bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Culturally Appropriate Self-Care Intervention on Health Literacy, Health-Related Quality of Life and Glycemic Control in Iranian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Amoozadeh Behnaz , Parandeh Akram , Khamseh Feryal , Goharrizi Mohammad Ali Sheikh Beig
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cultural and language differences are necessary factors for diabetes management and self-care education programs in patients suffering from diabetes. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of culture-based self-care intervention on health literacy, quality of life, and glycemic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized clinical trial has been carried out in selected centers in Darreh Shahr, Iran; 80 participants were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received an educational program for 6 sessions twice a week, but the control group only received routine services. Data were collected using health literacy and life quality scales for diabetic patients, which were completed by both groups before, immediately after, and 3 months after the intervention; hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) was checked before and 3 months after the intervention. SPSS software was also analyzed data using χ2, Fisher’s exact, independent t, and repeated measures analysis of variance tests.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the 2 groups before the study (p >0.05) goes forward. But, mean scores of health literacy (F
2,40 = 5.61, p =0.007), quality of life (F
2, 40 = 4.09, p =0.01), and HbA1c levels (t, 39 = 6. 91, p <0.001) have shown significant differences between the 2 groups immediately and 3 months after the intervention have been applied.

Conclusions:

Culturally appropriate intervention should be offered as a part of the nurse’ care program for diabetic to control HbA1c, and improve their life quality and health literacy.
Personality Traits and the Clinical Environment`s Stress Resources in Nursing Students
Authors: Kamali Mohsen , Mousavi Seyed Kazem , Saed Omid
Published: May 2024

Background:

The clinical environment always has been the most stressful course of nursing education. Personality traits can be influential factors in stress resources and responding to stress. The present study investigates the correlation between personality traits and nursing students’ stress resources in the clinical environment.

Material and Methods:

This descriptive correlational study was planned and performed on Zanjan University of Medical Sciences nursing students. The research population was 215 students selected by stratified random sampling method from all nursing students in the third to eighth semesters. We used an electronic questionnaire for data gathering, including three sections: demographic characteristics, NEO personality traits, and stress resources in the clinical environment. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results:

The most and least stressful resources were related to the score of unpleasant emotions and interpersonal relationships. We found a significant positive correlation between neuroticism personality traits and all four stress resources (p < 0.05). The results also showed a significant correlation between all scores of personality traits and perceived stress from unpleasant emotions except the openness to experience trait (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the relationship between age, gender, semester, interest, and stress resources in the clinical environment was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Paying attention to the nursing student’s clinical performance to maintain the patient’s health is vital and unavoidable. Therefore, more than ever in the preclinical course of nursing education, improving the psychological readiness and simulation training method can reduce the harmful effects of the clinical environment’s stress resources on their clinical performance.
Death with Dignity in End-of-Life Nursing Care: Concept Analysis by Rodgers’ Evolutionary Method
Authors: Rafii Forough , Abredari Hamid
Published: May 2024

Background:

The concept of dying with dignity is being discussed in various fields, including psychology, sociology, medicine, and nursing, with different definitions available for this concept. However, few studies investigated the concept of end-of-life nursing care, which plays an important role in the implementation of the concept. This concept can also affect people’s perception, attitude, and behavior toward practicing dignified death in health-care centers. The current study aimed to clarify, understand, and further recognize the concept of death with dignity in end-of-life nursing care.

Materials and Methods:

Rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis was used to clarify the concept of death with dignity in end-of-life nursing care. MEDLINE, BLACKWELL, PROQUEST, Science Direct, and CINAHL databases and national databases of SID and Iran Medex were systematically searched to identify relevant studies using various combinations of the following keywords: “dignity,” “dignified death,” “dying with dignity,” and “dignifying death” in combination with “end-of-life care.” All articles with the above-mentioned terms in their title, abstract, or keywords and published in English from 2006 to 2020 were included. A total of 21 articles were finally identified for review.

Results:

Characteristics of dying with dignity were categorized into two dimensions of human dignity and holistic care. The antecedents included professional and organizational factors, and outcomes included good death and career promotion.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that end-of-life nursing care is an important dimension of clinical nursing that plays a unique role in admission and facilitating the process of dying and, eventually, dying with dignity.
Nurses as Gifted Artists in Caring
Authors: Hadadian-Chaghaei Fateme , Haghani Fariba , Taleghani Fariba , Feizi Awat , Alimohammadi Nasrollah
Published: May 2024

Background:

Nursing care happens with the artistic presence of the nurse in the care setting. Despite its importance in nursing, yet many ambiguities surround its definition and characteristics. The aim of this study was to analyze the concept of nursing care.

Materials and Methods:

This concept analysis was conducted using Walker and Avant's approach. An extensive literature search was done in the Medline, CINAHL, Embase and SID databases to find articles published in English between 1988 and 2019. The search keywords were “care”, “nursing care”, “concept”, “concept analysis”, and similar words. According to Walker and Avant's approach, after selecting the concept and determining the aim of analysis, 3742 references were reviewed and 68 articles and 2 books were selected to determine and extract the defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of the nursing care concept.

Results:

The three main defining attributes of the concept were relationship, compassion, and professional action. The antecedents were nurse-related, client-related and environment-related, and the consequences were for nurses, clients and community.

Conclusions:

The defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences determined in the present study help better understand the concept of nursing care. This study highlights the importance of the communicative, caring, and advocacy roles of nurses and their compassionate professional action in the promotion of individual and community health.
The Correlation and Agreement of Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Mini-Mental State Examination and Abbreviated Mental Test in Assessing the Cognitive Status of Elderly People Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Rahmani Maryam , Darvishpour Azar , Pourghane Parand
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cognitive disorders are one of the most common disorders in elderly people with chronic renal failure. This study aimed to investigate the correlation and agreement of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) tests in assessing the cognitive status of elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis at Guilan University of Medical Sciences in north of Iran.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 84 elderly people undergoing hemodialysis. Inclusion criteria was having an age of 60 years old and older, hemodialysis treatment for at least 6 months, and having reading and writing skills. The Pearson correlation test, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) test, and Bland–Altman plot were used for data analysis.

Results:

The majority of samples were in the age group of 60–65 years (28.57%) and the majority of them were male (66.66%). The results showed a significant positive correlation between MoCA and MMSE (r = 0.69, p = 0.001), between MMSE and AMTS (r = 0.64, p = 0.001), and between MoCA and AMTS tests (r = 0.62, p = 0.001). The results also showed a weak agreement between MoCA and MMSE tests (ICC = −0.11, p = 0.633), between MMSE and AMTS tests (ICC = −0.007, p = 0.369), and between MoCA and AMTS tests (ICC = −0.001, p = 0.780).

Conclusions:

Based on the results, these tools seem to complement each other. The inconsistency between cognitive tests indicates a serious need to develop appropriate instruments for detecting cognitive disorders in elderly.
Quetiapine-induced Stevens–Johnson syndrome: A rare case report
Authors: Ghosh Soumi , Mondal Arijit , Bag Sourav , Chattopadhyay Abhijit
Published: May 2024

Quetiapine, a second-generation antipsychotic drug, commonly has very less propensity of extrapyramidal symptoms and has an added advantage of less risk of serum prolactin, weight gain, or metabolic syndrome than other second-generation antipsychotics. Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) is more commonly reported with anticonvulsant use, and less commonly with antipsychotics. To our knowledge, there is very few evidence of quetiapine-induced SJS in literature. Hence, we present a case of SJS in a patient who was on quetiapine.
О конструкциях марковских отображений
Authors: Drelikhov V O
Published: May 2024

Модели марковских шифров используются в задачах линейного анализа и разностного анализа блочных шифров. В работе рассматриваются обладающие марковским свойством конструкции отображений ${{f}_{k}}(x)$, зависящих от случайной величины $k$ и действующих на алгебраических объектах различного типа (абелевы группы, векторные пространства и др.). Получена нижняя оценка для мощности конечного множества $K$ значений случайной величины $k$, $k\in K$, для марковского отображения ${{f}_{k}}(x)$ абелевых групп.
Predictors of complications after prophylactic ileostomy reversal for rectal cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: Lv Quan , Shu Xin-Peng , Peng Dong , Li Si-Qi , Xiang Zheng
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have analyzed the risk factors for complications after ileostomy reversal for rectal cancer (RC), but there were significant differences in the reported risk factors for complications after stoma reversal. No studies have analyzed the risk factors for stoma-related complications and overall postoperative complications separately.

AIM

To analyze the risk factors for overall complications and stoma-related complications after ileostomy reversal for patients with RC.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 439 patients who underwent ileostomy reversal at a clinical center and were followed up between September 2012 and September 2022. Continuous variables are expressed as the mean ± SD and were analyzed with independent-sample t tests, while frequency variables are expressed as n (%), and the χ 2 test or Fisher’s exact test was used. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of overall complications and stoma-related complications.

RESULTS

The overall complication rate after ileostomy reversal was 11.4%. Patients with lower preoperative albumin concentration (P < 0.01), greater blood loss (P = 0.017), and longer operative times (P < 0.01) were more likely to experience postoperative complications. The incidence of stoma-related complications was 6.4%. Analysis of the study showed that a higher body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.01), preoperative comorbid hypertension (P = 0.049), time from primary surgery to ileostomy reversal (P < 0.01) and longer operation time (P = 0.010) were more likely to result in stoma-related complications postoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a lower preoperative albumin level (P < 0.01, OR = 0.888, 95%CI: 0.828-0.958) was an independent risk factor for overall complications. Moreover, multivariate analysis revealed that BMI (P < 0.01, OR = 1.176, 95%CI: 1.041-1.330) and time from primary surgery to ileostomy reversal (P < 0.01, OR = 1.140, 95%CI: 1.038-1.252) were independent risk factors for stoma-related complications after stoma reversal.

CONCLUSION

The preoperative albumin level was a predictor of overall complications. Preoperative BMI and the time from primary surgery to ileostomy reversal were predictors of stoma-related complications.
Liver disease in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: The emerging role of metabolism dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Fragkou Nikolaos , Vlachaki Efthimia , Goulis Ioannis , Sinakos Emmanouil
Published: May 2024

In this Editorial, we highlight the possible role that metabolism dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) may play in the future, regarding liver disease in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDBT). MASLD is characterized by excessive accumulation of fat in the liver (hepatic steatosis), in the presence of cardiometabolic factors. There is a strong correlation between the occurrence of MASLD and insulin resistance, while its increased prevalence parallels the global epidemic of diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity. Patients with TDBT need regular transfusions for life to ensure their survival. Through these transfusions, a large amount of iron is accumulated, which causes saturation of transferrin and leads to the circulation of free iron molecules, which cause damage to vital organs (primarily the liver and myocardium). Over the past, the main mechanisms for the development of liver disease in these patients have been the toxic effect of iron on the liver and chronic hepatitis C, for which modern and effective treatments have been found, resulting in successful treatment. Additional advances in the treatment and monitoring of these patients have led to a reduction in deaths, and an increase in their life expectancy. This increased survival makes them vulnerable to the onset of diseases, which until recently were mainly related to the non-thalassemic general population, such as obesity and DM. There is insufficient data in the literature regarding the prevalence of MASLD in this population or on the risk factors for its occurrence. However, it was recently shown by a study of 45 heavily transfused patients with beta-thalassemia (Padeniya et al , BJH), that the presence of steatosis is a factor influencing the value of liver elastography and thus liver fibrosis. These findings suggest that future research in the field of liver disease in patients with TDBT should be focused on the occurrence, the risk factors, and the effect of MASLD on these patients.
Nano-revolution in hepatocellular carcinoma: A multidisciplinary odyssey - Are we there yet?
Authors: Lee Howard D , Yuan Li-Yun
Published: May 2024

In this editorial we comment on the review by Zhou et al reviewing the landscape of nanomedicine in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We focus on the immense potential of nanotechnology, particularly ligand-receptor mediated nanotherapy, in revolutionizing the treatment landscape of HCC. Despite advancements in multidisciplinary treatment, HCC remains a significant global health challenge. Ligand-mediated nanotherapy offers the opportunity for precise drug delivery to tumor sites, targeting specific receptors overexpressed in HCC cells, thereby enhancing efficacy and minimizing side effects. Overcoming drug resistance and aggressive tumor biology is facilitated by nanomedicine, bypassing traditional hurdles encountered in chemotherapy. Examples include targeting glypican-3, asialoglycoprotein, transferrin receptor or folic acid receptors, capitalizing on their over-expression in tumor cells. The ability for multi-receptor targeting through dual-ligand nanoparticle modification holds the prospect of further enhancement in specificity and efficacy of directed therapy. However, challenges including immune responses, reproducibility in nanoparticle synthesis, and production scalability remain. Future directions involve refining targeting strategies, improving drug release mechanisms, and streamlining production processes to enable personalized and multifunctional nanotherapies. Overall, the integration of nanotherapy in HCC treatment holds immense promise, but continued partnership and effort are needed in offering hope for more effective, precise, and accessible clinical care in the management of HCC.
Unraveling the relationship between histone methylation and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Xu Li , Fan Yu-Hong , Zhang Xiao-Jing , Bai Lan
Published: May 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) poses a significant health challenge in modern societies due to shifts in lifestyle and dietary habits. Its complexity stems from genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and metabolic factors. Epigenetic processes govern various cellular functions such as transcription, chromatin structure, and cell division. In NAFLD, these epigenetic tendencies, especially the process of histone methylation, are intricately intertwined with fat accumulation in the liver. Histone methylation is regulated by different enzymes like methyltransferases and demethylases and influences the expression of genes related to adipogenesis. While early-stage NAFLD is reversible, its progression to severe stages becomes almost irreversible. Therefore, early detection and intervention in NAFLD are crucial, and understanding the precise role of histone methylation in the early stages of NAFLD could be vital in halting or potentially reversing the progression of this disease.
Characteristics of patients with Wilson disease in the United States: An insurance claims database study
Authors: Daniel-Robin Thomas , Kumar Pradeep , Benichou Bernard , Combal Jean-Philippe
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Wilson disease (WD) is a progressive, potentially fatal degenerative disease affecting the liver and central nervous system. Given its low prevalence, collecting data on large cohorts of patients with WD is challenging. Comprehensive insurance claims databases provide powerful tools to collect retrospective data on large numbers of patients with rare diseases.

AIM

To describe patients with WD in the United States, their treatment and clinical outcome, using a large insurance claims database.

METHODS

This retrospective, longitudinal study was performed in the Clarivate Real-World Data Product database. All patients with ≥ 2 claims associated with an International Classification of Diseases 10 (ICD-10) diagnostic code for WD (E83.01) between 2016 and 2021 were included and followed until death or study end. Patients were divided into two groups by whether or not they were documented to have received a specific treatment for WD. Clinical manifestations, hospitalisations, liver transplantation and death were documented.

RESULTS

Overall, 5376 patients with an ICD-10 diagnostic code for WD were identified. The mean age at inclusion was 41.2 years and 52.0% were men. A specific WD treatment was documented for 885 patients (15.1%), although the number of patients taking zinc salts may be underestimated due to over the counter purchase. At inclusion, the mean age of patients with a documented treatment was 36.6 ± 17.8 years vs 42.2 ± 19.6 years in those without a documented treatment. During follow-up, 273 patients (5.1%) died. Compared with the American general population, the standardised mortality ratio was 2.19. The proportion of patients with a documented WD-specific treatment who died during follow-up was 4.0% and the mean age at death 52.7 years.

CONCLUSION

Patients treated for WD in the United States had an excess early mortality compared with the American population. These findings indicate that there is a significant unmet need for effective treatment for WD in the United States.
Quantifying the natural growth rate of hepatocellular carcinoma: A real-world retrospective study in southwestern China
Authors: Tu Li , Xie Hong , Li Qi , Lei Ping-Gui , Zhao Pei-Ling , Yang Fan , Gong Chi , Yao Yuan-Lin , Zhou Shi
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

In recent years, approximately half of the newly diagnosed cases and mortalities attributed to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been reported in China. Despite the high incidence of HCC, there remains a paucity of data regarding the natural growth pattern and the determination of optimal surveillance intervals specific to the Chinese population.

AIM

To quantify the natural tumor growth pattern of HCC in regional China.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients from a single institution in Southwest China who had undergone two or more serial dynamic computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scans between 2014 and 2020, without having received any anti-cancer therapy. Tumor growth was assessed using tumor volume doubling time (TVDT) and tumor growth rate (TGR), with volumes measured manually by experienced radiologists. Simple univariate linear regression and descriptive analysis were applied to explore associations between growth rates and clinical factors.

RESULTS

This study identifies the median TVDT for HCC as 163.4 d, interquartile range (IQR) 72.1 to 302.3 d, with a daily TGR of 0.42% (IQR 0.206%-0.97%). HCC growth patterns reveal that about one-third of tumors grow indolently with TVDT exceeding 270 d, another one-third of tumors exhibit rapid growth with TVDT under 90 d, and the remaining tumors show intermediate growth rates, with TVDT ranging between 3 to 9 months.

CONCLUSION

The identified TGRs support biannual surveillance and follow-up for HCC patients in certain regions of China. Given the observed heterogeneity in HCC growth, further investigation is warranted.
Characterization of acute-on-chronic liver diseases: A multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Yuan-Yao , Luo Sen , Li Hai , Sun Shu-Ning , Wang Xian-Bo , Zheng Xin , Huang Yan , Li Bei-Ling , Gao Yan-Hang , Qian Zhi-Ping , Liu Feng , Lu Xiao-Bo , Liu Jun-Ping , Ren Hao-Tang , Zheng Yu-Bao , Yan Hua-Dong , Deng Guo-Hong , Qiao Liang , Zhang Yan , Gu Wen-Yi , Xiang Xiao-Mei , Zhou Yi , Hou Yi-Xin , Zhang Qun , Xiong Yan , Zou Cong-Cong , Chen Jun , Huang Ze-Bing , Jiang Xiu-Hua , Qi Ting-Ting , Chen Yuan-Yuan , Gao Na , Liu Chun-Yan , Yuan Wei , Mei Xue , Li Jing , Li Tao , Zheng Rong-Jiong , Zhou Xin-Yi , Zhao Jun , Meng Zhong-Ji
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Acute-on-chronic liver disease (AoCLD) accounts for the majority of patients hospitalized in the Department of Hepatology or Infectious Diseases.

AIM

To explore the characterization of AoCLD to provide theoretical guidance for the accurate diagnosis and prognosis of AoCLD.

METHODS

Patients with AoCLD from the Chinese Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) study cohort were included in this study. The clinical characteristics and outcomes, and the 90-d survival rate associated with each clinical type of AoCLD were analyzed, using the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test.

RESULTS

A total of 3375 patients with AoCLD were enrolled, including 1679 (49.7%) patients with liver cirrhosis acute decompensation (LC-AD), 850 (25.2%) patients with ACLF, 577 (17.1%) patients with chronic hepatitis acute exacerbation (CHAE), and 269 (8.0%) patients with liver cirrhosis active phase (LC-A). The most common cause of chronic liver disease (CLD) was HBV infection (71.4%). The most common precipitants of AoCLD was bacterial infection (22.8%). The 90-d mortality rates of each clinical subtype of AoCLD were 43.4% (232/535) for type-C ACLF, 36.0% (36/100) for type-B ACLF, 27.0% (58/215) for type-A ACLF, 9.0% (151/1679) for LC-AD, 3.0% (8/269) for LC-A, and 1.2% (7/577) for CHAE.

CONCLUSION

HBV infection is the main cause of CLD, and bacterial infection is the main precipitant of AoCLD. The most common clinical type of AoCLD is LC-AD. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are needed to reduce the mortality of patients with LC-AD or ACLF.
Genetic diversity and occult hepatitis B infection in Africa: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bazie Michee M , Sanou Mahamoudou , Djigma Florencia Wendkuuni , Compaore Tegwinde Rebeca , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Kabamba Benoît , Nagalo Bolni Marius , Simpore Jacques , Ouédraogo Rasmata
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is a globally prevalent infection, with its frequency being influenced by the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in a particular geographic region, including Africa. OBI can be transmitted through blood transfusions and organ transplants and has been linked to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The associated HBV genotype influences the infection.

AIM

To highlight the genetic diversity and prevalence of OBI in Africa.

METHODS

This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and involved a comprehensive search on PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and African Journals Online for published studies on the prevalence and genetic diversity of OBI in Africa.

RESULTS

The synthesis included 83 articles, revealing that the prevalence of OBI varied between countries and population groups, with the highest prevalence being 90.9% in patients with hepatitis C virus infection and 38% in blood donors, indicating an increased risk of HBV transmission through blood transfusions. Cases of OBI reactivation have been reported following chemotherapy. Genotype D is the predominant, followed by genotypes A and E.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the prevalence of OBI in Africa, which varies across countries and population groups. The study also demonstrates that genotype D is the most prevalent.
A critical appraisal of the legal and policy framework for sustainable mining in Ethiopia
Authors: Hailemariam Yared
Published: May 2024

The integration of the concept of sustainable mining into major legal frameworks presents a complex challenge of balancing short-term economic gains with the long-term objectives of economic and social development as well as environmental well-being. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of how the Ethiopian legal framework incorporates the principles of sustainable mining. Employing a qualitative research methodology, this study examines the adequacy of the legal framework in addressing sustainability issues arising from mineral resource extraction. Through document analysis, the article investigates the legal challenges associated with achieving sustainable mining practices. It scrutinizes constitutional provisions, mining laws, and policies governing mineral resources in Ethiopia. The findings indicate that the Ethiopian government has made notable efforts to develop a competitive legal framework that ensures that mining activities are conducted in an economically efficient, environmentally conscious, and socially responsible manner. However, this research uncovers significant gaps and inconsistencies within the existing legal framework, which results in uncertainty and confusion among various stakeholders. These problems impede the effective and sustainable management of mineral resources and ultimate ly undermine their potential contribution to Ethiopia's economic growth and social development. Considering these findings, this article proposes several recommendations to address the identified legal and practical challenges associated with regulating mineral resources.
Reflections on a clinical observership in London: Lessons and impact on medical training
Authors: Paul Patrick Mayan
Published: May 2024

No abstract.
Quality and Price of Beans at the Market Node in Five Districts of Uganda.
Authors: Babirye Immaculate , Otim Michael Hilary , Paparu Pamela
Published: May 2024

We investigated the varieties of beans traded in five districts of Uganda and the factors affecting the quality and price of the beans at the market node. A semi-linear hedonic price model with 12 variables categorized as product and trader attributes was used to determine the factors influencing prices. Traders were found to be unmindful of the names of new bean varieties released by NARO. They used various names for both the new and local varieties. Brokers were identified as the leading suppliers of poor-quality beans. The respondents cited variations in the quality of beans received from different suppliers. Beans that were owned by traders exhibited slightly higher moisture content (17%) than is recommended. Storage insect infestation was identified as the primary cause of quality decline. Product attributes were associated with changes in the prices of beans. However, their effect was comparatively lower than the traders’ characteristics. We recommend targeted sensitization about new bean varieties, emphasizing their benefits, post-harvest handling, and quality requirements at all value chain nodes. Monitoring trader traits and societal factors associated with price fluctuations is also crucial to price stability.
The Alignment-Theory of Product Cost Management. A Classic Grounded Theory Approach
Authors:   , Maxion Claude
Published: May 2024

Product management is a predominant form of organisation in various industries. In addition, product costs account for a major share of a company’s overall cost. However, the managerial problem of how product cost management (PCM) activities should be organised has not yet been sufficiently solved. Consequently, the thesis’ research goal was to develop a normative theory on how to organise product cost management activities in the manufacturing industry in relation to a specified dominant impacting factor. To solve the practical problem, a classic Grounded Theory study informed by critical realism (CRGT) was conducted based on the ‘7-steps-full-package’ approach from Walsh, Holton and Mourmant. Based on data collected during 51 interviews with managers and PCM consultants the study revealed a normative ‘Product-Cost-Management-Theory’ of ‘Aligning’. It incorporates an actionable three-stage ‘Strategising-Relevancing-Profiling-(SRP)-Procedure’ which centres around a novel classification of four different PCM-profiles (from basic to value-oriented) impacted by and to be aligned with the relevance of product cost as the dominant contingency factor. This relevance ought to be aligned with the company’s strategic directions (company positioning, business priorities and company strategy) which themselves have to be aligned with the key success factors (KSF) of the company’s external environment. The four PCM-profiles have been sketched with the relevant dimensions and attributes as principle stereotypes being built-on-each-other suggesting different, ordinally-scaled, levels. Opposing those levels with the relevance of product costs in a company, a ‘Strategic-Fit-Matrix’ can be set up with aligned zones of fit, which should be targeted, and zones of misfit, which should be avoided. This will enable managers and consultants by providing them a novel and actionable SRP-practice to more effectively organise the manner in which product costs should be managed (‘how to’). Ultimately, this aligned and strategically fitting PCM-profile will contribute to increased company performance. The thesis’ nascent propositional theory adds the aspect of PCM onto current organisational theory and is ready to be detailed, modified, or executed.
Ecobardic Desire: Storytelling and Storywriting as Catalysts of Transformation in People’s Relationship with the More-than-Human World
Authors:   , Nanson John
Published: May 2024

This thesis reviews a Collection of six critical and seven creative works submitted for a PhD by publication addressing how storywriting and (oral) storytelling can help facilitate transformative responses to ecological crisis. The thesis unravels the main strands of reflective practice that run through the Collection and describes the original and significant contributions the publications accomplish. The creative work comprises 84 stories and one novel (Deep Time), occupying a spectrum between oral storytelling and literary fiction, that extend the range and nuance of narrative engagement with ecology. Pioneering critical writings, including an award-winning academic monograph (Storytelling and Ecology), explain the capacity of embodied oral storytelling to facilitate caring connection among people, place, and other living beings. Further critical writings advocate for creative work that sustains utopian hope against the impetus of neoliberal capitalism and dystopian expectation towards ecocatastrophe. A model is presented whereby both oral and prose stories can facilitate transformative responsivity by providing ‘structures of space’ charged with ‘patterns of desire’. The interplay of innovation and intertextuality in the creative works is unpacked in relation to experimenting with unusual oral genres, reconstructing Gloucestershire’s fragmentary legendarium of folktales, and political concerns tending to constrain creative possibility. Field exploration of storied landscapes is shown to have channelled embodied experience of the living world into the creative works. The most developed pathway of innovative creative work in the Collection is in narratives of ecological and evolutionary history; the palaeoecology of deep time is explored encyclopedically in Deep Time as a frame for comprehending the scale of human ecological impact. Finally, an argument is made for the relevance of stories of ‘supernatural ecology’ to advancing more potent responsiveness to ecological crisis. The thesis concludes by discussing synergies of oral and written narrative that serve the education of desire necessary to the transformation the crisis requires.
The Risk Channel in the Transmission Mechanism Of Monetary Policy in the European Monetary Union Based on German Data
Authors:   , Pankow Susann
Published: May 2024

This research answers the call of de Groot (2014) to explore the risk channel in the transmission of monetary policy by identifying the operating mechanism. The importance of that topic arises because central bankers are increasingly confronted with fluctuations in the business cycle that result from an unnoticed pile up of risk in the balance sheet of commercial banks. Decision makers of monetary policy need to understand this kind of risk-related business cycle fluctuations in order to respond appropriately with their monetary policy measures. This Post-Positivist research contributes theoretical and empirical insights on the underlying mechanism of the risk channel in the European Monetary Union. The theoretical findings consist in a theoretical representation of the risk channel, which explains the effect of monetary policy on risk perception and risk-taking of commercial banks. The strength of the mechanism depends on the liquidity multiplier as well as macroeconomic and financial background conditions. Macroprudential bank regulation affects the risk channel through the capital framework effect and the capital threshold effect. The empirical findings are based on a regression analysis on regulatory data of German commercial banks in the period between 2002 and 2019. The empirical evidence supports the hypotheses on the risk channel mechanism: First, low ECB interest rates on main refinancing operations have a statistically significant, positive effect on credit risk perception of German IRBA banks. Second, low ECB interest rates on main refinancing operations have a statistically significant, negative effect on credit risk-taking of German banks. Third, the ECB interest rate on main refinancing operations has a statistically significant, negative effect on interest rate risktaking of German banks. Fourth, the evidence points to a nonlinear nature of the risk channel in monetary transmission. The implication for monetary policy makers is that monetary policy measures aimed to stabilise inflation can under certain circumstances have undesired side effects on the accumulation of risk in the balance sheet of commercial banks and hence the stability of the bank sector.
Cartas para as fundadoras da Fafil
Authors:   Geisa Magela Veloso
Published: May 2024

Este livro homenageia cinco mulheres que fundaram a Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras da Fundação Norte Mineira de Ensino Superior – semente que viria a germinar e se transformar na Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros. O livro nasce do desejo de retomar vivências e memórias, sentimentos e percepções, conhecimentos sobre a formação de professores e a constituição da identidade profissional docente. Trata-se de um gesto de gratidão e reconhecimento do trabalho pioneiro de mulheres que construíram os alicerces da história do Ensino Superior no Norte de Minas. O livro se compõe por cartas recém escritas para cada uma dessas mulheres. Ao lembrar e reconhecer fatos, feitos, instituições e pessoas que nos antecederam, recuperamos o passado individual e institucional, podendo constituir a nossa identidade, saber de onde viemos e quem somos.
Un nuevo comienzo. Mejorando la gestión pública de seguridad en Piura y Castilla
Authors: Alzamora Román Hermer Ernesto , Ancajima Miñán Víctor Angel , More Reaño Ricardo Edwin , Infante Saavedra Carmen Lucila
Published: May 2024

El presente libro desarrolla una investigación en la Región Piura (Perú) con el propósito de reducir la violencia e inseguridad, involucrando a todos los niveles de gobierno y fomentando la colaboración ciudadana. El Comité Regional de Seguridad Ciudadana tiene un papel crucial. Se realizó una encuesta para identificar factores críticos y diseñar políticas que mejoren la calidad de vida de la población afectada. El estudio proporciona información clave para implementar estrategias efectivas en seguridad ciudadana y busca acercar la Universidad a la comunidad para abordar problemas a través de investigaciones relevantes.
How Traits of Emotional Intelligence Affect Perceived Stress in Entry-Level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Carpenter Heidi , Edwards Chelsey , Richardson Scott
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Students in an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs are subject to high levels of stress and emotional burnout. Effective management of stress impacts life satisfaction and academic performance. Emotional intelligence (EI) has been shown to relate to lower stress levels in allied health students. Despite this, little has been done to investigate the emotional demands of an occupational therapy education. Methods: Participants were a convenience sample of 51 entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Students recruited from the Southwest and Midwest cohorts of an OTD program. The participants were surveyed approximately 30 days after beginning their semester curriculum. Participants included 43 females and 8 males (n=51) with an age range of 21-36 years old. The sample was composed of 18 first-year (OT1) students, 17 second-year (OT2), and 16 third-year (OT3) students. A cross-sectional survey design was used, and the Assessing Emotions Scale and the Perceived Stress Scale questionnaires were both used to gather self-reported data regarding emotional intelligence and perceived stress. Emotional intelligence was correlated with perceived stress scores using the Spearman Rho analysis on SPSS program 25. Additionally, Kruskal Wallis analysis was used to determine if PSS and EI scores were significantly related to the year in the program. Mann Whitney U analysis was used to determine if PSS and EI scores were significantly related to gender. Results: A significant moderate negative correlation was found in this sample between emotional intelligence and perceived stress (rs= -0.391 with p= 0.005). There were no other significant relationships between variables. Conclusion: These findings have applications for developing educational programming and curriculum that may help equip Doctor of Occupational Therapy Students with the skills they need to thrive in their future profession. Additionally, opportunities exist for OTD students to increase EI and improve stress management levels and improve overall wellness.
Effects of a Dynamic Arm Stabilizer on Varus Elbow Torque, Arm Speed, and Velocity in Collegiate Baseball Players: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cage Andrew , Trail Laurel , Warner Lynzi , Warner Brandon
Published: May 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the effect a dynamic arm stabilizer had on varus elbow torque, arm speed, and throw velocity during baseball throwing. Methods: 8 collegiate baseball players (age= 20 ± 1 years, height= 183.5 ± 6.5 cm, weight= 85.6 ± 7.7 kg) participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to throw their first set of 25 throws at 90 feet wearing a dynamic arm stabilizer or throw their second set of 25 throws at 90 feet not wearing a dynamic arm stabilizer. After completing the first set of throws, the participants threw a second set of 25 throws at 90 feet in the opposite condition. Elbow varus torque and arm speed were measured using a wearable inertial measurement unit, and throwing velocity was measured in miles per hour using a handheld radar gun. Pearson’s correlations were performed to determine relationships between varus torque, arm speed, and velocity during activity with and without the dynamic arm stabilizer. Then, paired samples t-tests were performed to determine differences between varus torque, arm speed, and velocity with and without the dynamic arm stabilizer. Results: Significant correlations were found between varus torque and arm speed, varus torque and velocity, and arm speed and velocity when wearing the dynamic arm stabilizer. Other correlations found were between varus torque and velocity, and arm speed and velocity when not wearing the dynamic arm stabilizer. Significant differences were found between throwing with the dynamic arm stabilizer and not wearing the dynamic arm stabilizer in varus torque (stabilizer = 45.80 ± 8.12 Nm, no stabilizer = 51.85 ± 8.87 Nm, p < .001), arm speed (stabilizer = 857.39 ± 59.64 degrees per second, no stabilizer = 876.58 ± 82.74 degrees per second, p < .001), and throwing velocity (stabilizer = 70.95 ± 5.21 mph, no stabilizer = 71.77 ± 5.68 mph, p < .001). Conclusions: Use of a dynamic arm stabilizer results in a decrease in varus elbow torque when throwing on flat ground at 90 feet. The dynamic arm stabilizer also resulted in a decrease in arm speed and throwing velocity when compared to throwing without a dynamic arm stabilizer. Further research is needed to determine the clinical meaningfulness of these findings in order to determine the best application for a dynamic arm stabilizer in baseball players.
Case Based Interprofessional Learning versus Traditional Teaching Methods for Medical, Nursing, and Physiotherapy Students
Authors: Saini Seema , Kamath Ganesh , Mathew Mary , DSouza Derek
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The traditional teaching method is a teacher centric approach with little involvement from the students. In contrast to that, case-based interprofessional learning (CBIL) is a self-directed learning strategy using case scenarios with the understanding of interprofessional roles and is a student centric learning. Introducing CBIL as a teaching/learning (T/L) strategy for undergraduate healthcare students and assessing its effects on students were the goals of this project. Methods: 134 MBBS, physiotherapy, and nursing final-year students participated in the study. In both traditional teaching and CBIL as self-directed learning techniques, cases with distal end radius fracture and prolapsed intervertebral disc were taught. Pre-post multiple choice question examinations were used for evaluation. The students' opinions of the two teaching strategies were asked. Results: The student's performance on the CBIL post-test was better than the post-test results from Traditional Teaching techniques, indicating a significant difference in their knowledge acquired (P Conclusion: CBIL can be used in conjunction with conventional teaching methods. It encourages students to collaborate as a team and learn on their own. It also develops their abilities for critical thinking and problem solving.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the Passive Straight Leg Raise Test in Detecting Compression of the Lower Lumbar Nerve Roots
Authors: Hussein Hisham M. , Kamel Ehab M. , Ragab Mohamed M. , Elerian Ahmed I.
Published: May 2024

Background: Lumbar nerve root compression is a pathological condition that occurs commonly in the low back pain population. Passive straight leg raise (SLR) is a clinical test widely used to confirm this pathological condition. Yet, its diagnostic accuracy needs further investigation. Objective: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of the passive SLR test in detecting compression of the lower lumbar nerve roots using magnetic resonance imaging as a reference standard. Design: This study is a prospective diagnostic-accuracy study. Methods: One hundred-and-twelve participants (82 males and 30 females) met the inclusion criteria and joined the study. Participants were recruited through direct communication and poster announcement and allocated into positive and negative MRI groups. A standardized passive SLR test was applied to all participants; then 2 X 2 cross-tabulation statistics were conducted to determine the sensitivity and specificity. Results: The passive SLR test was considered positive in 62 (56.36%) participants while it was negative in 50 (45.45%) participants. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios were found to be 77.1%., 81.0%, 6.75, and 0.47 respectively. The diagnostic accuracy was found to be 80.95%. ROC curve revealed positive fair sensitivity and specificity of the test with the area under the curve equal to 0.775. Conclusion: The passive SLR test is a useful tool for the diagnosis of lower lumbar nerve root compression.
The Effects of Debriefing Methods on Athletic Training Students’ Self-Efficacy
Authors: Brzoska Amy , Kupczynski Lori , Murphy Julie L.
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Simulation-based education is a teaching method used successfully in nursing and medical education, as well as in the military and aviation fields. It provides students with safe learning environments and opportunities to practice skills not seen or used during clinical rotations. Debriefing is an essential component of simulation where learning occurs while also fostering critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and promoting self-efficacy with clinical skills. However, the evidence rarely indicates which debriefing method is best at increasing clinical evaluation skills self-efficacy. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of debriefing methods on students’ clinical evaluation self-efficacy. Methods: In this quasi-experimental, retrospective pretest-posttest study the researcher explored the effect of four common debriefing methods on students’ clinical evaluation self-efficacy. Using the Confidence Rating Scale, the researcher collected students’ self-efficacy scores before and after a simulated experience with debriefing through an online survey that was distributed to current athletic training students. Results: The analysis did not find any statistically significant relationship between the type of debriefing method and pretest self-efficacy. There were also no statistically significant relationships found between the type of debriefing and students’ pretest to posttest changes in self-efficacy. Conclusions: The literature recognizes that debriefing is the component of simulation where learning occurs, but there remains minimal research on which debriefing method is the best at increasing students’ self-efficacy.