bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What AI-Based Writing Assistant Actually Improved
Authors: Daulay Sholihatul Hamidah , Berutu Hotma , Dalimunte Muhammad , Nasution Muhammad Muslim , Apriani Eka , Muthmainnah Muthmainnah , Shaumiwaty Shaumiwaty
Published: August 2024

Technological advancement has affected various aspects of human life. The existence of technology has made it easier for people, especially for the educational realm. This study aimed to find out what kinds of AI-based writing assistant used by students and the effect of utilizing the tools on students' English academic writing skills. Descriptive qualitative used as the research approach in this study. The participants of the study were 20 students of master's program in English Education who were chosen purposively based on their experience in using AI as an assistant in English academic writing. The instruments employed for this study were questionnaire and semi-structured interview. This study came up with the findings that there are various AI-based writing tools used by the respondents. Interestingly, it is found that using AI-based writing assistant gives not only positive but also the negative impact on the students' academic writing skills. The users of AI writing tools need to be more selective and rely less on the AI writing tools in order to help them enhance not only their English academic writing quality but also writing competences.
Cloud Computing in EHR
Authors: Kaswan Kuldeep Singh , Dhatterwal Jagjit Singh , Malik Kiran S. , Bingu Rajesh S.
Published: August 2024

This chapter focuses on the following trends: multi-cloud; serverless; edge; AI and machine learning; and hybrid cloud. These advances offer certain advantages and risks, which can be seen even in the sphere of security. Nevertheless, cloud computing has some threats, such as data leakage, configuration errors, limited observability, account compromise, and internal threats. These issues explain why security is critical and why data protection laws like the GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and PCI DSS matter. Therefore, the objective of this chapter is to discuss and describe risk management, threat analysis, threat modelling and secure measures. Good practices, which include the use of encryption, identity, and access management, network security, and auditing of cloud environments, Thus, based on the observations, the future is likely to see the rising popularity of artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions, the continued growth of the edge computing concept, higher levels of security, and the further penetration of cloud services in developing countries.
Unveiling the Potential of Cloud Computing in the Healthcare Industry
Authors: Thakur Anusha
Published: August 2024

The migration to the cloud has been increasingly progressive over the past few years. Hospitals with information stored on-premises often clench with a dearth of pertinent IT expertise in handling the databases of varied segments. Cloud computing in the healthcare industry acts as a game-changer by processing the power needed to modernize it. This chapter discusses the different competitive strategies and solutions provided by the key market players on the inclusion of cloud computing technology in their business models. The chapter emphasizes on how cloud computing is reshaping the sector, and impacting the quality of care delivered by the hospitals amidst varied issues being faced in today's time. In addition to all the above, the chapter also discusses different innovations and developments impacting the share and size of the market in different regions of the world.
Data-Driven Decisions for Employee Motivation
Authors: Chakraborty Tanusree , V. S. Sharada , Sharma Jyoti
Published: August 2024

Performance reviewing (PR) is a cornerstone of human resource management (HRM), crucial for assessing and improving employee performance. This chapter explores how PR aligns individual efforts with organizational goals, motivating employees through recognition and constructive feedback. It examines the revolutionary impact of HR metrics and technology, including key performance indicators (KPIs), performance ratings, and performance management software (PMS). The chapter discusses the evolution of PMS, its role in streamlining PR processes, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to enhance objectivity and decision-making. It addresses challenges such as data security, resistance to change, potential biases, and the need for a personal touch in feedback. Real-world examples illustrate successful technology implementation, highlighting best practices and future trends. By navigating these challenges, organizations can leverage technology to enhance employee motivation, engagement, and overall performance.
Do Flexible Working Hours Influence Employee Skill Enhancement and Productivity?
Authors: Paul Raj V. John , Agrawal Sezol , Pachiyappan Sathish , Vellaiyan Saravanan
Published: August 2024

This chapter investigates the influence of flexible working schedules affect the productivity and skill development of polyvalent workers. A thorough literature analysis guided the creation of a questionnaire that was given to 153 polyvalent workers as a sample. The gathered data was subjected to statistical analysis in order to determine how flexible work schedules affected worker productivity and skill development. The results show a strong correlation between flexible work schedules and increased productivity and skill development among employees. Furthermore, it was discovered that these results were significantly impacted by flexible working hours. Flexible schedules can help multitasking employees, who are skilled in a range of jobs, improve their productivity and further develop their skills. Companies that use polyvalent labour are encouraged to think about adopting flexible work schedules as a way to improve worker productivity and abilities.
Enhancing Care Standards and Accreditation's Impact on Healthcare Quality
Authors: Gogoi Angela Priyanka , Kalita Jublee , Kakati Nishan
Published: August 2024

Standardization, including accreditation, is a key tool for healthcare leaders to improve quality. This chapter explores how accreditation fosters consistent, high-quality care. It traces hospital accreditation's history and examines quality aspects like effectiveness, safety, and patient-centeredness. Accreditation is an external evaluation process ensuring adherence to patient safety and quality standards. While beneficial, challenges include resource intensity and return on investment concerns. The chapter acknowledges challenges in diverse settings and emphasizes overcoming infrastructural, financial, and regulatory limitations. Finally, it envisions future directions for accreditation, proposing structural changes, regular standard updates, and a systemic model that integrates industrial management principles.
Training Framework for Frontline Health Workers on Climate Change and Health
Authors: Sharma Swati
Published: August 2024

Climate change poses a fundamental hazard to human health. The greatest issue of this century, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), is the impact of climate change on public health. The IPCC's Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) has determined that climate risks are manifesting at an accelerated pace and will intensify earlier than previously anticipated. It affects the physical environment as well as all aspects of human and natural systems, including the functioning of health systems and the social and economic settings. The escalating frequency of climate change-induced severe events, such as heatwaves, floods, tropical storms, and hurricanes, will significantly exacerbate health impacts. Approximately 3.6 billion individuals worldwide reside in regions that are extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The weather, unpredictability in climate, and climate change have a direct impact on human health. The chapter suggest a training framework for frontline health workers on climate change and health in the Indian context.
Artificial Intelligence in Decision-Making
Authors: Manoharan Geetha , Ashtikkar Sunitha Purushottam , Nivedha M.
Published: August 2024

AI is quickly growing, and its use in commercial decision-making will influence the corporate environment. AI is redefining strategic business decision-making, and the chapter provides a complete view of how AI is changing the corporate world. This chapter examines how AI has disrupted previous decision paradigms and increased organizational agility in business strategy. A thorough literature review analyzes academic and business sources to reveal AI's broad corporate function. Systematic literature reviews are performed to evaluate source credibility and synthesize findings. The chapter also examines AI's corporate challenges and prospects. The chapter's main results demonstrate that AI is a strategic asset that transforms commercial decision-making. AI in company strategy might boost performance and promote sustainability. In conclusion, AI is essential to corporate growth, offering new creative and efficient opportunities. Additionally, a balanced approach to AI integration might emphasize the need of integrating AI with organizations' fundamental values and strategic goals.
A Study and Analysis on the Valuation of Early-Stage Healthcare Start-Up Businesses in India
Authors: Potnis Vikrant , Acharya Asit B. , Ghare Kaustubh , Lakhera Vedant
Published: August 2024

The rapidly expanding Indian healthcare sector promises to improve and expand access to healthcare for a large number of people. Despite this expansion, little study has been done on the best way to value these fledgling healthcare companies, particularly when applying the Revenue Multiple approaches. This gap is important because knowing a company's value is crucial for getting investment and attracting investors. This paper examines the application of the Revenue Multiple techniques for valuing start-up, with an emphasis on early-stage Indian healthcare companies. It looks at the patterns in the present valuation and multiple of these start-ups. The study evaluates the valuations of emerging healthcare firms in India by analysing the actual multiples of early-stage start-up, offering practical insights for policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs.
AI-Driven Innovations for Environmental Sustainability Across Sectors
Authors: Tandon Neha , Shaheen Momina
Published: August 2024

This chapter explores the integration of AI technologies in promoting environmental sustainability across various sectors. Focusing on agriculture, energy, transportation, manufacturing, food systems, urban planning, and water management, it highlights how AI optimizes resource use, reduces waste, and enhances efficiency. Case studies, such as Iron Ox's AI-driven smart farming, demonstrate the transformative potential of AI in achieving sustainable practices. The chapter provides an in-depth analysis of AI applications, showcasing their impact on sustainability and offering insights into innovative strategies for addressing global environmental challenges through advanced technological solutions.
Tourism Strategies for Developing Responsible Tourism Promotion Model for Developing Nations
Authors: Sharma Eliza
Published: August 2024

The present study is based on systematic review approach to construct an interpretive framework that provides insights into the definitional perspectives and the implementation of strategic practices in developed nations. The synthesis of these diversified concepts within the literature provides an understanding of prospects and hassles for developing nations regarding implementing responsible tourism strategies. A conceptual model has been proposed in the study for promotion of responsible tourism. The study depicts the challenges that are faced by developed nations while implementing the strategies due to the contrasting demands of various stakeholders and the flaws in the strategic aspects of existing tourism policies. It includes recommendations to capitalists, government authorities, and tourists regarding broader tourism planning and management to balance their approaches necessary for global tourism to flourish.
ADSORÇÃO DE COBALTO POR CINZAS DE FORNO A LENHA PARA ENRIQUECIMENTO DE RAÇÕES ANIMAIS
Authors: Manini Minto Ana Laura
Published: August 2024

É possível remover micro poluentes de efluentes industriais através da adsorção, processo que consiste na concentração de um soluto na superfície de um sólido. O cobalto, encontrado em efluentes de indústrias têxteis, pode ser eficientemente adsorvido por cinzas vegetais. Para incrementar a produtividade do setor agropecuário, pode-se destinar as cinzas ricas em cobalto, mineral essencial na nutrição bovina, à suplementação de rações animais. Logo, para tal fim, a adsorção foi estudada para ser futuramente aplicável.
Análise analítica da estabilidade de colunas de aço inoxidável submetidas a compressão axial e situação de incêndio
Authors: Mendes Eric Guilherme , Martins Carlos Humberto , Rossi Alexandre
Published: August 2024

O aço estrutural do tipo inoxidável tem sido cada vez mais empregado na construção de grandes edifícios, devido às suas propriedades físicas, mecânicas e térmicas. Diferentemente do aço carbono, o aço inoxidável apresenta boa retenção de rigidez em situação de altas temperaturas, dessa forma torna-se relevante o estudo do comportamento de colunas, bem como os parâmetros que influenciam na resistência ao calor e a compressão. Foram analisadas colunas feitas com 6 perfis do tipo H e comprimentos que variam de 3 a 7 metros, dentro do intervalo de 60 minutos de exposição ao incêndio descrito pela ISO 834:1999. Por meio de recomendações do EN 1993-1-2:2005 e EN 1993-1-4:2006, determinou-se a elevação de temperatura nos perfis e o esforço resistente das colunas. Através dos resultados obtidos, conclui-se que a elevação de temperatura é menor à medida que a relação Am/V diminui. Após 60 minutos de exposição ao fogo, a capacidade resistente das colunas de aço inoxidável analisadas, diminuiu cerca de 85% em relação à resistência em temperatura ambiente.
Investigations into the Impact of Deposition or Growth Techniques on the Field Oxide TID Response for 4H-SiC Space Applications
Authors: Kotagama Virendra , Renz Arne Benjamin , Kilchytska Valeria , Flandre Denis , Qi Yunyi , Shah Vishal Ajit , Antoniou Marina , Gammon Peter Michael
Published: August 2024

The total ionising dose (TID) reliability of a phosphorous pentoxide (P2O5) treated SiO2 (silicon dioxide) layer is compared for the first time to other industrially relevant oxides formed on 4H-silicon carbide (SiC). Metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitors (MOSCAPs) are characterised before and after irradiation to ascertain changes in flat band voltage shift, leakage current, and dielectric breakdown (BV). Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) profiling reveals a significant phosphorus concentration near the SiO2/SiC interface, which led to improved TID resistance. The P2O5 treated oxide had the lowest leakage current at high voltage bias due to the high-temperature (1,000°C) anneal, though it had a significantly negative flat band voltage due to the high concentration of deposited phosphorus atoms. The thermal and P2O5 oxides demonstrated a TID resistance, suffering only minor shifts in flat band voltage, while the P2O5 oxide suffered the smallest decrease in its BV and the smallest leakage current rise, post-irradiation.
Design, Processing, Testing and Characterizing for Orthodontics Material of Palm-Fibres Based Bio-Nanocomposite
Authors: El-Sheikhy Refat , Al Khuraif A.
Published: August 2024

Current research is carried out for newly developed of Bio-CPNC biomaterial nanocomposite for dentistry applications. The developed Bio-CPNC is invented of clay-based polymer CPNC and palm-tree micro-fibers, where CPNC is composed by nanotechnology of HDPE and MMT nanoclay. The research contains the methodology of design, processing, testing and characterization mainly focusing on mechanical and fracture properties, microstructure morphology and testing of thermal effect changes due to surrounding temperature changes. The necessity for finding new biomaterials and new techniques for dental materials for restoration and orthodontics with high biocompatibility with human bones and tissue are the aim for developing this natural bio-nanocomposites to be instead of using ceramics and metals like titanium. The new developed bio-CPNC dental material have special mechanical, thermal and fracture properties to resist the effects of occlusal loads of mastication with sustainability without expecting bad effects with orofacial esthetics and normal lingual ability because it is green. It can be applied for different types of orthodontics like crowns, bridges and dental implants. The study included processing, design, testing and characterization of different properties. The testing included detailed fundamental experimental work for investigation of the changes of mechanical and fracture properties based on fracture mechanics science. The results and comparison are promising where they are showing large enhancement of the mechanical, fracture and thermal properties of Bio-CPNC in comparison to the polymer material which encourage the researchers, dentists, and dental-companies for extra research to stabilize these natural green Bio-CPNC nanocomposite for dental applications with reducing the cost where all materials components are available locally in comparison to use of conventional ceramics materials or expensive zirconia composites.
Effect of Strain Hardening on Wear Resistance Property of 316 Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Taher Abulmaali M.Y. , Shukuka Mohamed
Published: August 2024

The main purpose of this investigation was to study the effect of strain hardening on wear properties of 316 austenitic stainless steel (ASS). Cold deformation was performed by using a universal tensile machine for 20% CW and 40% CW followed by heat treatment to relieve internal stresses. A secondary cold working process was performed for the heat-treated samples followed by a secondary heat treatment. Wear test measurements and microscopic examinations were preformed for all samples. It was observed that by increasing the strain hardening percentage the hard brittle martensite phase increases. Also, by increasing both the SiC grit of the emery papers (which was used in the wear test) and the time of the wear test, the weight lost per unit area was decreased. The wear resistance was increased by using single and double 20% strain hardening but by exceeding the cold working to more than 40% the wear resistance decreased.
Sustainable Approaches for the Fabrication of Nanocellulose-Polyamide Membrane Based on Waste Date Palm Leaves for Water Treatment
Authors: Alterary Seham S. , Alshahrani Ahmed A. , Elhadi Athar , El-Tohamy Maha F.
Published: August 2024

A vast amount of agricultural waste, such as dried leaves, stems, pits, seeds, etc., are produced by date palm trees in Saudi Arabia each year. This waste is an excellent source of degradable biomass suitable for many uses. Crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) is one of the most important nanomaterials that can be used in various applications. Due to its unique properties, which include biorenewability, optical transparency, high mechanical strengths, and sustainability, nanocrystalline cellulose has become a significant nanomaterial in recent years. In this study, CNC was isolated from the waste date palm leaves and used for the production of PA-modified membranes for water treatment by reverse osmosis membrane technology. The membranes were prepared by surface polymerization with the polyamide as a selective layer on the polysulfone support film. Three membranes were produced, two with 0.01% and 0.02% (w/v) CNC and the third with PA-free CNC for comparison. Each membrane produced was tested using different characterization techniques. The polyamide membrane with 0.01% w/v CNC had a higher water permeability of 43.25 L/m2 h bar than the membranes with 0% w/v CNC (36.25 L/m2 h) and 0.02% w/v CNC (42.85 L/m2 h bar). Under the same conditions, salt retention was also found to be above 98% for both NaCl and MgSO4 for the two modified membranes. The contact angle was found to be 68.04±3.7, 72.83±0.8, and 63.76±5.5 for PA(0%CNC), PA-CNC (0.01% w/v), and PA-CNC (0.02% w/v), respectively. The 0.01% PA-CNC membrane exhibited a higher water contact angle, greater hydrophobicity and lower surface roughness. As a result, the isolated CNC might be appropriate for use as a modifier agent for membrane fabrication and water treatment.
The Role of Air-Pocket in Crucible Structure for High Quality SiC Crystal Growth
Authors: Lee Seung Jun , Kim Su Ho , Choi Jung Woo , Park Jong Hwi , Kim Jung Gyu , Ku Kap Ryeol , Lee Ha Lin , Lee Gi Uk , Lee Won Jae
Published: August 2024

The modified design using an air-pocket existing on inside of crucible has been proposed for the growth of 6-inch SiC single crystal. The actual growth has been performed for conventional, focus ring design and modified hot-zone designs under the same growth conditions and then three SiC crystals were systematically compared in terms of crystal quality. Since stacking faults and polytype inclusions, which could cause dislocation formation, were suppressed by the suitable C/Si ratio control, it was possible to grow SiC ingots with reduced defect density and excellent crystal quality with crucible structures proposed in this study.
Characterization of Growth Sectors in Gallium Nitride Substrate Wafers
Authors: Liu Yafei , Hu Shanshan , Chen Ze Yu , Cheng Qian Yu , Cheng Ming Kit , Zhao Wei , Buyuklimanli Temel , Raghothamachar Balaji , Dudley Michael
Published: August 2024

During crystal growth processes, growth sectors are formed due to growth along different crystallographic directions. Although the crystal structure in the different growth sectors is unchanged, strain induced topography contrast is observed by synchrotron X-ray topography. In this study, synchrotron monochromatic beam X-ray topography (SMBXT), synchrotron X-ray plane wave topography (SXPWT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) are used to characterize growth sectors in gallium nitride (GaN) substrate wafers grown by patterned hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). The SMBXT images reveal the boundaries of {0001} and {1122} type growth sectors. Strain maps generated from SXPWT shows that the out-of-plane strains in different growth sectors have a difference of the order of 10-5. SEM images from SE2 signal shows no contrast of growth sector boundaries while images from Robinson detector (RBSD) show different growth sectors as different grey scale contrast, indicating a strain effect. SIMS analysis shows that the different oxygen impurity levels in the growth sectors, which is the origin of the strain. A formation mechanism of growth sectors in patterned HVPE grown GaN wafers is proposed.
From the Editor...
Authors: Karunananda P. A. K.
Published: August 2024

No abstract available
Determination of the Best Performing Sri Lankan Maize Landraces Based on the Kernel Nutritional Composition
Authors: Roshana M. R. , Majeed U. L. A. , Mubarak A. N. M. , Thariq M. G. Mohamed , Musthafa Muneeb M. , Kumara A. D. N. T.
Published: August 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most widely cultivated cereal crops in the world as well as in Sri Lanka. Data on the nutritional composition of maize is beneficial for the food and feed industry, but there is a lack of information regarding this avenue in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the suitable landraces with higher nutritional composition among the different landraces by evaluating nutritional parameters using the rank summation index. The maize kernels derived from 42 local landraces were used and the responses were with varieties Bhadra (Control) and Pacific. The proximate composition was analyzed using Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and carbohydrate content and energy were determined using the calculation method. Subsequently, the data were analyzed by performing ANOVA and the rank summation index (RSI) to identify the best performer among the landraces. The results revealed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) among the nutritional components for moisture, ash, fiber, fat, protein, carbohydrates, and energy among the tested landraces. Accordingly, the maize landraces SEU 22, SEU 31, and SEU 2 were identified as the superior germplasms regarding nutritional composition compared with Bhadra, as they exhibited the lowest RSI of 85, 88, and 89, respectively. Therefore, these maize landraces were recommended for future breeding programs for the development of nutritionally enriched maize grains and for sustainable production where land limitation is a challenge.
The Impact of Intellectual Capital Efficiency on Financial Performance and Market Value: Finance Sector Companies Listed on Colombo Stock Exchange
Authors: Jayasundara H. M. M. S. , Weerasinghe W. D. J. D.
Published: August 2024

The study aims to find how efficient intellectual capital is by comparing valuations and financial performances of listed companies on the Colombo Stock Exchange. This research follows a positivist approach to understanding this issue and employs a deductive method. The study includes the commercial banking sector of all financial institutions operating within Sri Lanka. 46 companies were selected for the sample. This sample is comprised of specified numbers from twenty-six licensed financial firms, ten listed commercial banks, and one listed specialized bank. The remaining are eight listed insurance companies and one special-purpose leasing company. All of which belong to the main board of the Colombo Stock Exchange; From 2017 to 2021, secondary data from annual institutional reports were used to focus on a certain domain. That was otherwise neglected by the previous researchers and scholars. Statistical observations that can be observed through observations are such as Mean, and standard deviation to perform multivariate linear regression analysis. The output of the study is analyzed according to different criteria to make sense and draw a conclusion from it. The results indicated that the effectiveness of structural assets is less than human assets and overall assets. This study revealed that the market value of financial institutions is not affected by the intellectual capital in Sri Lanka. There is more evidence that for financial growth to happen, intellectual abilities are the prime requisite in underdeveloped countries. Research gives a clear view of how it works. While new technologies have an impact on the value of intellectual capital, there is a need to understand potential outcomes.
Entrepreneurial Characteristics and Business Growth of SMEs: Special Reference to North Central Province
Authors: Sugathadasa D. D. K. , Wijekumara J. M. N.
Published: August 2024

The small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector is considered to be the backbone of the modern economy, especially in developing countries where it plays a significant role in economic growth. Hence, it is crucial to monitor the growth of SMEs in these countries. Entrepreneur characteristics play a significant role in the development of both entrepreneurs and SMEs. This study aims to identify the influence of entrepreneur characteristics on the business growth of SMEs. To measure these characteristics, eight traits were selected, including risk-taking, self-motivation, adaptability, resilience, strong work ethic, networking skills, financial management skills, and strategic thinking. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 120 participants from SMEs in the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa districts and asked them to complete a self-administrated questionnaire. The study's findings revealed that entrepreneurs' characteristics play a significant role in the growth of SMEs. The finding suggests that risk-taking, self-motivation, and adaptability are inevitable characteristics that must be developed by Sri Lankan Entrepreneurs. According to the study's findings, entrepreneurs possess vital characteristics that significantly impact the success of SMEs. Among these characteristics, networking skills stand out as particularly important. Additionally, the study recommends that entrepreneurs exhibit a willingness to take risks in order to lead their firms to even greater levels of success. These findings not only contribute to the existing literature on entrepreneurship and SMEs but also have implications for policymakers who may wish to consider including these characteristics in their policy decisions.
Impact of Green Product Positioning, Attitudes, and Knowledge on Green Product Purchase Intention Among Consumers in Colombo City Limit in Sri Lanka
Authors: Sooriyaarachchi Nilusha Madhu
Published: August 2024

This study aims to assess the impact of green brand positioning, consumers’ attitudes toward green brands, and green brand knowledge on green product purchase intention among people in Colombo City Limit in Sri Lanka. A standard questionnaire was used to gather the data from 200 consumers, and the purposive sampling technique was used to collect the data. The survey was carried out in reputed supermarket chain in Sri Lanka. Three hypotheses were developed for this research, and all hypotheses were tested using Pearson correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis, and descriptive statistics. The coefficient values of green product positioning, attitude, and knowledge positively correlate to consumers’ purchase intention, which means that independent variables such as green product positioning, green brand attitude, and green brand knowledge are the strongest predictors of determining green product purchase intention among consumers. Thus, based on our findings, we recommend that green brand positioning be used as a marketing strategy to improve green brand knowledge and attitudes, encourage consumers to demand more goods, and increase business sales and revenue. Moreover, it can be used to differentiate their products from the available competitors by giving the influence that their products are unique. In addition, the government can encourage businesses to invest in environmentally friendly products by granting financial or non-financial benefits.
Code-Mixing Patterns of Commercial Advertising in Sri Lanka: With Special Reference to Food and Beverage Advertising
Authors: Pathirana U.P.N.N.
Published: August 2024

Most advertising is intended to be persuasive to boost the promotion of an idea, product, or service. One marketing strategy employed to influence bilingual consumers is using code-mixed messages. This research aimed to find how code-mixing is employed in Sri Lankan television commercial advertising on food and beverages. The study analyzed code-mixed television commercials on food and beverages to examine morphological processes and code-mixing patterns in their jingles. This research aimed to investigate morphological processes and scrutinize code-mixing patterns utilized in commercial advertising in Sri Lanka. The results revealed that the code-mixed language of television commercials, about morphological processes and code-mixing patterns, identified nominalization, hybridization, alternation, and coinage as highly productive morphological processes employed by advertisers in Sri Lanka. Nativization was found to be less productive. The author confirms that there is no conflict of interest in the study. Creative writers believe Sinhala's English syntactic styles make the marketing message more effective. This is a morphological strategy to attract upper-middle or dominant Sri Lankan English-Sinhala bilinguals.
Shaping psychotherapy trainees’ potential: insights from training program directors
Authors: Messina Irene , Trimoldi Giovanna
Published: August 2024

The role of the therapist has received growing attention in psychotherapy research, suggesting that training effectiveness may also depend on the person of the trainees, with relevant implications in terms of candidate selection or tailoring training to the person. In the present study, we focused on how and how much psychotherapy training can be effective in fostering trainees’ characteristics associated with successful therapists and contrast trainees’ characteristics that could represent limitations as therapists. The aim was to explore training program directors’ perspectives on individual trainees’ limitations and strengths, and on the effectiveness of training in shaping successful therapists. To this aim, we interviewed 14 training program directors with different psychotherapy approaches. Audio recordings of these semi-structured interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using NVivo software. According to our findings, transversally to different psychotherapy approaches, trainees’ self-awareness and the ability to embrace uncertainty were recognized as the main characteristics of good trainees. Four training elements were fre- quently mentioned by directors as effective in shaping trainees’ development: experiential learning, the use of paradigm that pri- oritizes self-awareness (instead of technique-focused approaches), the centrality of supervision and inter-vision, the trainer-trainee relationship. These insights highlight the importance of trainees’ self-awareness and the ability to embrace uncertainty as potential personal variables that may influence the effectiveness of future psychotherapists and suggest giving attention to experiential learning and training relationships as crucial elements of psychotherapists’ development during the training.
Research-informed translation of mental strategy teaching materials into isiXhosa
Authors: Booi Tabisa , Vale Pamela , Graven Mellony H.
Published: August 2024

Background: This article critically examines the nature of isiXhosa translations in mathematics learning materials, specifically focusing on the doubling and halving unit within the ‘South African Grade 3 Mental Starters Assessment Project (MSAP): Teacher Guide’. Teaching in home languages is encouraged in the Foundation Phase, but unfamiliar standardised isiXhosa translations in support materials often contain barriers to understanding and/or distortion in meaning.Aim: The article addresses three questions: (1) To what extent is there fidelity and alignment of the translated isiXhosa materials to the original mathematical meaning? (2) To what extent do the selected terms align with the everyday isiXhosa that learners are accustomed to? (3) What are the implications for future translation of such materials?Setting: Analysis of the isiXhosa translation of a doubling and halving teaching unit and adapted translation for use in a Grade 3 classroom in the Eastern Cape.Methods: This qualitative research uses Toury’s Descriptive Translation Studies theory.Results: The findings highlight several ambiguities and incoherent translations. The article advocates for a comprehensive approach to translation, emphasising the importance of maintaining conceptual fidelity and clarity.Conclusion: The authors suggest the need for transliteration techniques in translations to support teacher and learner access to mathematical sense-making.Contribution: This research provides insights for translators of materials and implications for teachers, proposing an approach to translation. In particular, it argues that the involvement of Foundation Phase teachers in the translation of such materials is crucial.
Sperm RNA quantity and PRM1, PRM2, and TH2B transcript levels reflect sperm characteristics and early embryonic development
Authors: Ozsait-Selcuk Bilge , Bulgurcuoglu-Kuran Sibel , Sever-Kaya Dilek , Coban Neslihan , Aktan Gulsen , Kadioglu Ates
Published: August 2024

Spermatozoa have a highly complex RNA profile. Several of these transcripts are suggested as biomarkers for male infertility and contribute to early development. To analyze the differences between sperm RNA quantity and expression of protamine (PRM1 and PRM2) and testis-specific histone 2B (TH2B) genes, spermatozoa from 33 patients who enrolled in assisted reproduction treatment (ART) program were analyzed. Sperm RNA of teratozoospermic (T), oligoteratozoospermic (OT), and normozoospermic (N) samples was extracted, and the differences in transcript levels among the study groups were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The correlations of total RNA per spermatozoon and the expression of the transcripts were evaluated in relation to sperm characteristics and preimplantation embryo development. The mean (±standard deviation) RNA amount per spermatozoon was 28.48 (±23.03) femtogram in the overall group and was significantly higher in the OT group than that in N and T groups. Total sperm RNA and gene expression of PRM1 and PRM2 genes were related to preimplantation embryo development and developmental arrest. Specific sperm characteristics were correlated with the expressions of PRM1, PRM2, or TH2B genes. We conclude that the sperm RNA amount and composition are important factors and might influence early embryonic development and also differ in different cases of male infertility.
Factors affecting patency time and semen quality in a single-armed microsurgical vasoepididymostomy
Authors: Tang Song-Xi , Xiao Hong , Chen Qiang , Ding Yi-Lang , Yang Peng , Huang Hai-Lin , Chen Xi , Zhou Shan , Zhu Hui-Xin , Zhou Hui-Liang
Published: August 2024

Although microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (MVE) is an effective treatment for epididymal obstructive azoospermia, some patients may experience delayed patency or suboptimal semen parameters after patency. However, research into patency time, semen quality postpatency, and associated influencing factors remains limited. This study aimed to address these issues by evaluating 181 patients who underwent at least one-sided MVE employing asingle-armed longitudinal intussusception vasoepididymostomy technique, with a follow-up period of over 12 months for 150 patients. The overall patency rate was 75.3%, with 86.0% of patients achieving patency within 6 months following MVE. Unexpectedly, factors such as age, history of epididymitis, duration of surgery, side of anastomosis, sperm motility in epididymal fluid, and the site of anastomosis showed no correlation with patency time. Nonetheless, our univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that only the site of anastomosis was positively correlated with and could independently predict postoperative total motile sperm count. Therefore, the site of anastomosis might serve as a predictor for optimal postoperative semen quality following the MVE procedure.
Combined vitrectomy and scleral buckle versus vitrectomy with heavy silicone oil tamponade in the management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with inferior proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Abdel Hafez Mahmoud A.M. , Borhan Nahla , Attya Mohamed , Zayed Mohamed A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim was to compare the anatomical and functional success between combined scleral buckling with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and PPV with heavy silicone oil (HSO) tamponade in treating inferior proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) grade C in primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Patients and methods

A nonrandomized comparative study was performed on 33 eyes of 33 patients presenting with inferior PVR grade C complicating primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Sixteen eyes underwent PPV with the HSO tamponade namely Densiron 68 that were classified as the heavy-oil group; 17 eyes underwent combined PPV with an encircling 240-band that were classified as the buckle-vitrectomy group. The aim was to achieve anatomical retinal reattachment in the absence of intraocular tamponade. Silicone oil (SO) was removed after 8 weeks in both groups. All patients were evaluated for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and intraocular pressure by the end of the first week, first and second months in oil-filled eyes; by the end of the first and third months post-SO removal was achieved.

Results

Successful primary retinal reattachment was achieved in 87.5% in the heavy-oil group and in 94.1% in the buckle-vitrectomy group, which showed no statistical difference (P=0.47) in these groups. Both groups showed a statistically significant improvement in BCVA after surgery. A significant difference in BCVA in the two groups on the eighth follow-up week after primary surgery (P=0.015) and on the 4th follow-up week after SO removal (P=0.031) was found; but at the 12th week post-SO removal there was no significant difference found between both groups (P=0.056). The mean surgical time was 96.25±13.478 and 116.47±12.4 min for the heavy-oil and buckle-vitrectomy groups, respectively, with a P value less than 0.001.

Conclusion

Managing inferior PVR either by PPV and HSO or by PPV and an encircling band achieved the same anatomical and functional reuslts. Although the surgical time was much faster in the heavy-oil group, the surgical costs were much higher.
Visual and refractive outcomes after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and femto-SMILE (small-incision lenticule extraction) for Myopia
Authors: Elashmawy Maram M.M. , Elsaadany Mohamed M.K. , Hasby Hisham A. , Elbedewy Hazem A.
Published: August 2024

Background

The objective of refractive surgery is to lessen the patient’s reliance on contact lenses or glasses for everyday activities. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a popular surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea in individuals with refractive errors in order to enhance their vision. PRK differs from previous laser-based eye operations in that there are no corneal incisions created during the procedure.

Objective

To compare the visual and refractive outcomes following PRK and femto-small-incision Lenticule extraction (SMILE) for myopic patients.

Patients and methods

This retrospective comparative research was conducted in Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine–Tanta University on 80 eyes (of 40 cases) who underwent Corneal Refractive Surgery. They were equally allocated into two groups; PRK group and 2- femto-SMILE group. They were compared before surgery and 6 months after surgery for clinical and topographical outcomes.

Results

There was a significant difference between both groups as regard of Postoperative UCVA, Degree of Myopia before and after surgery, and Analysis of thinnest location. There were no significant difference between both groups as regard of demographic data or degree of Astigmatism.

Conclusion

After 6 months of surgery, the visual outcome of PRK was better than femto-SMILE, however, femto- SMILE was more effective in astigmatic correction compared with PRK.
Incidence and Sequelae of Macular Edema Post Pan-retinal Photocoagulation for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Makled Hebatalla S. , ElZawahry Shaza M , Albalkini Ahmed Saad , Khattab Ayman M , Nossair Ashraf Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To study the incidence and sequelae of macular edema after Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

Patients and Methods

A prospective interventional clinical study included 42 eyes treated by PRP, for proliferative diabetic retinopathy over three sessions on three consecutive weeks. Baseline and 1-month postoperative data were collected including best-corrected visual acuity, detailed fundus examination and Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Macula (SD-OCT); to assess the Central Subfield Macular Thickness (CSMT) using the ETDRS Map.

Results

Forty-two eyes of 31 patients were included in the study with mean duration of diabetes of 16.9±5.7 years and mean HbA1c of 9.1±1.4. Mean pre-PRP vision was 0.44±0.2 log units, which improved to 0.41±0.2 log units (P=0.6). Mean pre-laser CSMT was 245.6±25.5 µm, which increased to 265.5±33.5 µm at 1-month follow-up after PRP (P=0.003). Four eyes (9.5%) had CSMT more than 300 µm with intraretinal edema. The mean change and percentage of change from baseline in CSMT between those patients and remaining patient were statistically insignificant (P=0.055 and 0.115 respectively). Changes in CSMT and changes in Log MAR BCVA at 4-week follow-up were inversely correlated.

Conclusion

Macular edema can be an unavoidable side effect of PRP especially in cases with baseline increased macular thickness. Vision is mostly not affected by PRP, however, changes in vision may be directly affected by macular thickness post-PRP.
Purine-rich Element-binding Protein B Mediates Ferroptosis in Lipopolysaccharide-induced Raw264.7 Macrophage Inflammation
Authors: Wang Zhaosi , Zhang Wei , Zhu Xiangrui , Mei Jian , Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Lixin , Ou Langlin , Guan Xiaoyu , Pang Xiangming , Liu Yuxiang , Meng Zitong , Ma Cui
Published: August 2024

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plays an important role in Raw264.7 macrophage ferroptosis and inflammation. Purine-rich element-binding protein B (Purb) influences cellular processes by regulating gene expression as a transcription factor. However, the effect and molecular mechanism of Purb in regulating Raw264.7 macrophage ferroptosis is still unknown. In this study, we used malondialdehyde, glutathione (GSH) assays, Fe2+ fluorescence, reactive oxygen species staining, and western blotting to determine the effect of Purb on LPS-induced Raw264.7 macrophage ferroptosis. Pharmacological inhibitor of ferroptosis was utilized to explore its potential effects for inflammation by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Meanwhile, chromatin immunoprecipitation was performed to verify the binding of Purb and the GSH-dependent peroxidase 4 (Gpx4). The results showed that LPS-induced inflammation in Raw264.7 macrophages was inhibited by ferroptosis inhibitor Fer-1 treatment. LPS inhibited the expression of Purb in Raw264.7 macrophages. In addition, Purb overexpression relieved the ferroptosis, and inflammatory response of Raw264.7 macrophages induced by LPS. Mechanistically, the binding of Purb to the Gpx4 promoter was decreased after LPS stimulation. Therefore, we concluded for the first time that Purb played a critical role in LPS-induced ferroptosis and inflammatory response by regulating the transcription of Gpx4. These results provide a theoretical basis for further research on the macrophage ferroptosis and inflammation.