Policy Development Research Articles

Implications of plastic pollution on global carbon cycle

Abstract Plastic pollution represents a critical global issue. Massive plastic waste in the environment poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health while also negatively impacting carbon cycles through multiple pathways. In particular, the global carbon cycle is disrupted by the carbon budget imbalance, primarily due to the excessive production of fossil-based plastics in past years. Meanwhile, microplastics and nanoplastics resulting from the degradation and fragmentation of plastic waste in the environment also have significant implications for the carbon cycle within both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, the leaching of plastic additives from plastics not only contributes organic carbon to the environment but also poses significant adverse effects on the growth and development of various organisms. Therefore, developing innovative and comprehensive strategies to mitigate plastic pollution is imperative. This initiative should involve the development of effective policies and the application of advanced technologies, including strategies to close both the plastic loop and the carbon loop. Graphical Abstract

New Frontiers in the Law of the Sea and Policy Integration

As global advancements accelerate, modernisation and technological developments are transforming the ocean sector, bringing new opportunities while also posing significant challenges. Nevertheless, these developments have exposed gaps in the existing legal framework of ocean governance—the law of the sea—which has yet to fully address many emerging complexities and new frontiers. Addressing these gaps requires rigorous gap analyses and collaborative discourse. To this end, the 11th Ocean Law and Governance International Symposium, themed “New Frontiers and the Law of the Sea”, was held in Dalian, China, on 27–28 September 2024, in a hybrid format—online and offline. The event was co-hosted by the School of Law and the National Institute of Ocean Governance at Dalian Maritime University, with support from Zhejiang University and the Chinese Society of the Law of the Sea. The symposium brought together 22 experts and scholars from around the world to discuss critical topics, including high seas and seabed governance, climate litigation, digitalisation, law enforcement, and pressing issues, such as BBNJ and MPP. The symposium provided essential interdisciplinary legal insights, laying a robust foundation for fostering new discourse in the academic arena, which, in turn, advances future research while informing the development of marine policies aimed at achieving sustainable ocean governance. This study critically evaluates whether the symposium successfully bridged gaps in the existing academic landscape and explores whether it offers a way forward for addressing the challenges associated with new frontiers and the law of the sea. Through empirical legal analysis, this study aims to assess the impact of the symposium in promoting further discussions and policy innovations necessary to meet evolving ocean governance needs.

New life for statehouse reporting? The view from one American state

This paper examines news organizations’ shifting editorial and commercial strategies towards statehouse reporting – an important but often neglected form of sub-national journalism in the United States. Through interviews with reporters, editors, and management in one state (Washington), we find that many news organizations are adapting their coverage to better align with transformations in both politics and journalism. The specific strategy an organization adopts, however, depends on its position among statehouse news providers. Established news organizations foreground the impact of policy developments on ‘ordinary’ citizens’ lives in an effort to entice audiences assumed to ignore such news. Their upstart peers, by contrast, target what they see as an underserved niche market consisting of individuals already interested in politics and poorly served by current offerings. Without implying a return to any mythical golden age, or declaring without reservations a bright future, we suggest that these developments evince signs of 'new life’ for statehouse reporting. Our analytical emphasis, moreover, underscores the incentives that guide organizations’ editorial and commercial strategies, a point that can apply to many forms of political journalism around the globe.

Collaborative capacity building for strengthening rehabilitation services in Sabah, Malaysia: a partnership between university hospital and state health department.

This paper aims to outline the foundational framework for strengthening rehabilitation services in Sabah, Malaysia, through a collaborative capacity-building initiative between Hospital Universiti Malaysia Sabah (HUMS) and the Sabah State Health Department (JKNS). By focusing on academic, research, and service capacity-building, this partnership seeks to address the rehabilitation needs of the local population, particularly for individuals with functional limitations. The collaboration integrates HUMS's academic and clinical strengths with JKNS's existing rehabilitation services. Key components include developing postgraduate training for rehabilitation medicine, expanding community-based rehabilitation outreach services, and establishing a referral network between hospitals and community healthcare providers. The partnership has resulted in the implementation of a comprehensive framework that enhances academic capacity, fosters research collaboration, and improves rehabilitation service delivery across Sabah. This approach is aligned with the WHO's Rehabilitation 2030 initiative, advocating for stronger integration of rehabilitation into healthcare systems. The collaborative efforts between HUMS and JKNS demonstrate the critical role of partnerships between academic institutions and public health departments in strengthening rehabilitation services. This model offers a replicable strategy for influencing policy development and ensuring resource allocation to meet the growing rehabilitation needs in underserved regions.

Big Data and its Impact on Forensic Accounting

These advanced analytical capabilities powered by big data comes into play in the world of forensic accounting as the new frontier in identifying corruption and fraud. Since corruption and fraud must be tackled with all available tools in developing countries such as Iraq, this study delves detail into the notable positive impact of big data on the practices of forensic accounting. With a descriptive methodology and statistical analysis, it is the results shows that the big data in forensic accountant can make it easier for forensic accountants to analyze complex datasets, triangulate, analyze using software, improve risk management to detect fraud, financial irregularities effectively. Overall, the study highlights that big data can be fully utilized in forensic accounting if sufficient investment is made on infrastructure, training, and technology adoption in the respective industry, with implications for education, practice, and policies development.

Exploring and Overcoming Challenges for Digital Transformation in the Energy Sector Toward Carbon Neutrality

ABSTRACTChina is committed to carbon neutral by 2060 to reduce its carbon footprint to zero. This research investigates the challenges surrounding the adoption of digitalisation in the energy sector and proposes policy plans to overcome them to achieve sustainability goals. This study utilised the fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method to assess the key challenges and sub‐challenges. Next, the fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method is used to rank the policy plans to overcome the challenges for digital transformation in the energy sector toward carbon neutrality in China. The result of fuzzy AHP identified that financial constraints (DES1) is the most crucial challenge hindering digitalisation efforts with a weight of 0.172, followed by operational and management barriers (DES8) with a weight of 0.156, and regulatory and policy challenges (DES2) with a weight of 0.144. Next, the findings of fuzzy TOPSIS revealed that enhancing financial viability and investment (PP2) has obtained the first rank plan with a score of 0.065, following fostering regulatory support and policy development (PP3) with a score of 0.063 and building public trust and engagement (PP10) with a score of 0.060. These policy plans play a crucial role in addressing the challenges associated with adopting digitalisation in China's energy sector, toward a more efficient, sustainable and resilient energy transition.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs through Government Initiatives in Uttar Pradesh

This research paper investigates the current landscape of women entrepreneurs in Uttar Pradesh focusing on government initiatives aimed at empowering them. It traces the historical evolution of women entrepreneurs in the region, from traditional roles to contemporary business ventures. Additionally, the study examines the evolution of women's development policies in India to provide a contextual backdrop. Promoting women's entrepreneurship in Uttar Pradesh offers significant advantages, including potential economic growth and social development. However, women entrepreneurs encounter various challenges such as limited access to financial resources, societal norms, and bureaucratic complexities. Drawing on secondary data sources including reports, scholarly articles, and news publications, this research evaluates the effectiveness of existing government programs designed to support women entrepreneurs. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations for enhancing the empowerment of women entrepreneurs through government interventions. Proposed strategies include targeted training programs, improved financial accessibility, and the establishment of robust support networks. Emphasizing the translation of policy into actionable measures, this study aims to foster a more supportive environment for women entrepreneurs in Uttar Pradesh.

Standardized International Definitions of ADHD to Assist with The Development of Educational Policies and Technology

Standardized International Definitions of ADHD to Assist with The Development of Educational Policies and Technology

Patterns and Trends of Respiratory Diseases in Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims in Mecca: 2024 Descriptive Study

Background and Objective: Respiratory diseases are a major health problem for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Mecca, triggered by extreme environmental factors such as high temperatures (39-43°C), crowding, and air pollution. Changes in physical activity and dust exposure also play a role, especially in the elderly and those with comorbidities. Data from the Ministry of Health shows that >50% of Hajj pilgrims experience respiratory problems, with pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma as common diagnoses, particularly after the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage. This study aims to analyze the patterns and trends of respiratory diseases among Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Mecca in 2024. Methods: This descriptive-analytic study uses secondary data from the registration of regular Hajj pilgrims at the KKHI Mecca in 2024 (1445 H). The total sample consists of 1962 Hajj pilgrims. Data were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive. Results: The majority of Hajj pilgrims seeking treatment were male (55.4%) and aged >61 years (65.3%). Pneumonia was the most common respiratory disease (62%), followed by COPD (11.8%), asthma (4.3%), and ARI (8.1%). Risk factors included old age, extreme weather changes, physical fatigue, and air pollution. The majority of cases were treated on an outpatient basis at the KKHI Mecca (61.1%). Conclusion: Pneumonia is a major health problem among Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Mecca. Old age is an important risk factor. Comprehensive prevention and treatment efforts are needed, including health education, awareness of medical personnel, and further research. This study provides valuable information for the development of more effective Hajj health policies.

Community healthcare system and its practice for Indigenous elders in Taiwan.

In 2017, Taiwan launched a dedicated long-term care plan for Indigenous peoples, enhancing tribal cultural health stations. By 2018, the Indigenous Council introduced a cultural safety mentoring program for caregivers, aiming to improve their cultural sensitivity in providing elder care. This article reviews practical experiences documented in the Indigenous culture care curriculum, examining examples of culturally sensitive care and proposing an elder care model suitable for Indigenous communities based on the findings. The development of social safety policies for Indigenous peoples underscores the critical role of cultural health stations in their welfare. Insights from these stations highlight their adaptation to meet local elders' needs while respecting diverse tribal cultures. Challenges include aligning with policies, training caregivers effectively and ensuring operational efficiency. Addressing these issues requires stable caregiver salaries, proficiency in ethnic languages, and training programs to enhance professionalism and preserve elders' traditional knowledge. Integrating this wisdom into future policies, along with collaboration with cultural experts, will build a robust foundation for future generations.

Redefining Recidivism Prediction: The Impact of Race and Geographic Location in Machine Learning Models

This study explores the effectiveness of machine learning algorithms in predicting recidivism, focusing on the impact of race and geographic location variables. Leveraging a dataset from the prisons in Georgia, we assess six algorithms’ forecasting performance, both with and without these key variables. Our findings indicate that geographic location generally enhances predictive accuracy more consistently than race across models. This research highlights the importance of methodological diversity and the complex, model-dependent impact of demographic factors on recidivism prediction. It underscores the potential of machine learning in criminology and criminal justice to provide nuanced insights into criminal behavior, challenging traditional assumptions, and informing evidence-based policy development.

Physiotherapy under pressure: A cross-sectional study on the interplay between perfectionism, moral injury, and burnout.

Given the escalating challenges for UK-based physiotherapists in workload pressures, budget constraints, staff shortages and patient wait times, the profession (of 65,000 registered physiotherapists) necessitates immediate attention to the health and well-being of the therapists. This pioneering study aims to examine perfectionism, moral injury, and burnout among UK-based physiotherapists across the NHS, private practice, sports, and academia. This cross-sectional study utilised an online survey and implementation of Structure Equation Modelling (SEM) to assess the interplay of perfectionism (Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale-Short Form), moral injury (Moral Injury Symptoms Scale-Healthcare Professionals), and burnout (Shirom-Melamed Burnout Questionnaire). Our sample size calculation represents the UK physiotherapy profession, utilising a 95% confidence interval with a 5% margin of error. Our analysis conducted on (n = 402) UK-based physiotherapists reveals significant burnout levels, with 96% of participants presenting with moderate to high burnout scores. SEM revealed perfectionism and moral injury collectively accounted for a substantial 62% of burnout variability, highlighting their sequential impact on burnout manifestation. With such high levels of burnout, urgent intervention is paramount. Elevated burnout presents challenges for the physiotherapy profession as staff retention, accurate and effective patient care, and overall health are severely impacted due to burnout. Recognising and addressing perfectionism and moral injury, such as through amendment or development of policy, becomes pivotal to mitigate its impact on individual and collective health.

The Taxing Challenges of the State: Unveiling the Role of Fiscal and Administrative Capacity in Development

Abstract The growing emphasis on nation-states and their pivotal role in economic development has emerged as a central theme in contemporary economic discourse. This review examines the concept of state capacity as discussed in the economic literature, focusing on its practical implications. While the definition of state capacity remains multifaceted, this analysis delves into its economic implications. We focus primarily on the literature surrounding fiscal capacity, exploring how a state’s ability to raise and manage revenue impacts economic development and other critical economic outcomes. This review aims to shed light on the crucial role of fiscal capacity in shaping economic performance, inspiring further research and policy development in this area. (JEL codes: D72, D73, D74, E62, H11, H20, H77, and H83)

Technological Innovation in Start-Ups on a Pathway to Achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: A Systematic Review

In a start-up, the level of technological innovation is crucial to the start-up’s competitiveness, especially in the digital age; as a result, high-tech start-ups stand a better chance of being more profitable than middle-tech and low-tech start-ups. The aim of this study is to identify and examine research papers regarding the role of technological innovation in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG) in the current context. This study intends to fill research gaps by performing a systematic literature review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA guidelines on the subject. To investigate advancements in the use of start-up technologies, scientific publications were obtained from the Scopus database, yielding a total of 384 entries for the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and the meta-analyses identification stage. The findings indicate that high technology encompasses artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and collaborative robots; medium technology comprises mobile applications, big data, and cloud computing; and low technology consists of software and connectivity. Each of the technological innovations plays a significant role in advancing SDG 8, encompassing aspects such as economic growth, employment, productivity, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, development policies, and business growth.

Getting lost in a field: a personal history of the development of behavioural public policy

Abstract This essay is a write-up of my Professorial Inaugural Lecture, delivered at the London School of Economics on 9 December 2024. Herein, I describe how I became involved and have helped develop the field of behavioural public policy (BPP). I detail how the intellectual architecture of BPP – its journal, Annual International Conference and Association – came into existence, and allude to my hopes for how the field might develop as we go forward.

Innovation and Digitalization: Driving Forces for Corporate Competitiveness and Longevity

In the face of rapid technological advancements and market shifts, companies must adapt and enhance their competitiveness to ensure long-term survival. This study explores the impact of innovation, digital transformation, productivity, and employment on organizational competitiveness and their influence on corporate longevity and sustainability in the Bangka Belitung Islands, Indonesia. Employing survey methods and analyzing data using double regression, simple regression, smartPls, and SPSS, the study surveyed 120 respondents from various industrial sectors. The results reveal that innovation, productivity, and jobs significantly and positively impact companies' competitiveness, while digital transformation has a lesser effect. Additionally, the study found that a company's competitiveness positively and significantly influences its existence and survival. The research significantly contributes to understanding the factors affecting competitiveness and long-term viability in the digital economy, highlighting the crucial role of innovation, productivity, and job quality in enhancing competitive advantage. The findings provide a basis for strategic decision-making at the company level and the development of public policies that foster business growth and resilience within the Belitung Framework

Factors influencing academic staff satisfaction and continuous usage of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in higher education

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools hold significant promises for enhancing teaching and learning outcomes in higher education. However, continues usage behavior and satisfaction of educators with GenAI systems are still less explored. Therefore, this study aims to identify factors influencing academic staff satisfaction and continuous GenAI usage in higher education, employing a survey method and analyzing data using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). This research utilized the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Expectation Confirmation Model (ECM) as its theoretical foundations, while also integrating ethical concerns as a significant factor. Data was collected from a sample of 127 university academic staff through an online survey questionnaire. The study found a positive correlation between effort expectancy, ethical consideration, expectation confirmation, and academic staff satisfaction. However, performance expectancy did not show a positive correlation with satisfaction. Performance expectancy was positively related to the intention to use GenAI tools, while academic staff satisfaction positively influenced the intention to use GenAI. The social influence did not correlate positively with the use of GenAI. Security and privacy were positively associated with staff satisfaction. Facilitation conditions also positively influenced the intention to use GenAI. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for academia and policymakers, guiding the responsible integration of GenAI tools in education while emphasizing factors for policy considerations and developers of GenAI tools.

How Criteria Weights Influence Performance in Evaluating Logistic Productivity: An Application in the Emerging Markets Logistics Index

Purpose: The differences between the criteria affecting the logistics performance of countries and their importance levels are meaningful in terms of policy development processes. It has been determined that the criteria are weighted equally in the emerging markets logistics index. For this reason, the study reweighted the criteria of the Emerging Markets Logistics Index and investigated the effects of weighting on the ranking. In this respect, the study aims to make the index more objective. Methodology: In the study, Multi-Criteria Decision Making methods were utilized. Within this context, MEREC (Method Based on the Removal Effects of Criteria) was used to determine the criteria weights, while MABAC (Multi Attributive Border Approximation Area Comparison) and MAIRCA (Multi Attributive Ideal Real Comparative Analysis) methods were preferred to rank the alternatives. Findings: In the study, it was concluded that the weighted values of the criteria are more consistent with the literature. Additionally, the new weights obtained have an effect on the ranking values of the countries. Orginality: It is important that emerging markets provide an opportunity to develop infrastructure to increase logistics productivity and provide a platform for the implementation of new technologies in logistics operations. Furthermore, these markets enable the diversification and development of logistics services through the expanding consumer demand. This study differs from other studies in the literature because it preferred the Agility Emerging Markets Logistics Index (AEMLI) instead of the Logistic Performance Index (LPI) and used MEREC-based MABAC-MAIRCA methods.

Dental Anesthesia Guidelines and Regulations of US States and Major Professional Organizations: A Review.

This summary reviews guidelines and regulations pertaining to dental anesthesia across the United States, including guidelines of the American Dental Association (ADA), American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). The analysis addresses a range of requirements, including definitions of anesthesia and requirements for training and certification across professional societies and the 50 US states, with a focus on office-based settings. Strikingly, substantial variation exists among state rules and regulations and the ADA, AAOMS, and ASA guidelines with implications for variations of care, outcomes, and patient safety. We examined definitions of sedation and general anesthesia, patient selection and evaluation, fasting requirements, emergency preparedness, drug administration, monitoring, equipment, procedure selection, education and training requirements, permit requirements, life support certifications, reporting of adverse events, and inspection requirements. This comprehensive analysis serves to educate dental practitioners and office staff, patients, primary care providers, and state dental boards about the regulatory landscape of dental anesthesia. Our findings establish a foundation for future research and policy development aimed at improving consistency, best practices, and safety in dental anesthesia practices.

Progressive Retinal Degeneration and Juvenile Nephronophthisis in a Patient with Autosomal Recessive Ciliopathy: A Case Report

Introduction: Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), particularly ciliopathies, often lead to irreversible blindness and are frequently accompanied by systemic manifestations such as nephronophthisis. Current treatment options are limited, necessitating the exploration of supplementary strategies to slow disease progression. Methods: We present a rare case from a retinal surgery clinic involving a 30-year-old male with autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (ARRP) and juvenile nephronophthisis. Comprehensive ocular and genetic evaluations were conducted, followed by the implementation of nutritional interventions aimed at mitigating multi-systemic effects. Results: Genetic testing revealed pathogenic variants in CEP83, PCARE, and VPS13B genes, confirming the diagnosis of ARRP. Nutritional strategies, including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and tailored dietary modifications for renal health, were integrated alongside standard medical care. These interventions contributed to the stabilization of retinal degeneration and improved management of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Conclusions: Integrating personalized nutritional strategies into the management of ciliopathies can enhance patient out-comes by addressing both ocular and systemic manifestations. These findings underscore the need for policy development around nutritional education and support for patients with inherited ciliopathies