

Demonstrating multi-benefits of green infrastructure to schools through collaborative approach.

Green infrastructure (GI) is known to reduce road air pollution exposure, but their implementation in schools and associated benefits remain under-researched. In this study, two GI solutions, green screen and green gate, were co-designed and installed at a primary school in Guildford using collaborative and participatory methods. By assessing changes in air pollution levels, noise, and public perception before and after GI installation, we aimed to understand their impact on reducing children's exposure and evaluate other co-benefits. Without considering wind direction's effect, a maximum reduction of up to 32%, 10% and 12% in the average daily concentration of PM10 (green gate), PM2.5 (green screen) and PM1 (green gate), respectively, when compared with in-front concentration. The decay in concentration decreases with distance from the GI, and different wind directions result in varying percentage reductions in PM concentration. For the green screen, 'parallel to the screen' and for the green gate, 'away from the gate' wind directions provided the highest PM reduction. The horizontal abatement efficiency of GI varied with PM size, with the highest being PM10. Continuous monitoring behind the green screen revealed a decrease in PM concentration after installation, and this relative concentration varied from 0.29 to 0.90 compared to before installation. The green gate effectively lowered noise by 5dB(A), and the green screen did not report a noticeable impact on noise levels. Most parents perceived the installation of GI in school as significantly decreasing air pollution exposure and slightly reducing noise levels, resembling the changes in their levels observed in monitoring. The successful co-creation and co-implementation of GI interventions and resulting co-benefits underscore the importance of community engagement and participatory approaches in urban planning and environmental management. This study paves the way for the wider-scale application of innovative strategies involving local communities, stakeholders, and policymakers in implementing GI projects to ensure their sustainability and effectiveness.

Km-scale climate simulations over Madeira and Canary Islands under present and future conditions: a model intercomparison study

This study seeks to explore two new km-scale regional climate simulations prepared through the European Climate Prediction project over the Madeira and Canary islands, which are Portuguese and Spanish archipelagos located in the North Atlantic, off the African coast. The simulations are based on two models using different modelling approaches: COSMO-CLM with a three-step nesting at 50, 25 and 3 km grid spacing using a time-slice approach driven by a global climate model, and COSMO-crCLIM with a two-step nesting at 12 and 1 km grid spacing using the pseudo-global warming approach, where the current-day simulations are driven by ERA-Interim reanalysis. Although the modelling approaches are different, several findings are highlighted: (1) the use of km-scale simulation is essential to properly represent temperature and precipitation mean and extremes over small islands that are characterized by complex topography; (2) the projected changes in temperature and precipitation mean and extremes are qualitatively similar in all seasons except autumn; (3) the differences in the autumn projections are shown to be due to the large-scale driving conditions. Small islands, such as the Canary and Madeira ones, are often neglected by large modelling initiatives, so the presented simulations contribute to filling this gap for local policy makers, stakeholders and climate services. The encouraging results highlight the need for further coordinated km-scale projections.

Analysis of Foreign Aid Effectiveness for School Education Improvement and Economic Growth of Nepal

Background: Nepal is struggling to improve its education system due to financial deficiency, social disparities, and political instability. The government relies heavily on international aid for education improvement. Nepal's education system shows foreign aid's potential and limitations in sustainable development. Foreign aid, GDP per capita, and government spending affect Nepalese youth literacy and gross enrollment rates. This aims to examine the aid effectiveness in school enrollment and GDP growth in Nepal. Methods: This study has employed an econometric approach based on ARDL and Granger causality tests. Model I focuses on youth literacy rates as a measure of educational outcomes, while Model II examines gross enrollment ratios to assess access to education. Results: The results reveal a significant long-term role of foreign aid in improving literacy outcomes, whereas GDP per capita emerges as a critical determinant of enrollment. Granger causality tests highlight bidirectional relationships, showing how literacy improvements influence foreign aid allocation and GDP growth. The findings underscore the importance of aligning aid strategies with local priorities and enhancing the efficiency of public spending to achieve sustained educational improvements. Conclusion: This study contributes to human capital theory by exploring the interplay between education and economic development, emphasizing the need for targeted, sustainable interventions. Future research should focus on the role of institutional quality and demographic disparities in shaping education outcomes. Novelty: This study offers a comprehensive analysis of aid efficacy and its congruence with local requirements by incorporating perspectives from local educators, students, policymakers, and donor organizations.

THE EDUCATIONAL ROLE OF SCHOOL IN SPORT DEVELOPMENT AND HEALTH PROMOTION IN SUBURBAN AREAS - CASE STUDY

This study investigates the sports preferences and participation levels among young residents of Soroksár, a district on the outskirts of Budapest, Hungary. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, data was collected through a questionnaire survey conducted in autumn 2023. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the significance of factors influencing sports participation. The results indicate that local infrastructure and accessibility significantly impact sports engagement among youth, with preferences leaning towards sports readily available in the community. Notably, early initiation of sports participation positively correlated with academic achievement, emphasizing the importance of holistic development through sports. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive infrastructural development to support mass sports participation and promote healthy lifestyles. Local policymakers are urged to prioritize investments in sports facilities and opportunities, recognizing the multifaceted benefits of sustained sports engagement beyond elite-level support. This study provides insights into sports participation in Soroksár and calls for further research to inform evidence-based interventions promoting physical activity and intellectual development among youth.

Theoretical framework of life circles in Chinese small towns and the optimization of spatial layout for public service facilities based on residents’ distance sensitivity

Due to China’s rapid urbanization, its residential areas and the residents in small towns exhibit dual and complex urbanization patterns and characteristics. The relevant national standards currently do not provide detailed guidance regarding the planning and construction of public service facilities and have failed to address the complexities of human–land urbanization patterns. Their “one-size-fits-all” approach toward facility programming has resulted in misalignment of facility supply and demand and in poor accessibility of public service facilities. As a result, many existing facilities are not used; frequently, facilities not included in the public service system are used, resulting in inefficient usage. Previously, the authors have investigated the functional programming of facilities, proposing a “required + optional item” public service facility guidance-control system based on the actual needs of residents, which addresses the issue of what types of facilities should be provided to residents. Building upon prior research, this study focuses on the spatial layout of facilities and explores the logic of suitable life circle planning in small towns in China. Specifically, this study extracts indicators such as tolerance distance, usage frequency, and functional demand to assess residents’ “distance sensitivity” in accessing facilities. It uncovers the differentiated characteristics of distance sensitivity among residents at different stages of urbanization regarding rural and non-rural facilities. The study proposes the determining principles for a life circle–layered partitioning mode in small towns and develops a model framework for suitable life circle. It defines the life circle partitioning and layers for residents at different stages of urbanization. Based on this framework, this study establishes a fundamental principle for preventing dissatisfaction among residents with low service expectations, proposing a “basic assurance + optimization enhancement” plan for life circle layers in rural- and urban-biased residential areas. This study addresses the uneven urbanization levels within small towns, revealing the spatial hierarchical relationships between facilities in urban- and rural-biased residential areas. Guided by the principle of “control + guidance,” it aims to offer local policymakers more flexibility, clarifying and correcting past “one-size-fits-all” approaches to facility planning. The goal is to elevate the standard of public services in small towns by providing methods of optimization and theoretical foundations for renewal practices and the refinement of construction-related regulations.

Exploring the approaches towards support of academic entrepreneurship: evidence from an emerging market

Over the past three decades, an exponentially growing body on elements and actors of the concept of an entrepreneurial university has emerged. Compared to its western European counterparts, however, the idea of the third role of the university has only recently been implemented in Central and Eastern European countries, and thus both research and entrepreneurial practice grapple with empirical results. In this paper, we attempt to fill this gap while adopting a case study approach to examine the issue of what resources a prominent technical university operating in the emerging market of the Czech Republic transfers to academic ventures to utilise and commercialise university research results. Within a survey, nine academic founders and two university representatives were interviewed to assess the role of university resources in facilitating academic entrepreneurship. Our research results suggest that creating infrastructure to foster the third role of universities in an emerging market is a complex and long-term issue. Formal institutions embedded in the intra-university organisational structure, such as knowledge transfer offices and entrepreneurial centres, need to be equipped with sufficient resources and competences. Skilled people with their own network of contacts to intra-university departments and external environment represented by regional incubators, venture capital providers, business angel associations, and experienced entrepreneurs should be involved in the process of creating and increasing capacity. Furthermore, the upcoming agenda should undoubtedly acknowledge the significant role of entrepreneurship education with a focus on talent recognition and entrepreneurship training to impact the entrepreneurial intentions of researchers and students. Overall, we also conclude that the motivation of academics to commercialise their inventions could be positively affected by the applied concepts of assessing their performance. Finally, this study shows that measures at all management levels have to be adopted to create a vital organisational culture that will be in alignment with the vision of entrepreneurial university. The novelty of this paper is twofold. First, the study provides a useful methodological concept of data collection as the multi-level approach was applied for studying the phenomenon of entrepreneurial university. Furthermore, the research findings have valuable implications for university authorities, as well as national and local policy makers, in creating growth programmes and supporting the entrepreneurial mindset.

ANN-based and DT-based Classification Approaches to Predict the Rainfall Level of the Grid (90°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;E&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt; − 92°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;E&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt;, 23°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;N&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt; − 25°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;N&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt;) in Bangladesh

The study area defined by the coordinates (90°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;E&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt; − 92°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;E&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt;, 23°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;N&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt; − 25°&amp;lt;I&amp;gt;N&amp;lt;/I&amp;gt;) is a significant region in Bangladesh, where accurate rainfall predictions are crucial for both the local population and policymakers. Understanding rainfall patterns in this area is vital for effective planning and resource management. Data on atmospheric variables, including temperature, rainfall, humidity, sea level pressure, and wind speed were collected from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department for various locations across the study grids for the period of 1964 to 2015. The descriptive statistics revealed that the pattern of the data of climate parameters is not normal. This dataset serves as the foundation for analyzing climate parameters and forecasting rainfall levels within the specified regions of Bangladesh. This study evaluates machine learning techniques, focusing on artificial neural networks (ANN) and classification and regression trees, C5.0, Random Forest, and Gradient Boosting as alternatives to traditional statistical models for predicting atmospheric phenomena. It reveals that conventional models often rely on assumptions unsuitable for chaotic systems like the atmosphere. Among the assessed models ANN, CART, C5.0, Random Forest (RF), and Gradient Boosting Machines (GBM) the ANN demonstrated the highest predictive capabilities for rainfall forecasting in Bangladesh, achieving superior training accuracy and Kappa values while also being recognized as the best overall performer based on ranking metrics.

Validation of a Nepali version of the questionnaire to assess preventive practices against the COVID-19 pandemic in the general population

BackgroundThe new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by a virus in the coronavirus family called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Due to lack of effective treatment, the major way to breakdown the disease transmission is by application of preventive measures. For this, a preventive practice questionnaire was used to assess the preventive practice during COVID-19. A definite advantage of this questionnaire is its ability to identify individual level preventive practices. The objective of the study was to validate the Nepali version of Questionnaire to assess preventive practices against the COVID-19 pandemic in the General population.MethodsA web-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2022 to April 2023 using preventive practices against the COVID-19 pandemic questionnaire and was conducted among 351 respondents. The sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaire were calculated for validation. The best cutoff point for the Nepalese version of the questionnaire was identified and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was calculated.ResultsThe overall prevalence of good preventive practices was 90.6%. The best cutoff points for the Nepali version of the questionnaire were 93% sensitivity and 67% specificity, respectively at a cutoff level of 47/48. The area under the curve was 0.859. Thus, the Nepalese version of the questionnaire concerning preventive practices during the COVID-19 pandemic in the general population had an accuracy of 85.9% (95% CI 0.757–0.961, p = 0.001).ConclusionThe Nepalese version of the questionnaire on preventive practices during the COVID-19 pandemic in the general population can be successfully used as a survey tool. These findings might help to detect appropriate adherence to preventive practices can be achieved in busy outpatient departments. Detecting adherence to preventive practices may help local health authorities and policymakers in identifying specific populations for future awareness campaigns during infectious disease outbreaks.

Community acceptance of wind energy projects development in Viet Nam from the perspective of behavioral reasoning theory

PurposeThis study aims to present the factors affecting and comparing the difference in community acceptance between groups of survey from the perspective of behavioral reasoning theory (BRT).Design/methodology/approachThis study presents a quantitative method through conducting survey of 152 local residents from three provinces of Viet Nam.FindingsThis study examines the new approach of “reason for” and “reason against” community acceptance within the context of wind energy development in Viet Nam. This study also suggests that “reason for” have a positive impact on the local community; however, issues like noise and shadow cast by turbine blades are significant challenges that contribute to the “reason against” acceptance. This study’s findings provide evidence of the importance of location and socio – economic impacts in influencing community acceptance and can give some feedback for local policymakers in Viet Nam’s energy sector as they implement wind projects in potential areas.Originality/valueTo the best of the author's knowledge, this study is the first empirical study conducted across three Vietnamese provinces on community acceptance of onshore wind energy. The integration of literature on socio-acceptance with BRT in energy research contributes valuable insights to the fields of energy behavior and energy policy research.

The Influence of Transformational Leadership and Job Satisfaction on Employee Performance in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency

This paper explores the factors that either hinder or support performance improvement among civil servants (PNS) in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. The topic is vital due to the critical role of government employees in delivering effective and efficient public services, as well as the need for practical strategies to enhance organizational performance. The study investigates the challenges faced by local governments in improving employee performance, with the aim of identifying key factors and proposing actionable solutions. A quantitative approach was employed, using stratified random sampling to gather data from 378 civil servants via Likert scale-based questionnaires. The relationship between transformational leadership, job satisfaction, and employee performance were analyzed using SEM-PLS. The analysis revealed that transformational leadership significantly influences both job satisfaction and employee performance. Additionally, the results showed a strong correlation between these factors, underscoring key areas where leadership and satisfaction improvements could enhance performance. The study concludes that strengthening transformational leadership and job satisfaction can have a positive impact on employee performance. The findings provide practical implications for local government policymakers to implement targeted interventions aimed at boosting organizational efficiency. The key takeaway is that leadership development and job satisfaction are crucial to achieving higher performance in the public sector.

Rural Households' Vulnerability to Climate Variability and Adaptation Strategies in the Case of Begemdir District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Climate change vulnerability is the biggest threat to ecosystems and economies of the world. Hence, this study aims to assess the vulnerability to climate variability adaptation strategies of rural households in Begemdir District, Northwest Ethiopia. In this study, the cross-sectional research design was used to gain a wider and better understanding of vulnerability to climate variability. Both primary and secondary data were used to triangulate the study to maintain validity. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 sample households from the study area. Moreover, climatic data, such as rainfall and temperature data were collected from meteorological stations. The data gathered from primary data sources analyzed by using descriptive statistics. Finally, a logistic regression model was employed to identify the factors that affecting households' decisions to climate adaptation strategies in the study area. The results of the study reveal that the overall IPCC-LVI score is 0.49, and the perceived rainfall has decreased over the last decade. This implies livelihoods of the households are vulnerable to climate variability and low adaptive capacity. The age, sex, education level, extension services, land size, credit access, access to climatic information, access to credit, and extension services affected significantly (p < 0.05) households' vulnerability to climate variability in the study area. Thus, the local governments, policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and farming communities need to consider these variables to realize climate change adaptation strategies in the study area. Moreover, higher focus should be given to enhancing education, expanding access to credit, increasing land management support, as well as strengthening extension services to build long-term sustainable climate-resilient practices and mitigate the impacts of climate change vulnerability to households in the study area.

Improving transparency in malaria programme funds: A business case for connected diagnostics in Kenya.

International vertical health financing programmes risk functioning in parallel with existing domestic funding in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), leading to inefficient service delivery and concomitant poor health outcomes. We assessed the opportunities offered by digitalised diagnostics (ConnDx) to target and monitor health funds to those in need objectively and transparently. ConnDx was rolled out in five private health facilities in Kisumu, Kenya. The ConnDx process was codeveloped with the local Department of Health of Kisumu. We used the quantitative data generated by ConnDx. We also calculated the costs for ConnDx and standard care to assess potential cost reductions. In total, 2199 malaria cases were detected among 11 689 patients with fever. ConnDx allowed for the identification of malaria hotspots, semi-real-time assessment of patient health seeking behaviour across facilities and insights in doctor's prescription behaviours. Based on these insights, we estimated a 25% reduction in costs can be realised, while simultaneously better quality indicators can be monitored. The concept of ConnDx can be used for any medical condition that can be diagnosed in a digital manner and linked to mobile payment systems. The generated data can contribute to better quality services for individual patients while at the same time support local health policy makers and managers for more targeted interventions. The ConnDx approach can help decision makers in LMICs to channel disease-specific funds to the right patients for the right disease at the right time, which can potentially accelerate the way to universal health coverage.

Assessing The Capability of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Marikina City

This study assesses the capability of disaster risk reduction and man-agement (DRRM) in Marikina City, Philippines, aiming to enhance disas-ter resilience through effective implementation of Republic Act 10121 the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Act of 2010. The research assesses Marikina City's implementation and chal-lenges across disaster prevention and mitigation, disaster preparedness, disaster response, and disaster recovery and rehabilitation. Utilizing a quantitative methodology, data were collected from Marikina City Disas-ter Risk Reduction and Management Office (MCDRRMO) personnel, ba-rangay officials, and residents to evaluate implementation levels and identify challenges. This research contributes significantly to under-standing local government DRRM capabilities in urban disaster-prone areas. It provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners, highlighting effective practices and areas for further improvement. The study found that continuous capacity building, community engagement, and inter-agency collaboration are critical for strengthening Marikina City's resilience. It offers valuable recommendations for local policy-makers and practitioners to address identified challenges and improve DRRM implementation."

Earthquake risks assessment and urban vulnerability: Case of Nador city, northeast Morocco

This study introduces an innovative approach to assessing seismic risks and urban vulnerabilities in Nador, a coastal city in northeastern Morocco at the convergence of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. By integrating advanced spatial datasets, including Landsat 8–9 OLI imagery, Digital Elevation Models (DEM), and seismic intensity metrics, the research develops a robust urban vulnerability index model. This model incorporates urban land cover dynamics, topography, and seismic activity to identify high-risk zones. The application of Landsat 8–9 OLI data enables precise monitoring of urban expansion and environmental changes, while DEM analysis reveals critical topographical factors, such as slope instability, contributing to landslide susceptibility. Seismic intensity metrics further enhance the model by quantifying earthquake risk based on historical event frequency and magnitude. The calculation based on higher density in urban areas, allowing for a more accurate representation of seismic vulnerability in densely populated areas. The modeling of seismic intensity reveals that the most susceptible impact area is located in the southern part of Nador, where approximately 50% of the urban surface covering 1780.5 hectares is at significant risk of earthquake disaster due to vulnerable geological formations, such as unconsolidated sediments. While the findings provide valuable insights into urban vulnerabilities, some uncertainties remain, particularly due to the reliance on historical seismic data and the resolution of spatial datasets, which may limit the precision of risk estimations in less densely populated areas. Additionally, future urban expansion and environmental changes could alter vulnerability patterns, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and model refinement. Nonetheless, this research offers actionable recommendations for local policymakers to enhance urban planning, enforce earthquake-resistant building codes, and establish early warning systems. The methodology also contributes to the global discourse on urban resilience in seismically active regions, offering a transferable framework for assessing vulnerability in other coastal cities with similar tectonic risks.