bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
United Arab Emirates: Recent Developments in the Protection of the Rights of Migrant Workers and of Women
Authors: Kanchana Radhika
Published: October 2023

This survey reviews some of the key legislative and executive measures of the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the year 2021–2022, which have relevance to mainly the rights of the migrant workers. Further, and in less detail, this survey also refers to some of the developments pertinent to the rights of women living in the UAE. However, more generally these rights are less relevant to women who are not UAE nationals. The UAE is a member country of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and a federal state comprising seven emirates namely, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The GCC comprises six states in the Arab-Gulf region: Oman, Bahrain, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. These oil-producing states have a significant proportion of foreign workforce in the population. Foreign workers work mostly in the private sector and are also residents in the host countries. At 88.1 per cent, the UAE has the highest proportion of migrants in its population among the GCC members (UN DESA, 2020). Therefore, a broader spectrum of governments’ measures relating to the issues like labour, entry and residence, and ownership of property or business touch the lives of the foreign/migrant workers or expatriates in the Gulf country. Governments’ initiatives targeting domestic workers are relevant also for women because they comprise the majority in this group. The survey notes that most of the governmental activity in the Emirates in the past year largely concern new laws or amendments of the existing legislation and regulations linked to labour and residency matters. Some of the more relevant ones that the survey has selected here confirms this. It also marks the period post the pandemic, which had posed considerable economic challenge for the government. Hence, as also some neighbouring Gulf countries, the UAE has shown a balance of measures. On the one hand, to revive its economic dynamism and competitiveness, measures have been taken aimed at facilitating more ease and benefits to attract and retain foreign labour and investment in the country. On the other hand, measures have been taken that expressly favour the national workforce in order to boost their more active participation in the labour market and to support increased nationalisation efforts. The UAE government’s expansion and the introduction of new residence and entry visas, unified rules of labour, and the Abu Dhabi government’s initiative with separate personal status law for non-Muslim foreigners in the emirate are a few notable highlights. The survey has essentially drawn on the government’s documents and announcements as available in English or translated text, in addition to information in the press and other relevant sources.
Reflections on Economics Education in China and Suggestions for Its Reform
Authors: Jia Genliang
Published: October 2023

Although the current economics education system in universities in China differs from developed Western countries, China has been deliberately emulating the economics education system in the West over the past two decades, a system that has been repeatedly criticized by international movements such as the “Post-Autistic Economics Movement” and the “International Student Initiative for Pluralism in Economics.” This article argues that the dominant position of mainstream Western economics in Chinese higher education contradicts the scientific principles of pluralism and does not align with China’s national conditions and the necessity for the development of a philosophy and social sciences with Chinese characteristics. Based on the proposals put forward by faculty and students involved in the international movement for the reform of economics education over the past 22 years, this article recommends reforms to address the major weaknesses of economics education in China. The reforms address ten areas for improvement, including the overall goals of pluralism in economics education, curriculum design, teaching methods, an independent academic evaluation system, faculty development, and the evaluation of academic disciplines. The purpose of these reforms is to destabilize the dominant position of mainstream Western economics in higher education in China and gradually establish a new economics education system with a curriculum based on a plurality of approaches, a variety of critical pedagogies, and a methodology of problem-based learning.
The Issue and Resolution of Grassroots Cadres’ Shirking of Work during the Land Reform and Party Rectification in Lucheng from 1948–1949
Authors: Deng Hongqin , Ma Weiqiang
Published: October 2023

Contrary to the existing academic consensus that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) shifted from strict purges to more lenient “education” in response to paralysis and other negative impacts on its cadre force during the land reform and party rectification, this paper posits that the process of addressing the pessimism, negativity, and work-shirking of cadres was not as simple as “education,” but rather a relatively difficult journey, with historical realities proving to be far richer and more complex. In face of the severe problem of cadre work-shirking during land reform and party rectification, the CCP gradually formed a clear understanding of the situation. While acknowledging mistakes, clarifying responsibilities, and striving to win back the cadres, the party also endeavored to eliminate ideological confusion, delineate right from wrong, and deal decisively with opportunists. For grassroots cadres, this also represented a transformative improvement adapted to revolution and societal development and changes. The resolution of the problem of cadre work-shirking highlights the wisdom and courage of the CCP as it confronted the negative impacts produced by miscalculations during land reform. It also illustrates the party’s internal aspirations and practical needs to vigorously develop production and achieve a smooth transition from “war” to “peace.”
Perenniporiopsis srijayewardenepurana sp. nov. and validation of Pyrrhoderma nigrum in Sri Lanka
Authors: THAMBUGALA KASUN M. , KARUNARATHNA SAMANTHA C. , ZHAO CHANG-LIN , ELGORBAN ABDALLAH M. , TENNAKOON DANUSHKA S. , KONARA USHARI A.
Published: October 2023

Polypores, a diverse group of macrofungi belonging to Basidiomycota, are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. In this study, four polyporoid specimens were collected in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. Based on multilocus phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and nLSU sequence data, along with morphological characteristics, the specimens were identified as Pyrrhoderma nigrum (Pyrrhoderma “nigra”) and a novel species of a recently described genus Perenniporiopsis. The new species was named P. srijayewardenepurana, while P. nigrum, which has not been validly published previously, is validated in this publication.
A new lignicolous hyphomycete species of Neospadicoides in Xenospadicoidaceae (Xenospadicoidales) from Thailand
Authors: XU RONG-JU , ZHU YING-AN , LI LU , YU FENG-MING , BOONMEE SARANYAPHAT , ZHAO QI
Published: October 2023

Neospadicoides amphibia sp. nov. (Xenospadicoidaceae, Xenospadicoidales) was found on dead and submerged decaying woods in freshwater and terrestrial habitats in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Provinces, Thailand. This new species is characterized by asexual hyphomycete, hairy effuse, dark colonies, erect, straight to flexuous, dark brown conidiophores, with polytretic, integrated terminal and intercalary conidiogenous cells and obovoid, 3-euseptate, pigmented conidia. The multi-gene phylogeny of the combined ITS, LSU, SSU, and RPB2 sequence data placed these two isolates within Neospadicoides as a distinct sister lineage to species N. thailandica with highly support. Therefore, the new species, Neospadicoides amphibia, was described and illustrated based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence.
A new species of Panus (Panaceae, Polyporales) from Paraíba, Brazil
Authors: GALVÃO VITÓRIA INGRID P. , KOROIVA RICARDO , WARTCHOW FELIPE
Published: October 2023

Panus is the type genus of the family Panaceae. Here, we describe P. paraibensis, a new conspicuous species collected in the northeastern region of Brazil, intending to contribute to the knowledge of species richness in the mentioned area. It is characterized by the cream-white to pale pink basidiomes with a villose margin, a short laterally inserted stipe covered by strigose-villose projections, thin-walled pleurocystidia that sometimes arise deep in the subhymenium and project briefly above the level of the other hymenial elements, small basidiospores, and versiform cheilocystidia. It can be treated morphologically close to Asiatic P. kinabaluensis and P. johorensis, which primarily differ in the aspects of the hymenial cystidia.
Single-Grating Monolithic Spatial Heterodyne Raman Spectrometer: An Investigation on the Effects of Detector Selection
Authors: Kelly Evan M. , Egan Miles J. , Colόn Arelis , Angel S. Michael , Sharma Shiv K.
Published: October 2023

Spatial heterodyne Raman spectrometers (SHRSs) are modified forms of Michelson interferometers, except the mirrors in a Michelson interferometer are replaced with stationary diffraction gratings. This design removes the need for an entrance slit, as is the case in a dispersive spectrometer, and removes the need to scan the spectrum by using a moving mirror in a modern Michelson interferometer. In previous studies, various SHRS variants, such as free-standing two-grating SHRS, single-grating SHRS (1g-SHRS), monolithic SHRS (mSHRS), and single-grating mSHRS (1g-mSHRS), have been evaluated. However, the present study exclusively focuses on the 1g-mSHRS configuration. The 1g-mSHRS and 1g-SHRS increase the spectral range at fixed grating line density while trading off spectral resolution and resolving power. The mSHRS benefits from increased rigidity, lack of moving parts, and reduced footprint. In this study, we investigate how the choice of detector impacts the performance of the 1g-mSHRS system, with a specific focus on evaluating the performance of three types of cameras: charged-coupled device (CCD), intensified CCD (ICCD), and complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) cameras. These systems were evaluated using geological, organic, and inorganic samples using a 532 nm continuous wave laser for the CMOS and CCD cameras, and a 532 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet pulsed laser for the ICCD camera. The footprint of the 1g-mSHRS was 3.5 × 3.5 × 2.5 cm3 with a mass of 272 g or 80 g, depending on whether the monolith housing is included or not. We found that increasing the number of pixels utilized along the x-axis of the camera increases fringe visibility (FV) and optimizes the resolution (by capturing the entirety of the grating and magnifying the fringes). The number of pixels utilized in the y-axis, chip size, and dimensions, affect the signal-to-noise ratio of the systems. Additionally, we discuss the effect of pixel pitch on the recovery of Fizeau fringes, including the relationship between the Nyquist frequency, aliasing, and FV.
Independent Impact of Eat, Sleep, Console Assessment on Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Authors: Chyi Lisa J. , Li Sherian , Lee Catherine , Walsh Eileen M. , Kuzniewicz Michael W.
Published: October 2023

Compared with the Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System (FNASS), the Eat, Sleep, Console (ESC) approach reduces pharmacotherapy and length of stay (LOS) for neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) infants. The independent outcome contribution of ESC is unknown as the approach combines ESC assessment with additional management changes. Our objective was to evaluate ESC assessment’s independent impact on outcomes compared with FNASS. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of in utero opioid-exposed infants ≥35 weeks gestation managed with FNASS versus ESC. Outcomes included pharmacotherapy initiation, LOS, length of pharmacotherapy, and emergency department visit/readmissions. Among 151 FNASS and 100 ESC managed infants, pharmacotherapy initiation ( P = .47), LOS for all infants ( P = .49), and LOS for pharmacologically treated infants ( P = .68) were similar. Length of pharmacotherapy did not differ ( P = .84). Emergency department evaluation/NOWS readmission was equally rare ( P = .65). Using equivalent models of care, comparison of ESC and FNASS assessment tools showed no difference in NOWS outcomes.
Fractional-order neural control of a DFIG supplied by a two-level PWM inverter for dual-rotor wind turbine system
Authors: Benbouhenni Habib , Colak Ilhami , Bizon Nicu , Abdelkarim Emad
Published: October 2023

Energy ripples are among the common problems in renewable energies as a result of using less efficient strategies. In this work, a new technique is suggested to control a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) using the pulse width modulation (PWM). The new technique is based on the combination of neural networks and fractional-order control to minimize the reactive and active power ripples of the DFIG-based variable speed dual-rotor wind turbine system. The suggested fractional-order neural control (FONC) with the PWM is a simple, robust and a high-performance strategy. Simulation is performed using Matlab software to validate the effectiveness of the designed control of 1.5 MW DFIG and the obtained results are compared with the traditional direct power control (DPC) in different working conditions. In addition, the comparison between the suggested control and the DPC is performed in the cases of changing or not changing the device parameters in terms of ripple ratio, dynamic response, steady-state error, current quality, and overshoot of active and reactive power of the DFIG. As compared to the DPC, the proposed FONC technique improves the active and reactive power ripples by 65.71% and 84.74%, respectively. Also, improves the overshoot of the active and reactive power by 71.33% and 91.72%, respectively. The simulation results demonstrate the high performance and robustness of the FONC technique for the parametric variations of the DFIG-based variable speed dual-rotor wind turbine system compared to the DPC control.
Understanding the Socioeconomic Determinants of Religiosity and Religious Participation in Asia
Authors: Zhou Jinchun
Published: October 2023

While there has been much research on the effect of religiosity on physical and mental health, the socioeconomic determinants of religiosity are not well understood. Using data from different waves of the World Values Survey, this paper analyzes the socioeconomic patterns and determinants of religiosity in nine Asian countries—China, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The analysis suggests that religiosity varies significantly with age and sex, as well as with relative income, absolute income, socioeconomic status, education, and employment status. There are large differences in “innate” religiosity across the nine countries even after controlling for these socioeconomic characteristics. The results thus suggest that some of the widely observed effects of religiosity on health in the literature may simply reflect the associations of religiosity with background variables like education and socioeconomic status.
Forensic analysis of fabricated long bone fractures for gain
Authors: Singh Ravdeep , Kumar Ashwini , Chhabra Harvinder S , Joshi Rajiv , Pramod Karan
Published: October 2023

Background

Self-inflicting injury is a recognised psychiatric disorder. Such cases are regularly seen in the emergency department, with a false history of assault. Most of these are easily detected by a forensic medicine expert as they present as described in literature but are difficult to explain if altered by professionals for nefarious reasons.

Method

This was a prospective study carried out at a tertiary centre. The data was collected and analysed from the office records of medico-legal reports prepared at our institute between 25 February 2022 and 25 February 2023.

Results

21 cases were recorded, that met with our criteria. Most involved males (90.5%). Minimum age was 27 years and maximum age 66 years with a mean of 48.6 years and a standard deviation of ±11 years. Most offenders were unemployed (38.1%). Most fractured bone was tibia (47.6%). Left-sided fractures were more common (61.9%). Injuries corresponded with the findings on clothes in three cases (14.3%).

Discussion

Fabricated wounds will reflect the intentions of the fabricator and may range from superficial wounds to grievous injury. Only a critical analysis of all medico-legal cases will identify them, and they will have similarities of presentation.

Conclusion

Such findings have rarely been reported in other parts of India. A diligently prepared medico-legal report and profiling of all cases can help establish patterns of such injuries.
ChatGPT in medical research: challenging time ahead
Authors: Bhargava Daideepya C , Jadav Devendra , Meshram Vikas P , Kanchan Tanuj
Published: October 2023

Since its launch, ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence-powered language model tool, has generated significant attention in research writing. The use of ChatGPT in medical research can be a double-edged sword. ChatGPT can expedite the research writing process by assisting with hypothesis formulation, literature review, data analysis and manuscript writing. On the other hand, using ChatGPT raises concerns regarding the originality and authenticity of content, the precision and potential bias of the tool's output, and the potential legal issues associated with privacy, confidentiality and plagiarism. The article also calls for adherence to stringent citation guidelines and the development of regulations promoting the responsible application of AI. Despite the revolutionary capabilities of ChatGPT, the article highlights its inability to replicate human thought and the difficulties in maintaining the integrity and reliability of ChatGPT-enabled research, particularly in complex fields such as medicine and law. AI tools can be used as supplementary aids rather than primary sources of analysis in medical research writing.
Serum lidocaine (lignocaine) concentrations during prolonged perioperative infusion in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery: A secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Toner Andrew J , Bailey Martin A , Schug Stephan A , Phillips Michael , Ungerer Jacobus PJ , Somogyi Andrew A , Corcoran Tomas B
Published: October 2023

Perioperative lidocaine (lignocaine) infusions are being employed with increasing frequency. The determinants of systemic lidocaine concentrations during prolonged administration are unclear. In the Long-term Outcomes after Lidocaine Infusions for PostOperative Pain (LOLIPOP) pilot trial, the impact of infusion duration and body size metrics on serum lidocaine concentrations was examined with regression models in 48 women undergoing breast cancer surgery. Lidocaine was delivered as an intravenous bolus (1.5 mg/kg) and infusion (2 mg/kg per h) intraoperatively, followed by a 12-h subcutaneous infusion (1.33 mg/kg per h) postoperatively. Dosing was based on total body weight. Wound infiltration with other long-acting local anaesthetics was permitted. Protein binding and pharmacogenomic data were also collected. Lidocaine concentrations (median (interquartile range) (range)) during prolonged administration were in the safe and potentially therapeutic range: post-anaesthesia care unit 2.16 (1.73–2.82) (1.12–6.06) µg/ml; ward 1.41 (1.22–1.75) (0.64–2.81) µg/ml. Concentrations increased non-linearly during the early intravenous phase of administration (mean rise 1.21 µg/ml per hour of infusion, P = 0.007) but reached a pseudo steady-state during the later subcutaneous phase. Higher dose rates received per kilogram of lean ( P = 0.004), adjusted ( P = 0.006) and ideal body weight ( P = 0.009) were associated with higher steady-state concentrations. The lidocaine free fraction was unaffected by the presence of ropivacaine, and phenotypes linked to slow metabolism were infrequent. Serum lidocaine concentrations reached a pseudo steady-state during a 12-h postoperative infusion. Greater precision in steady-state concentrations can be achieved by dosing on lean body weight versus adjusted or ideal body weight (equivalent lean body weight doses: intravenous bolus 2.5 mg/kg; intravenous infusion 3.33 mg/kg per h; subcutaneous infusion 2.22 mg/kg per h.
Exploring Differences in Home Modification Strategies According to Household Location and Occupant Disability Status: 2019 American Housing Survey Analysis
Authors: Kim Daejin , Lee Mi Jung , Kang Jaewon
Published: October 2023

Home modification is essential in helping older adults age in place safely and independently. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of housing location and disability status on home modification projects among older adults using the 2019 American Housing Survey Data. The study found that recent home modification strategies were significantly different according to older adults’ housing locations and health status. Older adults in non-metropolitan areas and with disability were less likely to make home modifications, and when they did so, they spent less money on the modifications. The findings highlight the importance of providing adequate home modification programs and resources for home modifications, as well as support and education from community organizations, particularly for older adults in non-metropolitan areas. The results of this study can assist in developing housing policies and guidelines to address these current and future challenges in home modification implementation for the aging population.
Notes to Factor Analysis Techniques for Construct Validity
Authors: Alavi Mousa , Biros Erik , Cleary Michelle
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces and discusses factor analysis techniques for construct validity, including some suggestions for reporting using the evidence to support the construct validity from exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis techniques. Construct validity is a vital part of psychological testing and a prerequisite to every measurement instrument, including aptitude, achievement, and interests. Research, particularly in nursing and the health sciences, depends on reliable and valid measurements. Therefore, a growing emphasis is on assessing validity regarding the structure of test variables commonly estimated by factor analysis techniques. However, it is not always clear how to report the analysis and use it to support the construct validity. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis techniques provide vital evidence to support the construct validity. However, these are not the only available evidence for construct validity, and the researcher should always consider other sources of evidence to develop and support the construct validity of their intended measures. In addition, the collection and presentation of this evidence are not limited to a time, but the validity of constructs is a continuous process that leads to validating the underlying theories from which constructs have emerged.
Help Wanted, Experience Preferred, Stamina a Must: A Narrative Review of the Contextual Factors Influencing Nursing Recruitment and Retention in Rural and Remote Western Canada from the Early Twentieth Century to 2023
Authors: McCallum Amanda M. , Vandenberg Helen E. R. , Penz Kelly L.
Published: October 2023

Rural and remote communities of Western Canada have struggled to recruit and retain nursing professionals since the turn of the twentieth century. Existing literature has identified the unique challenges of rural nursing due to the shifting context of rural and remote nursing practice. The objective of this narrative review is to explore the history of rural and remote nursing to better understand the contextual influences shaping rural nursing shortages in Western Canada. This narrative review compared 27 sources of scholarly and historical evidence on the nature of rural nursing practices and recruitment and retention methods following the First World War until 2023. The findings suggest that the complex nature of rural nursing practice is a consistent challenge that has intersected with the long-standing power inequities that are inherent in rural marginalization, political influences, the nursing profession, social structures, and organizational design, to perpetuate rural nursing shortages throughout the past century. Integration and collaboration are needed to reduce systemic marginalization and develop effective and sustainable solutions to reduce nursing shortages in rural and remote areas of Western Canada.
Leading-Following and Community Change Concepts: A Humanbecoming Perspective
Authors: Ortiz Mario R.
Published: October 2023

Nurses in various settings are called upon to lead new projects and initiatives that further the mission of healthcare organizations or communities. It is important that there is a nursing theoretical framework to serve as a leadership foundation. This foundation grounds the direction of projects and initiatives, so that the path toward success is clear. The purpose of this paper is to explore leading-following within the humanbecoming community change concepts.
Living on the Edge: Paradoxical Experiences With Ethics
Authors: Milton Constance L.
Published: October 2023

Paradox is living phenomenon that provides insights into straight thinking and diverse human experiences important to the discipline of nursing from a nursing philosophical theory-based approach. Here, the author delves into the metaphorical experience of living on the edge and the paradoxical concepts that assist the discipline in its thinking about artificial intelligence. Possible ethical implications of utilizing artificial intelligence from a humanbecoming ethos of understanding are discussed. The metaphorical implications for future disciplinary priorities are presented.
Optimal study designs for cluster randomised trials: An overview of methods and results
Authors: Watson Samuel I , Girling Alan , Hemming Karla
Published: October 2023

There are multiple possible cluster randomised trial designs that vary in when the clusters cross between control and intervention states, when observations are made within clusters, and how many observations are made at each time point. Identifying the most efficient study design is complex though, owing to the correlation between observations within clusters and over time. In this article, we present a review of statistical and computational methods for identifying optimal cluster randomised trial designs. We also adapt methods from the experimental design literature for experimental designs with correlated observations to the cluster trial context. We identify three broad classes of methods: using exact formulae for the treatment effect estimator variance for specific models to derive algorithms or weights for cluster sequences; generalised methods for estimating weights for experimental units; and, combinatorial optimisation algorithms to select an optimal subset of experimental units. We also discuss methods for rounding experimental weights, extensions to non-Gaussian models, and robust optimality. We present results from multiple cluster trial examples that compare the different methods, including determination of the optimal allocation of clusters across a set of cluster sequences and selecting the optimal number of single observations to make in each cluster-period for both Gaussian and non-Gaussian models, and including exchangeable and exponential decay covariance structures.
The Influence of Entrepreneurs’ Culture and Ethnicity on Firms’ Degree of Hybridity
Authors: Angulo-Ruiz Fernando , Muralidharan Etayankara
Published: October 2023

Hybrid businesses that combine profit and social objectives at their core play an important role in their communities. In this article, we use insights from paradox theory to examine the influence of entrepreneurs’ cultural value orientations and ethnicity on distinct forms of hybrid businesses. We use a unique random sample of international small- and medium-sized privately owned businesses in Canada. After controlling for alternative explanations and using propensity scores to match the samples of Indigenous and non-Indigenous entrepreneurs, we consistently find that entrepreneurs’ self-expression values and Indigenous ethnicity are positively associated with a higher degree of hybridity in the businesses they start. Our findings contribute to the conversations on the micro-foundations of organizational paradox and to the literature on the factors that influence different hybrid organizational forms. Besides, our findings also add to the literature that examines hybridity in the context of internationalized businesses. The rationality and culture of the entrepreneur affect organizational paradox. Entrepreneurs with self-expressive values and identified with an Indigenous ethnicity have higher proclivities to form ideal hybrids and embrace paradoxical organizational forms.
Student Perception of Journaling as an Assessment for an Engagement Experience
Authors: Dinç Emre , Wherley Maria Scalzi , Sankey Haley
Published: October 2023

Background

Formal reflection assignments help students process and learn from engagement experiences more fully. Guided reflection can help students engage more deeply with out-of-the-classroom learning experiences and record personal learning. However, it is unknown if students perceive such assignments as valuable.

Purpose

This study examined undergraduate students’ attitudes toward journaling assignments during a one-week study-away experience within an academic course.

Methodology/Approach

The engagement experience comprised firsthand learning about sustainability and energy practices and related policies in Colorado. Qualitative data were collected from nine participants via pre- and post-travel surveys. Thematic analysis was used.

Findings/Conclusions

Four themes emerged: prompts helped to elicit quality reflections; journaling enabled integration of learning, emotions, and plans; journaling served as a retrospective resource and reinforces learning; and students felt constrained by the time commitment and public nature of journaling assignments.

Implications

Findings suggest that journaling can help reinforce learning and help students monitor their learning, feelings, and plans.
Exploring Disease Management Experiences of Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
Authors: İlaslan Emine , Adıbelli Derya
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 infection on disease management among individuals with type 2 diabetes and to explore their perspectives on COVID-19. This descriptive qualitative study included patients with diabetes, with a sample of 15 patients meeting the study criteria. The data were analyzed using code groups, which were then further categorized into main themes and subthemes. The main themes were: initial contact with the SARS-CoV-2 that is associated with COVID-19 illness changes in diabetes self-management behaviors; attempt at maintaining diabetes selfmanagement behaviors; and problems with accessing diabetes care. The study findings revealed several significant insights. Individuals with diabetes exhibited a fear of contracting SARS-CoV-2, which led to reduced levels of exercise and difficulties in managing blood sugar levels and insulin adjustments. Moreover, due to anxiety about COVID-19 infection, they postponed health check-ups, resulting in experiencing diabetes-related complications.
Family Health and Mental Well-Being Among Young Filipino Undergraduates: The Mediating Role of Self-Care
Authors: Felipe James Justin G. , Cleofas Jerome V. , Pua Jiese Sheri Lou C.
Published: October 2023

The family is a salient social institution influencing its members’ health capacities and outcomes. Particularly for collectivist societies like the Philippines, the family is a persistent social factor that shapes the health of its younger members, even during their college years. Following the health-promoting family framework, this study examines the relationship between family health and the mental well-being of young Filipino undergraduates and how self-care mediates this relationship. A total of 259 undergraduate students living with their families participated in this cross-sectional, simple mediation study. Data was collected via an online survey. Results suggest that family health has a significant positive effect on mental well-being ( B=3.227, p<.001). Moreover, self-care partially mediates (46.89%) family health and mental well-being ( B[indirect effect]=1.513, p<.001). Recommendations for mental health and helping professionals working in higher education settings are forwarded in this article.
Virtual Group Appointments Improve Outcomes in Veterans with Heart Failure During a Global Pandemic: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Hansen Mary P , Stewart Shannon L , Ensign Christine , Puckett Carrie M , Caviness Sarah
Published: October 2023

This report on a quality improvement initiative describes a multi-professional approach to improving self-care behaviors and reducing hospitalizations in Veterans with heart failure (HF) by implementing virtual group appointments. Patients with HF are more susceptible to complications related to COVID-19 infection, creating the need for alternative communication methods for patient education during the social isolation and reduced health-care resources brought on by the global pandemic. From March 2020 to June 2021, 57 Veterans participated in 1 of 12 group appointments at the VA Portland Health Care System in Portland, Oregon. Each group was led by a multi-professional team who provided education on self-care behaviors, nutrition, medications, and mental health impacts of HF. Chart reviews and pre-/post-self-care behavior questionnaires showed that the virtual group HF appointments were associated with a decrease in hospitalizations, compared to previous data with the same population, and self-reported self-care behaviors improved from pre- to post-questionnaire. Group appointments offer a unique educational and motivational experience for those with HF and provide the ability to engage with each other during challenging times.
Shelf-life enhancement and microbial load reduction of fresh-cut apple using ascorbic acid and carboxymethyl cellulose coating combined with ultrasound treatment
Authors: Koushesh Saba Mahmoud , Darvishi Hosain , Zarei Lolav , Sogvar Ommol Banin
Published: October 2023

The shelf-life of fresh-cut apples is limited because of their high water loss, deterioration rate, and surface browning. In this research, the effects of ultrasonic, ultrasonic + carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) 1% coatings, ultrasonic + ascorbic acid (AA) 2%, and combination of ultrasonic + AA 2% and CMC 1% on fresh-cut apples were studied. Physicochemical, antioxidant properties, and microbial stability of ready to eat treated fresh-cut apple was investigated during storage at 4 °C for 12 days. Results showed that the treated fresh-cut had less changes of L*, flesh firmness, soluble solid content, and titratable acidity than that of untreated. Vitamin C, total phenol, total flavonoid, antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase activity were greater in treated fresh-cut apple than that of untreated ones. Ultrasonic application mostly declined polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase activity changes. The combined treatment of ultrasonic + AA 2% + CMC 1% had the greatest impact on reducing microbial load among the treatments. These results revealed that the simultaneous application of ultrasonic and AA followed by CMC coating might have the potential to be used in minimally processed industry.
Heavy Metal Pollution in the Environment and Its Impact on Health: Exploring Green Technology for Remediation
Authors: Das Sumanta , Sultana Kaniz Wahida , Ndhlala Ashwell R , Mondal Moupriya , Chandra Indrani
Published: October 2023

Along with expanding urbanization and industrialization, environmental pollution which negatively affects the surroundings, has been rising quickly. As a result, induces heavy metal contamination which poses a serious threat to living organisms of aquatic and soil ecosystems. Therefore, they are a need to ameliorate the effects cost by cost pollution on the environment. In this review, we explore methods employed to mitigate the effects caused by heavy metals on the environment. Many techniques employed to manage environmental pollution are tedious and very costly, necessitating the use of alternative management strategies to resolve this challenge. In this concept, bioremediation is viewed as a future technique, due to its environmental friendliness and cost-effective measures aligned with sustainable or climate-smart agriculture to manage contaminants in the environment. The technique involves the use of living entities such as bacteria, fungi, and plants to deteriorate toxic substances from the rhizosphere. Currently, bioremediation is thought to be the most practical, dependable, environmentally benign, and long-lasting solution. Although bioremediation involves different techniques, they are still a need to find the most efficient method for removing toxic substances from the environment. This review focuses on the origins of heavy metal pollution, delves into cost-effective and green technological approaches for eliminating heavy metal pollutants from the environment, and discusses the impact of these pollutants on human health.
Progress in polymeric and metallic brake pads: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bilvatej B. , Naveen J. , Karthikeyan N. , Norrrahim M. N. F. , Knight Victor Feizal , Jawaid M. , Sultan M. T. H. , Dagalahal Mallikarjuna Reddy , Chandrasekar M. , Loganathan Tamil Moli
Published: October 2023

The use of asbestos in brake pads is being eliminated due to its carcinogenic effect. Due to this, there is a need for better alternative in the brake pad material to replace asbestos fibers. This leads to the development of more natural fibers/filler-based brake pads which are safer to the environment, cheaper, and readily available. Moreover, bio fillers-based brake pads have shown excellent performance compared to asbestos. This paper addresses the different composition of brake pad materials and manufacturing techniques. Common binders like epoxy resin, Phenolic resin-based brake pads were analyzed and its effect on the mechanical, tribological, and thermal performance were critically analyzed. Also, the performance of metal matrix-based brake pad has been analyzed in detail. It has been observed that utilizing natural fibers as a reinforcement provides an excellent braking performance compared to metallic and carbon fiber-based brake pads. This research will open new avenues towards “Net Zero.”
‘We are all working toward one goal. We want people to become well’: A visual exploration of what promotes successful collaboration between community mental health workers and healers in Ghana
Authors: Kpobi Lily , Read Ursula M. , Selormey Roberta K , Colucci Erminia
Published: October 2023

The practices of traditional and faith-based healers in low- and middle-income countries in Africa and elsewhere have come under intense scrutiny in recent years owing to allegations of human rights abuses. To mitigate these, there have been calls to develop collaborations between healers and formal health services to optimise available mental health interventions in poorly resourced contexts. For various reasons, attempts to establish such partnerships in a sustainable manner in different countries have not always been successful. In this article, we present findings from the Together for Mental Health visual research project to showcase examples of healer–health worker collaborations in Ghana that have been largely successful and discuss the barriers and facilitators to establishing these partnerships. Data reported in this article were collected using visual ethnography and filmed individual interviews with eight community mental health workers, six traditional and faith-based healers and two local philanthropists in the Bono East Region. The findings suggest that successful collaborations were built through mutually respectful interpersonal relationships, support from the health system and access to community resources. Although these facilitated collaboration, resource constraints, distrust and ethical dilemmas had to be overcome to build stronger partnerships. These findings highlight the importance of dedicated institutional and logistic support for ensuring the successful integration of the different health systems in pluralistic settings.
Redesign of Split-Hopkinson Tensile bar to eliminate spurious wave and verification of strain signal using FEM
Authors: Kim Yeon-Bok , Kim Jeong
Published: October 2023

To get the reliable dynamic material properties, the optimization of measuring apparatus such as SHTB (Split-Hopkinson Tensile Bar) is essential. SHTB apparatus is a machine that can acquire the material properties of a specimen for given high-speed situation in [Formula: see text] strain rate region. In this study, a new model improved the waveform is proposed by redesigning and optimizing the initial SHTB equipment. Complete reflected pulse was not obtained, and a spurious wave was measured in original model. To obtain reliable material properties, the spurious wave must be removed or avoided. Factors affecting spurious wave were determined as length of striker bar, length of incident bar, and diameter of striker bar & flange, and verified using LS-DYNA, one of the FEM (Finite-Element Method) software. The modified model was redesigned and manufactured based on FEM results. In FEM results, the incident and reflected pulse were completely improved. Also, overlapping with spurious wave was avoided in redesigned experiment results. Redesigned model was confirmed the residual wave after the incident pulse by a pneumatic launcher and various mechanical components. However, the residual wave didn’t affect the reflected pulse and the waveform was improved than the original model.
Response to a low-energy meal replacement plan on glycometabolic profile and reverse cardiac remodelling in type 2 diabetes: a comparison between South Asians and White Europeans
Authors: Athithan Lavanya , Gulsin Gaurav S. , Henson Joseph , Althagafi Loai , Redman Emma , Argyridou Stavroula , Parke Kelly S. , Yeo Jian , Yates Thomas , Khunti Kamlesh , Davies Melanie J. , McCann Gerry P. , Brady Emer M.
Published: October 2023

Background:

South Asians (SA) constitute a quarter of the global population and are disproportionally affected by both type 2 diabetes (T2D) and heart failure. There remains limited data of the acceptability and efficacy of low-energy meal replacement plans to induce remission of T2D in SA.

Objectives:

The objective of this exploratory secondary analysis of the DIASTOLIC study was to determine if there was a differential uptake, glycometabolic and cardiovascular response to a low-energy meal replacement plan (MRP) between SA and White European (WE) people with T2D.

Methods:

Obese adults with T2D without symptomatic cardiovascular disease were allocated a low-energy (~810 kcal/day) MRP as part of the DIASTOLIC study (NCT02590822). Comprehensive multiparametric cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, echocardiography, cardiopulmonary exercise testing and metabolic profiling were undertaken at baseline and 12 weeks. A comparison of change at 12 weeks between groups with baseline adjustment was undertaken.

Results:

Fifteen WE and 12 SAs were allocated the MRP. All WE participants completed the MRP versus 8/12 (66%) SAs. The degree of concentric left ventricular remodelling was similar between ethnicities. Despite similar weight loss and reduction in liver fat percentage, SA had a lower reduction in Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance [−5.7 (95% CI: −7.3, −4.2) versus −8.6 (−9.7, −7.6), p = 0.005] and visceral adiposity compared to WE [−0.43% (−0.61, −0.25) versus −0.80% (−0.91, −0.68), p = 0.002]. Exercise capacity increased in WE with no change observed in SA. There was a trend towards more reverse remodelling in WE compared to SAs.

Conclusions:

Compliance to the MRP was lower in SA versus WE. Overall, those completing the MRP saw improvements in weight, body composition and indices of glycaemic control irrespective of ethnicity. Whilst improvements in VAT and insulin resistance appear to be dampened in SA versus WE, given the small sample, larger studies are required to confirm or challenge this potential ethnic disparity.

Trail registration:

NCT02590822.
Breast cancer prevention and treatment misinformation on Twitter: An analysis of two languages
Authors: Yussof Izzati , Ab Muin Nur Fa’izah , Mohd Masnizah , Hatah Ernieda , Mohd Tahir Nor Asyikin , Mohamed Shah Noraida
Published: October 2023

Objective

To determine the prevalence and types of misinformation on Twitter related to breast cancer prevention and treatment; and compare the differences between the misinformation in English and Malay tweets.

Methods

A total of 6221 tweets related to breast cancer posted between 2018 and 2022 were collected. An oncologist and two pharmacists coded the tweets to differentiate between true information and misinformation, and to analyse the misinformation content. Binary logistic regression was conducted to identify determinants of misinformation.

Results

There were 780 tweets related to breast cancer prevention and treatment, and 456 (58.5%) contain misinformation, with significantly more misinformation in Malay compared to English tweets (OR = 6.18, 95% CI: 3.45–11.07, p < 0.001). Other determinants of misinformation were tweets posted by product sellers and posted before the COVID-19 pandemic. Less misinformation was associated with tweets utilising official/peer-reviewed sources of information compared to tweets without external sources and those that utilised less reliable information sources. The top three most common content of misinformation were food and lifestyle, alternative medicine and supplements, comprising exaggerated claims of anti-cancer properties of traditional and natural-based products.

Conclusion

Misinformation on breast cancer prevention and treatment is prevalent on social media, with significantly more misinformation in Malay compared to English tweets. Our results highlighted that patients need to be educated on digital health literacy, with emphasis on utilising reliable sources of information and being cautious of any promotional materials that may contain misleading information. More studies need to be conducted in other languages to address the disparity in misinformation.