Relevant Authorities Research Articles

Negative impact of online gambling problematic in disabled and non-disabled university students: exploring the risk profile.

The rise of online gambling has brought about significant concerns, particularly regarding its impact on university students. This issue becomes even more complex when considering students with disabilities. This research examines the gambling profile and beliefs of university students based on whether they have a disability. In turn, it seeks to identify if there is a typology of at-risk gamblers according to the disability variable. Finally, it aims to find out the prevalence of gambling among students depending on whether they have a disability and the typology of at-risk gambler. A total of 704 university students (135 with disabilities and 569 without disabilities) completed the NODS Belief Questionnaire to assess problems associated with gambling and to generate a typological grouping of risk gamblers, as well as a questionnaire designed specifically for the gambler profile. It was found that a small percentage of participants engage in gambling on a daily basis, with a higher frequency among students with disabilities. In addition, it was observed that the behavior and concern about financial expenditure on gambling interferes with their daily activities and is a cause for concern, with higher risk being observed to a greater extent in students with disabilities. These data suggest the importance for universities and relevant authorities to address these problems comprehensively, providing adequate resources for students with disabilities and promoting a culture of wellbeing that discourages problematic gambling activities and encourages healthy alternatives for entertainment and stress management.

Newborn community health advancements among Ethiopian Orthodox Christian women in North Gondar, Ethiopia: community-based randomised trial protocol

IntroductionDespite significant progress over past decades, neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality remain unacceptably high in Ethiopia. Simple interventions have been shown to improve the health of children and reduce...

Pengaruh Fasilitas dan Citra Destinasi Wisata Terhadap Peningkatan Kepuasan Wisatawan di Karst Tubing Sedayu

The tourism sector in Bantul Regency has so far only highlighted ecotourism-based tourist destinations in the form of beaches, pine forests, and sand dunes. Sedayu Karst Tubing is part of an ecotourism-based tourist destination, but the number of visitors is not as many as other ecotourism-based tourist destinations in Bantul Regency. Therefore, enhancing tourist satisfaction is essential to boost the number of visitors to Karst Tubing Sedayu. Thus, this research aims to find out how the facilities and image of tourist destinations influence increasing tourist satisfaction. Researchers used quantitative methods with a comparative causal research type, and this research produced the statement that facilities had an effect on increasing tourist satisfaction, as well as that the image of tourist destinations had an effect on increasing tourist satisfaction. Therefore, we can draw the conclusion that both the facilities and the tourist destination's image significantly influence the increase in tourist satisfaction. However, it would be beneficial if the management and the relevant government collaborated to enhance the quality of the Sedayu Karst Tubing tourist destination. This would foster a greater sense of satisfaction among tourists, thereby potentially increasing the number of visits to Sedayu Karst Tubing, Bantul Regency.

Research on the Motivation and Effect of Corporate Spin-Offs and Listings Based on Hai Di Lao's Spin-off of Super Hi

With the continuous development of the capital market, some listed companies select the spin-off listing method, diving some of their businesses into relatively independent subsidiaries and going public, aiming to better meet the development strategies of companies and the needs of the capital market. This paper aims to analyze the motivation and economic benefits of listed companies choosing a spin-off listing, in order to consider the conditions and significance of spin-off listing and provide reference suggestions for enterprises in the capital market and relevant government departments. This article takes Hai Di Lao splitting Super Hi as an example to study the motives behind the split and analyzes the economic benefits that the split brings to both the parent firm and subsidiary. Spin-off listing is an important measure for enterprises in the capital market. Finally, the paper provides reference suggestions for other firms in need in the capital market to choose spin-off listing cautiously and for the China Securities Regulatory Commission to regulate the behavior of spin-off listing.

The effect of economic downturn, financial hardship, unemployment, and relevant government responses on suicide.

Economic circumstances and related factors, including unemployment and poverty, can have substantial effects on suicide rates. This relationship applies in all countries, irrespective of their World Bank income status or level of development. Therefore, means of mitigating such influences are essential components of strategies to reduce suicides. In this Series paper, we consider examples of such initiatives, including national policies to try to reduce the effect of economic downturns, efforts to maintain employment and avoid damaging austerity measures, maintenance of reasonable minimum wage levels, and specific policies to assist those most affected by poverty. We also highlight upstream measures such as investment in transport infrastructure, industries, and retraining programmes. Positive public health messaging that encourages coping, together with discouragement of media stories with messages that could contribute to hopelessness in those experiencing economic difficulties, can also be important components of strategies to try to reduce the effect of economic downturn on suicide.

Effectiveness of the use of the school budget activity plan application in managing school operational assistance funds at Elementary School Number 1 Abiansemal in 2024

The management system for school operational assistance funds has evolved to in- corporate information and communication technology through the School Budget Activity Plan Application, commonly referred to as ARKAS. The Ministry of Ed- ucation, Culture, Research, and Technology developed the ARKAS innovation to facilitate the management of school operational assistance funds received by each educational institution. This study aims to understand why the effectiveness of using the School Budget Activity Plan application at Elementary School Number 1 Abi- ansemal has not yet been optimized. A qualitative method was employed to explore information about the phenomenon, supported by a descriptive approach, which en- abled the creation of relationships with informants, allowing the researcher to obtain new data. The data sources were obtained from interviews and documents related to the research. Data collection was conducted through documentation, interviews, and observation at the research location. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of this study indicate that the suboptimal effectiveness in using the School Budget Activity Plan application for managing school operational assistance funds at Elementary School Number 1 Abiansemal is due to insufficient dissemination by relevant authorities regarding the understanding of ARKAS and inadequate supporting infrastructure. However, improvements in several components are necessary to enhance the effective- ness of managing school operational assistance funds through ARKAS. This includes the need for training and socialization to improve understanding of ARKAS usage in terms of planning, reporting, and realization, as well as creating synergy between school operators and district operators to ensure that the information conveyed is easily understood.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria

The purpose of this study was to investigate how information and communication technology (ICT) contributes to the growth of entrepreneurship in Nigeria. When it comes to the broad acceptance of social media and digital apps, ICT plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of entrepreneurial endeavours. A desk research strategy was used, and literature on the effects of ICT on the growth of entrepreneurship was examined. According to the report, there is a plethora of potential for youth empowerment, employability, and general employment when ICT is applied to business growth. A lack of proper entrepreneurship orientation, inconsistent power supplies, inadequate ICT infrastructure, a lack of skilled technicians and technologists, poor access to financing, and poor marketing abilities were among the difficult factors that the study also uncovered. These were obstacles that any aspiring business owner had to overcome to ensure the sustainability of an existing venture. The report suggested, among other things, that given the critical role that ICT plays in the creation of entrepreneurial possibilities, the government and other stakeholders should create an environment that is supportive of the development of ICT infrastructure to support the growth of entrepreneurship. Furthermore, training facilities in ICT should be provided by relevant government agencies and networth stakeholders to increase the efficiency of the country’s entrepreneurs, enabling them to acquire relevant technical and technological skills needed to expand output, maintain existing customers, gain access to wider markets, and improve their entrepreneurial activities generally, particularly in terms of the development of new products for solving societal problems in the country.

Assessment of potential health impact of volatile organic compounds of underground water samples around fuel station in Okinni area Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria

Levels and potential toxicity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analyzed in underground water from six locations near a fuel station in Okinni, Osun State, Nigeria. Samples were collected and analyzed using standard procedures. A total number of seven VOCs were detected with varying concentrations, they were: benzene, toluene, chlorobenzene, ethylbenzene, m, p-xylene, o-xylene, and dichloromethane. One-way ANOVA results showed a significant difference (p < 0.5) in VOC concentrations across locations. Most VOCs exceeded USEPA and WHO threshold values, indicating contamination likely from fuel station leachates, as suggested by the low toluene to benzene ratio (T/B < 2). Odour Hazard Index (OHI) values were below 1 in all but location 3, where m,p-xylene, and o-xylene levels were 0.921 and 1.105, respectively, implying that the water from location 3 was not safe given the odour risk assessment.. Carcinogenic risks were more significant through ingestion than dermal contact. Non-carcinogenic risk values were within safe limits except in location 3. Consequently, using the borehole water from location 3 for domestic activities could expose the people of these communities to serious health issues. Therefore, there is a need for urgent attention from the relevant authorities to safeguard the health of this populace.

Poor Adherence and Limited Treatment Support are Risk Factors for Second Line Treatment Failure among HIV Children Under 15 Years, 2022: A Case Control Study

Title: Poor adherence and limited treatment support are risk factors associated with second line treatment failure among children under 15 years at Victoria Chitepo provincial hospital, 2022: a case control study. Background: New HIV resistance mutations have been emerging and frequently changing. HIV positive people switching to third line have been increasing in Manicaland Province. Third line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) combinations are not always available. We sort to determine the factors associated with second line treatment failure among HIV positive patients. Methods: We conducted a 1:1 unmatched case-control study among 107 case-control pairs. A case was any HIV positive individual with treatment failure confirmed by 2 viral load of ≥1000 copies/ml while a control was any HIV positive individual with a viral load of &lt;1000/ml copies; on second line therapy at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital (VCPH), in 2022. Systematic random sampling was used to select cases and controls from the line-list. Administered questionnaires were used to ascertain risk factors to second line treatment failure. Patient booklets were reviewed for demographic and clinical characteristics. Frequencies, means, medians and odds ratios were generated. Multivariate analysis and stratified analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors. Permission to proceed was sought from relevant authorities and all ethical considerations were observed. Results: Defaulting treatment (aOR=2.42, 95% CI: 1.03-5.93), missing a viral load test (aOR=5.52, 95% CI: 2.30-13.26) and being under 15 years of age (aOR=6.18, 95% CI: 1.46-26.20) were independent risk factors associated with second line treatment failure. Having a treatment support was an independent protective factor (aOR=0.30, 95% CI: 0.10-0.86). Conclusion: Poor adherence is the key drive to second line treatment failure. Good adherence is critical in children under 15 years. Treatment support promotes viral load suppression.

Green innovation imperative for natural resource-driven sustainable economic recovery: Linking rights Structure, corporate social responsibility, and renewable energy contracts

This study examines the complex relationships necessary for a sustainable economic recovery, focusing on the interplay between contracts for renewable energy, natural resource use, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and rights frameworks. Motivated by the increasing scrutiny of environmental practices, this research aims to highlight the need for sustainable business models during the transition to a more environmentally sensitive economy. The study area encompasses diverse sectors where CSR goals can be aligned with renewable energy project frameworks through natural resource utilization. Methodologies include a novel composite CSR evaluation indicator designed to complement industry rankings and a thorough analysis of CSR within the mining industry. Results demonstrate how aligning CSR with renewable energy initiatives can reshape profit models for stakeholders and emphasize the changing green product market as a catalyst for economic resurgence. Recommendations in the area of policies focus on the reasoned utilization of natural resources and the application of innovations following the principles of CSR. This research provides critical guidance to relevant authorities and institutions charged with ethical responsibility, ensuring the proper utilization and implementation of renewable energy sources to create a more ecological future based on green technology and sustainable resource management.

Yearly variations of water-soluble ions over Xi'an, China: Insight into the importance contribution of nitrate to PM2.5

Water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs) in PM2.5 play an important role in the formation of air pollution, which in turn affects climate change and human health. The formation pathways and factors influencing WSIIs have received extensive attention. Here, we analyzed the contents of nine WSIIs in PM2.5, collected from 2015 to 2021 in Xi'an City, China, with the aim of investigating long-term atmospheric pollution changes. Sulfate (SO42−), nitrate (NO3−), and ammonium (NH4+) together contributed to 66.8%–88.1% and Ca2+ accounted for 5.1%–13.1% of total WSIIs. The relative content of SO42− exhibited a gradually decreasing trend (from 49.80% in 2015 to 29.98% in 2021), whereas NO3− was increased in the same time period (from 13.96% in 2015 to 29.92% in 2021). In addition, the nitrogen oxidation rate showed an annual increase in this period, whereas the sulfur oxidation rate decreased, and their fitted curves intersected in 2019. The key finding of this study is that the air pollution pattern in Xi'an has changed from sulfate-dominated to nitrate-dominated particles, as evidenced by the feature importance results of the random forest model. We propose that more attention should be paid to vehicle emissions and road dust as pollution sources. Overall, the findings of this study serve as a useful reference to aid relevant authorities in devising more effective policies for controlling PM2.5 pollution at its source.

Inclusive Innovation Governance for Just Transitions: Insights from the Bean Agri-Food System in the Brunca Region of Costa Rica

This study explores how an inclusive governance of “niche” innovations with family farmers enables or limits the realization of just transitions in family farming at different scales, from the local to the national levels. The research focuses on a case study in the Brunca region of Costa Rica, which has pioneered innovations for bean research with family farmers. The primary source of information for the study was in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders. Secondary information comes from a desk review of the relevant policies and strategic documents from the relevant authorities. Lastly, a semi-scoping review was conducted to explore gender and intergenerational gaps in plant breeding, as well as potential conflicts between plant breeding and on-farm agro-diversity. The inclusive governance of bean research contributes to the realization of just-transition dimensions of justice, such as recognitional, procedural, and distributional justice, as a result of farmers’ engagement in participatory plant-breeding processes, and due to the coordination between different institutions at the local and national levels. Progress has been made in terms of the recognition and participation of farmers in research and in decision-making locally. The findings show interactions between the local and national scales, in terms of the commercialization of farmers’ seeds. However, the Costa Rican program for bean research struggles to engage family farmers in national decision-making processes and falls short of addressing equality and intergenerational issues. It also faces challenges in reaching a balance between short-term income generation and long-term conservation of agro-biodiversity on the farm. Fostering just transitions in family farming would require a greater inclusion of women and youth by the Costa Rican bean system. This implies allocating resources to increase their capacities and participation in bean research, as well as in decision-making at all levels. This is imperative and could be achieved if the government and relevant stakeholders align their strategic objectives and priorities to shorten gender and intergenerational gaps within the bean production system.

Research on government regulation methods for the spatial layout of retail pharmacies: practice in Shanghai, China

BackgroundIn China, retail pharmacies are critical sources for obtaining medications and play a vital role in residents’ daily access to drugs and treatment of common illnesses. Effectively guiding the placement of these pharmacies in areas of need through government regulation is crucial for enhancing medication access. In this study, we used population and retail pharmacy spatial distribution data from Shanghai to design guidance and supplementary methods for optimizing the spatial layout of retail pharmacies and medical insurance designated pharmacies based on regional characteristics.MethodsPopulation distribution, road traffic network, administrative division and retail pharmacy data from Shanghai in 2018 were collected from relevant government departments. ArcGIS 10.3 was used to map the retail pharmacies and population distribution. Based on the spatial distribution of population and the service standards of pharmacies, service circles with insufficient pharmacies were identified, and supplementary methods for retail pharmacies and medical insurance designated pharmacies were developed.ResultsIn 2018, Shanghai had 3009 retail pharmacies, each serving an average of 6412 residents. The city was divided into 2188 basic pharmaceutical service circles, each within a 15-minute walking distance. The results indicated that there were 1387 service circles without any pharmacies, 151 of which had populations exceeding 5000. Additionally, 356 service circles had pharmacies but lacked medical insurance designated ones. After supplementation, 841 retail pharmacies were planned to be added in residential areas. Compared with before, the coverage area and population served of the pharmacies increased significantly.ConclusionsThis study mapped the spatial distribution of population and retail pharmacies in Shanghai, and designed government guidance and supplementary methods for optimizing the layout of retail pharmacies. The findings offer valuable insights for government agencies in low- and middle-income countries to improve the spatial distribution of retail pharmacies.

CHILDREN’S INDEPENDENT MOBILITY TO SCHOOL IN MALAYSIA

The concept of children’s independent mobility encourages children to participate in physical activity through active transportation. Children’s Independent Mobility (CIM) is defined as the freedom for children to move around their surrounding neighbourhood without supervised by an adult supervision. Currently, there are some concerns about the decline in children's levels of physical activity. Increased reliance on automobiles for children's daily transportation can have negative effects on the environment, as well as increase the level of childhood obesity, and reduce their sense of independence. Research suggests that independent mobility to school is an essential component of a balanced childhood, and it has positive impacts on various aspects of children's lives, such as physical health, social skills, and cognitive development. However, very few practical studies address the association between children`s independent mobility and school specifically. Investigating CIM in the specific context of children's mobility to school is important because commuting between home and school is a major issue in active school travel. Adopting literature reviews as an approach, this paper will outline some recommendations that can be used by the relevant authorities in implementing pedestrian policies and guidelines for school children based on school accessibility and connectivity to promote CIM. From the literature reviews, this paper establishes a conceptual framework for the promotion of CIM to schools in the Malaysian context. It was found that most residential areas and school surroundings in Malaysia are responsive to children`s needs but parents` mindsets hinder this concept to be successfully done.

The Impact of Bullying in the Perspective of Positive Law: A Case Study of Handling and Prevention in the Campus Environment

Bullying is a significant problem that can occur in various environments, including among students. This study aims to conduct an in-depth exploration of how positive law regulates and deals with bullying crimes in the campus environment of Universitas Faletehan. The findings show that victims of bullying at the university often experience negative impacts such as stress, anxiety, and depression. The results from the study highlight the specific challenges faced by campus security or relevant authorities in enforcing the law against bullying cases, which directly affect the implementation of justice. In addition, the findings highlight the need for a more sensitive and responsive approach to the psychological needs of victims, as well as increased knowledge and support for mental health in the university environment. These findings emphasize the need to develop more comprehensive and proactive policies in addressing bullying, including more effective reporting mechanisms, collaboration with online platforms to remove harmful content, and better victim support programs.

Policies and cost analyses of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws – a mapping review & analysis

ObjectivesTo investigate the current literature on healthcare policies and cost analyses around international Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) laws. The study design is a mapping literature review following Preferred-Reporting-Items-for-Systematic-Reviews-and-Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.MethodsOriginal research articles published between January 1990 to March 2023, investigating the financial cost and healthcare budget effect of VAD laws internationally. Citations were screened for relevance and eligibility, and any non-full-text research that did not explore cost analysis was excluded. The following data sources were screened: MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and any relevant international health authority annual reports were also reviewed.ResultsOf the 2790 screened articles, eight studies met the inclusion criteria and three were included in the mapping review. The reviewed studies included prospective studies, two Canadian and one US. Only one of the Canadian studies provided a cost analysis using data from current VAD laws. All three studies showed VAD laws would reduce healthcare spending, with the US approximating $627million in 1995. Canada approximating $17.1 to $77.1million in 2017 and $86.9 to $149.0million in 2021, overall, leading to an average percentage reduction in costs of approximately 87% compared to original costs of end-of-life care.ConclusionThis review identifies a scarcity in cost-analysis literature and provides a summary of the latest international VAD laws, from which a potential cost reduction is apparent. The absence of retrospectively collated financial VAD data highlights a need for future research to inform policymakers of the economic factors affecting current policies with a need for annual fiscal reports and to optimise future legislative frameworks internationally.

Government funded suicide prevention in Australia – an environmental scan

BackgroundSuicide is a worldwide public health problem. In response to this problem, Australia was one of the first countries to develop national suicide prevention policy. Guided by the National Suicide Prevention Office (NSPO), which was established in 2021, suicide prevention in Australia is in a period of reform. The NSPO is driving a nationally consistent and integrated approach to suicide prevention including leading the development of a new National Suicide Prevention Strategy. This article summarises findings from an environmental scan of government-led suicide prevention in Australia, conducted as an input for the development of the new Strategy.MethodsThe scan was conducted from August 2022 to January 2023. We searched relevant government websites and Google to identify policy documents and programs and services. We undertook a desktop review of documents and programs/services using coding templates developed to address the objectives of the scan. Qualitative information was extracted in a systematic manner using these templates.ResultsAustralia’s suicide prevention efforts are significant as demonstrated by activities ranging from policy documents intended to guide and plan activity, the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement committing the Federal Government and jurisdictions to work together, and the availability of national, state, local area based, and digital services and programs. Suicide prevention approaches in Australia are mostly selective or indicated. There is less emphasis on universal approaches, wellbeing promotion, strengthening protective factors and mitigating the impact of known drivers of distress. In addition, there is limited evidence to demonstrate a whole-of-government or whole-of-system approach is operating in Australia. Findings should be interpreted in the context that suicide prevention in Australia is currently in a period of transition.ConclusionsCurrent government emphasis on and investment in suicide prevention activity, together with strong commitment to lived experience and cross sectorial collaboration, are substantial and appropriate. There are also many opportunities to further progress cross-portfolio and cross-jurisdiction suicide prevention and response efforts. This requires urgently adopting a shared understanding of suicide, which includes the diverse drivers of suicidal distress, and improving protective factors and social wellbeing.

Consumer confidence and cryptocurrency excess returns: A three-factor model

This study examined the relation between consumer confidence and cryptocurrency excess returns using a three-factor model of market, size and momentum. We analysed a dataset comprising 3318 cryptocurrencies from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2022 based on the CoinMarketCap website. Results indicate a significant negative relation between the United States Consumer Confidence Index and cryptocurrency excess returns. The findings were reinforced based on robustness tests. This study contributes to consumer behaviour research and financial management within the cryptocurrency market. It also provides valuable insights for investors to strengthen their investment portfolios and for relevant authorities seeking to formulate effective policies for monitoring the cryptocurrency market.

Assessing The Impact of Rising Cost of Materials On Construction Activities in Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria

This study focused on assessing the impact of rising cost of building materials on construction activities in Enugu, Enugu state, Nigeria. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of rising cost of materials on construction activities in Enugu, Nigeria in order to proffer a solution to the rise in the cost of these materials used in everyday construction in Enugu state. With the following objectives; to identify the factors that lead to increasing cost of material in Enugu State, Nigeria; to assess the impact of rising cost of materials on construction activities in Enugu; to proffer solutions to the rise in the cost of building materials. The research design employed was primary and secondary which encompasses descriptions and quantitative analysis on a randomly selected sample of receipt of building materials from the suppliers over the years. The population of the study is 223 professionals in the field and sample size of 143 which was gotten using Taro Yamane formula. The findings of the study reveals that the factors that lead to increasing cost on the building construction activities in Enugu State are; fluctuations in material costs, design changes and scope creep, regulatory compliance and permitting, project delays, weather and environmental factors, technology and innovation costs, interest rates and financing costs, and others. Finally, the study recommends that there will be need for relevant authorities in the building industry to re-examine and educate the people on its existence and equally generate the possible ways of reducing the increasing cost of building materials so as to enhance the building construction industry in Nigeria.

Advantages of the Location of the Bukit Batu Small and Medium Weaving Industry Center, Bengkalis Regency

The purpose of this study is to analyze the advantages of the location of the Weaving Small and Medium Industry (IKM) Center in Bukit Batu District. To achieve this goal, the research uses the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method as an analytical tool in decision-making and an alternative model for developing weaving SMIs in the Bukit Batu District—data analysis using quantitative methods. Primary data was collected through interviews with key informants from relevant government agencies. The results showed that Bukit Batu District, Bengkalis Regency, had the advantages of weight at a distance of 0.413, travel time of 0.443, type of transportation of 0.594, wage difference between locations of 0.540, company availability of 0.594, and reasonable shipping costs to consumers of 0.493. Considering these various aspects, this study can provide comprehensive recommendations for local governments and other stakeholders to develop and support the advantages of the Weaving IKM center in Bukit Batu District, Bengkalis Regency, to improve product competitiveness.