Access To Opportunities Research Articles

Evolution of population distribution and its influencing factors in the poverty-stricken mountainous region of Southwest China from 2000 to 2020

Understanding the characteristics and determinants of population distribution is essential for formulating effective policies and strategies, especially in the poverty-stricken mountainous regions. This study investigates the characteristics, evolution (2000–2020), and influencing factors of population distribution in the Liangshan Yi ethnic region, a representative poverty-stricken mountainous region in Southwest China. The results reveal that: (1) Over the past two decades, the spatial pattern of population distribution has remained stable. However, the balance of population distribution has improved, as indicated by the decreasing size of the standard deviation ellipse, reflecting a more even population spread. (2) The population distribution demonstrates significant clustering in town centers, with strong positive correlations, as reflected in Moran’s I index values of 0.732, 0.708, 0.620, 0.556, and 0.554 for the years 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020, respectively. (3) The vertical zonation pattern and the differentiation characteristics in slope and aspect play a significant role in population distribution. Over time, these factors have played an increasingly significant role in shaping the evolution of population distribution. The interaction between natural factors and vegetation is pivotal in the spatiotemporal patterns of population distribution. These factors have directly and indirectly contributed to the persistence of poverty in these mountainous areas by limiting accessibility, resource availability, and economic opportunities. The study’s results provide valuable insights for enhancing population distribution strategies in impoverished mountainous regions and informing policy-making.

Digital technologies as enablers of universal design for learning: higher education students' perceptions in the context of SDG4

Digital technologies are essential for transforming educational environments, particularly in higher education. These tools have revolutionized information access and enable flexible approaches within Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This educational model integrates findings from educational practice, research, learning theories, technological advances, and neuroscience to provide concrete proposals for implementing diverse teaching practice that accommodates different learning needs. Building on universal design concepts, UDL is structured around three neurological learning systems (affective, recognition, and strategic) and advocates three corresponding principles: multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression. Aligning with current parameters of quality education for all, UDL incorporates diversity as a fundamental premise in instructional planning to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students. This framework enables teachers to create flexible curriculum designs that enrich learning, reduce barriers, and provide accessible educational opportunities. This research examined how digital technologies can enable UDL implementation by analyzing higher education students' perceptions. Using a quantitative methodology with a descriptive scope, data was collected through a specially designed Likert-scale questionnaire. The instrument demonstrated high reliability (Cronbachʹs α = 0.97). The sample included students from the Mexican public university system (n = 235) studying pedagogy and education. Results showed favorable perceptions of technology use in UDL across all three principles: representation (what to learn), action and expression (how to learn), and engagement (why to learn). They suggest that digital technologies can expand learning capacity and enhance skill development among university students in the UDL context. However, it should be noted that they need to be carefully integrated into educational frameworks designed and tested for their effectiveness; without such integration, their application may be ineffective or even counterproductive to learning processes. The findings demonstrate the potential of this design as a practical and theoretical model to, in line with current trends, contribute to the achievement of SDG4, promoting quality in education and learning opportunities for all. This will be helpful for institutions seeking to implement technology-enhanced UDL strategies while having broader implications for the body of research for improving higher education.

Path Analysis of The Carbon Market's Impact on Corporate Carbon Emission Reduction

The focus of this study is to explore how carbon markets have been effective in motivating companies to reduce carbon emissions globally. Through the setting of emission quotas and a series of fair and strict trading rules, the carbon market not only stimulates the intrinsic motivation of enterprises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also pushes forward climate governance on a global scale. This paper elaborates on the theoretical basis and operational mechanism of the carbon market, especially its key role in facilitating enterprises to reduce emissions through economic incentives, improving their ability to comply with environmental regulations, creating more market access opportunities, promoting innovation in environmental technologies, and enhancing the green brand image of enterprises in the eyes of the public. This study aims to provide insights for business managers to help them optimize their carbon reduction strategies and references for policymakers to promote corporate emissions reduction more efficiently and accurately when formulating relevant policies to jointly address global climate change challenges.

The Urgency of Media Literacy for Exercising Citizenship and Its Contribution to Guaranteeing Information Integrity - EducaMídia Case Study

The digitalization of society and the democratization of technology provide vast opportunities for access to information and diverse voices, but they also bring challenges such as misinformation and manipulation. Furthermore, algorithms and artificial intelligence impact information integrity by creating biased content and limiting plurality. A lack of knowledge about digital tools excludes many from critical knowledge construction, leading to inequality. Media literacy emerges as a solution, empowering citizens to understand the informational environment, critically analyze content, and produce information ethically. This article aims to show how the EducaMídia program, created in 2019 by the Palavra Aberta Institute, has been working to strengthen media literacy in Brazil by training educators and contributing to the development of public policies in the country.

Cara Wirausaha Muda Menghadapi Tantangan di Era Digital

Rapid developments in the digital era offer vast opportunities for young entrepreneurs, while also bringing complex challenges. Technological advances have opened up opportunities for wider access to information and markets. However, the challenges of fierce competition and changing technological dynamics are the main obstacles that need to be overcome. Young entrepreneurs must have the ability to adapt to the latest technological developments, such as digital marketing and artificial intelligence, while understanding how consumption patterns are changing with greater emphasis on convenience and personalization. However, overcoming dependence on digital platforms and resource limitations need to be overcome. In overcoming this situation, young entrepreneurs need to use technology to increase efficiency, be creative in creating new products and services, as well as expand networks and collaborate strategically. By managing finances wisely and being able to adapt to changes, it is hoped that young entrepreneurs can continue to exist and grow, and achieve success in an ever-changing global market, Young entrepreneurs in the digital age face big challenges along with advances in technology and changes in consumer behavior. However, with the right strategy, these obstacles can be turned into opportunities for growth and success. Utilizing technology, product innovation and digital marketing can increase efficiency, reach a wider market and increase profits. The ability to overcome digital challenges well opens up opportunities for young entrepreneurs to dominate the market, improve business reputation and achieve long-term growth. Adapting to change quickly will increase competitiveness and support sustainable growth.

Digitalisation, neighbourhood change and urban social processes: Conceptual framework and introduction to the Special Issue

Neighbourhoods are salient for many dimensions of individuals’ social and economic well-being, yet the impacts of rapidly emerging digital information and communication technologies (DICTs) on neighbourhoods and the social processes within them are understudied. This gap motivates this Special Issue, the themes of which we introduce here. We provide an overarching conceptual framework within which the topics, conceptualisations and empirical results of the 11 constituent research papers can be placed. Our framework posits multiple, mutually causal interrelationships between each element in the triad of neighbourhoods, individual residents’ characteristics and individual residents’ actions. In each element we focus on the role(s) of DICTs and their interplay with social processes. These technologies alter traditional housing search patterns, sometimes reinforcing existing segregation, but they also present opportunities for greater access to information and potential social integration. The issue’s 11 research papers, contributed by scholars from various global contexts, explore diverse aspects of these themes. They examine how DICTs mediate neighbourhood change by influencing local housing choices, amplifying or mitigating neighbourhood stigma and transforming social cohesion. By offering a rich empirical and conceptual exploration, this special issue aims to deepen our understanding of the transformative role that DICTs play in neighbourhoods, urging further research into their implications for neighbourhood change and urban social processes.

(Re)producing uneven waterscapes in South China: the materiality and spatiality of the Dongshen inter‐basin water supply project

(Re)producing uneven waterscapes in South China: the materiality and spatiality of the Dongshen inter‐basin water supply project

Population-level trends over a decade in geographical inequality for opportunity in access to maternal care services: a cross-sectional analysis from the National Family Health Surveys in India

ObjectivesThe objective of this study is to examine the trends in geographical inequality of opportunity in maternal health services in India considering the Every Newborn Action Plan (ENAP) 2025 coverage...

QOL-11. GBM PATIENTS CONTINUE TO FACE BARRIERS TO PERSONALIZED AND COMPREHENSIVE CARE THAT MAY IMPACT LONGEVITY AND QUALITY-OF-LIFE

Abstract We assessed the quality and accessibility of healthcare services provided to Glioblastoma (GBM) patients across the United States through an online survey distributed among the OurBrainBank community and partners and promoted on social media. A total of 297 patients or caregivers completed the survey (85% caregivers; 15% GBM patients). Median age at diagnosis was 57, lower than the national average of 64. 78% of our respondents described having some college education, and 69% had commercial insurance. Preliminary results revealed that 69% were informed about tumor testing. Among those informed, 64% did not have any molecular testing beyond initial diagnostic tests. For all respondents, 65% were not informed about storing tissue for future testing, and 79% reported not having their tissue stored for possible treatments or clinical trial qualification. Additionally, 52% reported no discussion of seeking a second opinion, and 64% reported not being offered enrollment in any clinical trial. Overall, people living with GBM face significant barriers to achieving comprehensive and personalized care. Lack of tumor testing and storage present missed opportunities for future access to emerging therapies that could improve individual outcomes. Over half of patients had no discussion about seeking a second opinion and were not offered enrollment in clinical trials, highlighting significant barriers to accessing life-extending or quality-of-life (QOL) improving treatments. Compared to the general population affected by GBM, survey respondents represented a disproportionately young and urban population, suggesting potential bias in who is able to respond to the survey. This may underestimate the challenges faced by patients with additional barriers. We are implementing strategies to reach a more geographically diverse participant group, particularly in rural areas. Ongoing targeted recruitment will further elucidate barriers to patient-centered care in GBM, with the potential for significant improvements in survival and QOL.

Malnutrition in Nepal: A Comprehensive Analysis of Micronutrient Deficiencies, Health Impacts, and Intervention Strategies

Malnutrition, particularly micronutrient deficiencies, remains a significant public health challenge in Nepal, affecting vulnerable populations such as children under five, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. This thesis examines the complex landscape of malnutrition in Nepal, focusing on the causes, health impacts, and socio-economic consequences of nutrient deficiencies. The research highlights the severe effects of malnutrition, including stunting, anaemia, and developmental delays, which contribute to broader social and economic disparities. A detailed analysis of the most affected populations and regions, based on national surveys and studies, underscores the critical need for targeted interventions. This study also evaluates existing nutrition programs in Nepal, assessing their effectiveness and identifying gaps in coverage, particularly in remote and rural areas. The findings emphasize the importance of a multi-sectoral approach that integrates nutrition-specific interventions with broader efforts to improve food security, healthcare access, and economic opportunities.

Precision oncology implementation in a regional-based health care system: A professional consensus to define the pathway

ObjectivePrecision Oncology requires deep changes in organizational settings but little evidence has been identified about the best strategy to guarantee the delivery of this innovation to patients. In the Italian health care system, high heterogeneity could jeopardize equal access opportunity for patients. Following a consensus method, we aim to define shared solutions to address these issues in clinical practice. MethodA Delphi RAND method was chosen to record the consensus among involved health care professionals in the Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia. The item generation phase was conducted following a bottom-up approach. ResultsTen statements were defined on the main topics that emerged from the direct observation of the current practice, focusing on Molecular Tumor Board organization, massive parallel sequencing technology application, laboratory report content and informed consensus submission. All the statements reached a strong consensus and have been shared with the health care government authorities of our region. ConclusionsThe direct observation of the current practice in different health care authorities allowed to define ten statements as solution proposals to solve the identified complexities. This methodological approach could be applied in different organizational models but aiming to achieve a homogeneous clinical outcome for patients.

Reducing Digital Inequities: The Role of Helping Professionals in Designing Just and Inclusive Strategies

This policy brief calls on social workers and other helping professionals to participate in efforts to address broadband internet access inequities. We first highlight continuing access inequities and their consequences for low-income persons, as well as older persons, minority group members, those with disabilities, and those living in rural areas. We then describe new initiatives to improve broadband access and digital literacy through state and local programs funded by the 2021 $65 billion federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Finally, strategies are discussed for social worker engagement in such work, which include policy advocacy, contributing to the implementation of emerging programs, and serving as information conveyors to their clients concerning digital access and literacy training opportunities.

Community perceptions on socio-economic impacts of uranium exploration in Selous Ecosystem, Tanzania

Large-scale mining has positive and negative effects that impact people differently leading to varying perceptions. This study assessed perceptions of local communities on socio-economic impacts of uranium exploration in Selous Ecosystem, Tanzania. The study was guided by three main research questions (i) Are local communities aware of the impacts of uranium exploration? (ii) What are the socio-economic impacts of uranium exploration? and (iii) What are perceptions of local communities on uranium impacts? A simple random sampling technique was used to select 51 households for questionnaire survey. Additionally, 22 key informants were interviewed and 2 focus group discussions were conducted. Moreover, secondary information such as government policies, legislations, and previous published and unpublished reports were reviewed. The quantitative information was analysed through Statistical Package for Social Science. For the purpose of this study, descriptive statistics was used while qualitative information was analysed using content analysis technique. In terms of awareness, 51% were unaware on negative impacts of uranium mining. The positive socio-economic impacts reported were employment opportunities, improved quality of life, road accessibility and economic opportunities. However, the majority of people interviewed (70 %) claimed that they have not received individual benefits from uranium exploration activities. Perception differed significantly, with 72% of those employed in the mine having positive perceptions, compared to 62% of the unemployed individuals who had negative perceptions. This study recommends a community-based bottom-up approach for awareness raising on uranium impacts. In addition, the mining company should implement effectively its corporate social responsibilities because, the negative perceptions may stand as a hindrance for accomplishment of its goals. The findings of this study provide preliminary baseline for future studies to monitor the impacts of uranium in particular radioactivity pathways associated with uranium mining

Well-being interventions for emergency department staff: ‘necessary’ but ‘inadequate’ – a phenomenographic study

IntroductionStress and burnout are prevalent among emergency department (ED) staff in the UK. The concept of well-being interventions for ED staff is a growing area of interest and research worldwide....

Evaluating the Educational Sponsorship Opportunities in Siargao Island: Basis for Developing the Work2Study Online Platform to Support Students' Pathway to Success

Educational attainment remains a key challenge in many rural areas, including Siargao Island. Students often struggle to finance their studies due to limited family income and a lack of accessible sponsorship opportunities. This study evaluates current sponsorship options available to students attending the Siargao Island Institute of Technology (SIIT) and Surigao del Norte State University - Del Carmen Campus (SNSU), the only institutions of higher education on the island. The findings serve as the basis for proposing the development of Work2Study, an online platform that aims to connect students with work-study sponsorships to aid their educational journey. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study gathered quantitative data from students and qualitative insights from local sponsors to assess needs and challenges. Results highlight the need for structured sponsorships, career-aligned work opportunities, and a streamlined online application process. The proposed Work2Study platform could provide a scalable model for supporting students’ educational goals, potentially fostering long-term socio-economic benefits for Siargao Island

Peningkatan Akses dan Peluang Kewirausahaan Mahasiswa melalui Pembelajaran Fotografi Berbasis Proyek Industri di Sistem Pembelajaran Jaringan

The program to enhance student access and entrepreneurial opportunities through industry-based photography project learning in an online learning system aims to develop students' technical and managerial skills. This program combines theory and practice through real industry-relevant projects, providing a comprehensive and interactive learning experience. Results show significant improvements in students' skills and motivation. With continued support from various parties, this program is expected to sustain improvements in education quality and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Bridging the Gap: Benetech’s Approach to Empowering the Visually Impaired

Innovation is crucial for addressing challenges faced by children with visual impairments, as it enables the development of adaptive technologies and inclusive educational tools that enhance accessibility, independence, and learning opportunities.

Disability-Related Risks Among Women and Girls Who Are Forcibly Displaced from Venezuela

Our study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Venezuelan refugee/migrant women and girls with disabilities to guide humanitarian assistance. The data analysed was part of a larger cross-sectional study whereby refugees and migrants in Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil were asked to share the migration experiences of a Venezuelan woman or girl. The sample for this analysis was drawn from one of the survey questions that asked participants whether the woman/girl in the narrative identified as a person with a disability. Thematic analysis using inductive coding was performed. A total of 126 narratives were included in the final analysis, of which four major themes were identified. Venezuelan refugees and migrants with disabilities described experiences of discrimination, violence, and physical challenges, such as exacerbation of symptoms while in transit. In host countries, refugees and migrants experienced a lack of disability-related accommodations in the workplace and long wait times when trying to obtain healthcare. Since discrimination is a cross-cutting issue, human rights awareness highlighting the dignity of persons with disabilities is imperative. Resources and support for Venezuelan refugee and migrant women and girls with disabilities should aim to create accessible employment opportunities, safe and timely access to medical care, and prioritise violence prevention.

Targeted initiatives to tackle health inequalities, integrating the Leeds Health and Care Workforce

Abstract Deprivation and poor health are significant challenges in Leeds, with the poverty gap growing in parts of the city. The Leeds One Workforce approach to narrowing inequalities (NI) was co-designed in 2021 building on the innovative partnership approach already visible in the city. Its phased approach has seen interventions put in place to boost the opportunities for people from marginalised communities to develop their skills and remove barriers to careers in health and care and has global relevance for other localities experiencing high deprivation. The overall NI approach is supported by a long-term and wide-reaching evaluation plan which mobilises our partner organisations and intends to amplify best practice in getting people into careers and supporting this group to develop within the health and care workforce. We will present findings from embedded evaluations of initiatives across the city, and individual case studies, from those who have accessed NI interventions in Leeds. These will explore the relationships and contributions of partnership organisations and presence of any unexpected barriers or facilitators to these interventions. Linking with third-sector organisations and creating accessible pre-employment opportunities to develop core working skills is a vital part of the Leeds approach to recruiting people from priority wards. Additionally, supporting people into careers in health and care which suit their values, interests and personal circumstances, in addition to employing organisations with flexibility and openness towards their employees at their core is a strong factor in recruiting and retaining from areas of deprivation. Partnership working is essential to tackling health inequalities in places of high deprivation to address individual and systemic barriers to securing employment, ensure the best chance of success for community outreach programmes, and maximise efficiencies by combining the efforts of local organisations. Key messages • Leeds, UK is transforming approaches to narrowing health inequalities through partnership working across health and social care education and employment. • Current and future best practice will be explored to demonstrate transferable NI approaches.

Social Aspects of the Demographic Situation in Uzbekistan

This article investigates the sociocultural dimensions of the demographic landscape in Uzbekistan, with a particular emphasis on population expansion, urbanization processes, and transformations in familial structures. The demographic populace of Uzbekistan has exhibited consistent growth, surpassing 36 million individuals in the year 2023, characterized by an annual increase rate of 1.5%. Current urbanization patterns indicate that half of the populace now inhabits urban locales, thereby engendering challenges in educational access, healthcare provision, and employment opportunities. The research employs data derived from national censuses alongside academic investigations to scrutinize these dynamics and offers policy recommendations aimed at alleviating their societal repercussions. Also, in this article, an attempt was made to predict the demograqfic state of birth, marriage, employment, urbanization and its prospective state in Uzbekistan.