Findings Of Study Research Articles

The mediating role of forgiveness in the relationship between emotion regulation difficulty and relational aggression in high school students

The increase in aggressive behavior during adolescence has led to both research on aggression and the identification of various types of aggression by considering aggression as a multidimensional structure. One of these is relational aggression. In this context, this study aims to examine the mediating role of forgiveness in the relationship between high school students' emotion regulation difficulties and relational aggression. The relational screening method and basic mediation model were used in the study. The study group of the research consists of 1012 students attending public high schools in the center of Eskişehir in the 2021-2022 academic year. The study used the Relational Aggression in Friendship Relationships Scale Adolescent Form, the Difficulty in Emotion Regulation Scale, and the Forgiveness Scale for Adolescents. According to the study's findings, adolescents' forgiveness is directly and negatively predicted by difficulties in emotion regulation. Relational aggression is directly and negatively predicted by forgiveness. The total effect of difficulties in emotion regulation on relational aggression was .19. When the mediator variable, forgiveness, is included in the model, the total effect decreases to .17, which is significant. The indirect effect of forgiveness on adolescents' difficulty in emotion regulation and relational aggression was found to be significant. The partial mediating role of forgiveness was found to be significant, but its effect level was low. In conclusion, all these findings indicate that high school students' difficulty in emotion regulation is a risk factor for relational aggression, while forgiveness is a protective factor.

The Influence of Teacher Discipline Dimensions on the Quality of the Teaching and Learning Process at MIS Al-Hilal Wanakarta School, Lolong Guba District, Buru Regency

The purpose of this study is to determine how the quality of teaching and learning process at Mis Al-Hilaal Wanakarta school is impacted by the aspects of teacher discipline. This study employs quantitative approach and uses saturated sample which involves twelve teachers. The data is gathered by observation, questionnaires with five possible answers on a Likert scale score choice form that are distributed to twelve teachers, and documentation as a supplementary method. The data is analyzed using a straightforward linear regression test that includes Spearman rank correlation and the determination coefficient test, t test, or partial test, and F test, or simultaneous test. According to the study's findings, (H_0) is rejected and (Ha) is accepted, indicating a strong and positive relationship between the aspects of teacher discipline and the quality of teaching and learning process. This is supported by the Spearman rank correlation coefficient value of 0.6137. Based on the R Square value of 0.517 obtained from the simple linear regression test, there is a 51.7% impact of the teacher discipline aspects on the quality of teaching and learning process. The results of the t test shows that the variable aspects of teacher discipline have a significant impact on the quality of the teaching and learning process (t value (3.269) > t table (1.812) with a significance of 0.008 <0.05), and the results of the F test shows that the F value is 10.683 with a significance of 0.008 <0.05.

A Comparative Study on The Influence of Physiological Factors and Genetics on Egg Quality in Arabic, Kedu Kup, and Pelung Chicken Breeds

This study aimed to determine the influence of genetic and physiological factors on egg quality in Arabic, Kedu Kup, Pelung chicken breeds, to compare the differences in egg quality between Arabic, Kedu Kup, and Pelung chicken breeds. A quantitative research technique was adopted in this study. Two hundred eggs were randomly gathered; one hundred came from a rural location and the other hundred came from a commercial source. SPSS software version 20.0 is used in this study's data processing procedure. This study uses both ANOVA and multiple linear regression for data analysis. The study's findings indicated that genetic and physiological variables significantly affect the quality of eggs in Arabic, Kedu Kup, and Pelung chicken breeds. Additionally, there are notable variations in the quality of eggs across these breeds. When choosing breeds for egg production, poultry producers are advised to take breed-specific characteristics into account.

EFL Students’ Perception on Self-Directed Learning in Speaking Skill at IAIN Palangka Raya

Students may study outside of the classroom in their own manner by using self-directed learning. Learning to speak requires self-study, which is not only taught in the classroom but also outside of it. The purpose of this study is to outline the methods used by self-directed learners to enhance their English speaking abilities among English Department students. How self-directed learners in the English department might enhance their English speaking abilities is the focus of this study. The methodology of this research is use descriptive qualitative method and data collection was conducted used structured interviews, questionnaires, the researchers will use a closed questionnaire because the list of questions or statements has been equipped with choices according self-directed learning and documentation. Thirty-six English Education Study Program students in the seventh semester of the 2022–2023 academic year at IAIN Palangka Raya served as the study subjects. According to the study's findings, students who use self-directed learning to enhance their English speaking abilities do well by using the following components of self-learning: self-management, self-motivation and self-assessment, skill development, and control over their learning process. In order to assist students become more autonomous and meet their learning goals, this research also suggests that instructors teach them the value of self-management in the learning process.

Annotations on Indeterminate Cytology of Thyroid Nodules in Thyroidology: Novi Sub Sole?

Letter to the Editor Dear Editor, Indeterminate cytology (IC) remains the most challenging issue for health professionals working in thyroidology, thyroidologists [1-4]. We read a great deal of the article by Ali et al [5]. entitled "Clinicopathological Features of Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: A Single-center Cross-sectional Study," published in 3rd volume, Barw Medical Journal. This study addresses a challenging and crucial issue by examining the characteristics and malignancy rates of thyroid nodules with IC, the most controversial category for The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC). The authors evaluated the clinicopathological features of the thyroid nodules with Category III, TBSRTC, in a single-center cross-sectional study [5]. One of the strengths of the article is its focus on the challenges in managing IC. Ali and colleagues [5] thoroughly examine comprehensive data, including demographic details, medical history, laboratory tests, preoperative imaging, cytologic evaluation, and histopathological diagnosis. The results indicate a notable malignancy rate in Category III, TBSRTC. Furthermore, the study points out that malignancy tended to be younger, while benign nodules were significantly larger than malignant ones. The study also found a significant association between malignant nodules and Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) categories 4 and 5 and benign with TI-RADS 2 and 3, which findings align with some existing literature, providing valuable insights into the clinical assessment of IC. However, several limitations of the study warrant consideration. Firstly, its single-center and retrospective design may limit the generalizability of the findings to diverse populations and settings. As the authors acknowledge, the retrospective data collection might have resulted in missing crucial information. While TI-RADS scoring was provided, more specific ultrasound features of thyroid nodules could have been beneficial. Of note, does including or excluding noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP), which has been considered a low-risk entity by the current understanding, affect and/or alter the overall results and the assessment of diagnostic performance and study outcome(s)? [2-4] Furthermore, which caliber of the needle had been utilized throughout the study with or without local and/or topical anesthetic agent(s), and would the utilization of thicker or finer needles in order to obtain cytologic samples with or without any local and/or topical anesthesia alter the outcome(s) of this study? [2] Moreover, which edition of TBSRTC has been used for the work and would stress the up-to-date 3rd edition of TBSRTC [3], considering both the novel and crucial subdivisions of category III might affect the study’s relevant outcome(s)? [3,4] Another point of attention is the relatively short data collection period compared to the publication. Finally, while the discussion section compares the findings with various studies in the literature, a more in-depth exploration of the methodological differences and potential discrepancies in results could have been provided. For instance, the conflicting views in the literature regarding the relationship between nodule size and malignancy risk could have been further contrasted with the study's findings. The authors also acknowledge the small sample size as a limitation. For future research, multi-center and prospective studies with detailed imaging, such as elastography and contrast-enhanced sonography, and investigations into the role of molecular markers in thyroid nodules with Category III could improve diagnostic accuracy and potentially reduce unnecessary surgical interventions. In conclusion, this study significantly contributes to the evaluation of IC in thyroidology despite its limitations. However, considering the noted limitations, further research with more comprehensive and methodologically robust studies in this area is warranted. This issue merits further investigation. Sincerely,

Parental involvement in school-based mental health interventions for young people in low-resource settings: A qualitative study from Zimbabwe and Ghana.

Young people in low-resource settings are disproportionately affected by mental health problems, yet access to formal mental healthcare remains limited. However, schools in these regions have increasingly become the primary settings for mental health interventions, offering an accessible and supportive environment for mental health services. Recognising the critical role schools play in providing mental health services for young people, there has been a growing emphasis on involving parents in school-based mental health (SBMH) interventions in low-resource settings. This study explored the mechanisms for effectively involving parents in SBMH interventions for young people in Zimbabwe and Ghana. Cross-sectional qualitative research was conducted in Harare, Zimbabwe and Navrongo, Ghana. This study is a sub-analysis of a larger formative qualitative study which aimed to identify evidence for adapting interventions for depression and anxiety for young people aged 15-24 in Zimbabwe, and 15-18 in Ghana, and test the feasibility of the adapted intervention. We utilised semi-structured in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and focus group discussions with various stakeholders until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were audiotaped and later transcribed verbatim and translated to English for analysis. Data for this study were inductively coded and analysed using thematic analysis. Effective mechanisms for engaging parents in SBMH include routine parent-teacher meetings, interface meetings between parents and school-based mental healthcare providers, and direct parental participation in sessions. However, while parental involvement is key for SBMH interventions, it can be problematic. In some cases, parents may unintentionally breach their children's privacy and confidentiality or may be the source of their children's mental health problems. The study's findings underscore the importance of parents as vital partners in SBMH interventions. Given the positive impact of parental involvement, it is essential to incorporate parents into the design and implementation of these interventions. By leveraging the insights from this study, interventionists can develop and implement more effective and low-cost SBMH interventions, which can significantly improve mental health outcomes for young people in low-resource settings.

Agrarian Citizenship and the Protection of Farmers' Rights in Indonesia's Forest Areas

<div class="WordSection1"><p><em><span>The Ministry of Forestry designates Cimrutu Village, Central Java, Indonesia, as a forest area under the "concession" of Perhutani, a state-owned forestry company. This situation is detrimental to society as most of the community's agricultural rights and economic access to land are obstructed by the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry's policy forbidding communities from possessing land rights in forested regions. This study investigates the historical context of land tenure conflicts and disputes over land claims by communities governed and subsequently asserted by the State Forestry Public Company. Using a spatial analysis approach, the data-gathering technique was executed qualitatively on community-controlled land. The study's findings indicate that the community in Cimrutu Village has possessed the land since 1967, yet prolonged tenure disputes have arisen, exacerbating poverty due to farmers' restricted access. Urgent policy advancements are required for the welfare of individuals, specifically the removal of residential and livelihood lands from forested regions to ensure access to economic opportunities.</span></em></p></div>

REVISITING THE SOCIOECONOMIC DIMENSIONS OF POVERTY IN NEPAL: A LOGISTIC REGRESSION ANALYSIS

Poverty, a multifaceted concept influenced by several socioeconomic factors, is not only an outcome of individual destiny but also socioeconomically created by severe deprivation of basic needs. Individuals could escape poverty and enhance the quality of life through the government’s ample policy interventions. This study examines socioeconomic determinants of poverty in Nepal from multidimensional perspectives. Using household survey data—9600 households—from Nepal Living Standards Survey IV 2022/23, this study applied binary logistic regression analysis. Considering approximately 18% of poor and 82% of nonpoor households, the results revealed the poverty status of households could not be significantly influenced by demographic factors, such as age, gender, and marital status. Rather, poverty status might be influenced by family size, residential status, remittance, nonfarm or side business, agricultural landholdings and livestock, access to electricity, better health and road infrastructure, dwelling status, and preference for cooking fuel. Thus, it is observed that the households may fall into poverty due to higher family dependency, urban residency, agro-landholdings and livestock, firewood as cooking food, availability of the dwelling, and larger family size with the remittance—and that they would walk away from poverty thanks to remittance, family business, electricity, adequate road, and health facilities. This study's findings suggest that nonfarm businesses, less agricultural dependence strategies and programs, and the promotion of physical and social overheads are crucial for achieving Nepal's sustainable development goals by reducing multidimensional poverty.

Paraoxonase 1 Enzyme Activity in Patients With Isolated Coronary Artery Ectasia.

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is an organophosphate ester hydrolase associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The recently emphasized function of PON1 activity is its antiatherogenic activity. PON1 is always found together with HDL in plasma, and PON1 is responsible for the protective effect of HDL against low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. Considering this role in cardiovascular diseases and its antioxidant properties, PON1activity may be a valuable biomarker in predicting coronary artery ectasia (CAE), whose pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. The aim was to reveal the relationship between PON1 activity and isolated CAE. This prospective case-control study's population comprises 5240 patients who underwent coronary angiography between December 2009 and April 30, 2010. Thirty patients with isolated CAE (Group CAE) and 25 volunteers with normal coronary arteries (Group Control) who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The sociodemographic, clinical, and anatomical characteristics and lipid profiles of the patients were analyzed. Groups CAE and control were compared in terms of PON1 activity levels. There was no significant difference between Group CAE (n=30) andGroup Control (n=25)in terms of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics (p>0.05). There was ectasia in a single coronary artery in 19 patients (63.3%). The right coronary artery (RCA) was ectasian in 17 patients (38.6%) and was the most affected vessel. According to the Markis classification, the most common type of ectasia was type IV ectasia, which was seen in 14 patients (46.7%). When lipid profiles were compared, no difference was observed between the groups. PON1 activity levels were significantly lower in the CAE group than in the control group (Group CAE=127.5 U/L; Group Control=177.0 U/L; p<0.001). This study's findings suggest a significant correlation between low PON1 activity levels and the development of isolated CAE, suggesting that PON1 activity may play a potential role in the pathophysiology of CAE. Based on the association demonstrated between isolated CAE and PON1 activity in our study, future research may investigate the potential use of PON1 as a biomarker.

Effect of Covid-19 on Organizational Performance. A case of Seawork Fish Processors (SFP), Walvis Bay, Namibia.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess effect of Covid-19 on organizational performance at Seawork Fish Processor in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Methodology: The study employed mixed-methods research design, gathering quantitative data from SFP's financial reports and questionnaires, complemented by qualitative data from face-to-face interviews. A total sample size of 338 respondents was used, based on a widely utilized descriptive study sample size estimation formula. Data from the questionnaires were captured using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. After data capture, the researcher analyzed the data using tables, graphs, and pie charts. Financial ratios were applied to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on organizational performance alongside the questionnaire responses. Findings: The results revealed that SFP's profitability and efficiency in producing returns for shareholders suffered in 2019 but started to improve in 2020 and 2021. Based on the study's findings, companies could implement agile techniques, such as supply chain optimization, cost-cutting measures, and manufacturing process optimization, to efficiently manage comparable crises. It was also determined that investing in digital transformation and comprehensive risk management procedures enhances resilience and adaptation in the face of future challenges. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study offered empirical insights into how a fish processing company in Namibia responded to a global crisis, which advanced the idea of organizational resilience. It provided practical recommendations for firms like to adapt operations, mitigate risks, and enhance performance during disruptions. The findings were a valuable resource for industry associations, business consultants, and policymakers seeking to improve crisis navigation tactics from a policy viewpoint.

Corporate Social Responsibility as a Strategic Tool for Organisaeional Success in Corpoarate Financial Intermediation: Empirical Evidence from Rivers State, Nigeria

This study set out to examine the correlation between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the performance of financial institutions in Rivers State. The study was based on social contract theory, legitimacy theory, and stakeholders' theory. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey, which is a sort of quasi-experimental methodology, to assess the study's respondents. The research population consisted of middle and senior management workers from financial organizations. A total of 240 respondents were easily given copies of the questionnaire. The data collected from this procedure were examined and a total of 4 hypotheses were evaluated using Spearman's Rank Correlation. The results obtained from these tests indicated a favorable and statistically significant correlation between CSR and the financial performance of organizations in Rivers State. The study indicates that CSR initiatives are essential and effective means for financial institutions to gain the trust and support of important stakeholders, such as consumers and local communities. Allocating resources towards CSR initiatives may assist banks in cultivating a favorable and constructive reputation, ultimately contributing to their achievements. The study's findings and conclusion suggest that banks aiming to enhance and maintain their reputation should prioritize investing more in their CSR initiatives. This can be achieved by allocating a higher percentage of their post-tax profits towards addressing significant socio-economic and environmental issues in the communities where they operate. By doing so, banks can improve their public image and overall success. Furthermore, it is crucial for companies to demonstrate ethical responsibility in their product and service design, as well as in their interactions with important stakeholders and the general public. This study has provided evidence that implementing these strategic approaches can enhance public trust and contribute to overall corporate success.

The Role of Absorptive Capacity and Technological Innovation Capabilities in IT Project Success: Does Strategic Agility Matter?

This study aims to explore the role of absorptive capacity (AC) on project success (PS) through the mediating roles of technological innovation capabilities (TIC) and the moderating role of strategic agility (SA). A convenience sampling technique was used to collect data from 225 respondents working as project managers in small- to medium-sized Pakistani software companies in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Data was collected from and distributed on several online channels (Gmail, LinkedIn, WhatsApp). Smart PLS-SEM, version 4, was used for data analysis. The results obtained suggested that AC has a direct positive effect on PS and an indirect impact through the mediating role of TIC. However, the moderating role of SA showed an insignificant impact on the relationship between TIC and PS. The current study's findings highlight the importance of various factors to achieve sustainable performance for small-medium software enterprises, which are the backbone of developing economies in today's highly turbulent economic conditions.

Moderating Effect of External Monitory Mechanism on The Relationship Between Earnings Management and Profitability of Listed Petroleum Marketing Companies in Nigeria

This study investigates the relationship between earnings management and profitability of listed petroleum marketing companies in Nigeria and the moderating influence of external monitoring methods. Data for the years 2012 to 2022 were taken out of the sampled companies' annual reports. The results from the GMM estimator showed that the discretionary accrual, as well as the interaction between audit firm size and discretionary, have a significant impact on gross profit margin respectively. According to the study's findings, auditors are aware of earnings management, but they are far more concerned about it when their choices result in inflated rather than understated earnings. The likelihood of receiving a qualified audit report was unaffected by the interplay between audit firm size and discretionary accrual. However, this does not imply that auditors are ignorant of earnings management. The report suggests that methods for the quick detection of earnings management techniques be adopted to decrease the negative impact of earnings management on the profitability of listed petroleum marketing enterprises in Nigeria.

Entrepreneurship Education in Tertiary Institutions as Tool for Reducing Unemployment

This study explored the role of entrepreneurship education in alleviating unemployment. The research was guided by four key questions, and relevant literature was reviewed to provide context. A descriptive survey research design was employed, focusing on the undergraduate student population at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko. The sample consisted of 300 randomly selected students from six faculties within the university, chosen using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected via a self-designed questionnaire and analyzed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The study's findings revealed that skills such as design, food catering, photography, laundry/dry cleaning, barbering/hairdressing, web design, bead making, music, makeup artistry, and event planning can empower Nigerian graduates to become entrepreneurs and help reduce unemployment. Furthermore, the benefits of entrepreneurship education for Nigerian graduates were found to include self-employment, job creation in rural areas, opportunities to harness personal potential, and enhanced ability to adapt to societal changes. Challenges identified include inadequate funding from both government and non-governmental organizations, a shortage of qualified instructors, insufficient teaching materials, equipment, and infrastructure, lack of capital for starting businesses, and a poor business environment. Suggested solutions to these challenges include creating a supportive business environment, ensuring the availability of qualified teachers, establishing funding sources for entrepreneurs, and providing necessary teaching resources and infrastructure. Based on these findings, the study recommends that Nigerian graduate entrepreneurs acquire skills such as those listed above to help reduce the unemployment rate. It also calls on the government to improve the infrastructure for entrepreneurial activities, provide adequate teaching resources, increase funding for entrepreneurial programs, and create diverse funding opportunities for Nigerian graduate entrepreneurs.

Non-inferiority stepped wedge cluster randomized controlled trial on all-oral shorter regimens for rifampicin resistant/multidrug-resistant TB in Pakistan – a study protocol

IntroductionPakistan has one of the largest burdens of rifampicin-resistant/ multidrug-resistant TB according to the global estimates. Novel all oral treatment regimens containing new antibiotics with reduced treatment duration are available. World Health Organization guidelines recommend the use of shorter all-oral regimens under operational research. To guide recommendations, we will compare two all-oral, short (≤ 11 months) regimens for the outcomes of efficacy, safety, cost, and health-related quality of life under programmatic conditions in Pakistan.MethodsThis is a stepped wedge, cluster randomized controlled trial with economic evaluation and health related quality of life sub-studies. Modified all-oral 9-month regimen will be sequentially rolled-out compared with the standard all-oral 11-month regimen at 12 sites in Punjab, Islamabad and Azad Jammu and Kashmir region, Pakistan. A total of 400 eligible participants will be enrolled in both study arms. The primary outcome is difference in efficacy as measured by the proportion of patients with treatment success without recurrence at 12 months after the end of treatment between regimens using a non-inferiority design with a margin of 12%. The intention to treat analysis principle will be employed and a marginal mean model with Poisson generalized estimation equations, and a log-link will be used to assess the relative risk. The economic evaluation will be carried out from the healthcare providers perspective; linear mixed models will be used to estimate differences in costs between arms. Health related quality of life will be measured with the EQ-5D-3L quality of life questionnaire at four time points during the study period. The impact will be assessed by calculating the changes for each participant between time points. Ethical approval for this study has been obtained from national bioethics committee, Pakistan (Ref: No.4–87/NBC-491/20/48).DiscussionThe study's findings will be disseminated to physicians, program implementers, scientific audiences, and policymakers on both a national and international level via reports, presentations, and scientific publications.Trial registrationISRCTN registry. ISRCTN17334530, ‘retrospectively registered’ on 8th February 2021. ‘Clinical trial number: not applicable.’

Evaluating Flood Risk Associated with Probable Maximum Precipitation in the West Rapti River Basin, Nepal

Abstract Floods, driven by extreme precipitation, pose significant risks to Nepal’s Deukhuri Valley, the headquarters of Lumbini Province, located in the West Rapti River Basin. This study assesses flood risk due to Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) using hydro-meteorological and statistical methods to estimate PMP, Snyder’s unit hydrograph for Probable Maximum Flood (PMF), and HEC-RAS 2D modeling for flood inundation mapping. PMP values of 507 mm (hydro-meteorological) and 575 mm (statistical) were derived, with the latter used to estimate a PMF of 11,211.1 m³/s, comparable to a 10,000-year return period flood. The flood hazard map indicates 44.0% of the inundated area as extreme hazard, with 240.5 km of roads and diverse land cover types affected. Risk mapping categorizes areas into high (362.4 ha), medium (5,599.5 ha), and low (6,624.0 ha) risk zones. These findings provide critical insights for flood risk mitigation and infrastructure planning in the study area.The study expands on flood risk assessment in Nepal's Deukhuri Valley, focusing on the impact of Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) in the West Rapti River Basin. Using a combination of hydro-meteorological and statistical methods, the research establishes PMP values of 507 mm and 575 mm, respectively. The higher statistical value is then utilized to calculate a Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) of 11,211.1 m³/s, which is comparable to a flood event with a 10,000-year return period. This comprehensive approach provides a robust foundation for understanding the potential magnitude of extreme flooding events in the region. The study's findings have significant implications for flood risk management and urban planning in the Deukhuri Valley. The flood hazard map reveals that 44.0% of the inundated area falls under the extreme hazard category, with 240.5 km of roads at risk. Furthermore, the research categorizes the affected areas into high (362.4 ha), medium (5,599.5 ha), and low (6,624.0 ha) risk zones. This detailed risk assessment, combined with the analysis of impacted land cover types, offers valuable insights for local authorities and planners. The information can be used to develop targeted flood mitigation strategies, improve infrastructure resilience, and inform land-use policies to minimize the potential impact of extreme flooding events on the region's population and economy. Keywords: 1. Flood risk assessment, Nepal, Deukhuri Valley, Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP), West Rapti River Basin, Hydro-meteorological methods, Statistical methods, Probable Maximum Flood (PMF), Flood hazard mapping, Extreme flooding events, Urban planning, Infrastructure resilience, Land-use policies, Flood mitigation strategies, Risk zonation

Household Debt and Income Inequality in Thailand: A Vector Autoregressive Analysis

This study examines the dynamic relationships between household debt, income, GDP, and income inequality in Thailand, a nation grappling with rising household debt and persistent income disparities. Using a 19-year dataset, the research employs a Bayesian VAR (BVAR) model to explore the interdependencies among these variables and Impulse Response Function (IRF) analysis to evaluate their short-term and long-term adjustments to economic shocks. The findings reveal that household debt exhibits strong persistence and is positively influenced by income inequality, underscoring the role of disparities in driving debt accumulation. Conversely, income and GDP demonstrate resilience, with income positively influenced by GDP and negatively impacted by household debt, reflecting the burden of rising debt on income generation. GDP is shown to play a pivotal role in sustaining economic stability, while income inequality emerges as a persistent structural issue, amplified by household debt. The IRF analysis further reveals that a shock in household debt leads to a temporary decline in income and GDP, followed by stabilization in the medium term. However, income inequality responds positively to debt shocks, highlighting the disproportionate impact on low-income households and the long-term challenges of addressing inequality. The study's findings emphasize the need for targeted policies to manage household debt, promote equitable income distribution, and foster sustainable economic growth. Recommendations include debt restructuring programs, financial literacy campaigns, and progressive taxation to reduce disparities and enhance economic resilience.This research contributes to the understanding of the intricate relationships between debt, income, and inequality, offering insights for policymakers in Thailand and similar economies.

Estimation of Probable Maximum Flood from Probable Maximum Precipitation in the Kaligandaki River Basin, Nepal

Abstract The Kaligandaki River Basin in Nepal is highly vulnerable to flooding due to significant variability in precipitation. This study estimates the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) from Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) utilizing the HEC-HMS hydrological model. The basin was segmented into eight sub-basins, and PMP was determined using the Hershfield method, with values ranging from 368 mm to 816 mm. The HEC-HMS model was calibrated and validated using daily data from 1989 to 2017, demonstrating satisfactory performance across most sub-basins. The simulated PMF values were 4,590 m³/s, 3,640 m³/s, and 45,548 m³/s for the Mayagdhi, Modi, and Kaligandaki basins, respectively. When compared to floods with a 10,000-year return period, the PMF was approximately two to three times greater in magnitude. These findings offer a framework for PMP/PMF estimation in Nepalese rivers, thereby aiding in the design of flood-resilient infrastructure.The Kaligandaki River Basin in Nepal faces significant flood risks due to its highly variable precipitation patterns. This study employs a comprehensive approach to estimate the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) using the Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) and the HEC-HMS hydrological model. By dividing the basin into eight sub-basins and applying the Hershfield method, researchers determined PMP values ranging from 368 mm to 816 mm. The model's calibration and validation process, utilizing daily data spanning nearly three decades (1989-2017), demonstrated satisfactory performance across most sub-basins, lending credibility to the results. The study's findings reveal substantial PMF values for the Mayagdhi, Modi, and Kaligandaki basins, at 4,590 m³/s, 3,640 m³/s, and 45,548 m³/s, respectively. These estimates are particularly noteworthy when compared to floods with a 10,000-year return period, as the PMF values are approximately two to three times greater in magnitude. This significant difference underscores the importance of considering extreme flood scenarios in infrastructure planning and design. By providing a robust framework for PMP/PMF estimation in Nepalese rivers, this research contributes valuable insights for developing flood-resilient infrastructure, potentially mitigating the impact of extreme flooding events on local communities and ecosystems in the Kaligandaki River Basin and similar regions. Keywords: Kaligandaki River Basin, Probable Maximum Flood (PMF), Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP), HEC-HMS hydrological model, Hershfield method, Flood risk assessment, Hydrological modeling, Extreme precipitation events, Flood frequency analysis, Nepal hydrology, River basin management, Flood-resilient infrastructure, Climate variability, Watershed modeling, Flood mitigation strategies

Analyzing the Landscape and Trends of Local Goods: A Systematic Review with Bibliometric Insights

Local goods such as agricultural produce, handlooms, handicrafts, processed foods, and other uniquely produced region-specific products play a vital role in supporting local economies, fostering sustainable development, and preserving cultural heritage. The objective of this systematic literature review with bibliometric insights is to explore the landscape and trends of local goods, guided by the formulation of seven research questions. A literature review was conducted on relevant articles on local goods using the Scopus database, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, up to December 2024. After applying inclusion-exclusion criteria, 42 records were chosen. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOS viewer software to identify significant articles, prominent authors, and primary research themes within the domain of local goods. Qualitative insights and trends in the sphere of local goods were also examined through content analysis. The study's key findings include: Publication Trends, Most Cited Articles, Prominent Journals, Leading Countries, Collaboration Networks, Keyword Analysis, and three major research themes- Role of Local Goods Towards Economy, Consumer Demand for Local Goods, and Local Goods and Geographical Identification. The study acknowledges the limitations in the small number of records on local goods and suggests that future research look at additional databases and widen its data sources beyond Scopus to present a fuller picture of the status of research on local goods. This study enhances knowledge in the field of locally produced goods and extends new areas for research into consumer behavior, the implications of regional economies, and strategies for overcoming barriers to promoting locally made goods.

Dalit Caste Discrimination in Urban Areas of Nepal: A Case Study of Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal

This study examines Dalit caste discrimination in the urban setting of Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal, through a quantitative-dominant mixed approach. The researcher conducted a questionnaire survey of 134 respondents, 85 of whom were temporary students residing in Kirtipur for study purposes and 49 local students who were permanent residents. The findings of the quantitative study were further triangulated with qualitative assessment by employing purposively selected four Key informant interviews. The study's findings indicate that caste discrimination among Dalits is a structural issue, but attitudes are changing due to increased awareness and education. Nepali society, mainly urban areas, has massive mobility of people from different castes/ethnicities, and those regions are undergoing rapid sociocultural changes. Caste issues among the students have been diluted from extreme worldviews, but they are facing to penetrate the mainstream social order of society. While discrimination is rare among educated people, such as students, problems persist in rural and underdeveloped areas. Although policy reforms are in place, social behavioural changes remain crucial for achieving equality. The study's findings have significant implications for policy and further research, highlighting the need for continued social behavioural changes and further studies in this regard.