bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hybrid neural network-based intelligent body posture estimation system in sports scenes
Authors: Zhang Liguo , Zhao Liangyu , Yan Yongtao
Published: December 2023

Body posture estimation has been a hot branch in the field of computer vision. This work focuses on one of its typical applications: recognition of various body postures in sports scenes. Existing technical methods were mostly established on the basis of convolution neural network (CNN) structures, due to their strong visual information sensing ability. However, sports scenes are highly dynamic, and many valuable contextual features can be extracted from multimedia frame sequences. To handle the current challenge, this paper proposes a hybrid neural network-based intelligent body posture estimation system for sports scenes. Specifically, a CNN unit and a long short-term memory (LSTM) unit are employed as the backbone network in order to extract key-point information and temporal information from video frames, respectively. Then, a semi-supervised learning-based computing framework is developed to output estimation results. It can make training procedures using limited labeled samples. Finally, through extensive experiments, it is proved that the proposed body posture estimation method in this paper can achieve proper estimation effect in real-world frame samples of sports scenes.
ASPEBI: A MATLAB Tool for Motion Analysis of Non-Specific Low Back Pain Patients
Authors: Rueda-Gaitán Paula , Cardenas-Prieto Ronald , Jiménez Mario F. , Ramírez-Duque Andrés A. , Pulido Herrera Edith
Published: December 2023

Low back pain is one of the most common health issues worldwide, and non-specific low back pain (NLBP), whose causes are unknown, represents 85% of these cases. Hamstring Extension in Bipedal Position (PEBI) is a clinical sign designed to discriminate the cause of the pain of NLBP as of muscular origin due to the stiffness of the hamstring. Currently, PEBI lacks quantitative assessment, which is required to be utilized in primary care. To support the process of getting such information, in this work, we present ASPEBI, a customized MATLAB® app developed to provide researchers and clinicians with a tool for the visualization of the kinematic and spatiotemporal gait parameters of patients examined with PEBI. This objective information is processed from data collected with the Xsens MTw Awinda system, which can be analyzed by the final users. Lastly, this tool is user-friendly with a modular design that allows integration of other physiological technologies to conduct multimodal analysis, and it could be utilized to explore issues related to older populations or populations with neurodegenerative diseases, among others.
Comparative Biomechanical Evaluation of Unilateral and Bilateral Cages in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Endplates Subsidence, Pedicle Screw Loosening and Implant Stability
Authors: Md Salleh Nur Saliha , Mazlan Muhammad Hazli , Razali Muhammad Anas
Published: December 2023

Implant sinking, pedicle screw loosening, and instability are commonly observed complications in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgeries, attributed to a range of mechanical, biomechanical, and environmental factors. To address these challenges, the utilization of unilateral cages positioned obliquely, along with bilateral posterior instrumentation, and employing a material with a comparable modulus to cortical bone, has shown promising efficacy. The present study employed image-based finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate the influences on cage sinking, screw loosening, and construct stability. The outcomes revealed that obliquely positioned unilateral fusion cage constructs with posterior instrumentation yielded superior biomechanical outcomes, characterized by reduced range of motion and stress distortion at the cage-endplate and screw-bone junctions. Furthermore, these findings indicated a lower risk of fractures and diminished deformations in normal and traumatic events. Hence, the utilization of biocompatible cage materials and structural symmetry holds critical significance for achieving biomechanical success in PLIF surgery.
Guarding the Cloud: An Effective Detection of Cloud-Based Cyber Attacks using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Rexha Blerim , Thaqi Rrezearta , Mazrekaj Artan , Vishi Kamer
Published: December 2023

Cloud computing has gained significant popularity due to its reliability and scalability, making it a compelling area of research. However, this technology is not without its challenges, including network connectivity dependencies, downtime, vendor lock-in, limited control, and most importantly, its vulnerability to attacks. Therefore, guarding the cloud is the objective of this paper, which focuses, in a novel approach, on two prevalent cloud attacks: Distributed Denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and Man-in-the-Cloud (MitC) computing attacks. To tackle the detection of these malicious activities, machine learning algorithms, namely Decision Trees, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Naive Bayes, and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), are utilized. Experimental simulations of DDoS and MitC attacks are conducted within a cloud environment, and the resultant data is compiled into a dataset for training and evaluating the machine learning algorithms. The study reveals the effectiveness of these algorithms in accurately identifying and classifying malicious activities, effectively distinguishing them from legitimate network traffic. The finding highlights Decision Trees algorithm with most promising potential of guarding the cloud and mitigating the impact of various cyber threats.
Understanding the Purpose of Higher Education Learners' Learning Outcomes (HELLO) to Support Improvement in Learning Outcome
Authors: Mitra Arindam
Published: December 2023

The purpose of higher education learners' learning outcomes (HELLO) is to measure educational programs' successes in developing students' knowledge, skills, and competencies. HELLOs provide a framework for setting learning goals, designing instructional strategies, and assessing student progress. This chapter aims to provide an overview of the purpose of HELLOs and how they can support improvement in learning outcomes. The chapter begins by defining what HELLOs are and the role they play in the learning process. It then discusses the importance of setting clear learning goals and aligning them with the program's mission and objectives. The chapter explores various instructional strategies that can support achieving these goals, including active, problem-based, and project-based learning. Finally, the chapter discusses the importance of ongoing evaluation and improvement of the HELLOs. It emphasizes the need for continuous reflection and revision to ensure that the HELLOs remain relevant and effective in supporting student learning outcomes.
Study Delivery Mechanism and Preparation
Authors: Rai Monkia , Kaur Navdeep
Published: December 2023

In higher educational institutions, the development of study delivery mechanism and preparation is regarded as one of the major aspects that would promote student learning and help in the achievement of academic goals and objectives. The educators need to focus upon bringing about development and preparation in the teaching-learning materials. They need to promote modern and innovative methods to enrich the system of education. The advancements in teaching-learning materials are brought about on the basis of number of aspects. When these are introduced, the educators need to ensure that they prove to be beneficial to the students in achieving academic goals. Research has indicated that the introduction of modern and innovative methods and teaching-learning materials preparation have led to developments of the overall system of education and helps to achieve the learning outcomes in higher education in an effective way.
Demystifying Digital Education as a Field of Study and Indian Potentialities
Authors: Paul Prantosh Kumar Kumar
Published: December 2023

Digital engagement is increasing day by day in every sector using various digital tools, techniques, and technologies. And teaching-learning process is not an exception to this trend. High-end technology including management techniques and principles have developed newer educational models and concerns such as e-learning, online education, education technology, virtual education, blended learning. Many universities have started digital education at bachelors, masters, doctoral levels with various focused areas and specialization related to the digital education and educational technology. The birth of newer educational models, industry-academia educational models, practice-based learning, research-driven educational models, interdisciplinary academic practices lead digital education degree and educational programs. This chapter focused on digital education involved with core thrust on showcasing digital education to become a program of study instead of only a practicing field. The need of such programs and nomenclature in the Indian context has also been mentioned and proposed.
Key Challenges in Developing and Executing Higher Education Learners' Learning Outcomes
Authors: Sivarethinamohan R. , Singha Surjit , Singha Ranjit
Published: December 2023

This chapter examines higher education institutions' complex obstacles in developing and implementing effective learning outcomes. It emphasizes the need for outcomes that include subject-specific and general skills, meet students' diverse requirements, align with market demands, and incorporate emerging technologies. To facilitate student success in the 21st century, institutions must address these. It examines multidisciplinary programs, technology integration, faculty training, and student participation in outcome formation. It proposes enhancing outcomes through emerging technologies, social and emotional learning, global citizenship education, and entrepreneurship education, emphasizing student-centred approaches. Effective learning outcomes are essential for fostering student success in a constantly changing environment. Case studies from India, the United Kingdom, and the United States provide insights, emphasizing India and lessons from the US and UK experiences.
Enhancing the Quality of EFL Pre-Service Teachers' Selection and Induction Process
Authors: Çiftci Harun
Published: December 2023

The efficacy of any educational system for a nation depends principally on the quality of its teachers. Previous research also revealed that the stakeholders and pre-service EFL teachers are dissatisfied with the current selection and induction process by citing concerns regarding the validity of the assessment and the strict central policies in place. The primary aim of this framework, therefore, is to strengthen and enhance standardization. The first phase is a theory-based assessment that encompasses testing the field knowledge of EFL pre-service teachers. The second phase, skills-based assessment, is required following the provision of the TOEFL or EILTS exam results. The third phase, the internship-based phase, necessitates the strict cooperation of academicians at ELT departments of the universities and National Education. Lastly, the identification of the cumulative grade point averages of each phase will provide a final grade that will be used in the recruitment processes of EFL pre-service teachers.
The Influence of Internet Environment Health on College Pupils' Ideological and Moral Education and Its Promotion
Authors: Niu Juanjuan
Published: December 2023

The internet, which is constantly advancing in technology, together with the rapidly changing internet communication technology terminals, has formed a new internet media, which has penetrated into all fields of human material life and spiritual life. This article proposes a design scheme for optimizing the impact of internet environment health on college pupils' ideological and moral education and the promotion path. It summarizes the influencing factors of contemporary college pupils' ideological and moral education through cluster analysis, optimizes the factors using Apriori arithmetic in data mining, and realizes the promotion of the path to solve problems. Finally, it carries out simulation testing and analysis. In order to promote the effective development of college pupils' ideological and political education, we should strengthen the internet management, purify the internet environment, strengthen the construction of “red websites,” and enhance their attractiveness.
Design and Application of Dance Teaching and Evaluation System Based on Big Data
Authors: Li Sa , Dong Jingjing
Published: December 2023

In order to deeply analyze and evaluate the changes in the comprehensive quality of college students' sports dance, the overall idea of systematically evaluating the changes in the comprehensive quality of college students' sports dance was established. Firstly, this article uses the triangular fuzzy number method to measure the evaluation information of the evaluator's dance curriculum plan according to the evaluation indicators. Then, evaluation information from different groups and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) are used to determine the weight of each evaluation index. Finally, this article constructs a website system based on Python's Django framework. In the final system test and questionnaire survey, it was found that users were relatively satisfied with the accuracy of their evaluations and believed that the accurate performance of in-depth learning data analysis would help them save more time and effort in course selection.
Pineapple Stalk-Based Synthesized Activated Carbon for Effective Adsorption of Hexavalent Chromium in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Manoj K.M. , Priya A.K. , Arun Kumar S. , Archana M.
Published: December 2023

World industrial expansion fueled significant economic growth. Environmental deterioration is currently the main cause for concern. Human health is negatively impacted by the heavy metals in the waste water. The methods and their costs are more important in this heavy metal removal. The main method for getting rid of heavy metals like chrome, lead, nickel, etc. is adsorption. This study proposes a novel approach of eliminating hexavalent chromium since treatment methodologies need for creative, low-cost solutions. A straight method of activation including treatment with NaOH solution was utilized to produce activated carbon (ACs) with nanopores from pineapple stalk fruit waste. The NaOH solution reagent used for activation was easily cleared from the pre-treated pineapple stalks for recycling, which significantly reduced pollution during the carbonization process. The shape and arrangement of the ACs were assessed using SEM and FT-IR. The created adsorbent was employed in a batch adsorption procedure to remove Cr (VI). We further investigated the effect of the NaOH solution absorption on the structure, shape, and performance of the synthesized ACs in terms of Cr (VI) removal. According to the results of the characterization, treating the pineapple stalks with a NaOH solution removed some functional groups and resulted in the creation of micro-meso porous structures. At a dose of 1.0 g/ 100 mL and a pH of 6.3, the greatest adsorption capacity of the PSAC produced by triggering with 4% NaOH solution was 7.4 mg g-1, and the ACs displayed exceptional Cr (VI) adsorption ability.
Circular Economy: Upcycling Wood Byproducts from the Azores into Building Insulation Material
Authors: Daruari Harish , Peixinho Ana , Rocha Antonieta , Gaspar Florindo , Mendonca Paulo
Published: December 2023

The promise of transforming wastes from the Azores into building materials is the focus of this research. The insulation properties of some of these materials can be advantageous to the building construction sector. These materials are upcycled into non-structural components of the building such as panels for ceilings and walls as a factor to control thermal comfort economically. In this paper, insulation panels using cryptomeria waste from the carpentry industry were developed and experimentally evaluated in terms of conductivity for further study of their thermal properties, as well as life cycle analysis. Sodium silicate was used as a primary binding material along with these treated materials. The different composite panels made from the waste and surplus materials are expected to be analysed in Test cells that are built in Azores using this together with other wastes available in the region. These panels will be tested for longer periods in these test cells subjected to the local climatic conditions. The results of thermal conductivity are promising for the two composites sampled.
Effect of Temperature on Porous Ceramic Substrates Supported ZnO Thin Films for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Chehhat Khedidja , Mecif Abla , Noua Abd Elouahab , Kaya Dogan , Foughali Lazhar , Zerrouk Imed Eddine , Bouras Dhikra , Ekicibil Ahmet
Published: December 2023

In this study, eco-friendly and low-cost highly porous ceramic substrates were fabricated to enhance the performance of photocatalysts. ZnO as a model photocatalyst deposited as thin films by dip-coating sol-gel method on naturally extracted kaolin clay (90%) and Corn starch (10%)-made highly porous ceramic substrates prepared as pellet form and sintered at different temperatures: 1150, 1200, 1250, and 1300 °C. The effect of temperature on the prepared substrates modified their porosity and the best value obtained was 56% with a specific surface area of 38.80 m2/g for 1150 °C. Structural analysis of the X-ray diffraction spectra revealed a hexagonal wurtzite structure for ZnO and mullite/cristoballite structures for substrates. Scanning electron microscopy images confirmed the porosity and uniform formation of ZnO on the substrates. The high porosity samples resulted in a high reflectance of over 90%, and band gap energies values around 3.11 eV were verified by UV–VIS spectroscopy. The photocatalytic properties of ZnO thin films on ceramic substrates were studied by testing the degradation of Orange II dye in an aqueous medium under UV light irradiation. The highest degradation rate of 92% was obtained for ZnO thin films deposited on porous substrates treated at 1150 °C. The kinetic study indicated that the photocatalytic degradation of Orange II correlated with the pseudo-first-order kinetic model.
Development and Properties Improvement of Tea Dregs-Based Biodegradable Packaging Formulated with Starch and Poly(Lactic Acid)
Authors: Windrayahya Sulkhan , Pranoto Yudi , Wittaya Thawien
Published: December 2023

Tea dregs are usually discarded and increase the landfill problem, even though it still contains some fibers that might be used as an alternative fiber source for biodegradable packaging bowl (BPB) production. A novel BPB from tea dregs reinforced with starch and poly (lactic acid) (PLA) was produced in this study by subjecting the mixture to a compression molding with a bowl shape. Tea dregs, starch, and PLA in the ratio of 50:30:20 resulted in the best appearance and highest value of the mechanical properties. Properties improvements with plasticizers, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), and PLA coating were performed sequentially in the best product ratio, significantly affecting appearance, mechanical, and water absorption properties. Adding sorbitol 5pph, MCC 3pph, and coating with 6% PLA solution improved the product's properties most effectively. These improvements resulted in the best appearance, higher compressive strength, higher hardness value, and lower water absorption. This study concluded that tea dregs could be used as an alternative fiber source in the production of BPB. The addition of plasticizer, MCC, and PLA coating at the optimum concentration can be conducted for the properties improvement of BPB.
A New Green Solvent: Synthesis and Characterization of Natural-Deep-Eutectic-Solvent (NADES) for Application on Aqueous-Two-Phase System (ATPS) for Extraction of Anthocyanin
Authors: Mahaindran Adityanindran , Meng Xiaon Qin , Tee Lee Hong , Chua Bee Lin , Oh Kai Siang
Published: December 2023

Anthocyanins are said to possess antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-obesity effects. There is lot of emphasis placed on the improvement of the methods for extracting anthocyanins; one of which being extraction via aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS). Aqueous two-phase system is a liquid-liquid extraction method that has many benefits like easy to scale up with high recovery yield. However, ATPS also has drawbacks as it utilizes organic solvents and low biodegradability ionic liquid. In this context, Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) which are inexpensive, eco-friendly can be employed in aqueous two-phase system. Thus, the purpose of this research is to explore the feasibility of NADES-ATPS in the extraction and purification of anthocyanins. This research will investigate the solubility of anthocyanins and characterize the NADESs in terms of density, viscosity, and polarity to screen out NADESs that are suitable to be used for the extraction of anthocyanins. To do this, 6 different types of NADES with different molar ration, such as 1:1,1:2 and 1:3 of hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) to hydrogen bond donor (HBD) ratio, were prepared and screened. The NADES was prepared using choline chloride as HBA, and malonic acid, lactic acid, glycerol, ascorbic acid, urea, and citric acid as HBD. The solubility of 10% anthocyanin was found in a range of 0.60×10−2 g/g to 1.81×10−2g/g. The solubility of the anthocyanins in NADES was correlated to the viscosity and polarity of the NADES where it was seen that the solubility has a positive relationship with polarity. The solubility also showed a similar trend to the viscosity however up to critical point, upon which the solvent was too viscous and was unable to be utilized in room temperature. The research concludes that malonic acid-based NADES to be the most suitable to be utilized for the extraction of anthocyanin using ATPS.
Groundwater Purification Using Bio-Sand Filter Modified with Iron Oxide-Coated Sand and Activated Carbon
Authors: Leng Bovathanak , Wai May Phue , Menh Leanggek , Si Chheng Im , Heu Rina
Published: December 2023

Groundwater is the most used natural resource which serves different diverse purposes and alternative water supply for households mainly in rural areas. However, it is polluted by contaminants such as heavy metals, total hardness and coliform bacteria. One such promising water treatment technology for households in rural areas is the Bio-sand Filter (BSF) because of its low cost and efficient removal of contaminants. Although BSF is efficient to remove contaminants, there is still needed to improve the flow rate and the performance of removing pollutants from groundwater. Therefore, this study focused on the development of a laboratory-scale Modified Bio-sand Filter (MBSF) that was combined with Iron-oxide Coated Sand (IOCS) with Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) made from coconut shells to purify groundwater. Laboratory scale of filters were performed in this study. Groundwater was collected from household’s well water in Kean Svay district, Kandal province. The filters were operated by filling the water source with 10 liters per day and operated for 20 days. Heavy metals were measured by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Arsenator. Total hardness was analyzed by Ion Chromatography (IC). Target coliform bacteria such as E. coli and total coliform were cultured by spread plate method. Flow rate was observed by setting time for 1 minute and measure the volume of effluent water. By the results, all physicochemical parameters of MBSF were within the standard limit of drinking water. MBSF showed significantly better removal efficiency for arsenic with 100% than BSF while MBSF can also remove Mn and Fe which was under the drinking water standard of WHO and MIME. Total hardness was achieved more than 80% in MBSF, while BSF with only 40%. MBSF also performed slightly better than BSF as well in removing both E. coli and total coliform with more than 90% reduction. The flow rate of the MBSF was faster about two and a half times than the flow rate of BSF with the average of 0.15 L/min for MBFS and 0.06 L/min for BSF. The results from this study contributed to the improvement of household water treatment method for purifying groundwater efficiently in rural areas.
Evaluation of the Quality of Groundwater for Irrigation Purposes in Karur District, Tamilnadu, South India
Authors: Gopinath R. , Rooby Jessy , Prabakaran E. , Kaarthick M.
Published: December 2023

This work aimed to evaluate several physicochemical characteristics in irrigation water over acceptable criteria. The research for this paper was conducted during the construction of the Karur District in the state of Tamil Nadu in South India. In order to conduct the investigation of the water's quality, 201 open-air wells provided the source for the water samples. The field survey design was utilized and complemented by laboratory testing to analyze the levels of physicochemical parameters in both seasons (pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons) for groundwater and water bodies. Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Soluble Sodium Percentage (SSP), Magnesium Adsorption Ratio (MAR), Kelly Index (KI), pH, Electric Conductivity (EC), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) were the physical and chemical parameters that were analyzed. The average electrical conductivity values were relatively high, despite our studied samples being within the allowable range for irrigation water quality.
Surface Roughness Improvement of PBF-LB Manufactured 316L with Dry Electropolishing
Authors: Rautio Timo , Jaskari Matias , Järvenpää Antti
Published: December 2023

Laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) technique can currently offer the lowest surface roughness among all available techniques for metal additive manufacturing. Still the measured values for Ra can easily be over 10 μm depending on the used layer thickness and printing parameters. The current work focuses on improving the surface roughness by utilizing dry electropolishing machine. While suitable for many materials, the material selected for this study is one of the most used in PBF-LB manufacturing, stainless steel 316L. In addition, multistep pre-grinding with the grade of the final finish varied was used to investigate what is the most efficient way to distribute manual preparation work and automated polishing to reach the desired surface roughness. Furthermore, severe shot peening was used before the polishing to study the effect on residual stresses and fatigue life of the material. Laser optical microscopy was used to investigate the surface properties and it was found that dry electropolishing with pre-grinding could be succesfully used to obtain average roughness levels as low as 0.13 μm. The highest reductions in surface roughness were reached with the rougher initial surfaces where it could be reduced by 80% at best. Residual stresses measured after the severe shot peening were preserved after the polishing but did not result in increased fatigue strength.
Tensile Properties Characterisation of Hybrid Luffa/GCW Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Afiq Mohd Khairul , Kuan Hoo Tien Nicholas , Hassan Mohamad Zaki
Published: December 2023

Extensive research has been conducted on fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, which have demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to their individual components. In order to add on to current research trends, the use of ground coffee waste (GCW) and Luffa fibers reinforced polyethylene (PE) composites were fabricated to produce a hybrid natural FRP composite. Tensile testing of the composite indicates that the optimum fiber volume to be between 15% and 35%, as the tensile strength exhibited 9.32 MPa and 8.75 MPa, respectively. Similarly, the tensile modulus of the fabricated composite peaked at 25% with 238 MPa, then declined to 173 MPa at 35%. This indicates that the fibers effectively reinforce the polymer matrix, but once the composite reaches its optimal fiber volume, a decrease in both tensile strength and tensile modulus is observed. The reduction in tensile properties can be attributed to an uneven distribution of load-bearing capacity throughout the composite, as the fibers are no longer able to fully support the matrix once the optimal fiber volume is reached. The specific tensile strength and specific tensile modulus also shows that with the inclusion of Luffa fiber and GCW microfiber contributed to a lighter weight composite. In a nutshell, the hybrid composite fabricated using 25% fiber volume exhibited a tensile strength almost similar to its neat matrix counterpart, though has a noteworthy value in terms of its tensile modulus. The hybrid composite can be as strong in terms of tensile strength, but far more significant in its rigidity, in comparison to the neat polyethylene laminate. Therefore, it showed that the hybrid natural Luffa/GCW FRP has the potential in the engineering industry, such as lightweight furniture, household appliances, automotive parts, and other composite engineering applications.
Stock Market - Economic Growth Nexuses: Evidence from Asian Stock Markets
Authors: Wickramasinghe N. T. , Deyshappriya N. P. Ravindra , Gunarathne Y. M. C.
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between stock market development and economic growth in Asian countries focusing on causality direction.Methodology: The study based top 10 stock exchanges in the Asian region and the secondary data mainly collected from World Development Indicators of the World Bank over the period of 1990-2020. Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) Dynamic Panel analysis along with panel unit root and cointegration tests were employed to accomplish the objectives of the study.Findings: The cointegration test emphasizes the existence of long-term relationship between stock market development and economic growth while the GMM dynamic panel analysis confirms the positive relationship between stock market development and economic growth of top 10 stock exchanges in the Asian Region. Moreover, reverse causality which runs from economic growth to stock market development has also been confirmed by the GMM dynamic panel analysis. Consequently, bi-directional causality between stock market development and economic growth exists in the top 10 Asian stock exchanges confirming both Finance-Led Growth Hypothesis and Growth-Led Finance Hypothesis. Hence, stock market and growth-oriented policies are recommended to be implemented to optimize the mutual benefits.Originality: One of the key significances of the study is that the study has constructed a composite index to measure stock market development rather than rely on conventional measures.
The Effectiveness of Microfinance Services on Poverty Alleviation: Comparative Analysis of Anuradhapura District and Colombo District in Sri Lanka
Authors: Kannangara N. , Liyanage C.
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to determine the effectiveness of microfinance services on household income to alleviate poverty in both rural and urban areas of Sri Lanka, and which area has successfully used microfinance services to alleviate poverty.Design/Methodology/Approach: The researcher chose Anuradhapura as the rural area and Colombo as the urban area to conduct the study. In this regard, data was collected from 280 microfinance beneficiaries in the Anuradhapura and Colombo districts using a survey questionnaire. Microfinance services such as micro-credit and micro-entrepreneurship training were employed as the independent variables in this study, with poverty alleviation as the dependent variable. Simple random sampling was used to collect the data then were analyzed using SPSS software.Findings: According to the study's findings, both entrepreneurship training and micro-credit have a statistically significant positive relationship with poverty alleviation in both districts. According to the regression results, entrepreneurship training is more effective in reducing poverty in the Colombo district, but microcredit is more beneficial in the Anuradhapura area.Conclusion: The findings highlighted that microfinance services are more effective in alleviating poverty in urban and rural areas of Sri Lanka. Further, micro-credit services were more effective in urban (Colombo) areas than in rural (Anuradhapura) areas in Sri Lanka. However, the micro-entrepreneurship trainings were more effective in rural areas than in urban areas in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the researcher suggests that microfinance services should be promoted to alleviate poverty in Sri Lanka while more micro-credit services to urban areas and more micro-entrepreneurship training to rural areas.
Do the Consequence of Taxation Impact Household Consumptions in Nigeria? Absolute Outcome from Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL)
Authors: Adegbite T. A.
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study investigated taxes’ effect on household consumption expenditure in Nigeria. Taxation was examined through Petroleum Profit Tax, Company income Tax, Value Added Tax, and Customs and excise duties while household consumption expenditure was proxied with the aggregation of households’ expenditure expended on daily needs and procurement of others useful products.Design/Methodology/Approach: The established data are sourced through Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin and annual reports of federal Inland Revenue for a period of 31 years, spanning from 1990-2021, in order to examine the effect of taxation on household consumption expenditure in Nigeria. To achieve the motive behind this study, Autoregressive distributed lag Model, unit root test, Cointegration Test, correlation analysis, lag selection test, and regression, as well as normality test and stability test, were also involved as post-analysis confirmatory tests.Findings: It was discovered that Petroleum Profit Tax has significant, strong, and positive influence on household consumption, but Company income Tax, Value Added Tax, and Customs and Excise duties have negative significant influence on household consumption. Conclusively, taxes have a negative effect on household consumption expenditure in Nigeria.Originality: Having critically reviewed the existing studies, it was invariably realized that none of the extant studies examined how taxes influence household consumptions in Nigeria, their studies were confined to taxation effect on economic growth, investment, inflation, and government expenditure. Hence, this study incorporated Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) Model to analyze the effect of taxes on household consumption in Nigeria which made the study unique among the existing studies.
Acknowledgement to reviewers
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: December 2023

No abstract availalble.
Glyphosate as a direct or indirect activator of pro-inflammatory signaling and cognitive impairment
Authors: Izumi Yukitoshi , O’Dell Kazuko A. , Zorumski Charles F.
Published: December 2023

Glyphosate-based herbicides are widely used around the world, making it likely that most humans have significant exposure. Because of habitual exposure, there are concerns about toxicity including neurotoxicity that could result in neurological, psychiatric, or cognitive impairment. We recently found that a single injection of glyphosate inhibits long-term potentiation, a cellular model of learning and memory, in rat hippocampal slices dissected 1 day after injection, indicating that glyphosate-based herbicides can alter cognitive function. Glyphosate-based herbicides could adversely affect cognitive function either indirectly and/or directly. Indirectly, glyphosate could affect gut microbiota, and if dysbiosis results in endotoxemia (leaky gut), infiltrated bacterial by-products such as lipopolysaccharides could activate pro-inflammatory cascades. Glyphosate can also directly trigger pro-inflammatory cascades. Indeed, we observed that acute glyphosate exposure inhibits long-term potentiation in rat hippocampal slices. Interestingly, direct inhibition of long-term potentiation by glyphosate appears to be similar to that of lipopolysaccharides. There are several possible measures to control dysbiosis and neuroinflammation caused by glyphosate. Dietary intake of polyphenols, such as quercetin, which overcome the inhibitory effect of glyphosate on long-term potentiation, could be one effective strategy. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss possible mechanisms underlying neurotoxicity following glyphosate exposure as a means to identify potential treatments.
Impact of Protracted War Crisis on Dental Students: A Comparative Multicountry Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Joury Easter , Barngkgei Imad , Al-Batayneh Ola B. , El Tantawi Maha , Alhaffar Bahaa Aldin MHD , Alshalabi Fadi , Aly Nourhan M. , Al-Nahlawi Talal , Abdelgawad Fatma , Bourzgui Farid , Berrezouga Latifa , Amran Abdullah G. , Al-Ansari Asim , Dama Mai A. , El-Swiah Jamal M. , Bacho Riad , Doughan Bassel , Doumit Mounir , Al-Sane Mona , Ibrahim Ousama
Published: December 2023

Background:

The impact of conflict and war crisis on dental students is poorly understood. Given the prolonged conflicts and political instability in the Arabic-speaking countries, it is crucial to investigate the effect of these conditions on dental students. This study aimed to assess the impact of protracted war on dental students by comparing the personal, university, and wider context challenges they face across war-affected and unaffected countries.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted including a convenience sample of dental students from 13 universities in 12 Arabic-speaking countries. Respondents were those at entry and exit points of their undergraduate dental training. A self-administered paper questionnaire collected anonymized data on sociodemographics, and personal, university, and wider context challenges that students were facing. Multivariable Poisson regression analyses were carried out.

Results:

The overall response rate was 64.8%. The mean age was 21.2 (standard deviation = 2.1) years, with 68% of participants being female. After adjusting for age and sex, dental students in Arabic-speaking countries affected by protracted war crisis were significantly more likely to report wider context challenges compared to their counterparts in unaffected countries (n = 2448; beta = 1.12; 95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.13; P < 0.001).

Discussion:

Dental students in Arabic-speaking countries affected by protracted war crisis were more likely to suffer from wider context challenges such as difficulties in attendance due to the deterioration of security and lack of flexibility of teaching time to accommodate the different circumstances induced by the war crisis. Supporting dental students in areas affected by protracted war crises is needed and may include developing online dental education programs.
Experiences of Rural and Metropolitan Background Applicants in Preparing for and Completing a Regionally Focused Multiple Mini-interview for Admission into a Regional Medical Program
Authors: Fox Jordan L. , Batacan Romeo , Saluja Sonia , Pullen Candice , McGrail Matthew
Published: December 2023

Background:

To better target rural background and rurally interested applicants during medical school admission, it is increasingly common for rural medical programs to include multiple mini-interview (MMI) scenarios designed to screen for rural interest. It remains unclear whether the inclusion of regionally/rurally focused MMI scenarios positively impacts the selection of rural background applicants and evidence is limited regarding why rural background applicants may perform worse on the MMI. Therefore, this study explored how rural and metropolitan applicants prepare for and perceive the MMI for admission to a regional medical pathway.

Methods:

A mixed-methods survey was sent to provisional entry regional pathway medical school applicants who had completed an MMI. The survey was distributed before any offers of admission had been released.

Results:

Rural applicants spent less time and money preparing for the MMI and felt less prepared (P < 0.05). However, time and money spent, and resources used to prepare were not associated with feeling more prepared (all P > 0.05). Respondents mostly felt that the MMI process aligned with their expectations (83%), is fair (64%), and helps a rural program select the most suitable applicants (61%). Rural applicants generally felt that they had an advantage over other applicants (61%) while most metropolitan applicants did not (23%; P = 0.002).

Discussion:

Applicants to a regional medical pathway are generally supportive of the MMI process. It appears valuable for applicants to prepare for the MMI by understanding the format and requirements; however, investing substantial time and money does not underpin feeling better prepared. MMI scenarios which include a regional focus are perceived to advantage rural applicants.
Using a Nominal Group Technique to Inform a Curriculum of a Short Learning Programme for Peer Mentor Training in a Health Sciences Context
Authors: Nel Corné , Wolvaardt Jacqueline Elizabeth , Toit Pieter Du
Published: December 2023

Background:

The purpose of this study was to explore the use of a modified nominal group technique (mNGT) to inform the curriculum of a Short Learning Programme for peer mentors in the Bachelor of Clinical Medical Practice (BCMP) program.

Methods:

An mNGT was used to achieve group consensus. Research participants included academic staff and students of the BCMP program called clinical associate (ClinA) students. Two sessions of the nominal group techniques (NGTs) were conducted. Two questions were presented: (1) what should be the learning outcomes of a Short Learning Programme for peer mentors for ClinA students? and (2) what learning activities should be included to achieve the intended learning outcomes?

Results:

mNGT groups were both concluded in < 2 h and the costs involved were minimal. The priority outcomes of academic staff were to promote and encourage a positive, inclusive environment to enhance student morale; and to provide insight into the roles that peer mentors should fulfill. The primary objectives of academic staff were to foster and support a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere to boost student morale, as well as to offer guidance on the responsibilities that peer mentors should undertake. The top priorities of students were to provide insight into the role of a ClinA and the personal development of peer mentors. Learning activities suggested included time management and personal growth of peer mentors, “how to be an effective mentor,” and leadership skills. The outcomes formulated by research participants reflected the graduate attributes listed by the University of Pretoria as well as generic attributes described by international scholars.

Discussion:

A common NGT was an inexpensive and time-saving way to obtain rank-ordered data from research participants. This modified method ensured an equitable and inclusive approach, ensuring buy-in from all stakeholders, and is useful in the development of a curriculum for Short Learning Programmes. Both staff and students converged on common outcomes related to academic, psychosocial, and ClinA role support MeSH Terms: Consensus; Curriculum; Humans; Leadership; Mentors; Students.
Creating Socially Accountable Health Conferences: Guidance from Around the World
Authors: Clithero-Eridon Amy , Le Gary C. , De Maeseneer Jan , Fleg Anthony , Woollard Robert
Published: December 2023

Background:

Very little attention has been given to the social accountability of conferences, either in action or in scholarship, in particular, of scientific conferences. Concerns that have been raised include: (1) Local communities and regions suffer from ecological pressure caused by conferences, (2) There is limited value to the local community, (3) International conferences take place at locations irrelevant to the topics discussed; hence there is no connection with locals, and (4) It has been the observation of the authors that <10% of participants may come from the region where the conference is organized, which makes it challenging to make a “positive societal impact” locally. We conducted a natural experiment investigating the interactions between academia, conference organizers, and community leaders.

Methods:

We utilized a case study approach to report on the outcomes of two 2022 annual international conferences that seek to improve community health. We used a mixed-methods approach of surveys and interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify the key themes.

Results:

We obtained 358 responses from all six World Health Organization regions. Results from both conferences were split into two categories: the why and the how. A strong consensus among participants is that bi-directional learning between conference organizers and local communities leads to shared understanding and mutual goals. The data emphasize that including communities in academic conferences helps us progress forward from intentions toward demonstrating accountability and reporting impact.

Discussion:

A diversity of perspectives is needed to advance socially accountable health system transformation. Five best practices from conference participants are laid out as a framework to assist in the change: (1) Build trust, (2) provide funding for community member participation, (3) appreciation of local community knowledge, (4) involve the local community in the planning stages, and (5) make the local community part of the conference and learning.
Use of Simulation to Train Uncertified Hospital Orderlies in India
Authors: Saldanha Felicita Livia , D’Cunha Rithesh Joseph , Mahmood Lulu Sherif
Published: December 2023

Background:

In India, orderlies are unlicensed hospital assistants instructed to perform delegated tasks under supervision by a licensed health-care giver. They receive on-the-job training, unlike certified nursing assistants. In this study, we have integrated a simulation session in our hospital orderly training program to promote the safe transfer of patients using a low-fidelity mannequin.

Methods:

We conducted an interventional study with a mixed methodology in which 280 orderlies were immersed in a simulation session of transferring a mannequin from a bed to either a wheelchair or stretcher. An observer completed a prevalidated 18-item checklist assessing the team’s performance on a 3-point global rating scale. Quantitative analysis of the data was done using a Paired t-test of the mean scores of the pre- and posttest. Posttraining, the participants completed a satisfaction questionnaire. Structured interviews with their ward in-charges were conducted 3-month posttraining, and the data were analyzed by thematic coding.

Results:

The pre- and posttest scores of team performances for both groups were 33.22 and 45.3, respectively, indicating a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). Posttraining, the session evaluation revealed that 100% of participants strongly agreed (mean score = 5) that the training was beneficial. The structured interviews revealed improvement in communication and patient interaction without much change in other skills. They found that, overall, this simulation-based training promoted the safe transfer of patients.

Discussion:

Improvement in the team performance scores shows the effectiveness of this methodology in ensuring the secure transfer of patients, as well as better teamwork and communication. The results demonstrate that low-fidelity, low-cost simulation can be used effectively to create a formal training program for hospital orderlies.