Adjustment Policies Research Articles

Impact of Educational Predictors on Music Subject Selection at A-Level in Ugandan Schools: Science Education Policy and Instructional Resources

This paper investigates the key Educational Predictors particularly the impact of science education policy and the availability of instructional resources on A-level music subject selection in Ugandan secondary schools. Despite the potential of A-level music education to foster entrepreneurial skills and income-generating opportunities through avenues such as performance, teaching, and production, the Ugandan secondary education system’s emphasis on science subjects undermines the visibility and support for music subject. This prioritization not only reduces the appeal of music as a viable academic option but also limits students' access to diverse career pathways in the arts and entertainment industries. This study used a mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) approach, collecting quantitative data through a 5-point Likert scale survey and qualitative insights from interviews with students, teachers, administrators, and parents. Descriptive statistics provided an overview of respondents' perspectives, while correlation and logistic regression analyses assessed the influence of key variables. The findings revealed a significant negative relationship between the emphasis on science education policy and music subject selection, as shown by logistic regression (B = -0.651, p < 0.001). Conversely, access to instructional resources positively correlated with music selection (B = 0.527, p < 0.001). These results show the role of science education policy in discouraging music enrollment and shows the positive impact of resource availability on students’ choices. While this study focuses on schools in Uganda’s Central Region, broader research could further validate these findings. The study recommends policy adjustments to balance STEM focus with arts education, enhancing resource allocation to support diverse subject selection, including music, at the secondary level.

Study on Household Investment Decision of Household Photovoltaic Project Promotion -- Based on Inclusive Finance Perspective

Considering the lack of research on households' investment decisions in promoting photovoltaic projects in existing studies, this study constructs a four-party evolutionary game model based on local governments, financing institutions, photovoltaic enterprises and households from the perspective of inclusive finance. In addition, according to the influence of irrational psychological factors on the decision-making outcome of each interested party in decision-making, this study innovatively introduces regret theory to improve the evolutionary game model. Then, each subject' evolutionary stabilisation strategies and system equilibrium points are analysed explicitly using the perceived benefit function and the replicated dynamic differential equation. Finally, combined with the system dynamics method, the theoretical derivation results are verified by parameter assignment, and the sensitivity of each subject to multiple influencing factors is explored. The results show that: (1) under the current market condition, the system is stabilised in the strategy combination of Case I (subsidy, conventional finance, non-promotion, loan to build), but the ideal state can be achieved through the refinement and adjustment of policies. And there is a mutual influence between the subjects. (2) The regret-elation perception psychology of each subject has a non-negligible influence on their decision-making behaviour. The combination of strategies in Case I is a conservative decision by the subjects. (3) A variety of factors influences the behavioural decisions of each subject, and the amount of rent that photovoltaic enterprises can provide is a crucial factor affecting households' investment decisions. (4) Local governments incentives and penalties play a key incentive role in promoting the active participation of financing institutions and photovoltaic enterprises in the promotion endeavour. This study provides practical guidance and policy insights for promoting the diffuse use of renewable energy and the promotion of household photovoltaic projects while enriching the applied research by combining regret theory and evolutionary game theory.

Breathing life into equity: How air pollution influences corporate pay gap

Using a dataset encompassing 19,229 Chinese listed firm-year observations from 2014 to 2020, this study investigates the relationship between air quality and the pay gap between executives and employees. Our empirical results indicate that companies tend to reduce the pay gap in response to air pollution. These results exhibit robustness through various methodological approaches: employing thermal inversion as an instrumental variable (IV) for IV regressions, adopting quantile regressions, utilizing alternative metrics for assessing air pollution and corporate pay gap, expanding control variables, excluding firms undergoing reorganization, and applying firm-level clustering. This effect is especially strong in corporations with greater public scrutiny, strong corporate governance, and fewer financial constraints. Moreover, such strategic adjustments in compensation policies not only help firms retain valuable human resources, but also ultimately enhance their green innovation and ESG performance, as diminished pay gap contribute to fostering increased employee engagement and motivation within the work environment. Our research contributes to environmental management by demonstrating how air quality can be a pivotal factor in corporate compensation strategies. The findings provide actionable insights for executives and policymakers, advocating for the integration of environmental considerations into core business frameworks.

The contribution of the Gaza Envelope Region to Israel’s food security

BackgroundArmed conflicts can severely impact food security by displacing farmers, destroying farms and agricultural infrastructure, disrupting supply chains, and limiting governance control over highly volatile food markets. In this study, we aim to gain an initial understanding of the impact of the ongoing Israel-Hamas War on local food production in Israel.MethodsThis study examined the challenges of food production in the Gaza Envelope region, a border area in Israel that has been profoundly affected by the recent conflict. The analysis focused on the allocation of land to specific agricultural crops and sectors, along with the nutritional output of these edible crops. The nutritional output was standardized based on the dietary needs of the Israeli population, considering population size and demographic factors. These methods aimed to understand the effects of conflict on crop diversity, the risks posed to specific crops, and the implications for nutritional security.ResultsWe found that the Gaza Envelope region is crucial for the propagation of several key crops, notably cherry tomatoes, radishes, and sweet potatoes. We identified 16 crops whose local production is particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the conflict, including radishes and potatoes. The nutritional output of the edible crops from the Gaza Envelope region is extensive, producing over 50% of the annual caloric requirements of the Israeli population. Beyond the caloric contribution, the produce from the region is nutrient-dense, supplying more than 100% of the annual Dietary Reference Intakes for the Israeli population of 12 vital nutrients, which include dietary fiber, six vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K, and five minerals including potassium and iron. These findings suggest that the Israel-Hamas War is having detrimental ramifications on local food production in Israel.ConclusionsThe ongoing conflict highlights the critical need for data informed agricultural support and policy adjustments to protect food production in conflict-affected areas. Up-to-date and accurate land use data are essential to assess the initial impact of any disaster swiftly and reliably on these zones. This approach will enable more effective responses to safeguard food security under crisis conditions.

Integrating Small Modular Reactors and Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Energy Security in Indonesia

This study evaluates the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a sustainable solution for Indonesia's energy diversification. Amid Indonesia’s rising energy demands and environmental commitments, SMRs-particularly Small Modular Molten Salt Reactors (SM-MSRs)-present an alternative to conventional power sources. SMRs offer advantages like modularity, operational efficiency, and safety, making them suitable for Indonesia’s geographically dispersed landscape. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this research examines the technical, regulatory, and societal factors influencing SMR integration. Findings reveal that while SMRs show competitive Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) compared to coal, challenges remain, including stringent regulatory requirements, high initial capital costs, and limited public acceptance due to nuclear safety concerns. Policy adjustments, community engagement, and collaboration with established SMR programs globally are suggested to address these issues. Additionally, SMRs’ scalability and compatibility with renewables support Indonesia’s goals for a resilient energy mix, potentially transforming remote energy access. This comprehensive approach underscores the viability of SMRs within Indonesia’s energy transition, contributing to a cleaner, more flexible energy infrastructure

The Evolving Role of Laboratory Doctors: A Shift towards Patient Consultation

In developing countries such as Nepal, the scarcity of doctors and their constrained consultation time often hinder comprehensive patient education regarding laboratory pre-test preparations and post-test results counselling. This study examines the potential of integrating laboratory doctors and direct patient consultations as alternatives to improve patient management. By piloting this practice at our institution, this viewpoint highlight that the laboratory doctors, with their specialized knowledge, can effectively communicate pre-test and post-test information, thereby enhancing patient understanding and compliance. This article also discusses the practical implications of this model and offer recommendations for policy adjustments to facilitate this integration.

Developing and Validating a Digital Literacy Assessment: Bridging the Digital Divide among Adolescents in Sabah, Malaysia

This study investigates the computer literacy of adolescents in Tawau, Sabah, challenging the notion that all "Digital Natives" are inherently proficient in technology. Despite growing up in a digital era, many youths in Tawau demonstrate limited skills in essential software like Microsoft Office, highlighting a significant digital divide. The study began by identifying key themes from existing instruments, leading to the development of a tailored assessment tool for Tawau, Sabah. This tool underwent rigorous validation through Rasch analysis, confirming its effectiveness in measuring various dimensions of computer literacy, including basic skills and Microsoft Office proficiency. The findings provided insights into the instrument’s performance and scoring, refining its items and confirming reliability and validity. Ultimately, the index quantifies computer literacy by aggregating scores across categories, offering a reliable measure of adolescents' digital competencies in Tawau. This research contributes to a broader understanding of the digital divide and informs strategies to improve computer literacy in similar contexts. The study’s implications underscore the importance of policy adjustments to bridge the digital gap, especially in underserved regions like Tawau.

From policy to practice: decoding the evolution of K-12 English teacher training course selection in Zhejiang through topic modelling analysis (2014–2023)

ABSTRACT This article aimed to strengthen training programmes in Zhejiang by aligning them with educational policies to respond to ongoing reforms drawing on Latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic modelling and content analysis. The topic modelling approach uncovers dominant training themes and trends by analysing extensive unstructured training topics from an online training platform in Zhejiang, thus bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. This approach offers data-driven insights, supporting dynamic tracking of educational trends in real-time for timely policy and curriculum adjustments. Ultimately, the article argues that real-time data and stakeholder feedback should be integrated to ensure educational policies align closely with actual teachers’ needs. However, due to data limitations, the article acknowledges a challenge in fully utilizing topic modelling and suggests combining it with qualitative analysis to gain a deeper understanding of educational practices. The Incorporation of a topic modelling approach into teacher education research could contribute significantly to training efficiency and policy relevance, fostering an adaptive educational policy environment.

Assessment of Human Resource Management Functions at RSUD Datu Sanggul

The public sector, particularly hospitals, plays a crucial role in the provision of quality health services. However, many hospitals, including RSUD Datu Sanggul, face challenges in human resource management (HRM) that result in service performance. This study aims to analyze the functions of human resource management (HRM) in the Regional General Hospital (RSUD) Datu Sanggul and its impact on service performance, especially in the Surgical Poly. The method used is a qualitative approach with an exploratory design. Data were collected through observation, questionnaires, and documentation studies, involving 14 hospital leaders as respondents. The results showed that the recruitment and selection process of medical personnel at RSUD Datu Sanggul was still less than optimal, with several inequities and competency mismatches. The implementation of training and development programs for medical personnel recorded activities, but the evaluation of the results was minimal, indicating a lack of impact on performance improvement. In addition, performance appraisal systems and compensation policies also need to be improved to attract and retain medical personnel. This study provides recommendations to improve transparency and standards in the recruitment process, training evaluation, and compensation policy adjustments in order to improve the quality of health services at RSUD Datu Sanggul

Research on Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average model in predicting the rise and fall of stocks

Abstract. The development of the stock market has been characterised by a lack of dynamism, particularly in the context of an economic slowdown, policy adjustments and global uncertainties. As a result, corporate earnings have declined, stock demand has decreased, stock prices have fallen and investors are uncertain about the future. The following article aims to demonstrate the construction of an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model using the Python programming language, the utilization of the CSI 300 index data from 2012 to 2022 sourced from the Kaggle website, the prediction of its fluctuations, the generation of a line graph, and a comparison with the actual trend. In the final stage of the analysis, four diagnostic graphs will be deployed to ascertain the suitability of the model. The results show that the ARIMA model effectively forecasts stock trends, with the predicted upward and downward trends following 2022 largely aligning with the actual trends and overlapping the two lines. Investors can use this model to determine the best investment direction and reduce the risk of failure.

Towards Green Development: Exploring the Impact of Housing Price Bubbles on Regional Green Innovation Efficiency Based on Chinese Provincial Panel Data Analysis

Innovation is an eternal theme of human development, and green innovation efficiency serves as the basis for achieving innovation-driven development in a country or region, as well as an important aspect of ecological civilization construction. In this context, based on the panel data of 30 Chinese provinces during 2003–2020, this study explores the effect of housing price bubbles on green innovation efficiency by using a global SBM-DEA model with unexpected outputs and a two-way fixed effects model. The results show that housing price bubbles considerably reduced green innovation efficiency, which is also verified by a series of robustness and endogeneity tests. Heterogeneity tests show that housing price bubbles in eastern and high human capital regions have a significantly higher inhibitory effect on green innovation efficiency than that in the central and western regions and low human capital regions. The mechanism test shows that housing price bubbles have reduced green innovation efficiency by intensifying the mismatch of labor and capital between regions. Moreover, high housing prices will further deepen the negative impact of housing price bubbles on green innovation efficiency, while expanding economic openness will help alleviate the negative impact. Therefore, to effectively enhance regional green innovation efficiency, we put forward a series of policy measures in terms of strengthening the adjustment of housing policies, optimizing the resource allocation structure, and implementing differentiated environmental control tools.

Impact of easing COVID-19 restrictions on antibiotic usage in Eastern China using wastewater-based epidemiology

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in December 2019, prompting the implementation of a “zero-COVID” policy in Mainland China. The easing of this policy in December 2022 led to a surge in COVID cases, which was believed to significantly increase antibiotic usage, potentially due to antibiotic misuse or increased coinfections. Our study aimed to compare antibiotic consumption and patterns before and after this policy adjustment. We utilised wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) to analyse antibiotic levels in samples collected from five wastewater treatment plants in Eastern China during January and February of 2021 and 2023. 27 antibiotics were quantified using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) and analysed via WBE, with the resulting estimates compared with catchment-specific prescription data. 23 antibiotics were detected in wastewater samples, with a substantial increase in usage in 2023 (ranging from 531% to 3734%), consistent with prescription data. Here, we show a significant rise in antibiotic consumption during the COVID-19 surge and this underscores the need for further investigation into the impacts of inappropriate antibiotic use in China.

Carbon stocks and sequestration from small tree patches in grassland landscapes in Aotearoa-New Zealand

ABSTRACT Small patches of trees add structural heterogeneity to grassland landscapes, support biodiversity, and provide essential ecosystem services including carbon stocks and sequestration, erosion control, and shade provision. In Aotearoa-New Zealand (A-NZ) small patches of trees have further cultural significance within Te Ao Māori – the worldview of the indigenous Māori people. However, economic pressures have driven the management of grasslands either towards removing tree cover to enhance agricultural productivity, or large-scale conversion of grassland to production forests. Protecting existing small patches of trees, and encouraging their establishment across grassland landscapes, is challenging since the current extent and benefits of these patches is not known. This study demonstrates the critical contributions of small tree patches (those less than one hectare in area) in A-NZ grassland landscapes. Using a high-resolution tree cover dataset, we mapped 1,639,015 small tree patches in grasslands across A-NZ, with grassland small tree patches covering a total land area of between 185,589 ha and 187,928 ha. We used a probabilistic simulation approach to estimate carbon stocks and annual sequestration, revealing a potential aboveground carbon stock between 11.6 and 29.3 million tonnes (Mt) of carbon and an annual biomass sequestration of 0.3 Mt to 0.8 Mt. Despite their current exclusion from the national carbon emissions market, economic valuation suggests a liability of between $NZ 86.9 million and $NZ 8.6 billion (€47.9 million to €4.7. billion) if the small tree patches were felled, and a market value of between $NZ 2.0 million and $NZ 237.6 million (€1.1 and 130.9 million) annually for sequestration. Existing policies, including afforestation incentives, do not encourage protection or establishment of small patches of trees. Significant policy adjustments are required to recognize, protect, and incentivize the conservation and establishment of small patches of trees within grassland landscapes.

Evaluation of the Obstacles Encountered by South African International Students in Tertiary Educational Institutions

The South African higher education system has seen a gradual rise in the number of international students, mainly from African countries but not exclusively confined to other nations. Although the number of international students has significantly risen in recent decades, there is less knowledge about the obstacles they face and the potential effect of these issues on them. This research aims to comprehensively evaluate the difficulties encountered by international students at higher education institutions, providing insight into the complex obstacles that affect their academic, social, and cultural assimilation. The study utilizes a qualitative approach, incorporating a questionnaire as the research design to collect perspectives from international students. The findings indicate that communication, finances, environment, access to resources, and administration are factors that contribute to the obstacles encountered by international students. This highlights the necessity for specific support mechanisms and policy adjustments to improve the overall educational experience for this expanding demographic. The results of this assessment provide important insights for educational institutions, governments, and stakeholders that want to promote inclusive and supportive settings that facilitate the achievement and well-being of international students in higher education.

National unity: A systematic review from the perspective of policy effectiveness experience

National unity is a matter of great concern for many countries around the world today. The study of policy evaluation is an important aspect of the study of national unity. The evaluation of policy implementation effects can help policymakers analyze whether there are problems in the formulation and implementation of the policy, thereby promoting further policy adjustments to better achieve national unity. This article adopts thematic searches and a systematic literature review as research methods. Through the systematic review, it summarizes and analyzes the research on national unity policies across different regions and countries. The article has two objectives: First, to explore the current perspectives in the research on national unity policies, and second, to analyze the state of research regarding the effectiveness of national unity policies. Among the 35 papers analyzed, 7 were on integration policy, 6 were on education policy and 4 were on language policy. To a certain extent, this reflects the perspectives of some countries in Europe, Asia and Africa, including France, Greece, Russia, Turkey, China, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and other countries on the governance of national unity. Research on policy effectiveness is mainly conducted from the perspectives of policy content and policy implementation. However, there is little analysis of successful cases that achieved the desired goals. The main contributions of this article are as follows: first, it summarizes and identifies the characteristics of national solidarity-related policies in different continents and countries. Secondly, the experience of the success and failure of the national unity policy is studied and summarized. In addition, this article also found that there are still gaps in the research on successful experiences and causes.

Prevalence of Dementia in the Geriatric Population Residing in a Long-term Care Facility: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The global rise in the geriatric population is increasing dementia cases, imposing significant burdens on families and society, making long-term care facilities (LTCFs) essential. Thus, updated dementia prevalence data are crucial for effective health-care planning and policy-making. Methodology: A systematic review and meta-analysis, updating Fagundes et al. (2021), included articles post-August 2, 2020, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies were selected based on predefined criteria, and data extraction was independently performed by two reviewers, focusing on dementia prevalence rates, assessment tools used, and regional variations. Meta-analytic techniques estimated pooled dementia prevalence rates and assessed study heterogeneity, focusing on assessment tools and regional variations. Results: The review included 38 studies, with 18 new ones since the previous review. The pooled dementia prevalence in LTCFs was 57.8% (confidence interval 51.63–63.98; P < 0.01), up from 53%. Europe had the highest rate, while other regions showed variability. High heterogeneity suggests diverse factors, such as diagnostic criteria and population characteristics, influence prevalence estimates. Discussion: The rising dementia prevalence in LTCFs highlights the need for specialized care, improved health policies, and resource allocation. Regional prevalence variations may be due to differences in diagnostic criteria, health-care infrastructure, and societal factors, with high heterogeneity reflecting diverse methodologies and populations. Increased public awareness and ongoing research are essential for developing innovative, tailored care models for dementia patients in LTCFs. Conclusion: This updated review shows a higher dementia prevalence in LTCFs, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policy adjustments to improve care quality and outcomes. Further research is needed to explore regional prevalence factors and develop standardized care practices.

Research on Population Aging, Effectiveness of Monetary Policy, and Real Estate Prices

As the global trend of population aging intensifies, the multifaceted impacts of aging on the economy are becoming increasingly apparent, especially in the areas of monetary policy and the real estate market. This paper aims to explore the intrinsic relationship between population aging, the effectiveness of monetary policy, and real estate prices. By analyzing the impact of demographic changes on consumption, savings, and investment behavior, the paper further reveals how aging affects the transmission mechanism of monetary policy and examines the role of monetary policy in real estate price fluctuations. The paper begins by defining the current status of population aging and discussing its broad economic impacts, followed by an analysis of the tools and transmission mechanisms of monetary policy and its specific effects on the real estate market. Based on the construction of a theoretical model, this paper also empirically tests the responses of the real estate market to monetary policy in different countries and regions facing aging societies. Finally, based on both theoretical and empirical research results, policy recommendations are made regarding the adjustment of monetary policy and regulation of the real estate market in the context of an aging society. This study provides theoretical support and practical guidance for policymakers to address the challenges that population aging brings to economic policy.

Assessing the Competitiveness: Afghanistan’s Fresh Grapes Export Performance in the Global Market

This study assesses Afghanistan’s fresh grapes export competitiveness using methods like CAGR for growth, CDVI for instability, and RCA/RSCA for comparative advantage. It also applied the NPC to evaluate price competitiveness, Markov Chain Analysis to track export patterns, and the Bai-Perron test to identify structural breaks, providing a comprehensive analysis of Afghanistan's global market position during 2008 to 2023. Fresh grapes, was one of the important components of Afghanistan’s agricultural exports, grew considerably in both quantity and value, though their export performance was marked by notable instability. The study highlighted that, Afghanistan had moderate competitiveness in the world market, aided by favorable climatic conditions. However, a low NPC suggested limited trade protection, as domestic prices for Afghan grapes remained below international prices. Comparative analyses showed that, while Chile’s export volumes were declined and value growth held steady due to rising prices. Peru achieved robust export growth despite moderate instability. Italy focused on high quality grapes production primarily for domestic consumption, ensuing with low instability. Pakistan emerged as the most consistent market for Afghan fresh grapes, showed a steady demand that supported Afghanistan’s competitive position in regional trade. Structural breaks in 2015 and 2019 found export volume shifts, with an initial increase from better market access, followed by a decline due to COVID-19. Since 2015, export values declined due to market constraints and economic factors, but recovered strongly with favorable weather and government policy adjustments.

A Multi-Objective Optimization of Clustered Train Delay Propagation Model

Introduction This research investigates train delay propagation, focusing on identifying influencing factors, optimizing parameters to minimize delays, and proposing cost-effective mitigation measures using the southern intercity railway route of Thailand as a case study. Methods The study employs cluster analysis and multiple linear regression to formulate delay propagation models, followed by multi-objective optimization to achieve optimal variable sets. In addition, by analyzing passenger patterns across different train types, the representative models are developed to inform policy adjustments and optimize service delivery. The research focuses on aligning commercial viability with passenger needs and preferences. Results Findings from this study will provide valuable insights for future planning and potential application to other rail routes. Key findings suggest that for double-track systems, effective policies include increasing train acceleration rates, adjusting the number of stops, and enhancing junction systems. For single-track systems, similar policies apply, with additional emphasis on converting to double tracks to minimize delays in train shunting. Conclusion Implementing these measures is expected to mitigate cumulative delays and enhance rail service efficiency.

The values dimension of policy success and failure: Considering two Australian rural adjustment policies

AbstractIn 1992, Australia introduced a National Drought Policy comprising a number of policies each focused on achieving a common goal of a self‐reliant, productive farm sector capable of managing the challenges of climate variability. This paper considers two of these policies, one of which has been an acknowledged success and the other that is generally regarded as a failure. The paper assesses these schemes against the criteria proposed by Luetjens et al. and concludes that analysing policies in values terms is a more effective way of understanding, and potentially predicting, policy success and failure.Points for practitioners Policy is more likely to succeed if there is an alignment between the purpose underpinning a policy agency and the nature of the policy problem. Policy can fail where the values of the agency and the target population for the policy differ. Policy success is more likely where there is a single, clear goal embodying a single value priority rather than multiple values that are in conflict.