bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformational Leadership Style and Employee Performance
Authors: Abitew Endalsasa Belay
Published: September 2023

Leadership is the ability to motivate and inspire people to achieve a common goal. Both theoretical and empirical research supports that leadership style utilized by leaders in organizations, whether it is private or public, substantially influence the effort and performance of employees. In the literature of previous studies, among the various variables studied and investigated, transformational leadership style parades a major role in influencing employee performance. This chapter examined the nexus between transformational leadership style and employee performance based on the pervious study results. Using a literature review from various previous studies, the writer of this chapter has corroborated that transformational leadership, in various organizational settings and sizes, has a significant effect on employee performance, which is one of the main management topics that received substantial attention from scholars and practitioners
Improving Hospital Diversity Through Management Consulting Interventions
Authors: Zanganeh Kiana S. , Burrell Darrell Norman , Richardson Kevin
Published: September 2023

America is more varied than ever. As cultural heterogeneity grows in America, religion, faith, and health habits show their effects. However, Latinx and African-American nurses, doctors, and healthcare professionals must represent the exponential expansion in population diversity. Black nurses may not reflect the variety of the U.S. population, but they are essential for culturally competent treatment and trust-building with communities of color. Many individuals believe health inequalities are caused by fundamental differences between populations and ignore their societal factors. Healthcare workers of color realize that social and political systems cause health inequities. We can then find structural gaps-closing solutions. Intervention research in an organizational case study addresses several of these complicated concerns. This chapter points to the critical importance of leadership, cultural change, employee engagement, and cultural change as essential for organizations to transform to make them more diverse and inclusive.
Breaking the Mold
Authors: Harriott Suzzette A. , Tyson Jia , Powell Christopher A.
Published: September 2023

This study presents a qualitative narrative analysis of the experiences of five individuals representing five diverse organizations from various industries. It investigates the themes of transformational leadership; diversity, equity, and inclusion; organizational change and innovation; effective people management; communication strategies; and paradigm shift. The names of the individuals and organizations have been changed for privacy reasons. The analysis of the narratives reveals the critical role of transformational leadership in driving organizational change and innovation. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion to create a positive and inclusive work environment. The study also highlights the significance of effective people management, communication strategies, and organizational design in fostering collaboration and innovation.
Does a preterm labor-assessment algorithm improve preterm labor-related knowledge, clinical practice confidence, and educational satisfaction?: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Choi Hee-Young , Kim Jeung-Im
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Preterm birth is increasing, and obstetric nurses should have the competency to provide timely care. Therefore, training is necessary in the maternal nursing practicum. This study aimed to investigate the effects of practice education using a preterm-labor assessment algorithm on preterm labor-related knowledge and clinical practice confidence in senior nursing students. Methods: A pre-post quasi-experimental design with three groups was used for 61 students. The preterm-labor assessment algorithm was modified into three modules from the preterm-labor assessment algorithm by March of Dimes. We evaluated preterm labor-related knowledge, clinical practice confidence, and educational satisfaction. Data were analyzed with the paired t-test and repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results: The practice education using a preterm-labor assessment algorithm significantly improved both preterm labor-related knowledge and clinical practice confidence (paired t=–7.17, p<.001; paired t=–5.51, p<.001, respectively). The effects of the practice education using a preterm-labor assessment algorithm on knowledge lasted until 8 weeks but decreased significantly at 11 and 13 weeks after the program, while the clinical practice confidence significantly decreased at 8 weeks post-program. Conclusion: The practice education using a preterm-labor assessment algorithm was effective in improving preterm labor-related knowledge and clinical practice confidence. The findings suggest that follow-up education should be conducted at 8 weeks, or as soon as possible thereafter, to maintain knowledge and clinical confidence, and the effects should be evaluated.
Technology-based self-management interventions for women with breast cancer: a systematic review
Authors: An Hae Jeong , Kang Sook Jung , Choi Goh Eun
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Since technology-based interventions can facilitate convenient access to healthcare for women with breast cancer, it is crucial to understand innovative approaches to maintaining the effectiveness of these interventions. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of technology-based self-management interventions for women with breast cancer in six countries. We analyzed the characteristics of these interventions and examined their diverse health outcomes.Methods: Six databases were systematically searched to extract research articles using the keywords “breast cancer,” “technology,” and “self-management.” The search was carried out up until June 12, 2023. From the 1,288 studies retrieved from the database search, 10 eligible papers were identified based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Two authors independently extracted and compared the data from these articles, resolving any discrepancies through discussion.Results: Most of the 10 studies utilized web- or mobile-based technology, and one used artificial intelligence-based technology. Among the 12 health-related outcome variables, quality of life and symptom distress were the most frequently mentioned, appearing in six articles. Furthermore, an analysis of the intervention programs revealed a variety of common constructs and the involvement of managers in the self-management intervention.Conclusion: Incorporating key components such as self-management planning, diary keeping, and communication support in technology-based interventions could significantly improve the self-management process for breast cancer survivors. The practical application of technology has the potential to empower women diagnosed with breast cancer and improve their overall quality of life, by providing timely and sustainable interventions, and by leveraging available resources and tools.
What factors influence continuous usage intention of head-mounted display-based virtual reality content?: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Choi JeongSil , Moon Heakyung , Park Mijeong
Published: September 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore the continuous usage intention of head-mounted display-based virtual reality (HMD-based VR) content among college students. The study also sought to understand how this intention is influenced by factors related to personal cognition, social aspects, VR content, and HMD-related elements.Methods: This descriptive correlational study used a self-report questionnaire to survey 217 students from two universities in Korea who had prior experience with HMD-based VR content.Results: The mean score for continuous usage intention of HMD-based VR content was 2.59±0.57 points (range, 1–5 points). Regarding the average frequency of HMD-based VR content usage, 64.5% of participants reported using it 1 to 2 times, while 91.7% indicated a total HMD-based VR usage period of less than 6 months. Factors such as personal cognition, VR content, social aspects, and HMD-related elements had explanatory power of 35.1%, 10.7%, 4.4%, and 2.5%, respectively, for the continuous usage intention of HMD-based VR content. Additionally, engagement (β=.45, p<.001), influential others (β=.37, p<.001), environmental support (β=–.18, p=.030), and cyber sickness (β=–.21, p=.001) were identified as having a significant influence.Conclusion: When developing HMD-based VR content, strategies to improve users’ personal cognition should be included. Additionally, it is necessary to develop strategies that enhance enjoyment and interest in the content, while also facilitating ongoing social support. Furthermore, coping strategies should be devised that take into account cyber sickness, a potential side effect of these devices.
Extracellular Vimentin Alters Energy Metabolism And Induces Adipocyte Hypertrophy
Authors: Park Ji-Hae , Kwon Soyeon , Park Young Mi
Published: September 2023

Background: Previous studies have reported that oxidative stress contributes to obesity characterized by adipocyte hypertrophy. However, mechanism has not been studied extensively. In the current study, we evaluated role of extracellular vimentin secreted by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in energy metabolism in adipocytes.Methods: We treated 3T3-L1-derived adipocytes with oxLDL and measured vimentin which was secreted in the media. We evaluated changes in uptake of glucose and free fatty acid, expression of molecules functioning in energy metabolism, synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and lactate, markers for endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy in adipocytes treated with recombinant vimentin.Results: Adipocytes secreted vimentin in response to oxLDL. Microscopic evaluation revealed that vimentin treatment induced increase in adipocyte size and increase in sizes of intracellular lipid droplets with increased intracellular triglyceride. Adipocytes treated with vimentin showed increased uptake of glucose and free fatty acid with increased expression of plasma membrane glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1), GLUT4, and CD36. Vimentin treatment increased transcription of GLUT1 and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (Hif-1α) but decreased GLUT4 transcription. Adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) and 2 were decreased by vimentin treatment. Markers for ER stress were increased and autophagy was impaired in vimentin-treated adipocytes. No change was observed in synthesis of ATP and lactate in the adipocytes treated with vimentin.Conclusion: We concluded that extracellular vimentin regulates expression of molecules in energy metabolism and promotes adipocyte hypertrophy. Our results show that vimentin functions in the interplay between oxidative stress and metabolism, suggesting a mechanism by which adipocyte hypertrophy is induced in oxidative stress.
Reversible intracranial contrast medium accumulation after embolization of unruptured cerebral aneurysms and its association with transient neurological deficits: A single center experience
Authors: Schellin Jenna , Neumann Alexander , Schramm Peter , Laabs Björn-Hergen , Küchler Jan , Schacht Hannes
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Use of iodine-containing contrast medium (CM) is obligatory for endovascular treatment (EVT) of cerebral aneurysms. After EVT, intracranial density increases (DIs) can be detected in cranial computed tomography (CT). Those DI can correspond to subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), infarction or reversible CM accumulation (RCMA). The latter can be mistaken for hemorrhage, especially if they are accompanied by neurological deficits.

OBJECTIVE:

To analyze postinterventional DI after EVT of unruptured cerebral aneurysms and associated clinical symptoms and to identify risk factors for the occurrence of RCMA.

METHODS:

For differentiation of DI, we compared CT scans following EVT and additionally 24 h ± 5 h later. Diagnosis of RCMA was based on marked regression of DI on follow-up scans. We analyzed continuous variables (age, duration of intervention and anesthesia, aneurysm diameter, amount of CM and renal function) and categorial variables (gender, aneurysm location, devices for EVT, antiplatelet therapy [APT] and associated neurological deficits) to identify risk factors for the occurrence of RCMA.

RESULTS:

We studied 58 patients (44 female, mean age 59.5 [range 39–81]) who underwent EVT for a total of 68 cerebral aneurysms in 62 therapy sessions over a 3-year period without periprocedural complications. Postinterventional DI occurred after 17 therapy sessions. All 17 DI turned out to be RCMA in the follow-up imaging. Two patients who had no DI on initial postinterventional CT showed new SAH on follow-up CT. Infarctions were not observed. Transient neurological deficits occurred in eight patients (12.9%) and were associated with RCMA (P= 0.010). Postinterventional RCMA was associated with the duration of EVT (P= 0.038) and with APT (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA] + clopidogrel:P=0.040; ASA alone:P=0.011).

CONCLUSIONS:

RCMA is common after EVT of unruptured cerebral aneurysms and often accompanied by transient neurological deficits. Long procedure duration and APT appear to predispose to the occurrence of RCMA.
Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Zeng Xian-Tao , Li Na , Zhang Li-Jun , Rong Rong , Liu Mei-Yan
Published: September 2023

Periodontal disease (PD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are two types of the most prevalent disorders in elderly people, and an increasing number of data have shown a clinically important association between these two diseases. Numerous published studies have revealed a positive association between PD and CVD, such as myocardial infarction, coronary heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, stroke, and hypertension. Besides, periodontal conditions may be an independent predictor of all-cause mortality. Some interventional trials also indicate the effect of periodontal treatment on the CVD. The aim of this paper is to perform a critical review of the observational and interventional studies about this association, and we especially attached importance to the data from systematic reviews and meta-analysis. In addition, several pathogenic mechanisms implicated in the association between these two diseases were also reviewed. We suggest to promote close collaboration between physicians and dentists, thereby contributing to the improvement of prevention and control of cardiovascular conditions. Future researches are warranted to investigate the potential mechanisms.
Relationship between Insomnia and Quality of Life
Authors: Zhang Jihui , Liu Yaping , Lam Siu Ping , Li Shirley Xin , Li Albert Martin , Wing Yun-Kwok
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

We aimed to explore the potential mediating effects of neuroticism, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and somatic symptoms in the relationship between insomnia and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional family study, which recruited a total of 297 adolescents (eighty insomniacs as determined by clinical interview) and 318 parents (93 insomniacs). HRQoL was measured by short form-36 (SF-36) health survey. A series of questionnaires were employed to measure insomnia severity, neuroticism personality, and depressive, anxiety and somatic symptoms.

Results:

Participants with insomnia had lower HRQoL than those without insomnia (71.9 vs. 77.1, P < 0.001). Insomnia severity (as measured byInsomnia Severity Index) was significantly associated with HRQoL (correlation coefficient = −0.451, P < 0.001). A total of 53% of the variance of SF-36 could be explained by the mediation model, which showed that a large proportion of the variances in the association between insomnia severity and HRQoL was mediated by depressive symptoms, somatic symptoms, and neuroticism personality trait.

Conclusions:

The close associations between insomnia severity and impaired HRQoL are largely mediated by psychological symptomatology and personality dimension. Further prospective study is warranted to investigate the long-term impact of insomnia symptoms on HRQoL and the roles of mood and somatic symptoms.
Evaluation of Attitudes to Integration of Mental Health Service in the Chinese Population of Nonpsychiatric Health-Care Providers
Authors: Zhu Chunyan , Geng Qingshan , Chen Li , Guo Lan
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

The objective of this study was designed to assess the attitudes of Chinese nonpsychiatric health-care providers in Guangdong to mental health services (MHSs) integrated into the system of health care.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the attitudes of nonpsychiartric health-care providers to integrated MHS in 16 tertiary general hospitals from December 2012 to March 2013. A multiple regression model was used to analyze the impact factors of the subjects' attitudes to integrated MHS.

Results:

Of all the 2574 subjects, 1842 (71.6%) subjects strongly supported integrated MHS in general hospitals while only 4.3% (111) of subjects disagreed/strongly disagreed with integrated MHS. The rest of subjects (621/24.1%) remained neutral. The multiple regression model analyses presented that those male subjects with postgraduate diplomas who agreed with integrated MHS were interested in training on MHS. Approximately, more than 30% of subjects who were diagnosed with mental disorders and worked for 8–10 h/day were prone to obtain MHS and own a positive attitude to MHS in clinical practice.

Conclusions:

Most subjects owned positive attitudes to MHS in clinical practice. Lack of MHS knowledge is the major obstacle to those subjects who disagreed with integrated MHS.
Updates in Vascular Dementia
Authors: Eizaguirre Nora Olazabal , Rementeria Gerardo Priego , González-Torres Miguel Ángel , Gaviria Moises
Published: September 2023

It has been more than a hundred years since Alzheimer and Binswanger's first description of vascular dementia (VaD). Ever since then, histopathology research and neuroimaging techniques have allowed the development of new pathogenic, etiologic, and treatment hypotheses. The “vascular cognitive impairment (VCI)” concept has also been developed, and it includes all grades of cognitive dysfunction of a vascular origin. Early detection of dementia as well as its primary prevention is the main goals for clinicians. For this reason, new scales, new diagnostic criteria, and preventive treatments have been proposed. The association between stroke and VaD is already known, but a comprehensive review of this relationship reveals a bidirectional causality. Depression has been hypothesized as a risk factor for later dementia development. Late-life depression is the most associated condition; however, studies have found it works as a prodromal state symptom. Deep knowledge in vascular risk factors that are involved in vascular origin cognitive decline is the most important prevention tool. Hypertension, Type II diabetes, cholesterol, and inflammation markers have demonstrated to increase the risk of VaD. Evidence supporting treatments for primary and secondary prevention of VaD and VCI are presented.
The Safety, Efficacy, and Tolerability of Pharmacological Treatment of Depression in Patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Chang Laura , Liu Nina
Published: September 2023

Patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) are at an increased risk of developing psychiatric illnesses, particularly depression. Depression is an independent risk factor leading to a cardiac event, which has been shown in patients with or without known coronary artery disease (CAD). Treatment of depression has been shown to improve quality of life and result in a better cardiovascular prognosis in patients with comorbid CVD. However, pharmacological treatment of depression in this particular patient population is not without risk and is not always effective. An emerging approach to improve nonresponse to antidepressants is the use of adjunctive nutraceuticals. This article is to review the pharmacological options for treating depression in patients with CAD. The use of integrative approaches and supplements in patients with CVD is also discussed.
Association of Hand Grip Strength with Ultrasound-derived Forearm Muscle Thickness and Echo Intensity in Young Indian Adults
Authors: Aruna R. , Sivarajan Armel Arputha , Madhumitha Meenakshi , Vasanth C. J.
Published: September 2023

Background:

Muscle thickness (MT) quantification, which reflects the muscle function, can be measured using ultrasonography. Echo intensity (EI) quantified from the ultrasonography-derived skeletal muscle images reflects muscle quality. This study aimed to analyze the associations between handgrip strength, ultrasound-measured forearm MT, and EI in healthy young adults.

Methods:

Sixty healthy volunteers between the ages of 18 and 25 years participated in the study. Brightness mode ultrasonography (USG) was done to measure forearm radial and ulna MT. The EI was measured from an ultrasound image as a mean pixel value using a histogram in Adobe Photoshop. Individuals were tested for forearm handgrip strength using hand dynamometry.

Results:

Males had higher forearm MT and handgrip strength compared to females. Handgrip strength had a significant positive correlation with forearm radius, ulna MT (r= 0.726, 0.757 andP< 0.01), and forearm circumference (r= 0.529 andP< 0.01) and a negatively correlation with subcutaneous fat thickness (r= −0.496 andP< 0.01) and EI (r= −0.618 andP< 0.01). Linear regression showed a significant correlation between MT, circumference, and EI with handgrip strength (r= 0.825 andP< 0.001). After adjustment for the other two parameters, the forearm MT correlated positively and EI negatively with handgrip strength.

Conclusion:

USG can be more easily used than other imaging methods in research and clinical setting as it is nonhazardous, less expensive, versatile, and provides results faster. Thus, USG measurements in skeletal muscle are useful for measuring MT and subcutaneous fat thickness. EI measurement can be a convenient and noninvasive method for assessing muscle quality.
Sonographic Assessment of the Salivary Glands among Sudanese Snuff-dippers
Authors: Hassan Nura , Almaasfeh Sultan , Musa Mustafa , Alghamdi Salem , Abukonna Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Background:

The parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, as well as the smaller subsidiary glands, are all the examples of the salivary glands. The likelihood of the salivary glands being impacted by snuff components increases due to this close proximity of the salivary glands to the mouth when snuff is used. The aim of this study was to evaluate the salivary glands of the Sudanese snuff-dippers.

Methods:

Sixty-five adult snuff-dippers (research group) and 36 adult nonusers (control group) were enrolled in the study. Sonography of the submandibular and parotid glands was performed; size, blood flow, echogenicity, echotexture, and any other pathological changes were evaluated. The study was conducted in the ultrasound unit at our institution from June 2021 to June 2022.

Results:

The result of the study showed that the average size of the left submandibular gland and left and right parotid glands of snuff-dippers was significantly greater than the average size of nonusers. Blood supply and tissue characteristics were normal.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that the snuff use could affect the parotid and submandibular glands; ultrasonography is a modality of choice in the examination of the salivary glands of snuff users and other tobacco users.
Evaluation of Serum Cystatin-C and Netrin-1 as Predictive Biomarkers for Renal Injury in Children with Beta-thalassemia Major
Authors: Shwayel Ameer J. , Jewad Abdulkareem M. , Abdulsattar Mohammed Q.
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Despite optimal transfusion and chelation therapy, beta-thalassemia patients still commonly experience various complications, including renal complications, which may affect their survival. This case–control study involved pediatric patients with beta-thalassemia major (β-TM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This case–control study involved pediatric patients with β-TM, a total of 60 patient samples were randomly collected from the Genetic Hematology Center at the Dhi-Qar Health Directorate, with an age range of 1–14 years. In addition, 60 samples were collected from healthy children in the same age range as the control group. In this study, the glomerular injury was predicted by measuring the concentration of serum cystatin-C (Cys-C), and the tubular injury was predicted by measuring the concentration of serum netrin-1 (NTN-1). Routine markers, such as hemoglobin (Hb) level, ferritin, serum albumin, and creatinine, were also examined for the patients and the control group.

RESULTS:

The results showed a statistically significant increase in serum Cys-C in the patient group compared to the control group (P < 0.001) and a significant increase of serum NTN-1 in β-TM patients compared to the control group (P < 0.001). In addition, the study showed a statistically significant decrease in Hb, serum albumin, and creatinine and a significant increase in serum ferritin in the patients group compared to the control group. In conclusion, from the results of this study, we can conclude that the serum Cys-C and NTN-1 measurements can be used as predictive biomarkers for glomerular and tubular injury and increase with age.

CONCLUSION:

Predicting glomerular and tubular injury using the measurement of serum Cys-C and NTN-1 has improved significantly and advanced with age.
The Home Care Delivery Program in Hemophilia: A Descriptive Italian Multicentric Study on Patients, Caregivers, and Clinicians’ Points of View
Authors: Di Gregorio Orazio , Porreca Annamaria , Brambillasca Francesca , Molinari Angelo Claudio
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

For patients affected by haemophilia, Patient Support Programs (PSPs) may be a support tool to assist patients and physicians in optimising treatment and improving disease management. PSP on the Pharmacokinetics (PK) service in Italy aims to support haemophilia A or B patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This report analyses data of patients and physicians who benefited from the PK program from October 2018 to October 2022. Data was collected by a web-based questionnaire and by telephone calls. We provide a descriptive report on the benefits of participation in the PK program for patients with haemophilia and medical professionals involved in their care.

RESULTS:

In total, 69.6% of the respondent patients stated they were very satisfied with the Program, and 97.7% said they would benefit from the service again. Among the interviewed physicians, 60% felt satisfied with the Program and thought it was helpful.

CONCLUSION:

Patient satisfaction remained consistently high, with sustained improvements in all aspects of life. Medical professionals also reported positive outcomes in their patient interactions and satisfaction with the Program. PSPs have empowered patients to manage their pathology, increasing their satisfaction with treatments and quality of life.
Investigational Workout for the Diagnosis of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria
Authors: Alnujeidi Omar Abdulaziz , Almutairi Manal Awadh , Aldhuwaihi Nada Abdulaziz
Published: September 2023

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is an acquired rare disease that affects both males and females characterized by the triad of intravascular hemolytic anemia, thrombosis, and bone marrow failure. Flow cytometry is the gold standard for the final diagnosis. This is a PNH case of a 42-year-old Indonesian woman who presented to the emergency department with sustained generalized fatigability, pallor, and jaundice with a history of multiple recurrent previous events managed by blood transfusions. The diagnosis was reached by laboratory studies that revealed hemolytic anemia and erythroid hyperplasia, which was confirmed by a clonal deficiency of CD59 red blood cells (RBCs) using flow cytometry. She was prescribed eculizumab. Hemolytic anemia and jaundice in patients with PNH can be caused by RBCs hemolysis due to the absence of CD55 and CD59 proteins caused by a genetic defect (PIG-A) on the X chromosome. That is why flow cytometry must be made for each patient suspected of having PNH.
Secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in children with dengue: A case series
Authors: Ponnuraj Nirosha , Kumar Manoj , Muthuarumugam Saravanan , Panneerselvam Reghupathy
Published: September 2023

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, potentially lethal condition characterized by the activation of macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-cells, leading to a dysregulated immune response. Genetic mutations cause primary HLH; infections, tumors, or autoimmunity can trigger secondary HLH. Dengue infections can rarely be complicated by secondary HLH, which is a potential cause of mortality apart from shock or hemorrhage. A high index of suspicion is needed as clinical features are nonspecific and overlap with dengue. We report three children with dengue infection complicated by secondary HLH. All three children recovered with timely management.
Intelligent Reflecting Surface assisted RF Energy Harvesting Mobile Edge Computing NOMA Networks: Performance Analysis and Optimization
Authors: Ha Dac-Binh , Truong Van-Truong , Lee Yoonill
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we focus on the performance analysis and optimization of an RF energy harvesting (EH) mobile edge computing (MEC) network by the assistance of the intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) and non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) schemes. Specifically, a pair of users harvest RF energy from a hybrid access point (HAP) and offloads their tasks to the MEC server at HAP through wireless links by employing an IRS-aided and uplink NOMA scheme. To evaluate the performance of this proposed system, the closed-form expressions of successful computation and energy transfer efficiency probabilities are derived. We further formulate a multi-objective optimization problem and propose an algorithm to find the optimal energy harvesting time switching ratio value to achieve the best performance, namely SENSGA-II. Moreover, the impacts of the network parameters are provided to draw helpful insight into the system performance. Finally, the Monte-Carlo simulation results are shown to confirm the correctness of our analysis. The results have shown that the deployment of IRS can improve the performance of this considered RF EH NOMA system by increasing the number of reflecting elements.
An improved ANN-based global-local approximation for small medical data analysis
Authors: Izonin Dr Ivan , Tkachenko Prof. Roman , Bliakhar Roman , Kovac Prof. Michal , Bodyanskiy Prof. Yevgeniy , Chala Olha
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION: The task of approximation of complex nonlinear dependencies, especially in the case of short datasets, is important in various applied fields of medicine. Global approximation methods describe the generalized behavior of the model, while local methods explain the behavior of the model at specific data points. Global-local approximation combines both approaches, which makes such methods a powerful tool for processing short sets of medical data that can have both broad trends and local variations.OBJECTIVES: This paper aims to improve the method of sequential obtaining global and local components of the response surface to increase the accuracy of prediction in the case of short sets of medical data.METHODS: In this paper, the authors developed a new method that combined two ANNs: a non-iterative SGTM neural-like structure for obtaining the global component and GRNN as a powerful tool of local approximation in the case of short datasets.RESULTS: The authors have improved the method of global-local approximation due to the use of a General Regression Neural Network instead of RBF ANN for obtaining the local component, which ensured an increase in the accuracy of the body fat prediction task. The authors optimized the operation of the method and investigated the efficiency of the sequential obtaining global and local components of the response surface in comparison with the efficiency using a number of existing methods.CONCLUSION: The conducted experimental studies for solving the body fat prediction task showed the high efficiency of using the improved method in comparison with a number of existing methods, including ensemble methods.
Breast Refusal and Maternal and Perinatal Risk Factors in the Newborn Period From a Single Center in Şanlıurfa
Authors: Güneş Bülent , Yalçın S. Songül
Published: September 2023

The many benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and infant are well known. Therefore, the conditions that influence breastfeeding are important. Therefore, we investigated the frequency of breast refusal in the newborn period and the associated maternal perinatal risk factors at an Şan Med Hospital in Şanlurfa. A total of 407 mother-infant pairs fulfilling the study’s inclusion criteria were enrolled. The percentage of breast refusal in infants was higher in young maternal and paternal age (<25 years), being the first child, and active or passive smoking exposure of the mother during pregnancy. The percentage of breast rejection was lower when the baby started to be breastfed within the first hour of birth. The percentages of infants experiencing breast rejection were found to be significantly higher in the absence of skin-to-skin contact following delivery and in the presence of prelactal feeding at the first 3 days than in their counterparts. The rate of breast rejection was found to be higher in infants fed with mixed or formula compared with infants fed only breast milk during the last 24 h. Multiple logistic regression analysis determined that the risk of breast rejection was higher in maternal smoking/exposure during pregnancy [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 3.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-10.06] and delayed initiation of breastfeeding after the first hour (aOR: 3.45, 95% CI: 1.09-11.0). Being in a smoke-free environment for pregnant women should be supported by an indoor smoking ban, and early initiation of breastfeeding in the first hour after birth should be encouraged.
A Study on the Current Status and Direction of Creative and Design Liberal Arts Education in Domestic Universities
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Lim Chae Yeon
Published: September 2023

It is time to mention the importance of creative education at universities to foster future talents who will lead the fourth industrial revolution. This study identified the current status of creative and design courses currently opened at domestic universities for the purpose of pursuing the goals of creative and design education and the direction to cultivate creative capabilities, and conducted two types of experimental classes based on design theory and design thinking from 2019 to 2020. As a result of the study, each university is aware of the importance of creative education, but it seems that creative-related subjects are not providing a wide range of courses to students due to lack of diversity. As a long-term goal, it is necessary to expand continuous and systematic programs that can cultivate students' integrated thinking skills and creative thinking skills. The direction of creative and design education should be directed in the form of self-directed learning, focusing on convergence education to create new knowledge from a multidisciplinary perspective and an integrated thinking process in which aesthetic experiences are made according to creative activities.
Integrated Home-care Service Design Strategy for Elderly by Applying Service Design Process
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Kang Song Yi , Nah Ken
Published: September 2023

This study aims to develop a user-centered integrated service design strategy of long-term care home-care services for the elderly in response to population aging in South Korea. The research investigates the current status of home-care services and examines the needs of elderly individuals and stakeholders. Key factors identified include expert collaboration, user communication, and community cooperation. The study proposes an integrated service design strategy of home-care services and a comprehensive support app, facilitating personalized care and effective service management. Local resources are suggested for home environment improvement, emotional support programs, and prompt emergency response. The proposed model emphasizes communication, counseling, emergency assistance, satisfaction surveys, and information sharing. The study anticipates enhanced satisfaction among the elderly, their families, and professionals.
Suggestions for complementary uses of usability testing (UT) and in-page analytics for e-commerce
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Lee Soo Bin , Lee Ji Hyun
Published: September 2023

At a time when research is becoming increasingly important to many organizations, this study aims to provide suggestions on how to use in-page analysis quantitative data as a complement to usability evaluation qualitative data. The research methodology was to analyze the differences between quantitative and qualitative reports through a case study that utilized both usability evaluation and in-page analysis and to come up with complementary ways to use them. To utilize both qualitative usability evaluation and quantitative in-page analysis data, we selected '100yearshop,' a rice cake brand in the domestic e-commerce sector, and 'Beusable,' a service that supports domestic data visualization tools, and collected qualitative data from a usability evaluation conducted with new users, and collected and analyzed real-time data and accumulated quantitative data from users through the Beusable service at a certain time. By utilizing the data collected through the above two methods, we derived the differences between usability evaluation and in-page analysis results and proposed a method for complementary use of usability evaluation and in-page analysis results in the field of e-commerce by breaking it down into the design, implementation, and analysis stages. We expect that the resulting method, “Proposal for Complementary Use of Usability Evaluation and In-Page Analysis Tools for E-commerce,” will be suitable and effective in practice by applying it to actual work.
A study on the development of an emotional design three-stage system measurement tool based on Bloom's three-stage learning model
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, LEE Jin Young , Nah Ken
Published: September 2023

A systematic understanding of the emotional factors and characteristics that consumers (users) experience while purchasing and using products and services is essential for designing products and services. This study aims to develop a more systematic quantitative measurement tool for analyzing products and services beyond the conceptual stages of Donald Norman's 'Three Stages of Perception Theory of Emotional Design' (after this referred to as 'ED 3s'), which is based on Bloom's Learning Model, as a follow-up to the previous study, 'Feasibility Study of Conceptualization of Three Stages of Emotional Design - Focusing on University Industrial Design Education Course'. The literature review obtained 165 scale items with validity and reliability with emotional design. Eighty items were extracted through the first round of expert review to assign five items to each of the 16 item systems to fit into Bloom's three-stage learning model system (after this, referred to as 'BL 3s'). The extracted 80-item survey was distributed to a target audience of 20-50 people using smart-phones and smart-watches; based on the final collected survey data, factor and reliability analyses confirmed the validity of 77 out of 80 questions except for 3. The first pilot survey questions derived from this study will be compared with the results of the third expert open-ended survey to be conducted in the future, and factor and reliability analysis will be conducted through the final fourth expert closed-ended survey.
ANALISIS AKAD AS-SALAM DALAM JUAL BELI ONLINE DI TOKO CHAGIYA
Authors: Yahya Roby Putra , Farid Diana , Utama Sofyan Mei , Zilliavirni Ratu Tiara , Abdulah Pakarti Muhammad Husni , Hendriana Hendriana
Published: September 2023

This research discusses the concept of the As-Salam contract in online buying and selling transactions at the Chagiya shop. The As-Salam contract is a form of contract in Islam that has an important role in maintaining the principles of justice and ethics in business. This research aims to analyze the application of the As-Salam contract in the context of online buying and selling at the Chagiya shop, as well as its impact on transaction actors and consumers. Qualitative method with descriptive analysis, this research uses a field approach (Field Research) by making direct observations of the activities carried out by the company. While the data collection techniques in this study used interviews with sellers and buyers at Chagiya Stores and library documentation (Library Research), after the data was collected, data analysis was carried out with several stages, namely data reduction, data presentation and drawing conclusions from what was obtained in this study. The conclusion obtained from this research is that buying and selling with the online system carried out by Toko Chagiya is included in the as-salam system using a written contract via the internet where the as-salam contract can be carried out by the two contract actors who are not in one assembly (place) then applied through pictures of products and types through the Instagram site. Both (contract actors) are brought together on one network site. The Online as-Salam System at Toko Chagiya is concluded that as-salam with an online system is permitted, because it fulfills the pillars and conditions of salam sale and purchase that have been determined by Shara' and fulfills the rules that apply in a transaction. This is reinforced by the opinions of Chagiya Shop buyers regarding the sale of their products, 95% say that the online service is satisfactory, the goods in the picture match the reality, and if there is a mistake from the store, the store is responsible. In addition, in practice, the author concludes that the contract carried out by Toko Chagiya is in accordance with the provisions of Fatwa DSN-MUI No.05/DSN-MUI/IV/2000. Where this online buying and selling does not contain elements that can damage it, such as usury, injustice, fraud and the like.
Design and Manufacture of 3 Phase Electric Engine Hydrophore Control System
Authors: Hasiah Hasiah
Published: September 2023

On board there is a temporary water reservoir called a hydrophore? Hydrophore serves to distribute fresh water that will flow to all parts of the ship's hull or accommodation on the ship, the hydrophore pressure tank cannot work for a long time if the ship is in black out condition. This research method is a type of Experimental research. Data collection techniques carried out are observation, design, making, measurement and documentation. The analysis method uses a descriptive analysis method by describing the working principle of the 3 Phase Electric Machine Hydrophore Control System that has been designed and made by the Research Team. The results of the study produced a 3 Phase Electric Machine Hydrophore Control System trainer we made with the hope that it can be a material or learning tool for students studying at the Polytechnic of Shipping Sciences, especially cadets / cadets of Diploma IV Shipping students who have not carried out sea practice so that when they carry out sea practice there is already an idea they get about the Hydrophore control system Although the tool we made is only a miniature because the tank we use is on a small size scale.
Utilization of Social Media as Indonesia's Tourism Public Relations Strategy
Authors: Putri Tania Rizqia , Sujono Firman Kurniawan
Published: September 2023

Tourism is one of the main economical sectors in Indonesia, supported by enormous tourism potential of existing tourist destinations and cultural diversity. Various modes of promotions are required in order to further raise tourists’ awareness of existing tourist destinations and to build a positive tourism image of Indonesia. The use of social media is one of the most effective solution in promoting Indonesian tourism, that is also in line with the digitalization in public relations 4.0 development. Using the Systematic Literature Review method of five journals from Google Scholar in the last four years, it was found that Instagram is the most widely used social media to promote tourism in Indonesia.
Sobreinflación: una práctica que afecta a los consumidores
Authors: Romero Miguel Ángel Viramontes
Published: September 2023

Shrinkflation es un término que se acuñó para explicar la práctica que utilizan las empresas, en épocas inflacionarias, de disminuir el contenido de los productos que ofrecen sin incrementar el precio. La explicación a esta práctica estriba en que, disminuyendo el contenido del producto, las empresas no suben el precio nominal y los consumidores pueden seguir adquiriéndolo. En síntesis, las empresas apoyan a los consumidores. En español, esta práctica, se tradujo como Reduflación, un término un tanto engañoso, ya que en primera instancia suena como una “reducción” en la inflación. El presente artículo demuestra que la práctica realizada por muchas empresas no es Reduflación sino Sobreinflación, es decir, una práctica que consiste no solamente en disminuir el contenido del producto sino en incrementar el precio, aún por encima del crecimiento promedio de los precios, afectando al consumidor doblemente: bajando el contenido de los productos y, al paso del tiempo, incrementando los precios por arriba del promedio que lo hacen otros productos; de ahí el término Sobreinflación.