bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychodynamique du travail et action syndicale. Un point de vue singulier depuis SUD-Rail
Authors: Delépine Jean-René
Published: October 2023

Dans le contexte singulier du monde ferroviaire (dont l’auteur rappelle très brièvement les caractéristiques historiques, techniques et organisationnelles au regard du travail), et dans le contexte de l’idéal syndical de l’organisation S ud -Rail (fondé sur l’autonomie syndicale, le fédéralisme et l’horizon d’une transformation sociale globale), l’auteur témoigne de la manière avec laquelle le cadre conceptuel de la psychodynamique du travail a pu être accueilli au sein des équipes S ud -Rail, mais aussi des difficultés à transformer ce cadre conceptuel en actions syndicales pour agir concrètement sur les mécanismes de la souffrance au travail, et retourner le travail de l’intérieur, dans un sens émancipateur. En s’appuyant sur quelques lignes de force de la culture tant cheminote que syndicale, l’auteur esquisse des pistes de compréhension de ces difficultés.
Autour de Primo Levi et de la “zone grise” : une réflexion sur l’usage de cette notion pour l’analyse du travail contemporain
Authors: Arata Armando
Published: October 2023

À partir de la citation de Primo Levi par Christophe Dejours dans les dernières pages de son ouvrage Souffrance en France, cet article se propose d’analyser la notion de « zone grise » développée par l’écrivain italien. Survivant du camp de concentration d’Auschwitz, Levi a introduit cette notion dans son dernier texte, Les Naufragés et les rescapés , afin d’expliquer le « réseau de rapports humains » dans le Lager . Aujourd’hui, cette notion a une certaine diffusion dans les sciences humaines qui s’intéressent au travail contemporain. L’article se déroule en deux parties : dans la première, il s’efforce de présenter le concept de « zone grise » tel que Levi le construit dans le chapitre homonyme de Les Naufragés et les rescapés . Dans la deuxième, l’article propose certains points de repère pour l’emploi de cette notion comme « concept critique » dans l’analyse des transformations contemporaines de l’organisation du travail.
Jardins perchés néolithiques sur le Dhar Oualata (Mauritanie). Apport d’une méthode sédimentologique à une question d’archéologie africaine
Authors: Person Alain , Amblard-Pison Sylvie , Ferré Bruno , Saoudi Nour Eddine
Published: October 2023

L’existence d’espaces protégés interprétés sur le plan archéologique comme étant destinés à la culture se trouve confirmée par une approche sédimentologique. L’intérêt de cette dernière, fondée sur des témoins micropaléontologiques, est également de révéler l’origine même de leurs sols. Des prélèvements réalisés, d’une part, dans les sols conservés des enclos des villages néolithiques perchés sur la falaise de Khneivissa (Dhar Oualata, Hodh mauritanien) et, d’autre part, dans les dépôts lacustres de piémont, ont livré des cortèges microfauniques (ostracodes) identiques. Cette identité d’assemblages ne s’explique que par un apport anthropique de sédiments lacustres provenant du pied de la falaise afin de constituer un sol arable sur le relief de grès paléozoïque. Ces sols artificiels protégés de l’érosion éolienne par des murets de pierres sèches constituent un ensemble de jardins à proximité immédiate des concessions habitées par les villageois.
Analysis of Factors Affecting Investment in Technology for Sustainability
Authors: Agarwal Vernika , Arya Pragya
Published: October 2023

The changing dynamics of the business and growing pressure from the stakeholders has forced the organisations to take another important aspect into their boardroom – sustainability. Investment in technological interventions is a must to enable sustainability within the business. The problem faced by the businesses is to find the right balance between their profits and technological investment to achieve sustainability. The current study focuses on understanding the factors which affect investment in sustainability using the multi-criteria approach of fuzzy-DEMATEL approach. The methodology is utilised to depict the context-specific link between the factors to aid the business managers in making right decisions. The results demonstrate that the factors such as commitment of top management (TS1), cost of training and development (TS2), cost of regulatory audits and fines (TS5), cost of subsidies and incentives (TS6), and cost of searching for suitable partners (TS9) are crucial for the incorporation of sustainability.
Mapping the Future of Sustainable Development Through Cloud-Based Solutions
Authors: Ahmad Munir , Ali Asmat
Published: October 2023

OSM plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable development across the economy, environment, and society. It can foster economic sustainability by enabling infrastructure planning, disaster response, and energy efficiency. Moreover, OSM can contribute to environmental sustainability through resource management, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity protection. Additionally, OSM can promote social sustainability by empowering communities and supporting healthcare, education, and gender equality. Spatial analysis of OSM data can help to identify areas that need essential services, addressing social inequalities. OSM's vast capabilities, coupled with cloud computing, can further enhance its role in driving sustainable progress. Continuous efforts are required to enhance data accuracy and completeness in OSM using advanced techniques like machine learning and artificial intelligence while also promoting inclusive mapping involving marginalized communities.
Eco-Friendly Colors
Authors: Roy Rupayan
Published: October 2023

This chapter reviews recent developments in natural dyes, highlighting the advancements made in natural dye research, benefits of using modern natural dyes, examples of recent natural dyes and the colors they produce, and the methods used to extract and process these modern natural dyes. Additionally, the sustainability and environmental impact of using natural dyes are discussed, including a comparison and contrast to synthetic dyes, and the importance of using eco-friendly dyes in the fashion industry is emphasized. The chapter concludes with potential future developments in natural dye research, the benefits of using natural dyes, and their importance for sustainability. Overall, the chapter emphasizes the significance of recent developments in natural dyes and their potential impact on the fashion industry.
Machine Learning Approaches for Classification of Ultra High Carbon Steel Micrographs
Authors: Muñoz-Ródenas Jorge , Miguel Valentín , García-Sevilla Francisco , Coello Juana , Martínez-Martínez Alberto
Published: October 2023

The aim of this investigation is to analyze the performance of several supervised machine learning algorithms for solving the automatic classification problem of steel image microstructures. We conducted an experiment using a public-domain dataset of Ultra High Carbon Steel Micrographs (UHCSM). This image database consists of a collection of scanning electron micrographs (SEM) taken from samples of a commercial roll-mill casting with a nominal carbon of 2%. Heat treatments such as annealing, water quenching, air and furnace cooling were performed on steel samples so primary microconstituents could be found in micrographs. Each of these microconstituents defines each of the categories of classification to be accomplished by machine learning algorithms. The heat treatments brought about 4 usable classes (sets of images) of primary microconstituents: pearlite, spheroidite, proeutectoid cementite network, pearlite containing spheroidite. All labeled images are prepared to improve models' accuracy in a preprocessing stage so that the image dataset is ready for feature extraction. In order to develop classification models, we put to the test distinct machine learning approaches by working with Matlab's classification learner application where we perform automated training to search for the best classification model type, including Decision Trees, Support Vector Machines (SVM), Discriminant Analysis, Nearest Neighbors, Naive Bayes, Ensemble k-NN, and Neural Network classification. For obtaining the features of the images (feature extraction) we choose the method of Bag-of-features with 400 words for the first experiment, and 327 words by removing less important features for a second experiment. The experimented models reached very different accuracy values on training, with SVM as the best classifier which gets 91.6% accuracy. We can conclude that classic machine learning algorithms solve the classification, but an accuracy improvement can be reached by investigating deep learning techniques.
Methods of Structural Engineering of Surface in Solving the Problems of Multifactorial Increase of the Level of Operational Characteristics of Materials
Authors: Volkov Oleg , Subbotina Valeria , Subbotin Oleksandr , Vasilchenko Alexey , Shyogoleva Mariy
Published: October 2023

In the course of the study, several different methods of surface structural engineering are reviewed. The methods described in this paper are characterized by different process physics on the way to obtaining the result, but they are aimed at modifying the structure and properties of the surfaces to which they are applied. Among them, two different technological directions are considered. The first area involves technologies that include a friction component, namely thermofriction treatment (TFT) for thermofriction strengthening (TFS), additional thermofriction strengthening (ATFS) or thermofriction welding (TFW). The second direction is a technology that involves the use of an anode-cathode electrolysis mode in an alkaline-silicate electrolyte – micro-arc oxidation (MAO). The paper describes the features and results of the application of such technologies and the feasibility of using this or that method for materials of different classes, and presents schemes of the corresponding installations. The result of additional hardening of the surface of U8A steel from a microhardness level of 7.2 GPa to 14.7 GPa using the ATFS method after its thermal hardening to almost the maximum possible level is shown. The microstructure of the cross-section of a prehardened specimen of U8A steel after ATFS is presented, where the degree and nature of surface hardening are reliably visible. It is emphasized that in previous studies, consistently effective hardening of steels of various classes has been achieved, even up to the level of 22 GPa in 65G steel. Regarding the method of microarc oxidation, the structure and properties of coatings on low-alloy aluminum alloys AB and AD1 formed in an alkaline-silicate electrolyte in the anode-cathode MAO mode were investigated. It is shown that the method of MAO in alkaline-silicate electrolyte allows to obtain a coating thickness of up to 300 μm, a coating growth rate of ~ 2 μm/min, and a coating hardness of 10-20 GPa. The coatings have high adhesion to the substrate; they have a layered structure. The properties of the coatings are determined by the properties of the base layer. The coatings have a crystalline structure and consist of the following phases: γ-Al2O3, α-Al2O3, mullite (3Al2O3·2SіO2), the ratio between the phases depends on the electrolysis conditions. It has been established that phase formation begins with the γ-Al2O3 phase, which in the process of further coating growth turns into the α-Al2O3 phase or interacts with silicon oxide to form the mullite phase.
Evaluation of Machinability Performance MRR and SR of AA7050-7.5% B4C-T6 Composite through EDM
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Kumar Abhishek , Prakash Jai , Kumar Ranveer
Published: October 2023

The Al-B4C composites are exclusively applicable in the structural components of automobiles and aerospace. It is also termed a hard-to-cut material. Hence, the Machining of such materials with firm design and close tolerance is a key concern in the present era of the manufacturing world, particularly through the conventional machining process. The prime motive of this paper is to evaluate the Machinability performance in terms of MRR and SR of the AA7050-7.5% B4C-T6 Composite using die-sinking EDM. The Taguchi L9 DOE was employed for the execution of experiments to assess the machinability performance of the composite in terms of MRR and Ra, with the simultaneous effect of input parameters such as Ip, Ton, and sand parking voltage (Sv). Further, the parameters were optimized using the Taguchi Analysis. ANOVA analysis was performed to evaluate the significance and contribution of the input parameters toward performance measures.
Surface Characterisation and Comparison of Polymeric Additive Manufacturing Features for an XCT Test Object
Authors: Gallardo Daniel , Concha Mercedes , Díaz Lucía-Candela , Jiménez Roberto , Torralba Marta , Albajez José Antonio , Yagüe-Fabra José Antonio
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) has experimented a huge development in recent years, improving the physical properties of parts produced by these technologies to the level of being capable of fabricating end-use functional products. High performance metals are widely used and studied; however, the reduction in material costs of polymers and their acceptable properties makes them suitable for common AM purposes. The intrinsic surface roughness of AM, as a consequence of the layer-by-layer technology, remains a challenge and its characterisation is necessary for quality control. X-Ray computed tomography (XCT), as a newly adapted evaluation technology for industrial applications, sets an opportunity for the dimensional measurement of AM parts, due to its capability of characterising the complex geometries that is possible to create with this manufacturing technologies. In this paper, a first approach to a surface characterisation of polymeric AM parts is presented. Several individual objects have been designed and manufactured using various polymeric AM technologies with different manufacturing principles (FDM, Polyjet, SLS) to build ramps with a range of surface roughness created by two main parameters (angle of inclination and layer thickness). Measurements have been carried out by an optical device (focal variation microscope, FVM), and a comparison with theoretical roughness values calculated following predictive models has been made, with the objective of analysing the behaviour of each surface. Results show that the influence of the angle of inclination is higher than the influence of layer thickness; post-processing, also, affects to the trueness of the real roughness comparing to the predicted one obtaining more unpredictable results.
Donor Atom Properties in 2D Ultra-Thin Cylindrical Quantum Dots
Authors: Chouef Soufiane , Mommadi Omar , Hbibi Mohammed , Boussetta Reda , Chnafi Mohamed , Belamkadem Laaziz , El Moussaouy Abdelaaziz , Duque Carlos Mario , Duque Carlos Alberto , Falyouni Farid
Published: October 2023

The objective of this work is to study theoretically the ground state energy of a donor atom located in a two-dimensional ultra-thin cylindrical nanostructure called nanoflakes for different geometries controlled by the three geometrical parameters, in an infinite confinement potential. The solution of our equations system is based on the 2D finite difference method. Our numerical calculations show that the ground state energy of a donor atom is more important in the small area of the nanoflakes. Moreover, beyond the critical regions, the donor energy becomes stable.
Intra-urban differences underlying leprosy spatial distribution in central Brazil: geospatial techniques as potential tools for surveillance
Authors: Carvalho Amanda G. , Dias Carolina Lorraine H. , Blok David J. , Ignotti Eliane , Luz João Gabriel G.
Published: October 2023

This ecological study identified an aggregation of urban neighbourhoods spatial patterns in the cumulative new case detection rate (NCDR) of leprosy in the municipality of Rondonópolis, central Brazil, as well as intra-urban socioeconomic differences underlying this distribution. Scan statistics of all leprosy cases reported in the area from 2011 to 2017 were used to investigate spatial and spatiotemporal clusters of the disease at the neighbourhood level. The associations between the log of the smoothed NCDR and demographic, socioeconomic, and structural characteristics were explored by comparing multivariate models based on ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, spatial lag, spatial error, and geographically weighted regression (GWR). Leprosy cases were observed in 84.1% of the neighbourhoods of Rondonópolis, where 848 new cases of leprosy were reported corresponding to a cumulative NCDR of 57.9 cases/100,000 inhabitants. Spatial and spatiotemporal high-risk clusters were identified in western and northern neighbourhoods, whereas central and southern areas comprised low-risk areas. The GWR model was selected as the most appropriate modelling strategy (adjusted R²: 0.305; AIC: 242.85). By mapping the GWR coefficients, we identified that low literacy rate and low mean monthly nominal income per household were associated with a high NCDR of leprosy, especially in the neighbourhoods located within high-risk areas. In conclusion, leprosy presented a heterogeneous and peripheral spatial distribution at the neighbourhood level, which seems to have been shaped by intra-urban differences related to deprivation and poor living conditions. This information should be considered by decision-makers while implementing surveillance measures aimed at leprosy control.
Wind turbines: Vacated/abandoned homes – Exploring research participants’ descriptions of adverse health effects and medical diagnoses provided by their physicians and physician specialists
Authors: Krogh Carmen M , McMurtry Robert Y , Johnson William B , Alves-Pereira Mariana , Punch Jerry L , Dumbrille Anne , Hughes Debra , Rogers Linda , Rand Robert W , Gillis Lorrie
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

The risk of harm associated with living within 10 km of industrial wind turbines (IWTs) is unresolved and continues to be debated internationally. While sources such as judicial proceedings, scientific literature, social media, and Internet websites report that some neighbors contemplate leaving their homes, research on this topic is limited. This study continues to explore why they contemplated such a housing decision.

Methodology:

The ethics-reviewed study used the qualitative Grounded Theory (GT) methodology and interviewed 67 consenting participants, 18 years or older, who had previously lived, or were currently living, within 10 km of IWTs. Audio files were transcribed to text and the data were coded and analyzed using NVivo Pro (v. 12.6) software.

Objectives:

The objective of this manuscript is to explore participants’ descriptions of their medical diagnoses provided by their physicians and physician specialists.

Results:

Data analysis revealed primary and subthemes associated with environmental interference and altered living conditions. Of the 67 participants, eight described their diagnoses of medical conditions as given by their physicians and physician specialists. Descriptions of conversations with participants’ health-care providers were also surveyed.

Discussion:

Medical diagnoses, descriptions of comments by health practitioners and the commonality of globally reported adverse health effects (AHEs), support the potential risk of locating IWTs near residential areas. It is recommended that members of the public, government authorities, policy makers, researchers, health practitioners, and social scientists with an interest in health policy and disease prevention acknowledge this risk and advocate for the immediate, effective, and timely resolution for affected neighbors.

Conclusions:

The GT methodology was used to develop a substantive theory regarding the housing decisions of participants living within 10 km of a Wind Power Plant. Results from the interviews indicate that these decisions were motivated by the potential for, or the experience of, AHEs which they attributed to living in proximity to these installations.
Fostering East-West and North-South bidirectional collaborations
Authors: Le Nicole K. , Panchang Sarita , Izurieta Andres , Ortiz Miguel Reina , Hoare Ismael , Naik Eknath , Espinel Mauricio , Teran Enrique , Izurieta Ricardo
Published: October 2023

Communicable disease is a challenge that is widely recognized to be a consequence of globalization. Infectious disease threats such as SARS-CoV-2, Ebola, Zika, malaria, and yellow fever are easily transmissible through mass global processes such as migration and trade. Scholars are increasingly recognizing the value of international cooperation and transdisciplinary research to meet these infectious disease challenges and even to anticipate future challenges. However, international collaboration is not an easy process given the often-uneven relationships between the Global North and South due to histories of resource disparities. In the International Congress on Ecology and Evolution of Global Communicable Diseases held in Quito and Galapagos Islands, Ecuador in 2016, researchers developed a concrete framework for international, interdisciplinary collaboration toward tackling infectious disease challenges. We share the insights from the congress here in hopes of enabling other scientific researchers to engage in similar research partnerships and to forge collective progress toward a more efficient infectious disease research agenda.

The following core competencies are addressed in this article:

Medical knowledge, Interpersonal and communication skills, and Professionalism.
Diabetic with Nephrotic Syndrome: A Case of “Masked” Membranous Nephropathy – A Case Report
Authors: Goyal Mukesh , Bahadure Tushar , Varamudi Anwitha , Uppin Megha , Sharma Alok , Raju Sree Bhushan
Published: October 2023

Distinguishing nondiabetic renal disease (NDKD) from diabetic nephropathy (DN) is of paramount importance in choosing treatment modalities and determining renal prognosis. Nearly 40% of the patients with diabetes are likely to have NDKD. We report a case of a patient with diabetes with a massive nephrotic range of proteinuria that was labeled as DN based on LM and IF, but paraffin IF confirmed the presence of masked MN.
Relapsing Calciphylaxis of the Breast: Glucocorticoids – Friend or Foe?
Authors: Shankarappa T Ravikiran , Jairam Anantharam , Kedlaya Prashant G. , Satish Renuka
Published: October 2023

Calciphylaxis is a rare life-threatening condition characterised by systemic medial calcification of arterioles causing tissue ischemia with subsequent necrosis. Calciphylaxis occur in areas of increased adiposity like abdomen, proximal extremities, buttocks and breast. We report an elderly lady with end-stage kidney disease who presented with severe mastalgia with breast nodules and overlying skin changes. Calciphylaxis was diagnosed based on clinical, mammography and histo-pathological findings. Poor response to standard conservative management prompted us to use glucocorticoids showing dramatic improvement. She had a relapse after 3 months necessitating glucocorticoids again. We report the use of glucocorticoids as an option in recalcitrant, recurrent breast calciphylaxis.
A Simplified Risk Score to Estimate the Risk of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy after Contrast Exposure
Authors: Kulkarni Chaitanya S. , Kothari Jatin P. , Sirsat Rashika A. , Almeida Alan F.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Scores are available to predict the probability of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) after cardiac interventions, but not many scores are available for non-cardiac interventions and there are none for intravenous exposure to contrast. We designed this study to develop a simplified score to determine the probability of developing CIN in patients exposed to the parenteral contrast medium.

Methods:

This was a prospective study of patients who received parenteral contrast. Of 1300 patients, the first 1000 comprised the derivation cohort and the next 300 comprised the validation cohort. The patient variables in the development cohort were studied using univariate analysis. Statistically significant individual variables were used as independent variables, and CIN was used as the dependent variable in the final multivariate logistic regression model. Then, the risk score was obtained and validated.

Results:

The incidence of CIN was 3.8%. The risk factors, namely the presence of diabetes mellitus, e-GFR, and route and volume of contrast material were significantly associated with the risk of CIN (P < 0.05). The developed risk score had a sensitivity of 90.4% and specificity of 98.78%. The overall accuracy was 97.8%. The values of AUC of ROC in the development and validation datasets were high. This indicated that the predicted CIN risk score correlated well with the calibration and discriminative characteristics.

Conclusions:

The route and volume of contrast administered, low e-GFR, and diabetes mellitus were the significant risk factors. The developed risk score exhibited very good sensitivity and specificity and excellent accuracy in predicting the probability of CIN.
Bagassosis- An Infrequent Type of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: A Case Report
Authors: Kulkarni Keertivardhan D. , Ravi Apoorva , V Pranavi
Published: October 2023

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an umbrella term for a spectrum of disorders caused by the inhalation of organic dust or low molecular weight chemicals. Bagassosis, a rare form of HP, is an allergic reaction caused by inhalation of bagasse dust, which is used in manufacturing several products. Very few cases of bagassosis have been reported in India, owing to the growing industrialization adapting organized sectors for preventing occupational health disorders. Nevertheless, a small population is being exposed to bagasse dust, shadowed by inadequate protective equipment, leading to the occurrence of this occupational disease. Here, we report a case of bagassosis in a 25-year-old male, brick-kiln worker, who presented with respiratory complaints. He underwent a transbronchial lung biopsy that aided in confirmation of the disease, but developed pneumothorax as a complication, which was managed with an Intercostal drain. He was started on corticosteroids, following which his symptoms improved significantly.
Prevalence of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders among Fishermen Population in and around Pondicherry, South India - A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Sekizhar Vandana , G Ezhumalai , C Chanthrakumar
Published: October 2023

Context:

In India fishing is a traditional occupation second only to agriculture. Fishermen are a marginalized group with high levels of occupational stress predisposing them to develop addictions to tobacco, alcohol, and areca nut chewing. These habits are well-established causes of developing oral potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer.

Aims:

To determine the prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders among the fishermen population in and around Pondicherry.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods and Material:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire to assess the prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders among the fishermen population in and around Pondicherry.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive statistics were used with Pearson’s correlation.

Results:

The study showed 24.8% of fishermen consumed tobacco, and 7.3% consumed both tobacco and alcohol. Oral potentially malignant disorders were seen in 16.79% of the population.

Conclusions:

The fishermen had a higher rate of addictions to tobacco, alcohol, and areca nut chewing and a higher prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders.
Depressive Disorders and Associated Factors among Farmers in Andhra Pradesh: Results from a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ubbla Sparjan Raj , Kodali Prakash Babu , Thankappan Kavumpurathu Raman
Published: October 2023

Background:

In the two decades from 1995 to 2018, approximately 48 farmers committed suicide every day, accounting for over 0.4 million deaths. Despite farmer’s mental health being a priority, studies on farmers’ mental health in general and depressive disorders in particular are limited.

Aim:

This study was conducted to find out the prevalence and factors associated with depressive disorders among farmers in Andhra Pradesh.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among a random sample of 360 farmers. Depressive disorders were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9. Mild-to-moderate depressive disorders were the outcome variable. Factors associated with depressive disorders were identified using binary logistic regression.

Results:

The overall prevalence of depressive disorders was 22.2% (95% CI = 18.0%–26.9%). Female farmers (AOR = 4.16; 95% CI = 1.19–14.57), farmers aged ≥57 years (AOR = 4.90; 95% CI = 1.44–16.63), and single farmers (AOR = 4.96; 95% CI = 2.08–11.80) have greater odds of having depressive disorders.

Conclusion:

Efforts are required to address depressive disorders among farmers focusing on females, older farmers, and households reporting hospitalization. Since depressive disorders are closely associated with suicide attempts, these efforts are essential to avoid suicides resulting from depressive disorders.
Effect of Job Rotation Concept for Nursing Staff with Special Reference to Private Based Hospital, Vadodara
Authors: Chatterjee Subhasish , Shah Aesha , Sharma Rahul , Wadhwa Medha
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Employees are placed in various job rotations between two or more tasks or vocations at regular intervals to ensure that they are exposed to all elements of the company. Job rotation is a methodical approach that permits employees to avoid boredom while also allowing them to develop and grow. Both management and personnel objectives are met with this strategy. It aids in the identification of employee potential and abilities. Through job rotation, employees are exposed to all aspects of the company. Employee abilities and competencies are evaluated ahead of time to ensure that the employee is deployed in the best possible position. However, it does permit the pursuit of personal interests while gaining practical knowledge in a variety of industries or processes. The present study was undertaken with an aim to assess the effect of job rotation on the nursing staff in a private hospital of Vadodara.

Methodology:

The study was cross-sectional in nature where the perception of the nursing staff was gathered through a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed the perception of the staff on a five point likert scale from strongly agree to strongly disagree. The sample size of the study was 126. Mann Whitney Test and Kruskal Wallis test was used to assess the effect of job rotation with respect to gender and age, years of experience respectively. The statistical analysis was undertaken at 95% confidence level with statistical significance at a p value of less than 0.05.

Results:

The results depicted that there was no difference in the perception towards effect of job rotation with respect to gender and age group. However, with respect to job rotation not interrupting the employees’ work life and no effect on personal life, there was statistical significant difference with respect to the years of experience of the nursing staff as the p value was less than 0.05.

Conclusion:

Job rotation, in their opinion, causes frequent interruptions in both the job and personal life of those who participate in it. The nurses working in the hospital came up with appropriate job rotation ideas that took into consideration their age and years of experience. It appears that most of the criteria indicate that the nursing staff members were satisfied with their job rotation, which lends support to the findings of the study.
Preventive Measures and Hygiene Habits of Apple Producers in the Prespa Region
Authors: Bukovetz Jansun , Kochubovski Mihail , Memeti Shaban , Ristovska Gordana
Published: October 2023

Background:

Agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries, both for the employees in that sector and for their families and the environment. The use of personal protective preventive measures and the maintenance of good hygienic practices are the basis for healthy production and healthy workers. The safety and hygiene of food products should be present during all stages of production.

Objectives:

The study aimed to assess the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by apple growers during agricultural procedures as well as the hygiene habits of agricultural workers.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted including 101 farmers from the Prespa region in the Republic of North Macedonia by using a questionnaire with 34 questions. The questions were formulated in order to give us an insight into the protective preventive measures undertaken at work by apple producers and their hygiene.

Results:

The study included 101 apple growers from the Prespa region. Wearing a completely tidy special PPE when using pesticides was registered in 78.2% of farmers, and when lawn mowing in 42.5%. 16% of the surveyed farmers during agricultural activities did not always wash their hands after going to the toilet, and almost 30% of them did not use soap when washing their hands.

Conclusion:

There is inadequate hygiene practice/personal hygiene during agricultural activities. In addition, the proper use of PPE is not at a satisfactory level and poses a risk to the health of apple growers.
Job Burnout and Perceived Stress among Bank Officers of Meerut: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Singh Alka , Bansal Rahul , Gupta Chhavi K. , Kumar Nitesh , Gambhir Navdeep
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Burnout is often misconstrued for stress, whereas it is one of the consequences of stress when not managed prosperously. Stress leads to apprehensiveness, loss of energy, and the primary damage is physical. Whereas, burnout is characterized by disengagement where emotions are blunted thus fostering helplessness and hopelessness leading to detachment and despondence, loss of motivation and ideals with the primary damage being emotional.

Objectives:

To find out the prevalence and severity of stress and burnout among bank officers in Meerut District and to find the correlation between the two parameters.

Methods:

Banks were selected by simple random sampling through computer random table method for our study. Further, officer grade bank employees were approached for data collection. A prevalidated seven-point Likert scale Shriom–Melamed Burnout Questionnaire was used for the assessment of burnout. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests by EPI Info and Microsoft Excel 2013.

Result:

19.7% bank officers have pathological burnout followed by 55.1% of bank officers who are at the brink of developing burnout. Severe stress was found only among 7.9% bank officers, whereas burnout was present in 19.4%. A positive correlation was found between stress and burnout.

Conclusion:

It was found that stress and job burnout are linked but do not entirely overlap, with individuals having a high risk of job burnout experiencing only moderate stress. Therefore, perceived stress cannot be taken as the only indicator of risk of burnout.
Using light fluorescence technique as an emerging approach in treating dental caries
Authors: Warkhankar Ankita , Tanpure Vijaysinh Ramchandra , Wajekar Nimish Arun
Published: October 2023

This work has explored the feasibility of light fluorescence technique in treating dental caries. The decision to focus on this topic was based on the premise that the existing techniques of treating dental caries and other oral conditions are less sensitive, costly, and sometimes, destructive. Using a systematic review process where 36 articles were evaluated using a PRISMA approach, the work has shown that the light fluorescence technique has many benefits when compared to traditional approaches. Some of the traditional techniques used for treating dental caries include radiographic imaging, tactile, and visual examination. Despite the extensive utility of these approaches, light fluorescence technology emerges as a more reliable technique owing to the wide range of benefits such as sensitivity and ability for early detection. The review shows that a lot still needs to be done to understand many other benefits that come with the adoption of light fluorescence technology.
Effect of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on serum lipid profile levels – A comparative study
Authors: Mathur Ritu , Dilsha E.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Regarding the high prevalence of hyperlipidemia, which is one of the major risk factors of cardiovascular disease and periodontitis, which is a known bacterial infection, classified as local chronic inflammation.

Aim:

The present study aimed to assess and correlate periodontal parameters with serum lipid profile levels at baseline and 45 days after nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).

Results:

It showed a statistically significant decrease in total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), very LDL and triglycerides, and a significant rise in high-density lipoproteins correlated with a significant reduction in the plaque index and gingival index, from baseline to 45 days after NSPT.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that elevated serum lipids have a dysregulatory effect on the tissue response, which, in turn, affects the extent and progression of periodontitis, and in the presence of periodontitis, lipid metabolism will be affected through the systemic effect of cytokines.
Nanodentistry
Authors: Atom Jenny , Rati Ningthoukhongjam , Deepak B. S. , Chandarani Sagolsem , Devi T. Premlata , Priyadarshini Sh.
Published: October 2023

The field of nanotechnology is expanding fast into many other scientific disciplines. The term “nanodentistry” describes the use of nanotechnology to the study of oral and dental health, as well as its treatment, prevention, and diagnosis. Nanotechnology is a promising new area. Nanotechnology in dentistry enables precise and rapid diagnosis. Because of the improvements in their qualities, dental materials are easier to work with and last longer. The benefits of nanodentistry are outlined in this review. Both present and future potential applications are discussed.
Case series of intravenous ketamine infusion in patients with suicidal thought
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Dubey Amresh , Gajbhiye Deven , Sharma Arti , Kant Akhilesh
Published: October 2023

Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death. The annual global prevalence of suicidal ideas in adult population is 2%. Antidepressants are considered to be the first line of treatment for depression but the maximum response is noted only after 4–6 weeks. However, adding ketamine has shown very rapid response (within hours) and high remission rates in patients with depression. Here, we present case series of five depressive patients on treatment with antidepressants having suicidal thoughts. All participants received ketamine infusion 0.5 mg/kg over 45 min at a weekly interval as add-on treatment to ongoing treatment. The responses were assessed by using Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale psychometric tool. The finding indicates that ketamine infusion had a rapid, antisuicidal effect and is safe when used for a short period.
Effectiveness of multi-disciplinary structured training program on mentoring and mental well-being for officers and instructors in the Indian Air Force
Authors: Meena Kolar Sridara Murthy , Nattala Prasanthi , Bhola Poornima , Latha K , Kapanee Aruna Rose Mary , Chethan B , Thomas Priya Treesa , Gowda Guru S. , Sudhir Paulomi M. , Bhargav Hemant , Lepcha Renibi , Rana Dhairya Hasmukh , Chaturvedi S.K , Subbian Rajaram , Vidhya R , SreeRudhra P.P , Bordoloi Sumedha , Yadav Chandrasen
Published: October 2023

Background:

The military environment is characterized by unpredictable situations, intensive training, demanding workload, and job-associated stressors, which make it highly stressful. Mentorship and mental well-being training could be beneficial to both officers and the new adolescent recruits of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Aim:

This study aimed at evaluating the effect of a multi-disciplinary structured training on mentoring and mental well-being among officers and instructors in the IAF.

Methods:

Seventy IAF officers/instructors underwent a week-long multi-disciplinary structured training program, which was conducted at a tertiary care neuro-psychiatric hospital in South India. A quasi-experimental design with a single-group pre- and post-test was adopted. Outcome measures included a) knowledge on mentorship and mental health and b) self-perceived competence in addressing mental health distress.

Results:

Post training, there was a statistically significant improvement in scores on mentorship/mental health knowledge and a significant increase in self-perceived competence in addressing mental distress.

Conclusion:

Mentorship and mental well-being training for officers and instructors in the IAF improved mental health knowledge and self-perceived competence. Therefore, administration of regular and in-depth structured mental health-related training interventions could be beneficial not only to the officers but also to the new recruits/mentees in the IAF.
Cannabis use and its relationship with bipolar disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Maggu Gaurav , Choudhary Swati , Jaishy Rajon , Chaudhury Suprakash , Saldanha Daniel , Borasi Manish
Published: October 2023

Cannabis use has been stated as a causal risk factor for the occurrence of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. There is a dearth of literature stating the association of cannabis with bipolar disorder. This review aimed to find the repercussion of cannabis use on the onset of the first episode of bipolar disorder and the worsening of the symptoms in pre-existing illness. A thorough systematic review of the existing literature was carried out using the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Google-scholar databases were searched for studies fitting our study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 25 studies were included in the systematic review and out of these 25 studies, five prospective studies met the inclusion criteria for the primary outcome meta-analysis. A total sample of 13,624 individuals was included in these five studies. A fixed effect model was used in the meta-analysis of these five studies and it revealed an association between cannabis and bipolar disorder with an effect size of 2.63 (95% CI: 1.95–3.53) (heterogeneity: chi² = 3.01, df = 3 (P = 0.39); I² = 0%). Our findings propose that cannabis use may precipitate or worsen bipolar disorder. This highlights the importance of the detrimental effect of cannabis use on bipolar disorder and the need to discourage cannabis use in the youth culture. High-quality prospective studies are required to delineate the effect of cannabis use on bipolar disorder.
An observational study on deliberate self-harm in individuals with alcohol dependence syndrome
Authors: Sutradhar Bikram , Mukherjee Diptadhi , Pathak Kangkan
Published: October 2023

Context:

Comorbidities in alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) are often associated with poor treatment outcomes and high service utilization. Deliberate self-harm (DSH) in India is a silent epidemic. There is a shortage of research on individuals with ADS, psychiatric comorbidities, and DSH.

Aim:

To study DSH and psychiatric comorbidity in persons with ADS.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional study of 1-year duration is conducted in out patient department/indoor patient department of a tertiary care hospital.

Methods and Material:

Eighty-one individuals with ADS were selected purposefully. A semi-structured pro forma, the severity of alcohol dependence questionnaire, Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), and Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory were administered for assessment. The statistical analysis used is as follows: correlation statistics and logistic regression.

Results:

Most subjects were married, belonged to upper-middle socioeconomic status, had at least secondary education, and had moderate alcohol dependence severity. Almost 3/4th of the subjects had at least one lifetime psychiatric disorder. A past episode of major depressive disorder was found in 47%. Nearly 20% of study subjects had a history of DSH, which was significantly associated with unmarried status, and earlier age of alcohol dependence. Marital status, educational level, and age of onset of alcohol dependence explain 64.3% of the variance in DSH attempts. Suicidality was significantly related to the presence of DSH.

Conclusions:

The study found a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders and a history of DSH in individuals with ADS. The study confirmed the association between DSH and suicidality and indicated a specific subpopulation of ADS who need thorough clinical assessments to recognize these psychiatric comorbidities and DSH.
Gender differences in quality of life of vitiligo patients attending a tertiary care center
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Kesari Pravin Kumar , Dixit Vidhata , Kumar Rajesh , Chaudhury Suprakash
Published: October 2023

Background:

Vitiligo is a common depigmenting dermatosis characterized by milky-white macules or patches. Any pathological discoloration of the skin has been linked to an impact on the body image of an individual, and vitiligo has been linked to decreased self-esteem and poor socialization of the affected people. In Indian society, vitiligo is labeled as Shweta-Kushta (i.e., white-colored leprosy) and is compared to leprosy—a more stigmatizing skin condition.

Aim:

This study aims to study gender-related differences in the quality of life of Indian vitiligo patients.

Methodology:

In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, a total of 55 vitiligo patients (females 25 and males 30) were enrolled using the purposive sampling technique. The sample was assessed on Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSS), and General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) to assess their quality of life, self-esteem, and psychological well-being, respectively. The gender differences in sociodemographic and clinical details as well as their relationship with the quality of life of the patients were sought with the help of appropriate statistical measures.

Results:

The patients of both genders were comparable in terms of all sociodemographic and clinical variables except the females being less educated and employed than the males. There was a statistically significant trend of higher mean DLQI total score in females than males (6.6 ± 3.55 vs 4.8 ± 2.71, Mann–Whitney U = 263.5, P =0.058). Significantly, the average DLQI score in female vitiligo patients was negatively related to family income (r
s = -.659, P <.001) and it was significantly higher for the patients from a rural background than those from an urban background (8.55 ± 3.30 vs 5.07 ± 3.03, Mann–Whitney U = 33.5, P <.05). The average DLQI score was negatively correlated to RSS score but positively correlated to GHQ-12 score in patients of both genders.

Conclusion:

The quality of life of female patients with vitiligo is poorer than the same in male patients. The poor financial condition of families and rural living are two factors related to the poorer quality of life of female patients. A poorer quality of life in vitiligo patients of both genders is linked with decreased self-esteem and decreased psychological well-being. Gender-related issues in the quality of life and the overall well-being of such patients are important in their management and policy-making.