Nong Khai Research Articles

Enhancing work efficiency and the performance of export companies through competency development

This study aims to examine the influence of employee and entrepreneur competencies on work efficiency and performance of export companies at the Nong Khai border checkpoint. The research conducted is a quantitative survey. The population for this study includes employees and entrepreneurs from the cross-border export service industry, exporters, and freight forwarder agents operating at the Nong Khai border checkpoint. A non-probability sampling method was employed to select participants. The sample size was Cochran estimated using Cochran’s formula. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 385 logistics employees and entrepreneurs selected through purposive sampling. The questionnaires were distributed to employees and entrepreneurs from the export entrepreneurial industry, cross-border export service providers, exporters, and freight forwarder agents at the Nong Khai border checkpoint. The findings revealed that employee and entrepreneur competencies have a direct influence on the work efficiency and performance of export companies. The study concludes that enhancing the competencies of employees and entrepreneurs positively impacts work efficiency and the overall export performance of the company. The research suggests that entrepreneurs should prioritize training and competency development for employees to further improve work efficiency.

Air Pollution Forecasting in a Regional Context for Sustainable Management

The aim of this research was to develop and apply a statistical model that can be used to forecast long-term daily maximum particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) concentrations. In order to predict the daily maximum PM2.5 concentrations in the northeastern region of Thailand, the extreme value theory was analyzed, and an appropriate distribution model was identified by employing the Generalized Pareto distribution (GPD). The data of daily maximum PM2.5 concentrations during the years 2021–2023 obtained from six stations was used. These stations are located in Khon Kaen, Loei, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. The results of this study reveal that the GPD is appropriate based on the results of Kolmogorov-Smirnov Statistics Test. Estimating the return levels during the following return periods: 2 years, 5 years, 10 years, 25 years, 50 years, and 100 years showed that the area in the upper northeastern region, particularly Loei and Nakhon Phanom, has daily maximum PM2.5 concentrations above 500 micrograms per cubic meter. These results can also be used as information to support decision-making when conducting response planning in high-risk areas, which can be helpful for efficient resource planning and prevention actions. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-05-024 Full Text: PDF

Impacts of Cross-Border Electricity Trade on Local Livelihoods in Nong Khai, Thailand

Impacts of Cross-Border Electricity Trade on Local Livelihoods in Nong Khai, Thailand

Application of TOPSIS-LP and New Routing Models for the Multi-Criteria Tourist Route Problem: The Case Study of Nong Khai, Thailand

This study investigates the application of a new mathematical routing model, integrated with the TOPSIS Linear Programming (TOPSIS-LP) approach, to optimize tourist routes in Nong Khai, Thailand, within a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) framework. The research demonstrates the efficacy of TOPSIS-LP by consistently ranking the same alternative as the optimal route, achieving the highest rankings across various Multi-Attribute Decision Making (MADM) methods, including MOORA, WASPAS, and ARAS. These methods displayed significant consistency in outcome evaluation, with Spearman Correlation Coefficients (SCC) of 0.952 for MOORA WASPAS, and ARAS, indicating the influence of diverse weighting and aggregation strategies in route optimization. Moreover, the study confirmed a perfect alignment (SCC of 1.00) between TOPSIS-LP and the traditional TOPSIS method, affirming that the enhancements to the LP components maintained the integrity of the original model. The findings provide invaluable insights for tourism planners aiming to improve tourist satisfaction and operational efficiency and contribute to the academic discourse by highlighting the practical utility of sophisticated mathematical models in real-world scenarios. This research not only advances the methodological practices in tourist route optimization, but also sets a benchmark for future research aimed at enhancing the effectiveness, robustness, and adaptability of MADM methods in the tourism sector.

Seroprevalence study in humans and molecular detection in Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus in Thailand

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is an emerging tick-borne virus with a mortality rate of up to 30%. First identified in China in 2009, it was later reported in other Asian countries, including Thailand in 2020. SFTSV has been detected in several tick species, including Rhipicephalus sanguineus, known for infesting dogs. We conducted a seroprevalence study of SFTSV in Bangkok and Nong Khai, Thailand, by analyzing 1162 human samples collected between 2019 and 2023. The testing method relied on IgG detection using ELISA and confirmed though a virus seroneutralization test. The results indicated that out of the participants, 12 (1.1%) tested positive for anti-SFTSV IgG antibodies; however, none exhibited positive results in the seroneutralization assay. Additionally, molecular detection of SFTSV, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), Coxiella spp., Bartonella spp., and Rickettsia spp. was performed on 433 Rh. sanguineus ticks collected from 49 dogs in 2023 in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand. No evidence of these pathogens was found in ticks. These findings highlight the importance of exploring viral cross-reactivity. Furthermore, it is important to conduct additional studies to isolate SFTSV from animals and ticks in order to identify the potential transmission routes contributing to human and animal infections in Thailand.

The Mekong River, urban health, and sustainable development in northeastern Thailand

ABSTRACT Rivers are linked to urban health and sustainable development, and yet the literature emphasises environmental science and overlooks the human side. This article presents a human-centred study of urban health and sustainable development in northeastern Thailand in relation to the Mekong River. The study’s framework, the travelogue methodology, brings travel to urban areas near the river (Nakhon Phanom, Bueng Kan, Phon Phisai, Nong Khai, That Phanom, Mukdahan, and Ubon Ratchathani) into the research and knowledge generation process. Data collection in June and July 2023 included observation, photography, note-taking, travel-journaling, and conversations with urban adult residents, analysed in narrative writing. The findings adeptly link the Mekong River to diverse aspects of urban health and sustainable development, including physical activity, social cohesion, food supply and nutrition, water supply, heritage, religious practices, liveability, and sense of place. It also brings to the fore the many threats to the river and, therefore, to human health. By addressing the areas for improvement, future research and practice can build upon these findings to promote healthy, sustainable, and resilient urban environments along the Mekong River and beyond.

Rhodoferax potami sp. nov. and Rhodoferax mekongensis sp. nov., isolated from the Mekong River in Thailand.

Four newly discovered Gram-stain-negative bacteria, designated as BL00010T, BL00058, D8-11T and BL00200, were isolated from water samples collected at three hydrological monitoring stations (namely Chiang Saen, Chiang Khan and Nong Khai) located along the Mekong River in Thailand. An investigation encompassing phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genomic traits was conducted. The results of phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that all four isolates represented members of the genus Rhodoferax. These isolates were closely related to Rhodoferax bucti KCTC 62564T with a similarity of 99.59%. The major fatty acids of the four novel isolates included C16:0 and C16:1ω7c and/or C16 : 1ω6c, whereas the major respiratory quinone was identified as ubiquinone Q-8. In addition, phosphatidylethanolamine was identified as a major polar lipid in these bacteria. The genomes of BL00010T, BL00058, D8-11T and BL00200 were similar in size (3.88-4.01 Mbp) and DNA G+C contents (59.5, 59.3, 59.5 and 59.3 mol%, respectively). In contrast to R. bucti KCTC 62564T and Rhodoferax aquaticus KCTC 32394T, the newly discovered species possessed several genes involved in nitrite and nitrile metabolism, which may be related to their unique adaptation to nitrile-rich environments. From the results of the pairwise analysis of average nucleotide identity of the whole genome and digital DNA-DNA hybridisation, it was evident that BL00010T and D8-11T represented two novel species, for which we propose the nomenclature Rhodoferax potami sp. nov., with the type strain BL00010T (TBRC 17198T = NBRC 116413T), and Rhodoferax mekongensis sp. nov., with the type strain D8-11T (TBRC 17307T = NBRC 116415T).

A review of Agnoshydrus Biström, Nilsson & Wewalka, 1997 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Hyphydrini), with descriptions of two new species from Thailand

The genus Agnoshydrus Biström, Nilsson & Wewalka, 1997 is reviewed and two new species are described from Thailand: A. thailandicus sp. nov. (Ubon Ratchathani, Chiang Mai, Nong Khai provinces) and A. wewalkai sp. nov. (Nan Province). Agnoshydrus schillhammeri Wewalka, 1999 is recorded from Cambodia for the first time. A key to species and a distribution map of all known Agnoshydrus species are provided.

Factors Influencing Efficiency of Cross-Border Transport Management System Using Rfid Sensor Technology in Cross-Border Transport Management System, Nong Khai Border Checkpoint

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the factors influencing the efficiency of the cross-border transport management system using RFID sensor technology in the cross-border transport management system, Nong Khai border Checkpoint and develop a Structural Equation Model (SEM) for cross-border transport management system Nong Khai border Checkpoint. Method: This study was a quantitative study. The sample group consisted of 450 cross-border logistics service providers in Thailand and used a questionnaire to collect data to analyze the data by percentage, mean, standard deviation statistics, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Model analysis (SEM). Results and Conclusion: The research findings revealed that 1) Service and Performance variables influenced cross-border transport management system at the statistical significance level (p<.05) which was consistent with the theory. The observed variables had component weights between 0.241 to 0.79 and were significantly different from zero at the 0.01 level for 11 variables, one variable different from zero at the 0.05 level, and the reliability values. of latent variables were between 0.058 - 1.153 and 3) The harmonization of models based on assumptions and empirical data and found that all thresholds were within the acceptable (pass) criteria, Structural Equation Model analysis (Chi-Square = 44.113, df = 35, p = 0.139, RMSEA = 0.026, GFI =0.026, AGFI = 0.960). Research Implications: In order to have satisfied or effective service level, cross-border transport management system using RFID sensor technology in Cross-border Transport Management System must have a one-stop service to fulfil all the requirement to cross the border of all vehicles every day, the service must be done in a speedy manner. For the service itself, it has to be reliable and service with equitability and adequate. Originality/Value: This research provides the knowledge and practice for Cross-border Transport Management System, Nong Khai Border Checkpoint locating at Thailand and Laos borders to improve its facility, infrastructure as well as its service component to meet the requirement of logistics companies that use the service.

New intelligent particle swarm optimization algorithm with extreme learning machine for forecasting Pattavia pineapple productivity: case study of Loei and Nong Khai provinces in Thailand

New intelligent particle swarm optimization algorithm with extreme learning machine for forecasting Pattavia pineapple productivity: case study of Loei and Nong Khai provinces in Thailand

A study to assess the readiness of rice farmers to use agricultural technology for production in Nong Khai Province, Thailand

This article aims to study the attitude factors affecting the intention to use agricultural technology in the production of rice by farmers in Nong Khai province through a technology acceptance model based on structural equation analysis. Nong Khai, one of the provinces located in Thailand's north-eastern region, has the largest rice production area. The area is suited for agriculture due to its proximity to significant water sources, such as the Mekong River. In this research, data were collected from a group of rice farmers in Nong Khai Province to study the readiness of the sample group that affected the intention to use Amino-KP 2 instead of chemical fertilizer. It was found that there was the highest level of acceptance or intention to use an interpretation of the meaning. The results of all hypothesis testing showed that optimism and interest in innovation influence perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. The perceived usefulness factor was hindered by the insecurity variable, while the perceived ease of use factor was unaffected. Additionally, the discomfort of using technology hindered the perceived ease of use factor, but the perceived usefulness remained unaffected. The perceived ease of use factor was also found to have a positive influence on the perception of usefulness. Perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use both had a positive influence on the intention to use Amino-KP 2.

Elucidating potential bioindicators from insights in the diversity and assembly processes of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities in the Mekong River

Drivers for spatio-temporal distribution patterns of overall planktonic prokaryotes and eukaryotes in riverine ecosystems are generally not fully understood. This study employed amplicon metabarcoding to investigate the distributions and assembly mechanisms of bacterial and eukaryotic communities in the Mekong River. The prevailing bacteria taxa were found to be Betaproteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes, while the dominant eukaryotic organisms were cryptophytes, chlorophytes, and diatoms. The community assemblages were influenced by a combination of stochastic and deterministic processes. Drift (DR) and dispersal limitation (DL), signifying the stochastic mechanism, were the main processes shaping the overall prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities. However, homogeneous selection (HoS), indicating deterministic mechanism, played a major role in the assembly process of core prokaryotic communities, especially in the wet season. In contrast, the core eukaryotic communities including Opisthokonta, Sar, and Chlorophyta were dominated by stochastic processes. The significance of HoS within prokaryotic communities was also found to exhibit a decreasing trend from the upstream sampling sites (Chiang Saen and Chiang Khan, Nong Khai) towards the downstream sites (Mukdahan, and Khong Chiam) of the Mekong River. The environmental gradients resulting from the site-specific variations and the gradual decrease in elevation along the river may have a potential influence on the role of HoS in community assembly. Crucial environmental factors that shape the phylogenetic structure within distinct bins of the core prokaryotic communities including water depth, temperature, chloride, sodium, and sulphate were identified, as inferred by their correlation with the beta Net Relatedness Index (betaNRI) during the wet season. Overall, these findings enhance understanding of the complex mechanisms governing the spatio-temporal dynamics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities in the Mekong River. Finally, insights gained from this study could provide information on further use of specific core bacteria as microbial-based bioindicators that are effective for the assessment and conservation of the Mekong River ecosystem.

Extending the Baldrige excellence model for managing community-based social enterprise

Purpose This paper aims to help understand how community-based social entrepreneurs experience world-class “performance excellence” models and to explore the core values that enable social enterprises to become high-performance organizations. Design/methodology/approach Underpinned by Mindsponge processes, the proposed conceptual framework critiques the Baldrige criteria for performance excellence (BCPE) model in a global south context. The mixed-methods study fosters an in-depth analysis. First, it validates the BCPE mechanism in community-based social enterprises (CBSEs) before identifying the significant core values and concepts of BCPE that influence CBSEs to achieve high performance. Findings The BCPE, adapted from global north corporate principles and applied at a community level, can significantly develop global south organization performance excellence. Five core values and concepts from the 11 fundamental beliefs in driving performance excellence were found to support performance excellence in CBSE management. These values and concepts are “customer-focused excellence,” “social responsibility,” “systems perspective,” “visionary leadership” and “focus on success.” Research limitations/implications First, factors influencing performance excellence are not limited to the core values elements discussed. Future research may clarify factors extracted from the “Process” category of BCPE to explore further how CBSEs can enhance their performance in a different formation path. Second, this study only considered the Thai-Phuan community in Pho Tak village, Nong Khai, Thailand, to represent as a single case study. However, different, clustered or contrasting CBSEs in other regions remain open for further exploration to enrich the knowledge of “performance excellence” in a community organization. Finally, a longitudinal study would be a welcome addition. Practical implications The following must be considered. First is setting a clear direction: the organization’s vision and mission, by purposeful design, should ensure that CBSE managers are leading by example and demonstrating the importance of social and environmental value creation. Second is developing institutional culture: fundamental core values focused predominantly on “customer-focused excellence” and “social responsibility” encourage collaboration by “working together to drive success”. Third is developing integrated management system: CBSEs need to ensure that the management systems can collaborate and complement each component to create performance excellence. Fourth is creating a learning organization: CBSEs need to create a culture of continuous learning through data collection, measurement, analysis and modification. Social implications This study clarifies that the implementation of BCPE is crucial to the establishment of performance excellence at both macro- and micro-level organizations. According to the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the fundamental drivers of BCPE are the same for all types of organizations and in all sectors, whether in the private sector, education, health care or government (Blazey and Grizzell, 2021). By applying the Baldrige excellence model at the community level, this study found that CBSE can similarly strive for excellence and improved performance. This can lead to strengthened services, increased productivity and enhanced quality of life for the community. Originality/value This study provides a novel viewpoint on the Baldrige paradigm. Expressly, BCPE is compatible with global south community-based organizations to enhance performance excellence. Its essential contribution demonstrates that Baldrige model concepts are more widespread within smaller and underdeveloped territories than imagined. The recent (post-study) inclusion of “Community” as an independent sector in the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards validates the research findings and recommendations proposed by this study.

Demand for Water Tourism by Rafting in the Upper Northeastern Region 1 of Thailand

This research aimed to 1) study the components for the demand for water tourism by rafting among tourists in the New Normal, and 2) study the factors of water tourism by rafting among tourists in the New Normal in the Upper Northeastern Region 1, Thailand. The data was collected from 400 samples from five Northeastern provinces, i.e., Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Loei, Nong Bua Lam Phu, and Bueng Kan; obtained by provincial quota sampling with 80 samples per province. Convenience sampling was also used. Exploration factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted by using ADANCO ver.2.3 as per the objectives. It was found that 1) the components for the demand for water tourism by rafting could be categorized into one group with five factors, i.e., rafting duration, previous rafting experience, demand for rafting, product cost, and service cost. 2) The factors influencing the demand for water tourism by rafting included the factors of water transportation and the factors of tourism, respectively. From the results of the study, it was found that the involved agencies and rafting entrepreneurs should pay attention to the standards of water transportation by rafting. To clarify, there should be a law identifying the characteristics of the rafts or tourist/passenger boats in terms of suitability and safety for both the tourists and service providers.

AREA – BASED EDUCATION STRATEGIES FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN NONG KHAI PROVINCE

The movement and educational reform to unlock the various restrictions from Thai government and the concept of providing opportunities for various sectors to participate in educational management, thus resulting in this research with the purposes; 1) to study the needs of area-based education, 2) to construct area-based education strategies and 3) to evaluate the area-based education strategies of primary schools in Nong Khai Province. The mixed-method research design was used in this study consisting of 4 phases: Phase 1: studying the area-based education from the document, textbooks and theories as well as semi-structured interviews with 5 experts, Phase 2: studying the current states, desirable states and needs of area-based education by 159 principals using a questionnaire and prioritizing with PNImodified technique, Phase 3: constructing the area-based education strategies using TOWS Matrix technique and focus group discussion by 9 experts and Phase 4: evaluating the appropriateness, feasibility, utility and accuracy of area-based education strategies by connoissuership13 experts.The results of this research were as follows:1. The current states of area-based education of primary schools in Nong Khai Province were at the high level and the desirable states of area–based education of primary schools were at the highest level. The needs of area-based education of primary schools overall index of demand, is 0.22. The sequences were: 1) collaboration and participation, 2) area desirable learning management, 3) enhancing potential and competency of personal education, 4) producing effective system of evaluation and assessment, 5) decentralization and autonomy in educational management, and 6) information database and educational innovation development.2. The area-based education strategies of primary schools consist of 6 main strategies, 30 sub-main strategies, 95 guidelines and 65 indicators. The main strategies were: 1) enhance collaboration and participation, 2) promote desirable area corresponding with learning management, 3) enhance potential and competency of educational personnel, 4) produce effective system of evaluation and assessment, 5) promote decentralization and autonomy in educational management and 6) develop information database and educational innovation. 3. Strategic evaluation of 6 strategies in 4 aspects: appropriateness, propriety, feasibility, utility and accuracy were at the highest level in all aspects.

The Effects of Economic Factors and Lifestyle on the Healthy Food Consumption of the Elderly in Nong Khai Municipality, Thailand

Objective: This research aimed to study the effects of economic factors and lifestyle on the marketing mix of healthy food consumption. Theoretical framework: The analysis of the economic factors and that affected the 7Ps in terms of worthiness and purchase convenience, e.g., marketing channels, places, presentation, services, and product delivery. Method: using a structured equation model (SEM). The data were collected from 398 volunteers aged over 60 years by convenience sampling in Nong Khai Municipality, Thailand. Results and conclusion: that most volunteers were aged between 60-69 years, married, graduated from the primary education level, were housewives and pensioners, and earned 10,000 Thai Baht per month on average. Economic factors and lifestyle affected all 7Ps in the marketing mix of the healthy food consumption of the elderly in Nong Khai Municipality. The economic factors had more effects than lifestyle. Implications of the research: Entrepreneurs could use the data from this research to develop healthy products for the elderly. Furthermore, the government could utilize the data of the consumer behavior as an economic driver to motivate the needs of the elderly for health promotion, self-care, and/or for providing welfare policies to the elderly. Originality/value: This study provides an important impact on improving the alternative food development for the elderly in Nong Khai Province of Thailand.

Social network analysis and network centrality in community enterprises: evidence from One Tambon One Product entrepreneurship program in border Thailand

PurposeThis study aims to analyze social networking and network centrality in the case of community enterprises, which the existing literature has not addressed. To do so, the authors use the survey of community enterprises from the One Tambon One Product (OTOP) entrepreneurship program of Nong Khai border province in Thailand as a case study.Design/methodology/approachSocial network analysis (SNA) is a tool to study and understand the relationship patterns of units of analysis, which can be individual, household, community or production units, and how those units interact through social or economic activities. Network positions are important when identifying the centralization of links in a particular network. If a representative is close to the center of a network, it is possible that the production unit will be able to contact or coordinate with a greater number of other members of the cluster, create knowledge sharing, promote collaboration and then typically demonstrate greater performance.FindingsThe results show that overall, local government agencies play a critical role in the community enterprise relationship network, while private entities are the least active group. Enterprises in partnerships with external agencies are mostly cooperating with branding and marketing dimensions, followed by the design dimension. There is no cooperation regarding production and distribution. Most community enterprises have established at least a one-dimensional network of cooperation with external agencies; only five community enterprises have isolated nodes with no partnerships having been created within this group.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was limited by the surveys having been conducted in a single area and, therefore, can be used only as a case study for this area. Surveys in larger group sizes and in a wider range of areas would lead to results with greater applicability and reliability.Practical implicationsThese results bring to mind policy proposals to increase the competitiveness of community enterprises through the development of social networks as follows: firstly, knowledge should be created with community enterprise operators to understand their supply chains and analyze the strengths and weaknesses and core competencies of their enterprises; and secondly, enterprises should be educated about which agencies can assist businesses at each stage in the value chain system and encouraged to ask for help in adding value at each stage of production.Social implicationsA “OTOP to Business Networking” platform for community and private enterprises should be created with projects/activities that offer venues to exchange business learning and opportunities. Holding meetings among people in a variety of business sectors may help inspire entrepreneurs to innovate to further their businesses, which can lead to networking businesses conducting activities across community enterprises and the private sector for the mutual benefit of producing merchandise for large customers and markets. Learning systems, production techniques and cooperation should be created, as well as opportunities to increase market share and profitability, if this platform is successful.Originality/valueThis paper is the first study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to utilize SNA to examine the use of social networking among community enterprises participating in Thailand’s OTOP entrepreneurship program in Nong Khai province. The results show that overall, local government agencies play a critical role in the community enterprise relationship network, while private entities are the least active group. Therefore, the government can play an important role in helping to develop a network of community enterprises with external entities at each stage of the value chain to enhance the competitiveness of each enterprise.

Preliminary Survey of Pathogens in the Asian Honey Bee (Apis cerana) in Thailand

Widespread parasites, along with emerging threats, globalization, and climate change, have greatly affected honey bees' health, leading to colony losses worldwide. In this study, we investigated the detection of biotic stressors (i.e., viruses, microsporidian, bacteria, and fungi) in Apis cerana by surveying the colonies across different regions of Thailand (Chiang Mai in the north, Nong Khai and Khon Kaen in the northeast, and Chumphon and Surat Thani in the south, in addition to the Samui and Pha-ngan islands). In this study, we detected ABPV, BQCV, LSV, and Nosema ceranae in A. cerana samples through RT-PCR. ABPV was only detected from the samples of Chiang Mai, whereas we found BQCV only in those from Chumphon. LSV was detected only in the samples from the Samui and Pha-ngan islands, where historically no managed bees are known. Nosema ceranae was found in all of the regions except for Nong Khai and Khon Kaen in northeastern Thailand. Paenibacillus larvae and Ascosphaera apis were not detected in any of the A. cerana samples in this survey. The phylogenetic tree analysis of the pathogens provided insights into the pathogens' movements and their distribution ranges across different landscapes, indicating the flow of pathogens among the honey bees. Here, we describe the presence of emerging pathogens in the Asian honey bee as a valuable step in our understanding of these pathogens in terms of the decline in eastern honey bee populations.

The impact of Thai-Laos border trade during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case study of the Nong Khai Customs House in Thailand.

The aim of this research was to examine the effects of Thai-Laos border trade during the COVID-19 crisis in 2020 in Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province, Thailand. A Case Study of the Nong Khai Customs House. This was qualitative research with a sample group of 20 merchants and transport operators on the Thai-Laos border, using an in-depth interview as a study tool. Use content analysis to analyze the data and present the findings with descriptive statistics. According to the findings, the economic impact of the Nong Khai customs house had an increased export value of approximately 37.26% compared to 2020, because most of the products exported can be transported by truck. Nevertheless, the import value decreased compared to 2021 due to the epidemic of the COVID-19 virus, which caused individuals and enterprises to be uncertain about the country's economic status, resulting in a decrease in the import of high-priced goods for domestic sales. The socio-cultural impact is minimal in this area since the people continue to follow the traditional ways of life and culture according to their religion as usual. The political impact the government has passed legislation to block the first Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge, preventing people from entering and departing the nation via the Nong Khai customs house. There is less impact on the trade of consumer goods through the border, but individuals and enterprises have adapted by changing the distribution channel to online. There are also measures to help people by reducing duty rates and exempting customs duties from the government.

Factors affecting savings behavior with Nong Khai Public Health Savings Cooperative Limited in Nong Khai and Bueng Kan Province, Thailand

The purpose of this research is to examine the elements that influence savings behavior at Nong Khai Public Health Savings Cooperative Limited in Nong Khai and Bueng Kan Province, Thailand. The sample group was 400 people. Use questionnaires as a tool to collect data. Descriptive statistics were used to describe general information, and inferential statistics through the ordered logit model were used to study the variables influencing savings behavior. The study found that most of the subjects were female, aged between 41 and 60. Most are married and have a bachelor's degree. Their income ranged from less than 15,001 to 20,000 baht per month. with the number of household members approximately 3–4 people (the majority), and finally, the most civil service positions. It was also found that the variables that are statistically significant (P<0.10) are age (Age), education (Education), income (Income), number of household members (Member), factors affecting saving behavior on the saving characteristics (Factors1), factors affecting saving behavior on income for saving (Factors2), factors affecting saving behavior on security (Factors5), and factors affecting saving behavior on returns (Factors6), which are variables that also give rise to the importance of saving behavior.