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The study accessed socio-economic importance of Adansonia digitata (Baobab) in New-Bussa and its environs, Niger State Nigeria. Data were collected with the aid of pre-tested questionnaire. Purposive and accidental sampling techniques were used to select the community and the respondents. Data collected was subjected to descriptive analysis. The demographic characteristics of the respondents indicated that male had the highest percentage (65.0%) with 31-35 years recording highest (31.2%). Majority (40.0%) of the respondents are farmers. The finding further revealed that majority of the respondents (41.3%) had secondary education. Majority (53) of the respondent are involves in the collection of Adansonia digitata and the people involves in the processing and marketing of Adansonia digitata are mostly women. The frequently used parts of the plants are leaves and bark. The socio-economic importance of the plants is to generate income. Perception of respondents towards the status of Adansonia digitata showed that the plants are decreasing and the reasons for the changes in the study area are due to human exploitation and infrastructure development. The study concludes that Adansonia digitata tree contributed immensely to the economic development of study area through the provision of wild food, medicine and fuelwood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degradation of land implies either a provisional or permanent deterioration in its productive potential, which has an adverse impact on agriculture, biodiversity, and the environment. Land degradation is common in many nations across the globe and has severe adverse environmental consequences. It has a negative impact on livelihood as it diminishes agricultural land productivity, endangers food security, and raises disease risk. Previous studies have confirmed that various bamboo species have efficient in land restoration programmes due to its growth potential and wide acceptability in socio-economic benefits. Therefore, present governments are interested in funding bamboo-related land restoration programmes across the globe. In this context, we have made an attempt to review the current state of the art of landscape restoration programmes and the role of bamboo plantations with possible influence on economic, social, and political factors in the Indian scenario. This review highlights various restoration programmes of bamboo with detailed explanations, such as heavily contaminated areas, village drylands, fly ash dumps, mine contaminated soils, deforestation programmes, etc. The present study has discussed various success stories of bamboo plantation programmes and the challenges in its implication. It is estimated that about 30% of India's land area is degraded, and erosion is the primary cause. To control this, bamboo is one of the suitable plants as it has a wide variety of species available as per the local climate of India. Over 30 years, bamboo has played the role of a sustainable crop for land restoration and received massive attention from stakeholders. Furthermore, the study has pointed out site-specific bamboo species and its gene bank information, which could be very helpful in restoration programmes of degraded land in near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land use and land cover change (LULCC) is crucial in sustainable land management. Over the past four decades, the Min River Basin (MRB) has experienced significant LULCC. This study investigated the dynamics of LULCC over these decades (1980–2020) and discusses the key drivers of land use change in different stages. First, we mapped and quantified changes (i.e., LULCC and landscape indices) in forests, croplands, urban areas, and water bodies from 1980 to 2020 using the China National Land Use/Cover Change (CNLUCC) and ArcGIS Pro 2.3. Second, by analyzing existing policies, we categorized four decades of LULCC trends from 1980 to 2020, delineating three distinct stages: (1) the Economic Restoration (ER) stage (1978–1989), when the ecological impacts of LULCC on forests, croplands, and water bodies received limited policy attention; (2) the Construction of Ecological Protection and Economic Development (EPED) stage (1989–2012), which saw a significant increase in forest coverage, primarily driven by various central and provincial environmental conservation policies, such as the Green for Grain and the "Three-Five-Seven Reforestation Project" in Fujian; and (3) the Ecological Civilization (EC) stage (2012–2020), in which policy focus shifted from expanding forest land areas to enhancing the quality of these areas. However, the cropland area has decreased due to urbanization policies and population migration from rural to urban areas, including the above-mentioned forest policies. Thus, this study highlights the complex relationship between different land use land cover policies, as some policies had synergistic effects between the policies and positive outcomes, while other policies showed conflicting outcomes. Our results emphasize the importance of integrated land and water resource management and provide insights for policymakers to balance development and environmental conservation policies in the MRB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis program effectiveness is majorly measured by disease severity and treatment response without integrating patient perspectives. Yet, it's a critical dimension in clinical decision-making that enhances health worker-patient interactions and increases individuals' sustained engagement with treatment, thereby benefiting the people affected and the wider public by mitigating the infection risk. This study assessed the lived experiences of persons affected by tuberculosis who were on treatment in Nairobi County, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2023 among 392 persons with drug-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis in five facilities in Nairobi County. Participants were selected through simple random sampling and interviewed by semi-structured questionnaires and focused group discussions. Data on prevention and control strategies, facility preference, medication burden, interaction with healthcare workers, and the socio-economic effects of the disease were collected. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations while qualitative data was transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. Results: The sample consisted of 245 males and 147 females aged between 3 and 74 years. Despite the high rating of their interactions with the healthcare workers, the findings show insufficient knowledge of the prevention and control strategies of TB. Additionally, food insecurity resulting from an inability to afford recommended meals, medication burden such as high pill burden especially where there are coexisting medical conditions, undesirable taste and size of the TB tablets, adverse drug events, economic burden due to loss of income, and stigma from the family and community were reported to affect treatment outcomes. Conclusion: Treatment outcomes are influenced by multi-level factors such as low knowledge of TB prevention and control strategies, stigma, food insecurity, medication burdens like pill number, size, taste, and adverse drug reactions, facility preference, and economic hardships including loss of income. Understanding the individual needs of persons with TB will help develop interventions that are specific to them for better treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to measure the level of farmers’ perceptions on psychological, socio-cultural and economic aspects, and to analyze the economic losses during foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks. This study was conducted in Bantul District, Yogyakarta, during the period of July-September 2023. A total of 148 farmers affected by FMD were surveyed by a purposive sampling method using a questionnaire and the data were analyzed using the ordinal logistic regression method. The result showed that farmers’ perceptions of FMD outbreaks of psychological, socio-cultural and economic attributes were in the high category. The majority of farmers experienced low economic losses (47.30%). Age and livestock ownership (p<0.01), formal education, and informal education (p<0.1) had a positive effect on the level of farmers’ economic losses, while only farming experience (p<0.01) had a negative effect. Pseudo R-Square value of 33.9% or the level of economic losses, is influenced by farmers’ age, farming experience, livestock ownership, as well as formal and informal education. Reaction in the field of opportunity: the highest level of economic losses in the low category is 0.997%. This study shows that FMD handling carried out by farmers is good enough to prevent the impact of large economic losses on cattle farmers in Bantul Regency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was to investigate the socio-economic impact of rubber business on latex tappers in Ijebu Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods The result showed that all the tappers are male, (35.0%) of the respondents are in their 40s, 55.0% are married and 66.0% had secondary school education. Furthermore, all (100.0%) the tappers went through training for a minimum of three months before starting the business and they all admitted that rubber tree lasts for 30yrs and that the shelf life of rubber product is one year. Most (67.0%) claimed that rubber tapping business was moderately profitable and that it has helped improve their standard of living. 92.0% claimed that the cost of maintaining the business was moderate and that the business has a significant impact on the community because it serves as a source of employment to residents and helped to alleviate poverty in the study area. Among the challenges experienced by rubber tappers, insecurity and theft of rubber product stood out as a principal challenge. The study therefore recommends that adequate security should be provided either by the associations they form or by government in order to maximize their profit from the business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Picralima nitida is medicinal plant that is highly valued for its wide medicinal properties throughout its distribution areas. Hence, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the socio-economic and medicinal benefits of Picralima nitida in Ibadan South East Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Results showed that the respondents were dominated by females (86.0%), married (66.0%) with no formal education (29.0%). Based on the likert scale rating, nine perceptional statements were agreed to except combining Picralima nitida with synthetic drug for use was disagreed to. Fourteen medicinal uses of Picralima nitida were identified. These included treatment of cancer, diabetes, fever, fibroid, gastrointestine, hypertension, jaundice, malaria, menstrual pain, pile, pneumonia, sexual weakness, stomach ache and typhoid with different methods of preparation and usage. The logit model showed that education and gender had the likelihood of significantly influencing the supply of honey at p<0.01. The study concluded that Picralima nitida have wide acceptability and perception among the population of study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) rail project on Thailand's logistics and supply chain operations using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Pearson's correlation analysis reveals a negative correlation of −0.3354 for economic factors and a positive correlation of 0.3179 for logistic performance, indicating a moderate to strong negative correlation with the EEC line's progress. Survey results show that 62.30% of respondents live in urban areas of Chonburi or Rayong. Transportation preferences indicate that 72.13% use a single mode, mainly private cars, with public transport rarely used (1.64% daily) and typical travel times of 30 minutes to an hour for 60.66%. Awareness of the HSR project is low, with over 57% unfamiliar, but 54.10% strongly agree on its importance for regional economic growth. Feasibility studies show 54.10% find it highly feasible to use HSR, expecting benefits in job creation, tourism, and business opportunities. Environmental and social concerns suggest affordable pricing, targeted job creation, and support for vulnerable groups to ensure social equity. Recommendations include improving transport integration, fostering economic and social equity, and prioritising environmental sustainability to support Thailand's long-term development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Constitution, a cornerstone of South Africa’s legal framework, provides for socio-economic rights in an inclusive society. The Bill of Rights, a vital component of the Constitution, further advances these rights. It establishes a variety of independent entities, such as the South African Human Rights Commission, bolstering socio-economic rights. The paper explores the critical role commissions of inquiry play in fostering socio-economic transformation in South Africa. Furthermore, the paper addresses the aspects influencing commissions’ efficacy, such as mandate clarity, independence, public trust, and government backing. Commissions of inquiry ought to be strategic vehicles for achieving transparency, removing the veil to achieve accountability, and fair socio-economic advancement in modern government structures. The paper examines how commissions of inquiry have handled systemic issues, including corruption, economic inequality, and human rights violations. This paper will explore the potential for future policy formation and execution based on the impact of their recommendations. Despite their shortcomings, commissions of inquiry remain effective vehicles for furthering socio-economic development. The continuous improvement of their methodology and practices is not just a suggestion but a necessity for enhancing their influence in solving complex socio-economic concerns. These inquiries should ensure the government’s accountability in upholding the socio-economic rights in the Bill of Rights as we mark 30 years of democracy. The author hopes the arguments in this paper will enhance the debate on advancing socio-economic transformation and improving inquiry commissions’ methodologies to resist external influences like politics.

Background: Child marriage is a marriage that takes place at an age under 19 years that can threaten life and health. Indonesia's child marriage rate is ranked 7th globally and is ranked 2nd in ASEAN. Child marriage brings more harm than good, it tarnishes children rights in so many aspects including the health rights. It can affects children’s growth and development, especially females under the age of 19 can experience such serious injuries considering the reproductive organ is still immature for them to have sex, let alone pregnant and give birth. Apparently, the child marriage can be influenced by many factors, such as culture, socio-economic and environment. Altough the marriage age has been regulated in laws, the number of child marriage is still arrising.Objectives: This study aims to determine the factors that affecting child marriage in Tanjung Terdana Village, Pondok Kubang District, Central Bengkulu Regency.Methods: The research method is analytic observational with a cross-sectional design. The population is a reproductive age women that married in KUA Pondok Kubang distric in 2020-2022. Samples were taken by a total sampling technique of 31 reproductive age women, and data was collected using a questionnaire. Data analysis used a chi square, fisher’s exact and logistic regression.Results: The results indicate that culture, environment and sosio-economic influence the child marriage with a value (p-value) Conclusions: The health workers can work and collaborate cross-sectorally with the local community leaders in order to develop counseling and education programs about reproductive health in the community, especially among adolescents.

Background and Aim: The multi-morbidity in the elderly is a major public health challenge in most of developing countries. The elderly suffer from multiple chronic health conditions due to differential socioeconomic and demographic conditions in the household. The present study examines the prevalence and pattern of triad morbidity among the elderly in the Bankura district of West Bengal. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly men and women aged 55 years and above in five blocks of Bankura district. The multi-stage random sampling designed was developed to select the requisite number of elderly. The blocks were selected in the first stage, and then the village was selected in the second stage, followed by a selection of the target population in the third stage. The pretested, predesigned, and semi-structured questionnaires were developed for collecting the self-reported morbidity information. Descriptive statistics was used to identify the prevalence of disease-specific burden of triad morbidity. Multivariate logistic regression forms of odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval were used to explore the factors associated with morbidities. Results: Out of the 462 elderly persons, 222 (48.05%) were males and 240 (51.95%) were females; 360 (77.9%) were affected by more than one disease. The mean age of affecting triad morbidity among the elderly was 61 years. The highest prevalence of triad morbidity among the elderly was arthritis, hypertension, and heart disease (79.6%), followed by diabetes, hypertension, and depression (78%). The overall disease prevalence was more prominent among the female elderly than males. The prevalence of triad morbidities was strongly correlated with key lifestyle factors such as excess intake of alcohol, smoking, and tobacco consumption and higher food choices of nonvegetarians. Conclusion: The health problems of the elderly are aggravated by the no education, lack of physical work, poor socioeconomic condition, and Western types of lifestyle. There is an urgent need to develop comprehensive public health strategies to address the high burden of NCDs in Bankura.

Understanding the socio-economic benefits of annual community festivals is vital for stakeholders like event planners and sponsors. This study, focused on Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival, assumes festivals generate income for host communities and attract tourists. Using a dual approach (demand and supply perspectives), the study empirically evaluates these benefits, highlighting their impact on local economies and tourism. The aim is to assess and quantify the socio-economic advantages of music festivals for the host community. The research followed the quantitative method for both the demand and supply sides. The demand side collected data from sampled festival attendees; this was done face-to-face, while the supply collection of data from the SMMEs was done face-to-face and telephonically. The data was mainly analysed through descriptive analysis. The main findings revealed that retaining the earnings from the festival gains can be achieved by buying raw materials locally. Both the demand and supply sides depicted in the study show that the economic contribution of the festival involves the entire process of sourcing local produce from raw materials to finished products that may need to be done locally. However, the study established that buying locally might not be easy because some of the goods required are unavailable locally in the area. The festival greatly benefits both host communities and local businesses. The study recommends that there should be collaboration among local businesses to create packages (e.g., discounts for festivalgoers on food, accommodation, and transportation) to stimulate the local economy and to produce other raw materials locally.

Given the fact that women in homelessness face considerable health inequities, the question of how digitalization can be understood in relation to social rights and right to health surfaces. The objective of this qualitative interview study was to explore the use of mobile phones and internet for women experiencing homelessness. Women (n = 26) shared experiences of healthcare access by using a mobile phone or internet. Data were analyzed using NVivo software. The results are presented in two themes: Conditions and circumstances of having a mobile phone; and Structural and intrapersonal challenges affecting social rights. The results show that digitalization actively influenced everyday life for women experiencing homelessness. Whether women wanted it to or not, digitalization presents a line of demarcation for participation and inclusion or exclusion, in health- and social-care services.

Abstract Background Multimorbidity (MM), the co-existence of two or more chronic diseases, is not just a medical condition but a significant public health concern for many developing countries, including Bangladesh. The limited information on MM among the older population in Bangladesh has driven us to conduct this study, which is of utmost importance for healthcare professionals and policymakers in formulating effective healthcare strategies. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected two public medical college hospitals with a sample of 566 hospitalized elderly patients aged 60 years and above. Respondents’ clinical information on chronic conditions was obtained from hospital reports, and socio-demographic data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the associations among the variables and covariates of MM. Result MM of the elderly varied substantially by socio-demographic, lifestyle, and economic attributes. Higher age, widowhood, lower education, use of tobacco, and greater economic dependency are conducive to heightened MM likelihood among the elderly. More specifically, females have higher rates of MM than males (64.18% vs. 54.17%). The higher the age, the higher the chances of MM [OR: 1.03; 95% CI 1.04–1.06]. Similarly, economically dependent individuals have higher MM than independent older adults [OR: 3.12; 95% CI 1.88–5.17]. Smoking cigarettes, bidis, tobacco, and other intoxicants (snuff, pan, and pan masala) have a higher likelihood of MM for both males and females. Urban and non-Muslim elderly also have lower odds of MM than their counterparts. Our findings, which highlight the variations in MM based on different socioeconomic and lifestyle determinants, underscore the urgent need for further exploration of determinant-specific variations. This will enable the development of effective preventive measures and specific clinical and public health strategies for targeted prevention and intervention. As revealed by our study, the ‘lifestyle factors’-centered systematic treatment strategy should be prioritized in the care of elderly patients with multimorbidity.

Background: Multimorbidity (MM), the co-existence of two or more chronic diseases, is not just a medical condition but a significant public health concern for many developing countries, including Bangladesh. The limited information on MM among the older population in Bangladesh has driven us to conduct this study, which is of utmost importance for healthcare professionals and policymakers in formulating effective healthcare strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected two public medical college hospitals with a sample of 566 hospitalized elderly patients aged 60 years and above. Respondents' clinical information on chronic conditions was obtained from hospital reports, and socio-demographic data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the associations among the variables and covariates of MM. Result: MM of the elderly varied substantially by socio-demographic, lifestyle, and economic attributes. Higher age, widowhood, lower education, use of tobacco, and greater economic dependency are conducive to heightened MM likelihood among the elderly. More specifically, females have higher rates of MM than males (64.18% vs. 54.17%). The higher the age, the higher the chances of MM [OR: 1.03; 95% CI 1.04–1.06]. Similarly, economically dependent individuals have higher MM than independent older adults [OR: 3.12; 95% CI 1.88–5.17]. Smoking cigarettes, bidis, tobacco, and other intoxicants (snuff, pan, and pan masala) have a higher likelihood of MM for both males and females. Urban and non-Muslim elderly also have lower odds of MM than their counterparts. Our findings, which highlight the variations in MM based on different socioeconomic and lifestyle determinants, underscore the urgent need for further exploration of determinant-specific variations. This will enable the development of effective preventive measures and specific clinical and public health strategies for targeted prevention and intervention. As revealed by our study, the 'lifestyle factors'-centered systematic treatment strategy should be prioritized in the care of elderly patients with multimorbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is a developing country that has growing responses in the demand of livestock products by increases with population dynamically. In Punjab, Cholistan is an arid and hottest place which considered as notable supply line for mutton and livestock products. The main source of income of nomad pastoralists of Cholistan desert is the livestock rearing including sheep, goats, cattle and camels. Basically, desert of Cholistan is divided into two parts includes greater and lesser Cholistan. Majority of families with their animals are residing in "Toba", it is a source of fresh water made by during natural rainy season is self-made ponds. This study pertains to livestock management practices and marketing pattern in greater and lesser regions of Cholistan desert. For this purpose, field survey was conducted for data collection from representative families residing in the 24 randomly selected "Tobas". A total of 384 households were interviewed through the semistructured questionnaire. Population of cattle and donkey were significantly higher observed in greater Cholistan as compared to lesser Cholistan at household and Toba levels. Camel population was significantly higher reported in lesser Cholistan than the greater Cholistan. Numbers of sold animal were higher (622) in lesser Cholistan compared with greater Cholistan (790). Peak milk production, total milk production and total milk sold liters/day of cattle was significantly higher in greater Cholistan as compared to lesser Cholistan. Simialry, peak and total milk production (liters per animal/day) of camel was more in lesser cholistan as compared to greater Cholistan. Higher percentage of female involvement in livestock was observed more in greater Cholistan as compared to lesser Cholistan. It is concluded that the livestock is the main source of income in region of Cholistan. The scarcity of feed availability and conventional livestock trade methods are the main obstacles to the development livestock production and subsequent improvement in the livelihoods of the farmers. This study will helps in the planning for efficient and sustainable improvements in livestock economy of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Climate change and continued development in the wildland--urban interface (WUI) have increased risks to property and infrastructure from destructive wildfires. Aims. A better understanding of the factors associated with building survival will promote resilience of WUI communities. Methods. We studied factors associated with the likelihood that a building burned during the 2019 McKinley fire in the Alaska boreal forest, USA. We examined the potential influence of both ecological or socio-economic factors on building loss. Key results. The probability of a building burning was significantly associated (P < 0.001) with a building burning nearby (within 30 m). Having less flammable deciduous cover nearby (within 100 m) improved survival. Buildings with lower value on larger parcels were more likely to burn, as were buildings with larger perimeters. Other important factors associated with burning included the number of buildings both nearby (within 30 m) and within the property parcel boundary. Conclusions. Our results suggest that social and ecological factors contribute to building survival, indicating that a comprehensive social-ecological approach would provide the most effective support to WUI communities with wildfire risks. Implications. A comprehensive approach that integrates social, economic, and ecological factors is important in understanding building loss in WUI wildfires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is devoted to the problem of updating measures for preventing criminal offenses in the field of housing construction, as well as their analysis and systematization. It classifies preventive measures related to crime into specific groups applicable in housing construction to modernize previously formulated prevention strategies by researchers, which can also be applied to this field. The grouping and enhancement of the «arsenal» of preventive measures will facilitate the future development of tactics and strategies for preventive activities against crime in the housing construction market at both regional and national levels. The study of a significant body of literature related to both the criminological aspects of preventing criminal offenses in the field of housing construction and adjacent areas has made it possible to propose a grouping of general social and specialized criminological preventive measures across seven key areas: political, legislative, socio-economic, organizational and managerial, educational and cultural, ideological, and doctrinal prevention. Furthermore, due to the extensive and multifaceted nature of the housing construction sector, where criminal offenses are committed by both construction companies and officials from government bodies or local authorities, the organizational and managerial group of preventive measures has been suggested to be divided into those applicable to construction companies and those relevant to the state as a whole, as well as to officials (including those from local governments) specifically. At the same time, as a conclusion, it is noted that there is a need to search for and propose new measures that will significantly improve the existing «arsenal» of preventive measures against crime in the housing construction market and enhance the effectiveness of activities aimed at preventing and combating criminal offenses in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The multi-morbidity in the elderly is a major public health challenge in most of developing countries. The elderly suffer from multiple chronic health conditions due to differential socioeconomic and demographic conditions in the household. The present study examines the prevalence and pattern of triad morbidity among the elderly in the Bankura district of West Bengal. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly men and women aged 55 years and above in five blocks of Bankura district. The multi-stage random sampling designed was developed to select the requisite number of elderly. The blocks were selected in the first stage, and then the village was selected in the second stage, followed by a selection of the target population in the third stage. The pretested, predesigned, and semi-structured questionnaires were developed for collecting the self-reported morbidity information. Descriptive statistics was used to identify the prevalence of disease-specific burden of triad morbidity. Multivariate logistic regression forms of odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval were used to explore the factors associated with morbidities. Results: Out of the 462 elderly persons, 222 (48.05%) were males and 240 (51.95%) were females; 360 (77.9%) were affected by more than one disease. The mean age of affecting triad morbidity among the elderly was 61 years. The highest prevalence of triad morbidity among the elderly was arthritis, hypertension, and heart disease (79.6%), followed by diabetes, hypertension, and depression (78%). The overall disease prevalence was more prominent among the female elderly than males. The prevalence of triad morbidities was strongly correlated with key lifestyle factors such as excess intake of alcohol, smoking, and tobacco consumption and higher food choices of nonvegetarians. Conclusion: The health problems of the elderly are aggravated by the no education, lack of physical work, poor socioeconomic condition, and Western types of lifestyle. There is an urgent need to develop comprehensive public health strategies to address the high burden of NCDs in Bankura. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iconic Taung fossilised skull is widely known for its primacy as Africa’s first palaeoanthropological discovery with universal scientific relevance. Yet the details surrounding its discovery and current status remain an enigma to the community of Taung Village. A comprehensive conservation of the site, which was listed as a UNESCO cultural heritage site of outstanding universal value 25 years ago, is yet to be completed, much to the chagrin of the local communities. The noticeable disconnect between the management authorities and scholarly institutions probably adds to the slow development in regard to continued research and public engagements at the site. In this paper, we discuss the current state of the site and the ongoing development, as well as the knowledge gap and the lack of inclusiveness of the Taung local inhabitants regarding the site. Significance: We look at the discovery of the Taung skull from the perspective of all stakeholders of the site. The discovery of the Taung skull shaped the story of the evolution of humankind, and was a robust discussion for decades. To the Taung community, it did not have much influence on their daily existence, but rather became a mystery, still not understood by many. The paper presents the complex stakeholder relationships, challenges at the site, and the wishes of the Taung people regarding the skull.

Picralima nitida is medicinal plant that is highly valued for its wide medicinal properties throughout its distribution areas. Hence, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the socio-economic and medicinal benefits of Picralima nitida in Ibadan South East Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Results showed that the respondents were dominated by females (86.0%), married (66.0%) with no formal education (29.0%). Based on the likert scale rating, nine perceptional statements were agreed to except combining Picralima nitida with synthetic drug for use was disagreed to. Fourteen medicinal uses of Picralima nitida were identified. These included treatment of cancer, diabetes, fever, fibroid, gastrointestine, hypertension, jaundice, malaria, menstrual pain, pile, pneumonia, sexual weakness, stomach ache and typhoid with different methods of preparation and usage. The logit model showed that education and gender had the likelihood of significantly influencing the supply of honey at p

Background: Educators have a very important job of moulding learners’ lives. However, they cannot do it alone, they need assistance from parents. Every child is different and learns differently and most of the information a child receives comes from their parents. Aim: The article seeks to find ways to help educators to work closely with parents to support their children in their academics for better achievement. This study forms part of a master’s project; however, this article focuses on educators’ perceptions of parental involvement towards learners’ academic work at a rural primary school. Setting: The research was conducted at a rural primary school in the Palala circuit located in Limpopo. Methods: This study was approached by means of a phenomenological research design. Phenomenology seeks to comprehend the phenomena from those who live in the setting under study. The article used questionnaires to collect the data, and convenient sampling was employed. For this research we interviewed Grade 6 and 7 educators. Results: It was found that most educators are concerned with the lack of parental involvement in learners’ academic work. Conclusion: The article recommends that illiterate parents be brought closer to the teachers and be assisted on how they could be actively involved in their children’s schoolwork. The school staff, including educators, need to be workshopped on how to address parents equally and with respect, to feel welcome. Contribution: This article therefore seeks to promote awareness and devise ways to enhance rural parental involvement in children’s schoolwork and school life.

BackgroundImproving joint intra-household decision-making by spouses is a promising solution to improve child-feeding practices. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the status and barriers of intra-household joint decision making on child feeding in rural districts of South Ethiopia from the perspectives of primary caregivers and key individuals.MethodsA mixed-method study was conducted from July 15 to September 15, 2023 in three randomly selected rural districts: Arba Minch Zuria, Mierab Abaya, and Chencha, in Southern Ethiopia. We employed a cross-sectional study design to collect quantitative data. A computer generated random number technique was used to include 25% of the total kebeles from each district. A total of 20 kebeles; 8 from 32 kebeles of chencha, 6 from 24 kebeles of Mierab Abaya, and 6 from 24 kebeles of Arba Minch Zuria were included. A total of 1,479 women with their children aged 6–23 months were recruited from family folder of the health extension program using a simple random sampling technique. A descriptive qualitative study design was used to collect data from 51 focus group discussants and 12 key informants. Trained health professionals collected the data using a structured and pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire and semi-structured interviewer guide for quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Univariate analysis was used to determine the frequency and percentages while Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the associated factors. The odds ratio with a 95%CI was computed to assess strength of the association. The principles of saturation were adhered during the qualitative data collection. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data in themes and subthemes, using ATLAS.ti version 23.ResultsOverall, more than two-thirds (69.2%) of the intra-household decision-making regarding child feeding were found to be jointly decided by the spouses. Women with formal education (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.37–2.46), husband involvement in child feeding (AOR = 2.23, 95%CI: 1.70–2.92), having fewer than or equal to three children (AOR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.11–2.04), women aged 25-34 years (AOR = 1.57, 95%CI: 1.19–2.07) and 35-49 years (AOR = 2.14, 95%CI: 1.38–3.33) were significantly associated with joint decision-making regarding child feeding practices. Moreover, large family sizes, large age gaps between husbands and wives, and gender inequalities were identified as barriers to women’s engagement in intra-household decision making based on qualitative analysis.ConclusionIn the rural districts of southern Ethiopia, joint intra-household decision making regarding child feeding was found to be satisfactory. Maternal education, husband’s involvement in child feeding, mother’s age, and number of children were independent variables that significantly influenced women’s engagement in joint intra-household decision making on child feeding. Interventions targeted at improving women’s engagement in decision-making should consider the following sociocultural barriers: extreme age differences between couples, large family sizes, and detrimental gender-oriented norms.

To restore the degraded watersheds, the government of Ethiopia has recently introduced and adopted participatory natural resources management (PNRM) in different regions of the country. This study aimed at investigating the effects of the various independent variables derived from demographic, socio-economic, biophysical, institutional, and cognitive factors on the perceptions and the attitudes of local people towards the PNRM introduced in the Jemma Watershed, North Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia. Semi-structured questionnaire comprised of closed- and open-ended questions was developed and administered to a total of n = 420 random households in five purposely selected Kebeles of the Jemma Watershed. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression techniques were used to analyze and interpret the household survey data. The descriptive results revealed that majority of the respondents (92.19%) agreed that they had the responsibility to protect and manage the natural resources in the Jemma Watershed. Consequently, about 83% of the respondents had already accepted the PNRM program introduced in the study watershed. The results of the multiple linear regression models revealed that several independent variables derived from demographic, socioeconomic, institutional, and cognitive factors had significant effects on the perceptions of the local people towards ‘the concept of PNRM’ (68% variance explained), ‘the presence of PNRM practice’ (61% variance explained), and ‘the problems with the existing PNRM system’ (72% variance explained). The study further uncovered that several independent variables derived from demographic, socioeconomic, institutional, and cognitive factors significantly affected the attitudes of the local people towards ‘managing the natural resources through participatory approach’ (63% variance explained), ‘having the responsibility to protect and manage the natural resources’ (75% variance explained), and ‘accepting the concept and the practice of the PNRM’ (65% variance explained). As there are still some respondents who are yet unsure to fully accept PNRM, creating public awareness on the PNRM and integrated watershed management program and practice is crucial to alleviate the problems of deforestation and land degradation, thereby enhancing the sustainable use of the natural resources in the Jemma Watershed.

The study aimed to analyze women’s roles in stabilizing their families to improve their conditions during the pandemic. Women have encountered setbacks as they take care of their families in the wake of the pandemic that has adversely affected people’s livelihoods. It employs qualitative research methods and a descriptive study design to ascertain the role women play in improving the welfare of their families during the pandemic. It employs online survey questions and virtual interviews to collect data from a sample size of 100 randomly selected women. The study reveals that women play essential roles in enhancing the hygiene and cleanliness of their homes and children throusgh sanitization and regular washing of hands. They also take leadership and headship of the family following the incapacitation of their spouses by the COVID-19 disease; provide for the family’s basic needs, and provide psycho-social support as caregivers to their affected and infected family members. There is also a need to assist women struggling to protect the interest of their family and their livelihoods during the pandemic to emancipate them from the hurdles that have for a long time hindered them from realizing improved living standards.

This study examines the impact of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) rail project on Thailand’s logistics and supply chain operations using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Pearson’s correlation analysis reveals a negative correlation of −0.3354 for economic factors and a positive correlation of 0.3179 for logistic performance, indicating a moderate to strong negative correlation with the EEC line’s progress. Survey results show that 62.30% of respondents live in urban areas of Chonburi or Rayong. Transportation preferences indicate that 72.13% use a single mode, mainly private cars, with public transport rarely used (1.64% daily) and typical travel times of 30 minutes to an hour for 60.66%. Awareness of the HSR project is low, with over 57% unfamiliar, but 54.10% strongly agree on its importance for regional economic growth. Feasibility studies show 54.10% find it highly feasible to use HSR, expecting benefits in job creation, tourism, and business opportunities. Environmental and social concerns suggest affordable pricing, targeted job creation, and support for vulnerable groups to ensure social equity. Recommendations include improving transport integration, fostering economic and social equity, and prioritising environmental sustainability to support Thailand’s long-term development goals.

Technological advancement has greatly enhanced the global environment, it has improved every facet of the global industry. Currently in Nigeria, the Legal Profession has taken a bold dive by incorporating the use of technology in enhancing the practice of law. However, the current innovation of robotic lawyers in most countries may seem to be consistent with their legal systems. In this regard, it suffices to opine that given the fact that Nigeria is a developing country, there are legal and socio-economic issues that may affect or truncate the adoption of a robotic lawyer in Nigeria. It is in this regard that this study adopted a hybrid method of research in ascertaining the relevance of robotic lawyers, and the legal and socio-economic issues. Questionnaires were distributed to 305 respondent residents in Nigeria. The study found that the current trend of robotic lawyers is quite impressive, however, the nomenclature of law concerning the study and practice of Law in Nigeria does not recognize a robotic lawyer. Furthermore, some socio-economic issues such as internet fraudster, unemployment, insecurity, and poor maintenance culture may pose a challenge to the adoption of a robotic lawyer in Nigeria. In this regard, it was therefore concluded and recommended that for a smooth adoption of robotic lawyers in Nigeria, there is a need for legal approval and streamlining their roles to mere advisory to a client, training of Nigerian lawyers and judges to enhance the legal profession.

Background: Socio- economic factors are known to affect health quality, disease occurrence as well as health-seeking behaviors in several ways. Objectives: To determine the influence of socio-economic factors on awareness of cancer, health- seeking behaviors among parents of children with cancer in a developing country and occurrence of cancer using Burkitt lymphoma as index malignancy. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that involved children with cancer seen over a 2-year period in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Information was obtained by interview through administration of a questionnaire and retrieval of clinical data from patients’ case notes. Results: The caregivers of 91 children (46 boys, 45 girls) were interviewed including 86 biological parents. Majority (84.6%) of the children belonged to the low socio -economic classes 3-5; 45 of 86 parents (52.3%), more likely in parents from higher socio- economic classes, were aware of cancer but only 7 (8.1%) knew it could occur in children. There was no association between Burkitt lymphoma and socio-economic class. Twenty-eight (30.8%) parents of the 91 children visited alternate sources of health care, most commonly traditional healers, followed by religious centers. There was no association between visits to such centers and the parents’ socio-economic status or with presentation with metastatic disease. Conclusions: Awareness of childhood cancer is low among this cohort of parents; their socio- economic status seems to impact on this level of awareness but not on their health-seeking behaviors for their affected children. Focused health education is needed to increase childhood cancer awareness and appropriate health- seeking behavior among the population studied.

Background: Childhood obesity is a complex condition resulting from an inter play of genetic predisposition, environmental factors and socio-economic status. The prevalence has been increasing all over the world, probably due to economic transition and rapid urbanization as well as globalisation. This relationship should be well established for Improved Health Planning in Gombe State and Nigeria. Objectives: To establish the prevalence of Childhood Obesity and it`s relationship with the Socio-Economic Status of Parents and guardians. Methodology:Anthropometric measurements of children and adolescents in both public and private schools from primary to secondary levels were taken and their BMI calculated. The socioeconomic statuses of their parents, as well as the lifestyle of the children were assessed. Results: Overweight and obesity were more prevalent in children whose parents belonged to the middle and upper socio-economic class; these children had televisions and computers in their rooms and were driven to school Conclusion: The picture is completely the reverse of what is obtainable in the developed and industrialised nations where overweight and obesity are more prevalent in children of the lower socio-economic class. Authors` contribution: The first author is the lead researcher and is a staff of Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe while the second author, a staff of University of Maiduguri is the first supervisor who gave guidelines and made corrections. The second and the third authors are members of staff of the University of Melbourne in Australia; the third author provided a template on which the questionaire was based while the fourth author who is also the second supervisor, is a tutor of the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology; she facilitated the acceptance of the proposal and the sponsorship for the research. The research was carried out in Gombe, the capital of Gombe State in North Eastern Nigeria

Many ecosystem-based management (EBM) and related applications require integrating geospatial information about socio-economic conditions of human populated areas within a study area. However, integrating socio-economic data in such a way that it can be related to ecological data is challenging due to issues associated with spatial representation between socio-economic and ecological data frameworks. In Canada, this problem is particularly acute given its large geographic size, diversity of environments and highly irregular population distribution. Although several indices have been developed for Canada related to well-being and vulnerability, their suitability for EBM-related applications is limited. This article presents a GIS-based methodology for mapping regional and community vitality index (RVI/CVI) for Canada using standard Census data integrated with the CanEcumene 3.0 Geospatial Database (GDB). The method uses percentile ranks of five sub-indicators of vitality covering population growth, age structure, education, employment and economic wealth. Results reveal a number of notable patterns and trends in socio-economic conditions across the country and across different types of communities and regions. Most notable are decreasing CVI values from economic core regions to rural and remote communities; decreasing scores from high population centres to lower populated areas and lower scores for Indigenous communities when compared with non-Indigenous communities. A series of maps show variation in RVI/CVI values for specific locations with changes over time.

This study discusses about the saka sugarcane, like history, sugarcane plantations, and the impact of history of sugar cane industry to people in Nagari Bukik Batabuah District. The research for this thesis employs historical research methods with a socio-economic perspective. The research encompasses four stages: heuristics, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography. Sugarcane plantations have been an enduring tradition passed down through generations. The processing of sugarcane into sugar saka has become a daily routine for the people of Nagari Bukik Batabuah. Since 1975, traditional methods involving buffalo power for sugarcane grinding were still in use. However, in 2010, technological advancements led to increased production, impacting farmers' incomes and subsequently bringing about socio-economic changes within Nagari Bukik Batabuah.

BackgroundInsecticide-treated net (ITN) use is among the most recommended strategies to prevent malaria in pregnancy. We analysed the regional and socio-economic patterns of ITN use among pregnant women in Kenya using data from the 2003, 2008 and 2014 Kenyan Demographic and Health Surveys (KDHSs).MethodsInequality was assessed using four dimensions: economic status, education, place of residence and region. Both relative and absolute summary measures were applied. In addition, simple and complex summary measures, i.e. difference, population attributable fraction, population attributable risk and ratio were considered based on the number of subgroups in each variable.ResultsThere was overt inequality in the use of ITNs among pregnant women, with greater use among the better-off group in 2003 and 2014. Greater ITN use was also observed among pregnant women with a higher level of education. Pregnant women from urban settings tended to use ITNs (slept under a net the night before the survey) more than their rural counterparts in the 2003 KDHS. There were significant regional variations across the three surveys in all inequality summary measures, except ratio in the 2014 survey.ConclusionsSignificant inequality in ITN use among pregnant women was observed at a macro scale.

The study examined slum residents' daily activities for survival, their implications on the environment, and the health of the inhabitants. The narrative design based on the qualitative methodology was deployed among 23 participants for an in-depth qualitative interview. The findings show various socioeconomic activities, such as processed and unprocessed food stuff; unskilled and unskilled labor, undertaken by the slum residents to fend for themselves. Such activities tend to negatively impact the environment in which people live as well as the health of the residents. The findings should be carefully applied to other slum communities with similar characteristics across all contexts. The outcome of the study provides city administrators with practical evidence of environmental pollutants occasioned by slums’ socioeconomic activities and their health implications in a developing country context. The novelty of this research lies in its application of two theoretical frameworks to examine the same slum phenomenon, emphasising the impact on the ecology and health of residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the transition from agriculture to tourism, ethnic villages are facing issues of "misalignment" and "disequilibrium" between economic growth and cultural heritage conservation. Previous research has often isolated the effects of cultural heritage conservation or socio-economic development, neglecting their reciprocal influences within the coupling coordination. This study addresses this gap by assessing 43 villages in Leishan County, quantifying the preservation status of the cultural landscape (PSCL) and socio-economic level (SEL) using a comprehensive evaluation model and revealing the coupling coordination relationship between PSCL and SEL in each village with the coupling coordination degree (CCD) model. Spatial autocorrelation and the geographical detector model reveal the spatial agglomeration characteristics and influential factors of the CCD. The results highlight three findings. (1) The majority of villages (93%) are in a moderate imbalance stage or a serious imbalance stage, underscoring an urgent need for targeted policies. (2) Spatial autocorrelation analysis exposes significant clustering, with the northwest corner exhibiting the most pronounced high-value aggregation, which contrasts with the southern region's low-value clustering. A 'low–high' clustering pattern is observed in the northern region, while the southwestern corner presents a 'high–low' distribution. (3) Key determinants affecting the CCD include the tourism revenue, tourist volume, resident participation in tourism, village hollowing level, and number of historical buildings. The interactions between driving factors show non-linear and two-factor enhancement effects. This study concludes with policy recommendations advocating for context-specific strategies to enhance the CCD, emphasizing the importance of aligning cultural preservation with economic progress in ethnic villages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, this study sought to evaluate the impact of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), a Conditional Cash Transfer programme, on enhancing maternal health awareness, utilisation patterns, and perceived health benefits among expectant and nursing mothers. Method: To acquire further in-depth understanding, a mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative interviews with 200 beneficiaries and a quantitative survey. Sociodemographic factors, knowledge of PMMVY, benefit use, and satisfaction levels were all included in the study. Result: There is a substantial information gap about PMMVY (62% ignorant). Although 59% of respondents were satisfied with the plan, the causes of their discontent were also investigated. For many (53%), the monetary benefits had a favourable impact on health outcomes; the money was spent on medications and food. Conclusion: To close the knowledge gap, the study emphasises the necessity of focused awareness efforts and enhanced communication. Modifying interventions to target needs and fortify family support can improve PMMVY's capacity to improve maternal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study used repeated cross-sectional data from three national surveys in Vietnam to determine tobacco smoking prevalence from 2010 to 2020 and disparities among demographic and socioeconomic groups. Methods: Tobacco smoking temporal trends were estimated for individuals aged 15 and over and stratified by demographic and socioeconomic status (SES). Prevalence estimates used survey weights and 95% confidence intervals. Logistic regression models adjusted for survey sample characteristics across time were used to examine trends. Results: Tobacco smoking prevalence dropped from 23.8% in 2010 to 22.5% in 2015 and 20.8% in 2020. The adjusted OR for 2015 compared to 2010 was 0.87, and for 2020 compared to 2010 was 0.69. Smoking decreased less for employed individuals than unemployed individuals in 2020 compared to 2010. Smoking was higher in the lower SES group in all 3 years. Higher-SES households have seen a decade-long drop in tobacco use. Conclusion: This prevalence remained constant in lower SES households. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the specific challenges faced by lower-SES smokers and emphasizes the importance of further research to inform effective policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IDHS 2017 showed the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) infants in Indonesia is 7%. LBW can increase the risk of mortality, morbidity, and growth disorders. The survival of LBW infants can be influenced by socioeconomic factors. The purpose of this study is to analyze survival time differences of LBW infants based on socioeconomic factors. This research is a non-reactive study using secondary data from the IDHS 2017. Survival analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method and analysis of differences in survival curves using the Log Rank method. The independent variables in the study include parents' occupation, household wealth index, mother's education, and father's education. The measured event is infant mortality within one year. Mother's education (p value=0.069) has no difference in the survival time of LBW. The parent's occupation (p value=0.013) has a difference in the survival time of LBW. The probability of survival is 99% in LBW with non-working mothers. There is a difference in the survival time of LBW based on the household wealth index factor (p value=0.000) with the probability of survival for LBW born in the lowest wealth index family is 90%. Differences in the survival time of LBW have been found in the parents' occupation and household wealth index variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the socio-economic aspects of crab fisheries in Maginti Island, West Muna Regency. Data collection was carried out from March 2021 to December 2023. The data collected were the socio-economic aspects of crab fisheries, including the level of community education, the number of fishermen, income from crab fishing, crab production 2017 - 2023, crab prices during 2017-2023, and the crab trade supply chain. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with stakeholders, including 62-74 fishermen, three local collectors, and two district-level collectors. Interviews were directly conducted with an open-ended question system based on data needs. Data analysis was carried out with a descriptive-quantitative approach. The study results showed that in the social aspect, crab fishermen's education is dominated by elementary school (S.D.) graduates, namely 61.29% in 2017 and 60.81% in 2023. In the economic aspect, most fishermen have a net income ranging from 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 IDR/month, which was affected by fluctuations in BSC prices. Crab prices from fishermen to collectors tend to fluctuate throughout 2017-2023. The average price of crabs per kg was 32,083.33 IDR in 2017, 36,166.67 IDR in 2018, 30,750 IDR in 2019, 23,750 IDR in 2020, 64,666.67 IDR in 2021, 31,083.33 IDR in 2022, and 44,791.67 IDR in 2023. Price fluctuations occurred since BSC fisheries in Maginti Island are part of the global fisheries supply chain that reaches the international market to America, China, and others. Fluctuations in the global BSC prices not only affected the prices locally but could increase fishermen's income by up to 11.25% which is >2,000,000 IDR/month from 2017-2023. The increase in income indicates that BSC fisheries in Maginti Island have supported the implementation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs), specifically SDGs-1, namely no poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Exploring cultural diversity and socio-economic factors offers a holistic approach to fostering sustainable safety practices within the construction industry. This study investigates the relationship between cultural and socio-economic factors and their influence on safety practices within the construction industry, focusing specifically on Saudi Arabian construction. Employing a comparative research design, data were gathered through a questionnaire distributed among various stakeholders, including construction workers, safety officers, project managers, supervisors, and other professionals involved in construction projects. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized to analyze the relationships between cultural, socio-economic, and safety practices. The findings showed significant associations of cultural and socio-economic factors with safety practices and attitudes. Specifically, positive workplace norms and values, effective communication styles, higher income levels, and better education and literacy levels were found to positively influence adherence to safety guidelines and the effectiveness of training programs. Conversely, job insecurity exhibited a negative impact on safety-related outcomes and training effectiveness. This study demonstrates the importance of fostering a positive safety culture within organizations, emphasizing leadership commitment, effective communication, and employee engagement. It also highlights the significance of addressing socio-economic factors, such as job security, income levels, and education, to promote a safer work environment and enhance safety practices. Practical implications derived from the research findings offer actionable insights for organizations to develop targeted interventions aimed at improving sustainable safety practices and training effectiveness within the construction industry in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]