Public Education Research Articles

Management of the feral European Rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, on Akdamar Island, Lake Van, Türkiye

Lake Van is Türkiye’s largest lake, and within it lies Akdamar, a small seven-hectare island. In 2008, eight feral European rabbits were introduced to the island to attract tourists. With no natural predators, their population had increased to 3,000 by 2016, causing severe ecological damage, destroying almond trees, accelerating soil erosion, and damaging historical buildings through burrowing. In response, local authorities launched a management programme from 2016 to 2017, removing 1,500 rabbits through physical control methods such as live trapping, net trapping, and night spotlighting. However, funding shortages halted further efforts, and the population surged to an estimated 4,000–5,000 by 2023. The rabbits now occupy the entire island, degrading vegetation, diminishing ecosystem services, and threatening tourism. According to the assessment conducted in this study, the situation is classified as causing major ecological impacts under the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa and minor cultural effects under the Socio-Economic Impact Classification of Alien Taxa. Therefore, urgent, long-term management solutions are essential to prevent further degradation, with public awareness campaigns, community involvement, and education can help reduce human-mediated spread and promote responsible behaviour. Coupled with sustainable, effective management strategies, these efforts are vital to preserving the island’s ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Rabies Vaccination and Public Health Insights in the Extended Arabian Gulf and Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Scoping Review

Background and Aim: This systematic scoping review examines rabies-related incidents, interventions, and post-exposure immunoprophylaxis in the Arabian Gulf region and Saudi Arabian Peninsula. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Scopus, WoS, MedLine, and Cochrane Library up to July 2024. Studies were included discussing the reported cases of rabies that received the PEP in all countries of the Arabian Gulf, their epidemiological data, the received schedules of vaccination, and their safety. The search was done by using the following terminologies: rabies vaccine, rabies human diploid cell vaccine, vaccine, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Southwest Asia, Iran, West Asia, Western Asia, Persian Gulf, Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Ajam, Saudi Arabian Peninsula, and The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Results: The systematic scoping review included 36 studies, synthesizing findings from diverse research designs, including large-scale cross-sectional studies and case reports, spanning nearly three decades. Findings indicated that young males in urban areas are most at risk for animal bites, predominantly from domestic dogs and cats. While post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) was generally administered within recommended timeframes, vaccination completion rates varied. Conclusions: The review highlighted gaps in public awareness about rabies risks and prevention. Vaccine safety profiles were generally favorable, with mostly mild-to-moderate side effects reported. The study underscores the need for enhanced public health education, standardized PEP protocols, and a One Health approach to rabies prevention.

Evidence for the Long-Distance Transport of Ticks and Tick-borne Pathogens by Human Travellers to Texas, U.S.A.

The incidence of tick-borne diseases in the United States has surged in recent years, with over 50 000 cases reported from an estimated half-million cases annually. While domestic vectors are well characterized, the role of human travel in transporting exotic ticks and pathogens remains poorly understood. We analysed 4808 submissions of ticks removed from individuals to the Tick-Borne Disease Research Laboratory (TBDRL) in Texas, U.S.A, from 2004 to 2024. Tick species were identified phenotypically or through DNA-based sequencing, and pathogens (Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp., Ehrlichia spp. Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Babesia microti) were detected using molecular assays. Submitter travel histories were cross-referenced with known tick geographic ranges to identify long-distance transport. We documented cases of intercontinental, international, and domestic interstate transport of ticks by human travellers. Four Ixodes ricinus ticks-originating from Europe-were transported to Texas; one tick carried Borrelia afzelii, a Lyme disease pathogen not endemic to North America. Central and South American Amblyomma species were repeatedly imported, raising concerns for pathogen transmission and tick establishment. Domestic travellers also carried Ixodes scapularis ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, Babesia microti, and A. phagocytophilum from Lyme-endemic regions of the U.S.A. to Texas, along with non-native species Ixodes pacificus, Dermacentor andersoni, and D. occidentalis from endemic areas in the western U.S.A. Long-distance transport of ticks by travellers represents an underrecognized pathway for the global spread of ticks and tick-borne pathogens. Clinicians should consider travel history in tick-borne illness diagnostics. Enhanced surveillance, public education, and travel screening are critical to mitigating these risks.

Environmental and Health Consequences of Pharmaceutical Disposal Methods: A Scoping Review.

The global rise in pharmaceutical production and consumption has led to an increase in pharmaceutical waste, posing significant risks to both public health and the environment. Improper disposal methods contribute to environmental degradation, including disruptions to aquatic ecosystems and the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Despite these growing concerns, a comprehensive review of pharmaceutical waste management and disposal practices is still lacking. To address this gap, a scoping review was conducted, analyzing 4269 records from three databases (Medline OVID, Web of Science, and Embase) and grey literature, with 67 studies ultimately included. The initial records were identified through a comprehensive search across the aforementioned databases using a structured strategy based on three core concepts: medication waste, disposal methods, and environmental or human health impacts. This was followed by a two-stage screening process guided by the PCC framework and predefined inclusion criteria. The review aims to assess disposal practices and their impacts, identify research gaps, and guide future research toward effective strategies for managing pharmaceutical waste while protecting ecological balance and public health. The publications timeline shows increasing interest in the topic, particularly with a surge in studies during 2022 and 2023. The findings reveal a significant regulatory gap, especially in the Global South, where limited infrastructure and public awareness lead to reliance on household waste disposal. In contrast, medication take-back programs are more common in the Global North. This disparity underscores the urgent need for policy development. Addressing pharmaceutical waste effectively requires coordinated efforts from the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare providers, regulatory bodies, and local communities. Key strategies should include regulatory action, public education, technological innovation, and addressing issues like drug misuse and overconsumption, particularly of antibiotics, which contribute to antimicrobial resistance. A holistic approach is essential to mitigate both environmental and public health risks.

Association between prenatal environmental tobacco smoke exposure and preterm birth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the global risk of preterm birth associated with passive smoking. Specifically, the study aims to examine whether passive smoking continues to impact preterm birth rates, with particular attention to the potential effects following the implementation of stricter smoking bans in recent years. This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines and was preregistered in PROSPERO. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science up to February 17, 2024, using keywords related to passive smoking and preterm birth. Eligible observational studies were selected, and data were independently extracted and assessed for quality by two authors. Statistical analysis used odds ratios (ORs) and the I2 statistic for heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses and publication bias assessments were conducted. Review Manager and Stata were used for the analysis, with significance set at p < 0.05. Meta-analysis showed a 21% increase in the odds of preterm birth in women exposed to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.10-1.32) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 76.2%). Stronger associations were found in cohort and cross-sectional studies, studies in Asia, larger sample sizes, and recent publications. Findings were robust across various analyses. Prenatal environmental tobacco smoke exposure significantly increases preterm birth risk. Effective public health interventions, including stringent smoke-free policies, public education, and awareness campaigns, are needed to reduce environmental tobacco smoke exposure and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

Criminal Policy on Countering Organized Crime Against Land Ownership in the Perspective of Criminal Law Reform

This research aims to analyze the countermeasures of organized criminal acts related to land ownership in Indonesia and analyze criminal policies to overcome these criminal acts in the future from the perspective of criminal law reform. The method used is a normative juridical method, which examines library materials and secondary data related to legislation and literature relevant to the problem under study. The novelty of this research lies in the clarity of the function of the Land Mafia Task Force attached to each institution, which aims to avoid sectoral ego. The results show that the settlement of land mafia cases is carried out using penal and non-penal approaches. The penal settlement serves as a catalyst for strict law enforcement, while the non-penal approach focuses on preventive efforts. Although countermeasures against organized crime have been implemented by involving Law Enforcement Officials and the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency through the Anti Land Mafia Task Force, this organized crime is still challenging to solve because it is carried out in a structured and organized manner. The conclusion of this research is that legal reform is needed to tackle this problem, which has the potential to cause huge losses and many victims. The suggested legal reform is to prioritize non-penal policies that are sustainable through cooperation between relevant stakeholders. Thus, overcoming organized crime against land ownership can be done thoroughly, starting from prevention through public education and prosecution of perpetrators to recovery of losses for victims and closing the space for new, more varied crimes.

How does digital economy achieve inclusive economic growth with efficiency, equity and green? International evidence

PurposeInclusive economic growth with efficiency, equity and green escorts the sustainable development of the global economy. The purpose of this study is to provide international evidence regarding the influence of the digital economy on inclusive economic growth.Design/methodology/approachBased on data from 98 countries from 2000 to 2020, this study analyzes the direct impact, transmission mechanism and moderating effect of the digital economy on inclusive green growth in the global economy through the system generalized method of moments model.FindingsThe digital economy promotes inclusive green growth, particularly in middle- and high-income countries (Europe, the Americas and Asia–Pacific). Key mechanisms include technological innovation and industrial structure optimization while better public institutions and education enhance its impact.Research limitations/implicationsThis study offers global guidance on leveraging digital trends for inclusive green growth, maximizing the digital dividend and mobilizing resources effectively.Originality/valueThis study expands the framework for analyzing economic growth in the digital economy and offers fresh insights into understanding their relationship.

Navigating stigma and somatization: a qualitative exploration of mental health experiences among middle-aged adults in rural China

This study investigated the experiences of stigma and somatization among middle-aged adults with mental health issues. Using frameworks of public stigma, self-stigma, affiliate stigma, and somatization (both presenting and functional), the study explores how individuals navigate the stigma associated with mental health. Interviews were conducted with middle-aged adults in rural areas, and the data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to gain insights into their lived experiences. The findings reveal that mental health stigma in rural China significantly influences how individuals express mental distress, often leading to somatization. Patients tend to frame their mental health issues in terms of physical symptoms, such as headaches or fatigue, to avoid stigma. The study also highlights the role of cultural norms in shaping these expressions, particularly within the context of close-knit rural communities where mental health issues is stigmatized. The implications for education and policy are discussed, emphasizing the need for improved public mental health education and more equitable distribution of healthcare resources between urban and rural areas. This study contributes to the understanding of mental health stigma in rural China and offers practical suggestions for addressing mental health challenges in underserved communities.

A methodological framework for assessing development solutions: application to wood fuel challenges in Nigeria

Development interventions often yield co-benefits and trade-offs across multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, current approaches typically assess progress towards specific SDG targets, such as increasing access to clean energy or improving health outcomes, rather than evaluating the co-benefits and trade-offs of the solutions used to achieve these targets. This study introduces a solutions-oriented methodology to assess the impacts of development solutions, applied to the case of wood fuel cooking-related challenges in Nigeria. Using a rapid evidence assessment and stakeholder workshop, we identify co-benefits, trade-offs, and barriers associated with 13 wood fuel-related solutions, classified into three types: enhancing fuelwood availability, adopting alternative technologies, and implementing external interventions. We find solutions that increase wood fuel availability can address environmental and social issues, but not health challenges, while alternative fuels/technologies face affordability, market, and cultural acceptance barriers. We highlight data limitations and propose an iterative process to comprehensively evaluate solutions’ impacts. This process facilitates context-specific, cross-sectoral planning but underscores that no universal solution exists. Successful interventions require multi-sector collaboration, public education, and strengthened governance to balance competing priorities and ensure equitable outcomes. By advancing solutions-based approaches, this study contributes to integrating SDG interactions into practical, evidence-informed policy and programming.

Factors associated with antibiotic use patterns in Thailand after COVID-19

The misuse of antibiotics has become a significant problem in Thailand and was particularly exacerbated after the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased access to antibiotics during the pandemic has led to a heightened risk of irrational antibiotic use. This study aimed to analyze the relationships and identify factors associated with antibiotic usage behavior among the Thai population. To examine the factors influencing antibiotic use behavior in Thailand post-COVID-19 and to provide recommendations for targeted interventions. This study utilized secondary data from the 2021 health and welfare survey conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand. A total sample of 25,833 individuals was analyzed using multiple logistic regression, adjusting for covariates including demographic factors, health status, and healthcare utilization patterns. The key factors influencing antibiotic use included experiencing illness (adjusted OR: 6.74, 95% CI: 6.11–7.44), sustaining injuries from accidents (adjusted OR: 2.84, 95% CI: 2.19–3.67), receiving dental care (adjusted OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.25–1.66), and illness without hospital admission (adjusted OR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.23–2.10). Additionally, knowledge of antibiotic use was significantly associated with antibiotic use behavior, with those having low knowledge showing higher odds of antibiotic use compared to those with high knowledge (adjusted OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 2.32–3.27). The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address inappropriate antibiotic use. The government and relevant agencies should promote health awareness and literacy, develop effective medication, and implement stricter regulations to minimize the adverse effects of antibiotic misuse. Enhanced public education and ensuring access to accurate information from healthcare professionals are essential for mitigating the threat of antimicrobial resistance in Thailand.

Knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and practices toward Parkinson’s disease among the general population in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundParkinson’s disease is a progressive disease that causes damage to parts of the brain, especially the substantia nigra. It is the most common motor brain condition.ObjectiveTo investigate the knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and practices toward Parkinson’s disease among the general population in Saudi Arabia.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia from July 20 to November 20, 2024, targeting adults aged 18 years and older. Participants (n = 385) were randomly selected via social media platforms, using a bilingual (Arabic and English) online questionnaire. The survey included demographics, knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and practices. Data was analyzed using SPSS (version 28), with ethical approval obtained.ResultsA total of 330 participants were surveyed, mostly young (292, 88.5% aged 18–24), female (269, 81.5%), and students (281, 85.2%). Nearly half (162, 49.1%) had heard of PD, but only 81 (24.5%) showed good knowledge, with misconceptions about causes and treatment. Commonly recognized symptoms included hand tremors (292, 88.5%) and poor balance (210, 63.6%), while awareness of non-motor symptoms was low. Most participants (319, 96.7%) supported public education, and 310 (93.9%) recommended social support for PD patients.ConclusionThis study emphasizes the lack of public knowledge and awareness regarding Parkinson’s disease, its symptoms, and its causes in Saudi Arabia. The results highlight the need for educational efforts to improve understanding and address misconceptions.CategoriesNeuroscience.

Evaluating the impact of the Assistant in Medicine (AiM) program on medical workforce efficiency and preparedness in NSW, Australia

The Assistant in Medicine (AiM) program allows selected final-year medical students to take on more responsibility while also supporting the junior doctor workforce. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the AiM program on current medical staff, including junior doctors, registrars and consultants working in public teaching hospitals on NSW’s Central Coast. Furthermore, it aimed to investigate the effect of this AiM program on final-year medical students, their learning and the transition to internship. This cross-sectional study surveyed a select group of 75 medical officers and all 28 final-year medical students employed as AiMs on the Central Coast during July– September 2023. Of the medical officers surveyed, 53.3% felt that they were able to see more, or substantially more, patients on a shift where they had an AiM present and 71.8% felt that a shift with an AiM present was more or substantially more enjoyable than one without. Our results also show that the AiM program allowed doctors to focus on higher-level tasks and to find more enjoyment in their shifts, which may be beneficial in reducing the high rates of burnout seen in the current junior doctor cohort. The entire cohort of student respondents indicated that the AiM position helped them to feel more prepared for internship, with 95% feeling more integrated into the team, indicating enhanced clinical readiness. Furthermore, this study indicates that all the final-year medical students participating in the AiM program on the Central Coast found the program to be beneficial to their learning, increasing their exposure to clinical skills and better preparing them for internship. Limitations of this study include a low response rate from doctors working in the local health district and the limited ability to explore qualitative data within the current study design.

Co-creating inclusive public services with customers experiencing vulnerability

Purpose Service inclusion empowers customers to self-determine their life and future. Using the motivation-opportunity-ability framework and a strengths-based approach to vulnerability, this study aims to examine the lived experience of secondary school students experiencing vulnerability to better understand how they are motivated, provided the opportunity and able to co-create an inclusive mass public education service. Design/methodology/approach Twenty secondary school students who attend high school in a low socioeconomic area undertook semi-structured interviews and co-design activities to investigate how customers experiencing vulnerability co-create value in public secondary education services. This grounded theory approach used inductive-deductive thematic analysis to analyse interviews transcript and data artefacts from the co-design activities. Findings The results show that customers experiencing vulnerability in public secondary education services are intrinsically motivated to co-create inclusive services. Customers provided with opportunities to co-create will use their agency to drive co-creation, perceiving that they are competent to co-create when drawing on past practices and being facilitated by structured freedom. Co-creation is supported by a sense of belonging but impeded by a range of micro-, meso- and macro-level barriers. Customers that co-create inclusive services are subsequently more likely to exhibit engagement. Originality/value This research provides empirical evidence to support transformative service research theorising that enabling opportunities and offering choice leads to more inclusive service experiences for customers experiencing vulnerability. Perceptions of service captivity can also be improved by co-creation.

Towards A Modern Waqf Management Model: Optimizing the Utilization of Waqf Potential in Islamic Countries

Waqf is one of the Islamic social finance instruments with immense potential to support the economic development of the ummah through sustainable long-term assets. The concept of perpetual waqf (mu’abbad) emphasizes the principle of asset perpetuity to provide continuous benefits to society, particularly in the sectors of education, agriculture, healthcare, and social welfare. In various Islamic countries, including Indonesia, waqf has significantly contributed to poverty alleviation and the improvement of social well-being. However, its implementation in Indonesia still faces challenges, such as suboptimal management, limited public awareness, and insufficient adoption of technology.This study employs a literature review method to explore the potential of waqf in Indonesia and other Islamic countries while examining modern waqf management models implemented in developed countries such as Egypt, Turkey, and Jordan. The findings indicate that professionalized management, technological integration, and public education are crucial for maximizing waqf’s contribution as a modern economic instrument. Additionally, to optimize the benefits of waqf as a perpetual economic instrument, several modern waqf management models are proposed, including istibdal (asset substitution), investment (istismar), transforming direct waqf into productive waqf, leasing of waqf assets, waqf-based financing, and the Benefit, Opportunity, Cost, and Risk (BOCR) analysis.

Exploring the Biotechnological Future of Genetically Modified (GM) Crops in U.S. Agriculture: Regulatory Challenges, Scientific Foundations, and Pathways Forward

The development of genetically modified (GM) crops have revolutionized U.S. agriculture by enhancing crop productivity and sustainability. However, there is a strong global consensus on the safety of GM crops-evidenced by over 4,400 risk assessments confirming no significant difference in risk between GM and non-GM crops, yet there are substantial societal, scientific, and governmental obstacles to the future expansion and integration of GM crops. This review looks at the current state of GM crop biotechnology in the U.S., focusing on the legal frameworks that control its development, the scientific discoveries that spur innovation, and the critical challenges that need addressing to ensure continued progress. The article outlines the foundational science behind GM technologies, including gene editing, precision breeding and transgenic approaches, which have made it possible to produce crop types that are more resilient and sustainable. Furthermore, the review covers the changing regulatory environment, with special attention to the difficulties in navigating federal regulations, public perception challenges, ethical considerations, and worries about the effects on the environment and human health. Lastly, the article proposes potential pathways forward, emphasizing the necessity of regulatory change, public and policymaker education, and research funding to realize the full potential of GM crops. By addressing these challenges, U.S. agriculture can continue to benefit from biotechnological advancements while maintaining safety, sustainability, and global competitiveness in the agricultural sector.

LEGAL CONSEQUENCES RELATED TO NON-NOTARY BINDING SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS (PPJB) ON LEGAL CERTAINTY IN LAND SALE AND PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS (CASE STUDY NUMBER 31/Pdt.G/2024/PN Sbr)

Abstract. Background. PPJB or Sale and Purchase Binding Agreement is a legal tool used for land purchase and sale transactions in Indonesia. With the existence of PPJB, the parties get the opportunity to bind the initial agreement before officially implementing the Deed of Sale and Purchase (AJB) in front of the Land Deed Making Officer (PPAT). Aims. This study examines the legal consequences of Non-Notarial and Notarial Sale and Purchase Binding Agreements (PPJB) in land sale transactions in Indonesia. Despite its frequent use, Non-Notarial PPJB has legal weaknesses, particularly in terms of evidentiary strength. Conversely, Notarial PPJB is considered stronger legally, as it is an authentic deed recognized under Article 1870 of the Indonesian Civil Code (KUHPerdata). Methods. Through Case Study No. 31/Pdt.G/2024/PN Sbr, this research identifies that in disputes, judges tend to favor parties holding Notarial PPJBs, which are viewed as more compliant with formal legal requirements. Result. The findings suggest that Notarial PPJB offers higher legal certainty and minimizes the potential for disputes. Hence, society must know the legal consequences of using PPJB in land sale transactions. Additionally, increasing public awareness and education regarding the importance of Notarial PPJB is recommended as a means of optimal legal protection. Conclusion. This emphasizes the importance of public understanding of legal aspects in preparing PPJB, especially in land purchase and sale transactions that involve significant economic value and have the potential for complex legal conflicts. Implementation. PPJB notarial is highly recommended to minimize the risk of future disputes and provide more optimal legal protection for all parties involved. It is hoped that the government can increase socialization about the importance of notarial PPJB and provide education about the legal risks that may arise from using non-notarial PPJB.

The Role of the Government and Innovation of Policy Tools in the Governance of Smart Education: An Interdisciplinary Analysis Based on Public Administration and Education Studie

In the current era of rapid advancement in information technology, smart education has become a key trend in the transformation of the education field. This study ingeniously integrates the unique perspectives of public administration and education science to conduct in-depth exploration of the roles played by the government and the innovation of policy tools in the process of smart education governance. Firstly, it comprehensively reviews the theoretical foundation upon which smart education governance is based, and then clearly defines the core functions of the government as a policy maker, resource allocator, and supervisor and evaluator. During the research process, it was keenly observed that in the current practice of smart education governance, there are a series of problems such as deviations in role positioning, obstacles in policy implementation, and low efficiency of collaborative governance. In terms of policy tool application, there are also many difficulties such as unreasonable structure, poor adaptability to actual situations, and insufficient innovation motivation. By using the literature research method, a large amount of materials were extensively consulted, and at the same time, the case analysis method was employed to deeply analyze the typical successful cases of smart education governance both at home and abroad, absorbing valuable experiences from them. Based on this, it is proposed that the government should reshape its role, transforming from an all-encompassing comprehensive type to a service-oriented one, strengthening policy implementation efforts, and actively promoting the collaborative governance model. At the same time, efforts should be made to innovate policy tools, optimize their structure, and enhance their compatibility with actual needs, constantly promoting innovation at the form and content levels.

Outsourcing Mental Health Programs: Harms to Public Education and to Students

Students are experiencing high levels of stress and mental health distress and are at greater risk of suicide, resulting in calls to provide appropriate mental health supports in schools. In response, provincial governments are outsourcing K–12 mental health supports to private organizations (both non- and for-profit). Through a review of Manitoba education documents, we traced over 50 private organizations recommended by the provincial government and over $8.9 million of public money spent on these programs. Situated within the broader neo-liberal trend of the privatization of public education, we then used a critical policy analysis approach to analyze these programs’ content, explicating the ways in which these outsourced programs endorse the deprofessionalization of the teacher and the self-responsibilization of students while enlisting problematic content. We argue that outsourcing ultimately undermines education as a public good and recommend holding governments accountable, developing research-informed mental health supports, and implementing a critical assessment process when considering outsourcing to private organizations.

Cyber Crime and impact of social media on the society

Abstract In the age of digital connectivity, cybercrime has become a pervasive threat, with social media platforms emerging as both a tool for engagement and a potential vector for attacks. This research paper explores the complex relationship between cybercrime and the societal impact of social media, emphasizing the significance of social engineering in the context of cybersecurity. Social engineering, where attackers manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information, has become a major concern, especially as more personal details are shared online. The paper examines how social media’s widespread use can unintentionally increase vulnerability to cyber threats, making users prime targets for phishing, scams, and identity theft. By analysing recent case studies and trends in cyber-attacks, the study highlights the growing sophistication of these threats and the challenges they pose to individuals and organizations alike. Furthermore, the paper underscores the importance of safeguarding personal information on social media, offering practical recommendations for users to enhance their privacy and security. It argues that understanding the psychological tactics used in social engineering is crucial for improving cybersecurity practices and protecting individuals from becoming victims of cybercrime. The findings advocate for increased public awareness and education on safe social media use, as well as the development of robust security measures that can mitigate the risks associated with cybercrime. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the ongoing conversation about the role of cybersecurity in the digital era, particularly in the context of social media’s profound influence on modern society.

Quantification of health risk due to poor sanitation infrastructure in slums of urban Khulna, Bangladesh

ABSTRACT Slums worldwide, from Africa to Asia, face inadequate infrastructure, fostering health crises, and hindering progress toward sustainable development goals related to clean water and sanitation. Densely populated slums pose significant health risks due to poor waste management. This study examines the link between sanitation and health risks in 10 slums in Khulna, Bangladesh. The research evaluates 339 randomly selected households using a rapid assessment tool and a detailed survey, with ArcGIS aiding the sampling process. Findings reveal disparities in sanitation infrastructure, with private and public slums facing higher health risks than semi-public ones. About 70% of the slums have a composite risk score above 50%, and 40% are exposed to sanitation crises. Overall, the slums present medium-scale risks due to poor infrastructure, health hazards, and vulnerability. Addressing these challenges requires tackling hazards, exposure, and vulnerability, enhancing access to safe water and sanitation, reducing waterborne diseases, and fostering resilient urban infrastructure. Policymakers should invest in sanitation infrastructure, promote public health education, and implement action plans to improve living conditions in Khulna’s slums.