Official Reports Research Articles

The forgotten frontline: Unveiling the realities of school and public health nursing

School nurses provide a crucial public health service to school-aged children and young people. However, with increasing health needs in this population and dwindling numbers of school nurses, provision is patchy. Sallyann Sutton, interim professional officer reports on the results of SAPHNA's recent workforce survey and the campaign for more school nurses.

THE ROLE OF URBAN GREEN SPACE IN PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY ON PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA

Urban Green Spaces (UGS) contribute to sustainable development, a key goal for every country, encompassing social, economic, and environmental aspects. This study involves two objectives: to identify the elements of UGS that contribute to sustainable development and to explore the role of UGS in contributing to sustainable development. A qualitative research design was chosen to achieve these objectives using document analysis (from official reports, journals, and analyses) and semi-structured interviews. The study's findings show that UGS plays a role in contributing to sustainable development involving environmental, social, and economic dimensions, explained through data triangulation. The elements of UGS identified include buffer zones, conservation green spaces, recreational/community green spaces, amenity green spaces, greenways, building greens, agricultural land, and blue areas. Additionally, the roles of UGS in environmental aspects include air quality benefits, water quality benefits, ecological functions, and support for local nature; in social aspects, they enhance interpersonal relationships, recreational activities, human health, human well-being, educational functions, and overall quality of life; in economic aspects, they contribute to market values. UGS is a crucial component of sustainable urban planning, essential for fostering cities that are both sustainable and resilient. Its multifaceted contributions to environmental health, social interaction, and economic vitality highlight its indispensable role in creating healthier, happier, and more resilient urban environments.

Detection of Avian Metapneumovirus Subtypes A and B in Moroccan Broiler Farms

Background: Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) is a widespread infectious respiratory pathogen affecting turkeys and chickens, with co-predominance of the subtypes A and B. Objectives: There is no official reports in Morocco about the subtypes of aMPV circulating. Hence, using quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) subtypes-specific A and B, we aimed at detecting and identifying the potential subtype(s) circulating. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal study on three broiler flocks that were strictly not vaccinated against aMPV and were located in two different geographical regions. We studied two flocks that expressed typical swollen head syndrome (SHS) and sampled them once. Furthermore, we sampled dead birds of one flock confirmed seropositive from a previous study. A total of 118 swabs pooled in 24 samples were subjected to RNA extraction and amplified using a triplex RT-PCR for specific detection of aMPV subtypes A and B. Additionally, serum samples were taken at slaughtering age to cross-check the molecular results. A total of 84 sera were analyzed with a commercial indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit to detect and titer antibodies against the two subtypes. Results: Avian metapneumovirus was detected by qRT-PCR in all flocks. About 87.50% of the samples were positive for aMPV-B, and 16.67% for aMPV-A and aMPV-B simultaneously. All flocks showed seropositivity, confirming the molecular findings. Conclusion: The present investigation is the first molecular study in Morocco to elucidate the circulation of aMPV-A and aMPV-B in broiler farms in Morocco with a dominance of aMPV-B and the possibility of co-presence of both subtypes.

Research Priorities in Pediatric Asthma Morbidity: Addressing the Impacts of Systemic Racism on Children with Asthma in the United States. An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report.

Background: In the United States, Black and Latino children with asthma are more likely than White children with asthma to require emergency department visits or hospitalizations because of an asthma exacerbation. Although many cite patient-level socioeconomic status and access to health care as primary drivers of disparities, there is an emerging focus on a major root cause of disparities-systemic racism. Current conceptual models of asthma disparities depict the historical and current effects of systemic racism as the foundation for unequal exposures to social determinants of health, environmental exposures, epigenetic factors, and differential healthcare access and quality. These ultimately lead to biologic changes over the life course resulting in asthma morbidity and mortality. Methods: At the 2022 American Thoracic Society International Conference, a diverse panel of experts was assembled to identify gaps and opportunities to address systemic racism in childhood asthma research. Panelists found that to examine and address the impacts of systemic racism on children with asthma, researchers and medical systems that support biomedical research will need to 1) address the current gaps in our understanding of how to conceptualize and characterize the impacts of systemic racism on child health, 2) design research studies that leverage diverse disciplines and engage the communities affected by systemic racism in identifying and designing studies to evaluate interventions that address the racialized system that contributes to disparities in asthma health outcomes, and 3) address funding mechanisms and institutional research practices that will be needed to promote antiracism practices in research and its dissemination. Results: A thorough literature review and expert opinion discussion demonstrated that there are few studies in childhood asthma that identify systemic racism as a root cause of many of the disparities seen in children with asthma. Community engagement and participation in research studies is essential to design interventions to address the racialized system in which patients and families live. Dissemination and implementation studies with an equity lens will provide the multilevel evaluations required to understand the impacts of interventions to address systemic racism and the downstream impacts. To address the impacts of systemic racism and childhood asthma, there needs to be increased training for research teams, funding for studies addressing research that evaluates the impacts of racism, funding for diverse and multidisciplinary research teams including community members, and institutional and financial support of advocating for policy changes based on study findings. Conclusions: Innovative study design, new tools to identify the impacts of systemic racism, community engagement, and improved infrastructure and funding are all needed to support research that will address impacts of systemic racism on childhood asthma outcomes.

Chemical weapons investigation mechanisms in Syria: standards of proof and methods of work

AbstractSeveral ad-hoc mechanisms were established for fact-finding and attributing responsibility for chemical weapons allegations in Syria. With distinctive mandates, these mechanisms adopted different working methods and applied varying standards of proof to achieve their objectives. This paper presents an analysis of the four main investigation mechanisms on alleged chemical weapons use in Syria, drawing on over forty relevant official reports, documents, and memos. The analysis entails juxtaposing the main attributes of these mechanisms: mandate, founding body, standards of proof, and adopted scientific and technical working methods. By doing so, the paper demonstrates the interdependency between the mechanisms and explains correlations between their constituting attributes. While attribution mechanisms apply a wider range of technologies and work methods, they did not consistently exhibit a higher standard of proof. This challenges the assumption that the mandate and technology use determine the applied standard of proof. Rather, the paper finds that the founding bodies have the most significant influence on standards of proof. United Nations-mandated mechanisms, for instance, employ a higher standard than those founded by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The paper discusses contributing factors to this finding including, political support, anticipated and granted levels of cooperation and access, and reporting of findings.

Legal Hermeneutics: A Standard and Parameters of Interpretation of the New Criminal Code

The purpose of this study is to investigate how standards and parameter for interpreting the Kitab Undang-Undang Hukum Pidana (KUHP) were developed. Public believes that the KUHP contains a number of contentious sections. This study is a type of qualitative research through library data. It is called library research because data regarding legal interpretation and the formation of standards and parameters are obtained from library materials. The text analysis method with a multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary approach to science will be employed as the data analysis technique. In this study, authoritative and original data serve as the primary source, while supporting data from multiple sources serves as the secondary source. scholarly writings, news articles or official reports, commentary on the recently. This research finds that hermeneutics as legal interpretation serves as a bridge between law and moral ethics. There are 6 standards and parameters in the process of legal interpretation, namely text and legal context analysis, contextual interpretation, methodological interpretation, dialogue between the text and the interpreter, principles of justice and humanity, evaluation, and validity testing. Finally, the results of applying those standards and parameters in examining Pasal 2 ayat (2) KUHP regarding common law emphasize the importance of balancing respect for local wisdom and alignment with national legal principles.

Real-Time Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 Variants in Oklahoma Wastewater through Allele-Specific RT-qPCR

During the COVID-19 pandemic, wastewater surveillance was used to monitor community transmission of SARS-CoV-2. As new genetic variants emerged, the need for timely identification of these variants in wastewater became an important focus. In response to increased reports of Omicron transmission across the United States, the Oklahoma Wastewater Surveillance team utilized allele-specific RT-qPCR assays to detect and differentiate variants, such as Omicron, from other variants found in wastewater in Oklahoma. The PCR assays showed presence of the Omicron variant in Oklahoma on average two weeks before official reports, which was confirmed through genomic sequencing of selected wastewater samples. Through continued surveillance from November 2021 to January 2022, we also demonstrated the transition from prevalence of the Delta variant to prevalence of the Omicron variant in local communities. We further assessed how this transition correlated with certain demographic factors characterizing each community. Our results highlight RT-qPCR assays as a rapid, simple, and cost-effective method for monitoring the community spread of SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants in wastewater. Additionally, they demonstrate that specific demographic factors such as ethnic composition and household income can correlate with the timing of SARS-CoV-2 variant introduction and spread.

Exploring the intersection of disasters and science education with preservice science teachers through a disaster case study

AbstractModern society is under increasing threats of natural and technological disasters, which involve complex interactions among science, technology and social structures. Although a scientific understanding of disasters is an immediate global issue, there is limited discussion about how disasters can relate to science education. To address this gap, we report findings from a research study to support preservice science teachers’ learning about disasters and its relevance to science education. Fifteen preservice science teachers participated in a six-hour workshop focused on the scientific and sociotechnical aspects of the humidifier disinfectant disaster, which caused severe lung injuries to half a million people in South Korea. The study aim was to identify preservice science teachers’ perceptions about how disasters can be incorporated into science teaching. The participants were engaged in a series of group activities using the official investigation report, followed by a discussion on the aspects of science, technology, and society that unfolded in the disaster. Our analysis suggested that the participants were able to discover important aspects of the mutual relationship between science and disasters, and propose various cognitive, attitudinal, and functional aims that could be pursued by embedding disasters in science lessons. The lesson plans showed that the participants were able to suggest how to use disasters in science lessons and leverage diverse teaching methods to achieve their lesson goals. However, the shift in their perceptions before and after the workshop was limited. We argue that support is necessary for preservice science teachers to incorporate disasters into the science classroom, by providing more time and resources and lowering the barriers related to the political and traumatic aspects of disasters.

A critical review of public health policies for radiation protection and safety

The increasing use of radiation in various sectors, including medicine, industry, and research, underscores the need for robust public health policies to ensure radiation protection and safety. This critical review examines the effectiveness of current public health policies aimed at mitigating the risks associated with radiation exposure. The review synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed literature and official reports to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of existing frameworks. Public health policies for radiation protection are designed to safeguard individuals and communities from the potential hazards of radiation exposure. These policies include regulatory standards for radiation use, safety protocols in medical and industrial settings, and public education programs. The review explores the evolution of these policies over time, highlighting significant regulatory milestones and their impact on radiation safety. Key areas of focus include the effectiveness of international guidelines and national regulations, such as those established by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and national bodies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the European Commission. The review assesses how well these guidelines are implemented and adhered to in practice, identifying gaps in enforcement and areas where policies may fall short. The review also examines the role of risk communication and public awareness in shaping effective radiation protection policies. It discusses how well current policies address the needs of vulnerable populations and how they balance the benefits of radiation use with potential health risks. Challenges such as emerging technologies, changes in radiation exposure patterns, and the need for ongoing policy adaptation are also considered. The review concludes with recommendations for strengthening public health policies, including enhancing regulatory oversight, improving risk communication strategies, and investing in research to address new and evolving radiation safety issues. Overall, this review underscores the importance of continuous evaluation and adaptation of public health policies to ensure effective radiation protection and safety in an ever-changing technological landscape.

Social Movements and National Security in Nigeria: A Study of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)

Nigeria has been engulfed in crises of national question regarding its corporate existence as a sovereign state entity by the emergence and agitators of groups such as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The ability of the separatist movement to mobilise actions has increased the volatility of insecurity in Nigeria’s South East/South-South zones. The study aims to examine the nexus between IPOB threat and national security so as to identify the factors behind IPOB movement. Based on the descriptive study design, the study adopted the opportunity structure perspective as its theoretical framework. The literature is descriptive in nature and adopted secondary method of data collection. The data was collected from secondary sources such as internal publications, newspaper reports, journal articles, official reports documentations and documentaries, and textbooks and commentaries. The findings of the study revealed that although the IPOB movement is fueled by a feeling of victimisation and marginalisation among the Igbos, the movement constitutes a threat to national security. In conclusion, the study recommends the need to engage the genuine IPOB agitators in meaningful dialogue and also fish out the criminal elements whose activities threaten national security.

Bank Balance: A Comparative Study of SBI & HDFC

The research project titled "Bank Balance: A Comparative Study of SBI & HDFC" aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the financial performance of two of India's leading banks: the State Bank of India (SBI), a prominent public sector bank, and Housing Development Finance Corporation(HDFC) Bank, a major private sector player. The objective is to evaluate their financial health through key metrics such as profitability, asset quality, and operational efficiency, thus informing stakeholders about their competitive positions. Utilizing a quantitative methodology, the study analyzes financial statements and key performance indicators from the fiscal years 2019 to 2024. Data was sourced from official bank reports, regulatory filings, and financial databases, allowing for a robust comparative analysis.

Clandestine guiding to the Franco-Spanish border during the Holocaust: the work, accomplices and solidarity-focused resistance

ABSTRACT Guides who led Jews clandestinely across national borders played an important role in their rescue during the Holocaust. Yet we know little about their work, from their perspective. This is the subject explored in this article, which focuses on five guides, also known as passeurs, who helped Jews and non-Jews escape from France to Spain across the Pyrenees between 1940 and 1943. They were antifascist activists, farmers and a Christian brother. The sources analysed include oral history interviews, diaries, memoirs, accounts and letters by and about the guides; the letters and accounts of Jewish refugees; official correspondence and reports by French government officials near the border; and records of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Passeurs’ work consisted of both guiding and preparatory work, which was extensive. The guides had one or more accomplices, their circle of helpers constituting a resistance cell. Resistance like the passeurs’, in which individuals engage so as to help others, may be called ‘solidarity-focused resistance.’ It is also a form of transnational resistance, a concept that should be broadened to include assisting the persecuted in their efforts to cross international borders.

A review on tillage system and no-till agriculture and its impact on soil health

Soil tillage is a fundamental agriculture practice aimed at preparing the soil for planting, managing crop residues, controlling weeds, preparing the ground for the next crop, integrating leftover crops and nutrients into the soil, and enhancing soil structure. However, tillage practice significantly influences activities like soil moisture, temperature, aeration, and mixing the crop residues within the soil. This article explores the impacts of traditional tillage methods and alternative approaches to reduce production costs, environmental consequences, and safeguard soil for sustainable crop production through the secondary source of results as published research papers, documents, government official and institution reports. Traditional tillage method involves the mechanical disruption of soil, which affects critical factors such as moisture retention, temperature regulation, and aeration. While use of such heavy machines can improve short-term productivity, its long-term impacts include soil compaction, erosion, and loss of organic matter, leading to environmental degradation and declining soil health. In contrast, No-till and reduced tillage practices offers a promising solution to contemporary challenges such as global climate change, water conservation, rapid soil degradation, and desertification. Under this system, wide range of crops can be grown effectively in low production cost by reducing fuel and labor requirements. No-tillage and minimal tillage is being adopted across a wide range of farm sizes, from small plots of land to vast expanses, in various countries around the world with promising sustainability.

Strategies of the “civilizing mission” of the Habsburg government in Galicia after the First Partition of Poland

The article is devoted to analysis of the “civilising mission” element in plans and strategies of the Habsburg Monarchy in the “Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria” during the first years after the First Partition of Poland. The imperial administration created an ambitious plan of reforms and transformations in Galicia, aimed at bringing the population of the province to progress and prosperity in the “Habsburg” sense of these terms and making them model citizens of the empire. In order to examine these plans, the reasons for their creation, and their short-term implementation, the texts of the first patents and orders of the Habsburg government, as well as reports of Habsburg officials employed in Galicia, will be analyzed, with particular emphasis on the “civilizing mission” element of these documents. Since the annexation of Galicia coincided with the popularity of the Enlightened Absolutism philosophy and the implementation of reforms in its spirit throughout the entire monarchy, the influence of this philosophy on the planned transformations in Galicia will also be studied.

An Analytical Study of Tax Revenue Receipts in Chhattisgarh: Trends, Composition, and Implications for Fiscal Policy

This paper aims to examine the composition, trends, and patterns of tax revenue receipts in the state of Chhattisgarh over recent years. Using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, the study explores the role of tax revenues in state finance, focusing on direct and indirect taxes, tax buoyancy, and the efficiency of tax collection mechanisms. The study also delves into the implications of tax revenue performance on fiscal sustainability, development programs, and public welfare initiatives. By analyzing state budget documents, official reports, and comparative data from other Indian states, this paper provides an in-depth understanding of Chhattisgarh's tax revenue structure and suggests policy recommendations for improving tax mobilization and economic development. Keywords: Chhattisgarh, tax revenue, state finance, direct taxes, indirect taxes, fiscal policy, tax buoyancy

DIGITAL PAYMENTS AND FRAUD CONNECTION: INSIGHTS FROM THE INDIAN ECONOMY

In the dynamic world of digital transactions in India, the symbiotic relationship between convenience and vulnerability has become increasingly apparent. This study aims to know how digital payment and fraud connect in Indian economy. The primary objective of this study is to know the relationship between financial fraud with digital payment infrastructures, value of digital payments, and volume of digital payment. The data is collected through RBI’s official quarterly reports from September 2022 to May 2023. The collected time series data for all the variables has been analyzed for descriptive statistics. These series were tested for stationarity using Augmented Dickey–Fuller test (ADF - unit root test), Correlogram, and time series chart. The correlation and regression analysis has been performed on this time series data using SPSS and EViews software. From the correlation results this study reveals that there is no significant correlation between value and volume of fraud with payment infrastructure, value of digital payment, and volume of digital payment. The value of UPI transactions has a significant negative impact on digital payment fraud, indicating a potential protective effect.

Analyzing Post-2010 China-US Defense Expenditures: Uncovering the NewArmsRace

The New Arms Race encapsulates a dynamic geopolitical competition characterized by escalating military capabilities and strategic posturing between the U.S and China. Amidst the intensifying Sino-US arms race, the objective of this research is to examine the trends and patterns of Sino-USdefense spending’s (2010-2022) to analyze the evolving military competition's strategic, economic and social implications, contributing to the discourse on global security and stability. Data from reputable sources like SIPRI, IISS, plus official budget reports and defense White-Paper’s inform the analysis. Using a mix-method approach, quantitative data is descriptively presented to highlight trends, patterns, and significant changes over time. Plus, qualitative analysis is conducted to interpret the implications of these expenses, drawing on International Relation’s theories and expert opinions to assess how shifts in military spending influences power dynamics, alliances, and conflicts? The results show that, the global military expenditures surpassed $2240 billion. China's defense spending has seen a 29-year consecutive increase, while the US maintains its top spender status, propelled by ongoing modernization efforts and diverse geopolitical strategies. This study is Grounded in the "Security Dilemma" framework, assumes that potential enemies would viewa country's attempts to strengthen its security as a threat, setting off a cycle of action and reaction that deepens mutual suspicions and contributes to the potential for an arms race. Due to the Sino-US ongoing military modernization plans and diverse geopolitical strategies, it is suggested that this tendency will persist in the foreseeable future.

COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 transitions: case study on the Lao PDR

PurposeThe purpose of this review paper is to investigate the consequences of tourism development and economic growth within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, focusing specifically on Lao PDR post-pandemic. The adverse effect of COVID-19 on tourism and economic sectors has been pervasive across the ASEAN region, with varying degrees of impact. Some of these difficulties are set to continue, though there are positive signs of recovery and of the resilience of the tourism industry. Utilising case material from Lao PDR in Southeast Asia – an area frequently neglected in tourism studies – the paper sheds light on the post-pandemic landscape to address existing gaps in the current literature.Design/methodology/approachA case study approach was taken in this review paper, utilising secondary data such as media reports, official reports from Tourism Laos and international governing bodies like United Nations and the World Bank to form a viewpoint discussion in the Lao PDR post-pandemic condition.FindingsThis paper reveals that contrary to a long period of recovery post-pandemic, there has been a degree of continuity from the pre-pandemic period. Considerable numbers of backpackers have returned to Vang Vieng, along with Vientiane and Luang Prabang. While the pre-pandemic emphasis on mass tourism persists, there is also an increased focus on regional and domestic markets. Laos, with its strategic location and cross-border connections, aims to take advantage of this shift.Originality/valueThe paper highlights a detailed exploration of the Lao tourism industry post-pandemic. It goes beyond the initial expectations in literature of a complete transformation post-pandemic, highlighting the continuity in visitor sources and traditional tourist attractions. It emphasises the Lao PDR strategic position for market reorientation, providing insight into the nation’s adaptive strategies and a nuanced perspective on the evolving landscape of Lao tourism.

A Systematic Literature Review of Existing Methods and Tools for the Criticality Assessment of Raw Materials: A Focus on the Relations between the Concepts of Criticality and Environmental Sustainability

Critical raw materials have significant economic and social impacts across numerous sectors. Numerous artifacts have been developed to assess their criticality. However, there is no univocity around the factors determining criticality. A systematic literature review was conducted to consider all academic works and official reports on criticality assessment. The review aimed to classify these artifacts to provide a clear picture of the heterogenous literature, with a focus on the relationship between criticality and environmental sustainability. Works proposing or updating criticality assessment artifacts were included according to the eligibility criteria. Academic sources were drawn from the Scopus Database in 2023. Official reports included those considered seminal by academic literature. The risk of bias in the selection and classification of the 162 works was low, as the review sought to be comprehensive. The included artifacts are systematically classified. A mapping of the identified criticality assessment tools and methods has been developed. The review found that while environmental impacts are considered in several works, the theoretical connection between criticality and environmental sustainability is weak. Three perspectives on this relationship are identified and discussed. The main limitation of this study is the inability to analyze undisclosed artifacts. It was conducted under the Horizon Europe Programme (Grant Number 101091490).

Data sharing policies across health research globally: Cross-sectional meta-research study.

Data sharing improves the value, synthesis, and integrity of research, but rates are low. Data sharing might be improved if data sharing policies were prominent and actionable at every stage of research. We aimed to systematically describe the epidemiology of data sharing policies across the health research lifecycle. This was a cross-sectional analysis of the data sharing policies of the largest health research funders, all national ethics committees, all clinical trial registries, the highest-impact medical journals, and all medical research data repositories. Stakeholders' official websites, online reports, and other records were reviewed up to May 2022. The strength and characteristics of their data sharing policies were assessed, including their policies on data sharing intention statements (a.k.a. data accessibility statements) and on data sharing specifically for coronavirus disease studies. Data were manually extracted in duplicate, and policies were descriptively analysed by their stakeholder and characteristics. Nine hundred and thirty-five eligible stakeholders were identified: 110 funders, 124 ethics committees, 18 trial registries, 273 journals, and 410 data repositories. Data sharing was required by 41% (45/110) of funders, no ethics committees or trial registries, 19% (52/273) of journals and 6% (24/410) of data repositories. Among funder types, a higher proportion of private (63%, 35/55) and philanthropic (67%, 4/6) funders required data sharing than public funders (12%, 6/49). Data sharing requirements, and even recommendations, were insufficient across health research. Where data sharing was required or recommended, there was limited guidance on implementation. We describe multiple pathways to improve the implementation of data sharing. Public funders and ethics committees are two stakeholders with particularly important untapped opportunities.