Socio-economic Considerations Research Articles

Tracing a caring transition policy for the German coal region Lusatia

Coal mining and generation adversely affect several ecosystems, including climate, water and land. On the other hand, questions of justice and socio-economic considerations of affected regions are crucial for a successful coal phase-out, underlining the need for a nexus perspective. This includes taking a gender perspective, which thus far has received relatively little attention. We contribute to closing this gap through our study on the coal region Lusatia in Germany, where an unprecedentedly high amount of money is spent to shape the regional transition. The allocation of these funds is the subject of a contentious debate about which societal needs are considered most urgent to be met. We conducted a critical discourse analysis examining relevant policy documents and analyzing dominant ideas about what a successful transition in Lusatia should look like. Based on feminist care theory and interviews with locally organized women, we show that concepts of care for humans and nonhumans are severely underdeveloped. To address this gap, we propose based on women’s emerging discourse four pillars of care work as social infrastructure that should be central to transition processes: (1) aftercare for social and ecological residuals of coal mining, (2) social cohesion, (3) democratic care services, and (4) caring democracy: democratic decision-making on how to care.

Integrating socioeconomic and ecological data into restoration practice.

Driven by the United Nations Decade on Restoration and international funding initiatives, such as the Mangrove Breakthrough, investment in mangrove restoration is expected to increase. Yet, mangrove restoration efforts frequently fail, usually because of ad hoc site-selection processes that do not consider mangrove ecology and the socioeconomic context. Using decision analysis, we developed an approach that accounts for socioeconomic and ecological data to identify sites with the highest likelihood of mangrove restoration success. We applied our approach in the Biosphere Reserve Marismas Nacionales Nayarit, Mexico, an area that recently received funding for implementing mangrove restoration actions. We identified 468 potential restoration sites, assessed their restorability potential based on socioeconomic and ecological metrics, and ranked sites for implementation with spatial optimization. The metrics we used included favorable conditions for propagules to establish and survive under sea-level rise, provision of ecosystem services, and community dynamics. Sites that were selected based on socioeconomic or ecological metrics alone had lower likelihood of mangrove restoration success than sites that were selected based on integrated socioeconomic and ecological metrics. For example, selecting sites based on only socioeconomic metrics captured 16% of the maximum attainable value of functioning mangroves able to provide propagules to potential restoration sites, whereas selecting sites based on ecological and socioeconomic metrics captured 46% of functioning mangroves. Our approach was developed as part of a collaboration between nongovernmental organizations, local government, and academics under rapid delivery time lines given preexisting mangrove restoration implementation commitments. The systematic decision process we used integrated socioeconomic and ecological considerations even under short delivery deadlines, and our approach can be adapted to help mangrove restoration site-selection decisions elsewhere.

Effectiveness of Community Forest Management as an Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Strategy in the Context of Nepal

Objectives: This study attempted to explore the effectiveness of community forest (CF) management as an ecosystem based adaptation (EbA) strategy in combating and adapting with the climate change impacts upon local ecosystems and communities. Method: In order to identify EbA options, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, governance and socioeconomic function of CF were analyzed. Effectiveness and sustainability were examined and compared through Land Use Land Cover (LULC) database during 1996 and 2021. Efficiency was explored through the economic valuation of provisioning and cultural services, using economic approach–revealed price (market price) method. Socioeconomic functions and governance were examined through the existing plans/policies and secondary data review. Findings: CF is effectively and sustainably managing the available resources. It has increased forest cover, water body, grassland and remarkable decline in bush and sand area. Bush area (79.25 ha in 1996) dropped (to 6.52 ha in 2021) while forest cover increased from 340.46 ha to 375.54 ha. Waterbody (pond or lake area) was limited to 0.88 ha that expanded to 5.04 ha in 2021 due to the conservation oriented management practices. Meanwhile, economic value of provisioning services is USD 7182 accounting wood and timber the highest (average annual USD 4800) among the provisioning services while average annual value of firewood and poles is USD 1367 and NTFP (fish and rubber) is USD 1015 whereas the economic value of cultural services is USD 18803. Novelty: The novelty of the research work lies in the unique methodology and the selection of CF for the EbA case study, which is least explored. By exposing the integration of ecological and socio-economic considerations, this research underscores the significance CF as EbA option in shaping sustainable development pathway in Nepalese context. Keywords: Ecosystem Services, Ecosystem Based Adaptation, Community Forest, Nepal, Land Management

Designing cities for everyday nature.

The motivations for incorporating nature into the design of cities have never been more compelling. Creating experiences with nature that occur every day (everyday nature) in cities could help reverse the fate of many threatened species and connect people with nature and living cultural traditions. However, this requires more than just urban greening; it involves ensuring daily doses of nature in a way that also supports nonhuman organisms. A major shift in the way nature is conceived of and is made part of the design of cities is required. Principles include reconsidering nature as a development opportunity rather than a constraint and eliminating offsetting of biodiversity site values. Processes include using biodiversity-sensitive design frameworks and establishing meaningful professional engagement among ecologists, planners, and designers. Challenges include design obstacles, conflicts between nature and people (e.g., safety, disease, and noise) that require careful management, and socioeconomic and political considerations (e.g., Global North vs. Global South). Research to interrogate the multiple benefits of nature in cities can complement experimental interventions, ultimately supporting better urban design and creating much more resiliently built environments for people and nature.

An update on factors affecting umbilical cord care among mothers: A review.

Umbilical cord care remains a critical aspect of newborn health, yet practices vary significantly across different cultures and healthcare settings. This paper aims to provide an updated synthesis of the factors influencing umbilical cord care among mothers. The umbilical cord is a vital link between the fetus and the placenta during pregnancy, but after birth, it requires proper care to prevent infections. Numerous factors influence a mother's approach to umbilical cord care, including cultural beliefs, socio-economic status, access to healthcare information, and traditional practices passed down through generations. Understanding these factors is crucial for healthcare providers to offer tailored guidance and support to mothers, ensuring the optimal care for newborns. This paper examines recent research and literature encompassing diverse cultural perspectives, socio-economic considerations, healthcare access, and educational interventions related to umbilical cord care. It also highlights the impact of technological advancements, such as telemedicine and digital health platforms, in disseminating crucial information to mothers, especially in remote or underserved areas. Moreover, the review delves into the role of healthcare professionals in promoting evidence-based practices and addressing misconceptions regarding umbilical cord care. It emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive and context-specific interventions in enhancing maternal knowledge and practices related to neonatal care. In conclusion, this review presents an updated overview of the multifactorial influences on umbilical cord care among mothers. It calls for continued research and concerted efforts to bridge gaps in knowledge, cultural beliefs, and healthcare access, ultimately contributing to the promotion of optimal newborn health outcomes.

Satellite-based rainwater harvesting sites assessment for Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab, Pakistan.

Water scarcity in arid regions poses significant livelihood challenges and necessitates proactive measures such as rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems. This study focuses on identifying RWH sites in Dera Ghazi Khan (DG Khan) district, which recently experienced severe water shortages. Given the difficulty of large-scale ground surveys, satellite remote sensing data and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques were utilized. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach was employed for site selection, considering various criteria, including land use/land cover, precipitation, geological features, slope, and drainage. Landsat 8 OLI imagery, GPM satellite precipitation data, soil maps, and SRTM DEM were key inputs. Integrating these data layers in GIS facilitated the production of an RWH potential map for the region. The study identified 9 RWH check dams, 12 farm ponds, and 17 percolation tanks as suitable for mitigating water scarcity, particularly for irrigation and livestock consumption during dry periods. The research region was classified into four RWH zones based on suitability, with 9% deemed Very Good, 33% Good, 53% Poor, and 5% Very Poor for RWH projects. The generated suitability map is a valuable tool for hydrologists, decision-makers, and stakeholders in identifying RWH potential in arid regions, thereby ensuring water reliability, efficiency, and socio-economic considerations.

Assessing the drivers of energy supply and demand in Sub-Saharan Africa

Ensuring reliable and sustainable energy access in sub-Saharan Africa requires exploring alternatives to traditional biomass and fossil fuels, crucial for overcoming challenges related to limited electricity and clean cooking energy access. Within this background and to assess the factors affecting energy supply and energy consumption, the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) was applied across 48 sub-Saharan countries and adapted to the regional context considering energy access indicators.Key results showed that economic activity significantly influences both supply and demand growth. However, this growth is restricted by outdated infrastructure, resulting in inefficiencies and increased conversion losses. Policymakers thus face a dual challenge of promoting economic growth while modernizing energy infrastructure to sustain development.Moreover, targeted policies are essential, particularly in energy-intensive in energy-intensive sectors like wholesale and retail, while advocating for a comprehensive approach in the residential sector. This approach involves socioeconomic considerations, energy access enhancement, and the promotion of energy-efficient and renewable technologies to meet rising demand amid population growth and evolving consumption patterns.Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of enhancing both energy access levels and energy efficiency in the residential sector. Unlike the industrial sector, energy intensity is crucial for improving efficiency without compromising the level of access. Enhancing energy efficiency can significantly reduce energy consumption in households, which is important given the high reliance on energy-intensive practices such as cooking with traditional biomass.

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION: AN ANALYSIS OF MALAYSIA’S LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR COMBATING ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE AND ENFORCING CITES COMPLIANCE TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Wildlife conservation represents a significant global challenge, particularly in nations abundant with biodiversity like Malaysia, where illegal wildlife trafficking jeopardises ecosystems and threatens endangered species. This paper analyses Malaysia's legal framework concerning wildlife conservation and its harmonisation with international agreements, notably the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Through an extensive examination of statutes and policies, this study elucidates Malaysia's endeavours to combat illegal wildlife trade and uphold adherence to CITES regulations. A central aspect of this analysis involves exploring Malaysia's strategy in reconciling conservation priorities with socio-economic considerations amidst the complexities of sustainable development. By critically assessing Malaysia's conservation landscape, this paper seeks to inform policymakers, engage stakeholders, and catalyse collective efforts towards fostering a more sustainable coexistence between wildlife and humanity.

Insights into determinants of health-seeking behavior: a cross-sectional investigation in the Iraqi context.

Health-seeking behavior (HSB) is a choice taken by an individual to maintain, achieve, or restore good health and prevent diseases. The purpose of this study is to examine the determinants of HSB among the Iraqi population. This cross-sectional study in the Rusafa and Karkh districts of Baghdad investigated determinants of HSB from 2022 to 2023. With a sample size of 993 participants meeting inclusion criteria, data were collected through a self-reported questionnaire, utilizing four indicators to measure HSB. The study employed various statistical methods especially logistic regression models, facilitated by Stata 17 software. Results highlights that married individuals consistently have higher odds of having HSB compared to their single counterparts, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.09 (95% confidence interval: 1.41-3.10). This relationship remains robust even after controlling for other variables. Furthermore, individuals with higher social class exhibit stronger connections to HSB, although the OR is 1.69 (95% CI: 0.47-6.13), indicating a wide confidence interval. Regarding underlying diseases and their duration, the results indicate that chronic diseases are associated with a higher likelihood of HSB, with an OR of 2.05 (95% CI: 1.35-3.11). Additionally, a longer duration of diseases in terms of years is also linked to a stronger association with HSB, with an OR of 2.86 (95% CI: 1.32-6.23). In conclusion, this work provides important insights into HSB. Married people are continuously more likely to engage in HSB than single people, highlighting the importance of customized interventions. Furthermore, persons from higher social classes have stronger ties to HSB, highlighting the importance of socioeconomic considerations. The link between HSB and chronic diseases, combined with longer disease durations, emphasizes the importance of early detection and thorough healthcare management. These findings give critical guidance for healthcare providers, marketers, and politicians developing effective initiatives to promote HSB.

Model Of Management Lubuk Larangan for Area Development in Mandailing Natal District

This research proposes a comprehensive Model of Management for Lubuk Larangan, a unique cultural and natural resource in the Mandailing Natal District. Lubuk Larangan, traditionally known as a restricted fishing areas, holds significant cultural and ecological value for the local communities. However, the increasing pressures from modern development and anthropogenic activities necessitate the establishment of an effective management model to ensure sustainable area development.The proposed model integrates traditional wisdom, community participation, and modern management approaches to strike a balance between cultural preservation and sustainable development goals. It takes into account the socio-economic dynamics, environmental considerations, and aspirations of the local communities, aiming to create a harmonious and adaptive framework. Key components of the model include community engagement, knowledge transfer, regulatory frameworks, and monitoring systems. The model also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between local authorities, non-governmental organizations, and the communities to foster a sense of shared responsibility and ownership. This research utilizes quantitative methods approach quantitative data analysis to develop and validate the proposed model. The findings are expected to contribute to the sustainable development of Lubuk Larangan and serve as a valuable reference for similar initiatives in other regions facing the challenges of balancing cultural preservation and modern development. The model's success would not only benefit the Mandailing Natal District but also provide insights into the broader field of cultural and environmental resource management.

Negotiating standards in Sino-Mongolian industrial relations

Anthropologists have used ‘standards’ to critique Western hegemony through the centre–periphery extractive paradigm or the top–down imposition of developmental agendas. This article suggests an alternative possibility by considering the agency of local actors through their experience and evocation of standards in industrial workplaces. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork at two Chinese-owned extractive enterprises and a public vocational school in the east of Mongolia, I recast standards as a conduit for local practitioners to express genuine aspirations for improvement. Here, standards embody the ideal more than the average or the bottom line. Chinese enterprises in Mongolia are assessed against local perceptions of the global hierarchy of standards, which is not only underpinned by technical competence but also influenced by socioeconomic, moral, and geopolitical considerations. This article presents emic and etic perspectives on Chinese enterprises in Mongolia, contributing three ethnographic case studies to the discussion about the contested ascent of China as a global standards-maker and standards-shaker. It highlights the distinctive geopolitical situation of Mongolia and suggests broader implications for uneven development in the world economy.

Global Challenges and Economic Feasibility in Achieving 100% Renewable Energy

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the global transition towards 100% renewable energy (RE) grids while analyzing associated challenges and economic prospects. The scientific aim of the work is to examine national and regional plans, revealing shared research challenges such as neglect of system stability, reliance on specific RE sources, and limitations on capacity share growth. The subject of the research was to obtain insights into the economic feasibility of this transition, underscored by projections of creating 24.3 million new jobs by 2050 and substantial annual savings in air pollution and environmental costs. This study extends the existing research by analyzing promising examples from countries like Norway and Costa Rica, demonstrating diverse approaches with hydropower playing a pivotal role, while Canada and New Zealand showcase adaptability based on local resources. Addressing key research challenges, from technological uncertainties to socio-economic considerations, the paper emphasizes the need for robust policies and infrastructure development. Despite challenges, the transition promises economic benefits, with estimated annual savings in healthcare and global warming costs. The literature and global examples affirm the technical and financial feasibility of transitioning to 100% RE. In conclusion, this paper contributes to understanding the intricate economic and technological landscape of achieving a sustainable global energy transition.

Addressing illegal longlining and ghost fishing in the Galapagos marine reserve: an overview of challenges and potential solutions

Despite regulations aimed at curbing shark finning and bycatch, shark fishing mortality rates continue to escalate, partly due to unintended consequences of these policies which, along with illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and ghost fishing, undermine conservation efforts. The ineffectiveness of current regulations to curb shark mortality highlights the pressing need for reevaluating shark conservation strategies, especially in ecologically sensitive areas. In this context, the debate on enforcing longlining bans in multiple-use marine protected areas, including shark sanctuaries, is intensifying. Some argue for total bans to minimize incidental shark mortalities, while others highlight the socioeconomic importance of longlining, advocating for alternative conservation measures. In 2000, longline fishing was banned in the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR) as a precautionary measure to prevent illegal fishing of sharks and bycatch of endangered, threatened, and protected species. After 24 years of enforcement, official and anecdotal evidence indicate that illegal small-scale tuna longlining and ghost fishing are increasing threats across the reserve. This paper provides an overview of the longline fishing controversy within the GMR, incorporating scientific evidence, legal and socioeconomic considerations, and perceptions from the Galapagos small-scale fishing community. We offer novel insights and recommendations for the development of the Galapagos small-scale tuna fishery within an ecosystem approach to fisheries. This approach aims to reconcile conservation goals with the needs of local communities, while also proposing innovative solutions to address the longstanding debate surrounding longlining in the GMR.

Differential Anxiety Responses in Acute Myocardial Infarction vs. COVID-19 Pneumonia Patients.

Background and Objectives: Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns about the psychological impact of disease-related anxiety on public health have risen. This study aims to compare general and death anxiety levels between acute coronary artery syndrome and COVID-19 pneumonia patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 132 individuals, including acute myocardial infarction (MI), COVID-19 pneumonia patients, and healthy volunteers from Trakya University Hospital (Turkey), was analyzed. Validated scales like the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Coronavirus Anxiety Scale Short Form, and Thorson-Powell Death Anxiety Scale (TPDAS) were employed. Demographic data such as age, gender, income levels, employment status, presence of a close relative with COVID-19, and whether participants followed COVID-19-related news were collected and compared across groups with significance level of 0.05 set for all analyses. Results: Among 41 COVID-19, 41 MI, and 50 healthy subjects, the pneumonia group showed highest COVID-19 anxiety (p = 0.01) and BAI scores (p = 0.008). Both COVID-19 and MI patients had significantly higher BAI and TPDAS scores compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001). Factors like female gender (p = 0.004), low education (p = 0.003), current employment (p = 0.008), and low income (p = 0.002) correlated with higher BAI scores. Low income (p = 0.001) and COVID-19 news exposure (p = 0.002) correlated with higher TPDAS scores. Males and married patients had lower anxiety scores (p = 0.008). High income, education, and employment reduced anxiety levels (p = 0.008). TPDAS scores decreased with higher income (p = 0.001), but increased in the MI group (p = 0.002) with COVID-19 news exposure. The multivariate linear regression analysis found that MI and COVID-19 pneumonia were associated with TPDAS; female gender, university education, and COVID-19 pneumonia with the Beck scale; and COVID-19 pneumonia with anxiety scores on the COVID-19 Anxiety scale. Conclusions: This research showcases differing anxiety patterns between illnesses such as MI and COVID-19 pneumonia amidst the pandemic, emphasizing the amplifying influence of media coverage on death-related anxieties. It underscores the imperative of targeted interventions and socioeconomic considerations in managing psychological consequences and formulating responsive public health strategies.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Non-Inherited Risk Factors for Congenital Heart Disease Among Mothers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Despite advancements in healthcare, congenital heart disease (CHD) remains a global concern. It is crucial to understand non-inherited risk factors for CHD to develop effective prevention strategies. This study evaluates the awareness and impact of socio-economic factors on the knowledge and practices regarding CHD among mothers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed among 300 mothers. This questionnaire collected demographic data and assessed the knowledge of non-inherited CHD risk factors, along with associated health practices. Chi-square tests were employed for categorical variables, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influence of socioeconomic factors on awareness levels. Results The study revealed a significant association between higher educational levels and increased awareness of CHD risk factors. About 75% of mothers with postgraduate education accurately identified major risk factors, compared to 30% of those with only a high school education. Additionally, income levels influenced health practices, with higher-income groups showing better adherence to recommended health behaviors. Conclusion Our findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions tailored to diverse socio-economic backgrounds to enhance awareness of CHD risk factors and promote preventive health practices. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating socioeconomic considerations into public health strategies to reduce the incidence of CHD.

Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors and Juvenile Delinquency in Pakistan: A Critical Analysis of Structural Theories

The article is a critical discourse on the immigration of youth crime in Pakistan as understood by structural theories. It leverages a variety of literature and empirical studies tries to show how the meeting of structural inequalities, gender norms, and individual experiences forms the background for the antisocial nature of young people, particularly in Pakistan. The practice framework integrates the strain model, social learning theory, and rational choice theory, among others, to provide the practitioner with a broader perspective of the various things that contribute to delinquency in children. The evaluation of present policies, programs, and interventions is done in a review, which checks whether they are able to address such underlying issues and recommendations on policy reforms are proposed. By emphasizing the community-specific socio-economic and cultural contexts, the work has underlined the need for a responsibility-tailored solution that integrates cultural and socio-economic considerations. The identified research shows that the requirements for community efforts to be made are a partnership among researchers, policymakers and community leaders who organize evidence-based interventions to create a more equal and fair juvenile criminal justice system in Pakistan.

Development of a decision support tool to compare diagnostic strategies for establishing the herd status for infectious diseases: An example with Salmonella Dublin infection in dairies

The diagnosis of infectious diseases at herd level can be challenging as different stakeholders can have conflicting priorities. The current study proposes a “proof of concept” of an approach that considers a reasonable number of criteria to rank plausible diagnostic strategies using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) methods. The example of Salmonella Dublin diagnostic in Québec dairy herds is presented according to two epidemiological contexts: (i) in herds with no history of S. Dublin infection and absence of clinical signs, (ii) in herds with a previous history of infection, but absence of clinical signs at the moment of testing. Multiple multiparty exchanges were conducted to determine: 1) stakeholders’ groups; 2) the decision problem; 3) solutions to the problem (options) or diagnostic strategies to be ordered; 4) criteria and indicators; 5) criteria weights; 6) the construction of a performance matrix for each option; 7) the multi-criteria analyses using the visual preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations approach; 8) the sensitivity analyses, and 9) the final decision. A total of nine people from four Québec’s organizations (the dairy producers provincial association along with the DHI company, the ministry of agriculture, the association of veterinary practitioners, and experts in epidemiology) composed the MCDA team. The decision problem was “What is the optimal diagnostic strategy for establishing the status of a dairy herd for S. Dublin infection when there are no clinical signs of infection?”. Fourteen diagnostic strategies composed of the three following parameters were considered: 1) biological samples (bulk tank milk or blood from 10 heifers aged over three months); 2) sampling frequencies (one to three samples collection visits); 3) case definitions to conclude to a positive status using imperfect milk- or blood-ELISA tests. The top-ranking diagnostic strategy was the same in the two contexts: testing the bulk tank milk and the blood samples, all samples collected during one visit and the herd being assigned a S. Dublin positive status if one sample is ELISA-positive. The final decision favored the top-ranking option for both contexts. This MCDA approach and its application to S. Dublin infection in dairy herds allowed a consensual, rational, and transparent ranking of feasible diagnostic strategies while taking into account the diagnostic tests accuracy, socio-economic, logistic, and perception considerations of the key actors in the dairy industry. This promising tool can be applied to other infectious diseases that lack a well-established diagnostic procedure to define a herd status.

Contemporary Prevalence of Oral Clefts in the US: Geographic and Socioeconomic Considerations.

Background: Socio-economic status, living environments, and race have been implicated in the development of different congenital abnormalities. As orofacial clefting is the most common anomaly affecting the face, an understanding of its prevalence in the United States and its relationship with different determinants of health is paramount. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the modern prevalence of oral-facial clefting in the United States and its association with different social determinants of health. Methods: Utilizing Epic Cosmos, data from approximately 180 US institutions were queried. Patients born between November 2012 and November 2022 were included. Eight orofacial clefting (OC) cohorts were identified. The Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) was used to assess social determinants of health. Results: Of the 15,697,366 patients identified, 31,216 were diagnosed with OC, resulting in a prevalence of 19.9 (95% CI: 19.7-20.1) per 10,000 live births. OC prevalence was highest among Asian (27.5 CI: 26.2-28.8) and Native American (32.8 CI: 30.4-35.2) patients and lowest among Black patients (12.96 CI: 12.5-13.4). Male and Hispanic patients exhibited higher OC prevalence than female and non-Hispanic patients. No significant differences were found among metropolitan (20.23/10,000), micropolitan (20.18/10,000), and rural populations (20.02/10,000). SVI data demonstrated that OC prevalence was positively associated with the percentage of the population below the poverty line and negatively associated with the proportion of minority language speakers. Conclusions: This study examined the largest US cohort of OC patients to date to define contemporary US prevalence, reporting a marginally higher rate than previous estimates. Multiple social determinants of health were found to be associated with OC prevalence, underscoring the importance of holistic prenatal care. These data may inform clinicians about screening and counseling of expectant families based on socio-economic factors and direct future research as it identifies potential risk factors and provides prevalence data, both of which are useful in addressing common questions related to screening and counseling.

Adoption of ICT4D and its determinants: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Various Digital Agricultural Technologies (DAT) have been developed and implemented around the world. This study aims to estimate the overall adoption rate and identify the determinant factors for a better adoption perspective after decades of innovation and dissemination. A systematic review was conducted on published studies that reported adoption rates and determinant factors using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. We used meta-regression and the partial correlation coefficient to estimate the effect size and establish the correlation between socioeconomic characteristics and the adoption of various technologies reported. Fifty-two studies with 32400 participants met the selection criteria and were included in the study. The results revealed an overall pooled adoption rate of 39 %, with the highest adoption rates in developing countries in Africa and South America. Socioeconomic factors such as age, education, gender, and income were found to be the main determinants and should be considered when designing technology for sustainable adoption. The study also found that young farmers were more susceptible to adoption. Moreover, farmers with higher income levels and educational attainment are more likely to use technology linked to agricultural production, market access, and digital advising, implying that high-income farmers with more education are more tech-savvy. However, this does not exclude low-income and low-educated farmers from adopting the technologies, as many models and strategies with socioeconomic considerations were developed. It is one of the reasons behind the underlying enthusiasm for digital agricultural adoption in low and middle-income countries.

Genetic Engineering in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.): Current Progress and Future Directions for Enhanced Crop Improvement

Genetic tools have revolutionized mustard improvement strategies, offering innovative avenues to enhance its agronomic traits and quality parameters. CRISPR technology, exemplified by research at the National Institute of Plant Genome Research in India, has enabled precise manipulation of glucosinolate levels in mustard plants, improving mustard oil quality. The Barnase-barstar gene system has facilitated the development of mustard hybrids, increasing yield and resilience. Additionally, Microsatellites have emerged as indispensable tools for understanding genetic relationships within mustard populations. These genetic tools hold promise for addressing agronomic challenges and meeting market demands in mustard cultivation. However, their deployment raises ethical, regulatory, and socio-economic considerations that require careful consideration. Responsible stewardship and transparent deployment of these technologies are essential to realize their full potential in enhancing mustard crops and ensuring a sustainable future for food production. In conclusion, genetic engineering offers exciting avenues for mustard improvement, with CRISPR, the Barnase-barstar gene system, and Microsatellites playing pivotal roles in enhancing crop quality, yield potential, and resilience. As mustard continues to play a crucial role in global agriculture and food security, the responsible utilization of these genetic tools holds promise for meeting the evolving needs of farmers and consumers worldwide. Furthermore, the paper briefly discusses the application of these genetic tools in enhancing Dhara Mustard, a popular variety in Indian agriculture, emphasizing its potential impact on addressing agricultural challenges and meeting consumer demands.