bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Global Policy Design for Sustainable Human Development Vis-à-vis Environmental Security
Authors: Joseph Jipson , Pandey Ananya
Published: November 2024

Development and environmental security are mostly considered contradictory principles. The post-Second World War period profoundly needed development but as its by-product the environmental stability was lost. Environmentalists and Ecological movements called for environmental justice. They emphasized the need for a quality environment not only for the present but also for the coming generations. Sustainable development thus evolved as a suitable developmental model. Towards the end of the 20th century there originated the human security paradigm, which advanced the idea of sustainable human development. This neologism proposed a people-centered developmental model without disregarding ecological concerns. Since the globe is in industry 4.0 and almost started to actively engage in industry 5.0, the sustainable human development model can function as a perfect mechanism to link both development and environmental security. In this perspective, this chapter focuses on a global policy design that promotes sustainable human development without endangering the environment.
Environmental Governance in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Shafiul , Bushra A.N. , Shafi Abrar Bin
Published: November 2024

This study explores the challenges and opportunities of solid waste management in semi-urban areas in Bangladesh, focusing on understanding the roles and experiences of various stakeholder groups using the Power Interest Matrix as a framework. Field investigations reveal significant disparities in waste management practices, particularly in semi-urban municipalities where institutional incapacity, resource constraints, and governance failures exacerbate waste accumulation and environmental degradation. The findings highlight a lack of comprehensive solid waste management policies for semi-urban areas, inadequate financial and human resources, and limited technological innovation, all of which contribute to the inefficiency of current solid waste management systems. Local elites often resist waste management reforms due to personal interests. In contrast, informal waste workers remain marginalized despite their significant role in waste collection, lacking formal recognition and proper safety measures. The absence of data systems within municipal authorities impedes effective planning.
Sustainable Water and Sanitation Management
Authors: Hossain Imran , Salehin Asfaq , Haque A.K.M. Mahmudul , Mia Abdur Rahman
Published: November 2024

This chapter investigates the challenges faced by Rajshahi and Gazipur City Corporations, Bangladesh, in ensuring sustainable water and sanitation practices. A qualitative method was used to collect data from various sources, including in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and existing literature. The study has identified several major challenges faced by City Corporations (CCs) in Bangladesh. These challenges include inadequate infrastructure, population growth, unplanned urbanization, insufficient financial resources, and institutional incapacity, issues related to water reuse and conservation, and improper waste management. These challenges have a significant impact on sustainable water and sanitation management. The study identified that the wastage of water is caused by inadequate infrastructure, population growth, unplanned urbanization, institutional incapacity, and poor coordination. Furthermore, the scarcity of safe water is also caused by population growth, unplanned urbanization, and the absence of water reuse and conservation systems.
Innovative Strategic Integration of IoT and Digital Marketing for Sustainable Environmental Governance
Authors: Narayan Madhusudan , Srivastava Ashok Kumar , Sharma Ashutosh
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study explores how integrating IoT and digital marketing can enhance sustainable environmental governance, addressing environmental challenges and supporting the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs). It aims to show how this combination can tackle environmental challenges and support (SDGs). Methodology: A literature review and case studies evaluate how real-time IoT data can enhance targeted digital marketing strategies, promoting sustainable behaviour. Findings: Integration improves public engagement and campaign effectiveness, using IoT data for timely, impactful messaging. Challenges like data privacy and technical interoperability must be addressed. Practical Implications: Insights for stakeholders help refine sustainability initiatives and advance global environmental goals. Originality/Value: This research offers a framework that combines IoT and digital marketing, empowering innovative, data-driven solutions for sustainability. Keywords: IoT, Digital Marketing, Environmental Governance, Sustainability, Data Analytics, SDG
Data Analytics, Machine Learning, and IoT for Environmental Governance
Authors: Mutsuddi Indranil
Published: November 2024

Effective environmental governance is crucial for addressing complex & interconnected environmental challenges of the 21st century. It requires collaboration of multiple sectors & integration of diverse perspectives to create resilient & sustainable societies. Organizations, governments, and NGOs need to adopt a collaborative approach to implement sustainable solutions for environmental governance. While governments are responsible for policymaking, NGOs excel in implementing these policies due to their strong connections with grassroots communities. Corporations play a critical role by leveraging their capital, technological resources, and research and development capabilities to address existing environmental challenges with sustainable solutions. The book chapter presents theoretical & practical insights regarding the use of Data Analytics, ML and IoT for environmental governance.
Integrating Climate Resilience Into Educational Curricula
Authors: Bhuiyan Md Ikhtiar Uddin , Sajia Sawmeem
Published: November 2024

Climate change is one of the most vital challenges of the 21st century which pertains, directly or indirectly, to virtually every sphere of human life and natural systems. As education determines the values, behavior, and responses of society and individuals towards ecological issues, it is important to address the existing gap between the traditional curriculum and incorporation of climate change-focused knowledge in the existing framework. There are several defining reasons for this study in the area of incorporation of climate resilience into the visionary curricula. First, a growing necessity to adopt and implement educational frameworks which could assist in the process of coping with or adapting to climate change effects is driven by a specific social need. The key focus of this research is to generate a framework for the integration of climate resilience into educational curricula at multiple levels. The study follows a mixed-methods pathway in order to create an inclusive structure for climate resilience integration in the curricula of education.
Future Trends and Innovations in Environmental Governance for Sustainable Development
Authors: Anitha K. , Ghosal Indrajit , Amala J. , Hossain Imran
Published: November 2024

In response to escalating environmental challenges, this research explores emerging trends and innovations poised to revolutionize environmental governance for sustainable development. Key areas of focus include digital technology integration, green finance, circular economy models, community-driven governance, and international cooperation. Digital innovations, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, enhance environmental monitoring, ensure transparency, and foster trust in governance processes. Green finance channels investments towards sustainable projects, with tools like green bonds facilitating a transition to low-carbon economies. The circular economy, emphasizing resource efficiency and waste reduction, is vital for sustainable growth, while community-driven governance empowers local involvement in decision-making for more responsive and innovative solutions. The chapter emphasizes a multifaceted approach in creating resilient and adaptive governance frameworks capable of addressing today's environmental crises.
Local Government Challenges in Implementing the 3R Strategy for Sustainable Waste Management
Authors: Hossain Imran , Haque A.K.M. Mahmudul , Ullah S.M. Akram , Kadir Abdul , Hossain Kabir
Published: November 2024

This research delves into the multifaceted landscape of sustainable waste management in the context of Barisal City Corporation, emphasizing the challenges of implementing the 3R strategy. The city's waste management practices and perceptions among its residents are examined through a comprehensive primary data collection process, offering critical insights into the current state of waste management. The study reveals formidable challenges such as insufficient local government initiatives and supervision, irregular waste transportation and segregation, insufficient manpower, unconventional waste storage and disposal practices, unaddressed environmental impact, and the lack of a secondary transfer station. At the same time, the research uncovers promising prospects, including source segregation, energy-efficient waste transportation, and an emerging recycling culture. By addressing these challenges, the city can significantly advance its waste management initiatives, aligning them with the 3R strategy and striving for a cleaner, more sustainable urban environment.
Herding in Crisis
Authors: Xu Xiong
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of media coverage intensity, market volatility, investor sentiment, institutional investor activity, and regulatory announcements on market stability, incorporating the moderating effect of social network influence and the mediating effect of financial contagion. Using panel data regression and structural equation modeling, the research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the dynamics influencing market stability. The findings reveal that media coverage intensity, investor sentiment, and regulatory announcements positively impact market stability, while market volatility negatively impacts it. Institutional investor activity also contributes positively to market stability. Furthermore, social network influence moderates these relationships, either amplifying or mitigating the impacts, and financial contagion mediates the effects, weakening the positive impacts.
Role of Artificial Intelligence in Detecting Herding
Authors: Singh Partap
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in detecting herding behavior in financial markets. Herding, a phenomenon where investors follow the majority, can lead to market inefficiencies and increased volatility. By leveraging AI techniques, including machine learning and deep learning, this study aims to improve the detection and understanding of herding patterns. The research explores how AI models can analyze large datasets, recognize non-linear relationships, and identify subtle patterns indicative of herding. It gives the picture of Factors Affecting Herd-Behavior, Impact of Herd-Behavior, Sources for data analysis for detecting Herding with AI, Navigating Herding with AI, Challenges and threats in Detecting Herding with AI. The findings suggest that AI provides more accurate and timely detection of herding behavior compared to traditional methods, offering significant implications for market stability and investor strategies.
Linguistic Competence Among Egyptian vs. Saudi EFL Majors in Light of Utilizing Artificial Intelligence Technology
Authors: Shaalan Iman El-Nabawi Abdel Wahed , Ahmad Ayman Shaaban Khalifa
Published: November 2024

This study aimed at probing Egyptian and Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) majors' perceptions of the impact of AI technology on enhancing linguistic competence and predicting the level of linguistic competence development due to the utilisation of AI. The descriptive survey method was used to accomplish the purpose of the study. A 27-item questionnaire was developed to collect the study data from the participants, totalling 523 EFL majors: 256 Egyptian EFL majors at the Faculty of Education at Al-Azhar University, Egypt and 267 EFL majors at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. The results of the statistical analysis demonstrated that AI technology is perceived positively by the EFL majors in both contexts. However, the Egyptian students showed higher positive perceptions than their Saudi counterparts. More importantly, the simple regression analysis has shown a statistically significant positive correlation between the EFL majors' perceptions and their linguistic competence. The study recommends enhancing the EFL majors' proficiency in using AI tools for developing language skills.
The Impact of Advertising Appeal on Real Estate Purchase Intention
Authors: Subasinghe Nilakshika Madhumali , Weerasiri Sudath
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of emotional, moral, and rational appeals on the intention to purchase real estate in Sri Lanka.The findings suggest that all three advertising appeals significantly correlate to buying real estate during the crisis period. Of all these appeals, the rational appeal exhibits the most robust correlation with the intent to purchase. In total, 288 usable questionnaires formed the data basis of the research. Data is gathered through a designed survey questionnaire targeting individuals between the ages of 18 and 34 who reside in the Western Province. In terms of methodology, employ a structural equation model (S.E.M.) and other descriptive statistics methods like mean, pie chart, and bar chart using RStudio and Excell tools. Empirically suggested that education level can impact consumers' purchase intention, a notion with that it is not confirmed that education level has a moderating impact on the relationship between advertising appeal and customer buying intention in the real estate industry, based on the Sri Lankan context.
Herding in Small Virtual Teams
Authors: Aggarwal Anil K.
Published: November 2024

Herding can impact a group outcome in different ways and can lead to functional or dysfunctional teams resulting in optimal, sub-optimal outcomes, or no outcome. The authors study herding in context of teams with a measurable outcome and discuss how they impact group performance. They use Conradt's model of three level of decision making with group member's characteristics (incompetent, indifferent, imitator, and interactor) to study herding. The study indicates that herding is dynamic and develops as levels of communication changes with incompetence and indifference of members. The study also reveals that partial herding can occur where some group member(s) herd while others continue the work. This study is significant since it includes indifference and incompetence as two new factors that can lead to herding possibly leading to sub optimal results. Future research areas are also discussed.
Fantasy Sports Participation in Young Adults
Authors: Iyer Kavitha Venkatasubramany , Chaturvedi Shashwat , Siddhartha Anupam
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to understand comprehensively the motivations and constraints underlying fantasy sports participation among young adults (18-25) in India. The study applied a motivation and constraint model in the Indian landscape, wherein youth groups who played and did not play fantasy sports were surveyed. Given the issue of the legality of fantasy games in India and its linkage with gambling, two additional factors of addiction and morality were added. The findings of the multiple regression show that participation in fantasy sports among the youth is influenced by intrinsic motivation instead of monetary benefits, pride, or social interaction. Constraints affecting the potential participation of non-players include addiction, consuming valuable time, causing loss of money, and perceived capitalistic exploitation for stakeholders' profit. Producers of fantasy games need to enhance engagement levels to foster intrinsic motivation instead of external among the youth and safeguard them from addiction and gambling.
Dynamic Modeling Analysis of University Physical Education Teaching Quality Evaluation System Under Big Data
Authors: Sun Yang , Wang Rui , Feng Bo
Published: November 2024

With the rapid development of internet technology, the importance of data in various industries has become increasingly prominent. However, in the field of domestic education, especially the research on teaching quality evaluation is relatively sparse. This paper aims to build an evaluation model of physical education teaching quality with big data and machine learning in order to comprehensively evaluate teachers' physical education teaching ability. Firstly, a multi-dimensional evaluation system is designed to measure teachers' teaching level. Secondly, through the questionnaire and the statistical analysis of students' physical education teaching evaluation, the availability of the college physical education teaching evaluation system is verified. On this basis, a teacher's ability prediction model based on a neural network is established, and the experimental results show that the prediction accuracy of the model is 90.17%. This provides strong support for improving the quality of physical education teaching.
The Guideline Model for Water Resource Management of the Industrial Sector in the Eastern Economic Corridor for Sustainable Achievement
Authors: Phadannork Nithipar , Silpcharu Thanin , Wattanakomol Sunee
Published: November 2024

Water resource management is a key planning adaptation strategy for sustainable achievement. This research aims to compare the invariance of water resource management for the industrial sector in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) for sustainable achievement. The study employs quantitative research questionnaires from 750 experts and qualitative research from focus group discussions with 11 expert industrial business managers working in the EEC. The research applies descriptive, inferential, and multivariate statistics that show overall results. Each of the four high-level components this research focuses on is Resource Management, Data Insight, Innovation and Technology, and Alliance Centric. The hypothesis testing shows the ways that different industries in the EEC prioritize water resource management are significant differently. The analysis of the developed structural equation model (SEM) reveals that it meets the evaluation criteria, being consistent with empirical data. The invariance measurement of the guideline model reveals that the model is appropriate, and the invariance is found from the empirical variance analysis.
The Effect of Environmental Awareness on the Management of Higher Education
Authors: Wang Haiyan
Published: November 2024

Higher education management is an important way to cultivate college students' awareness and behavior of ecological environment protection. The survey results show that at present, college students mainly rely on theoretical courses and lectures to receive ecological civilization education, but they lack practical links, which is different from the goal of ecological civilization education. Therefore, this paper comprehensively considers the weight of eco-environmental protection consciousness to higher education management and their relationship by using fuzzy comprehensive evaluation analysis method, which provides scientific basis for relevant decision-making. On the whole, fuzzy comprehensive evaluation analysis method can help to deeply understand the relationship between different factors and provide strong support for promoting eco-environmental protection in higher education management.
Exploring Data Veracity Management in a Post-Truth Business Environment
Authors: Catyanadika Putra Endi , Sabani Alvedi , Leenders Mark A. A. M.
Published: November 2024

With the ever-increasing volume and variety of data generated, organisations have to ensure their truthfulness and reliability. This paper provides overview of current research on managing data veracity in a business environment where misinformation is growing. A literature analysis from 2002 to 2023 identified three major themes: methods for ensuring data validity, data processing and optimisation, and data veracity in sustainability performance. In addition, the study highlights the gaps in the current research and proposes future research directions to help develop a better understanding of the themes and organisational implications. The study concludes that data veracity is crucial for future organisational research. Nevertheless, further work is required to refine the definition of data veracity to incorporate ‘truthfulness' better, understand human capabilities to support it, examine firms' governance of truthfulness and measure data veracity for social impact. The implications of these findings for data management and the development of relevant theories are discussed.
Editor’s Note
Authors: Kannan N.
Published: November 2024

No abstract available
Growth, yield and anatomy of alpinia calcarata (Heen Araththa) as affected by irrigation frequency
Authors: Nakandalage N. , Jayawardhana W. R. S. , Sithari T. M. , Fonseka D. L. C. K.
Published: November 2024

Alpinia calcarata, often known as Heen Araththa, is a precious medicinal plant owing to its chemical properties in herbal treatments. The growth, yield and anatomical features related to the synthesis and accumulation of secondary metabolites of this plant are highly affected by drought stress. Therefore, this work investigated the influence of irrigation frequency on growth, yield and selected anatomical features of A. calcarata. Five levels of irrigation frequencies including daily watering (T1), 7-day (T2), 14-day (T3), 21-day (T4) and 28-day (T5) intervals were investigated in a protected plant house under controlled environmental conditions. A. calcarata rhizomes with a similar number of sprouting buds planted in common potting media (topsoil: sand: compost- 1:1:1) were arranged in Completely Randomized Design in triplicates. After three weeks of establishment, five distinct irrigation frequencies were implemented, with pots being watered daily up until that point. Growth and yield parameters (shoot height (cm), number of roots, number of shoots, number of leaves per shoot, leaf area (mm2), rhizome dry weight (g)) and the anatomical parameters (root epidermis thickness (μm), rhizome epidermis thickness (μm) and oil cell density (μm2)) were collected 10 weeks after establishment. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) employing the SAS analysis system. Results revealed that all selected growth, yield and anatomical parameters of A. calcarata were significantly (p<0.05) affected by irrigation frequency. Significantly (p<0.05) the highest mean shoot height (20.8cm), mean number of roots (11.3), mean number of shoots (6.8), mean rhizome dry weight (9.3g) and significantly (p<0.05) higher mean leaf area (24.9mm2) and mean number of leaves per shoot (4) of A. calcarata weregiven by 14-day irrigation frequency. It was also observed that the mean root epidermis and rhizome thickness of A. calcarata gradually increased in response to escalating drought stress. In contrast, the highest oil cell density was observed under the lowest drought stress. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the most promising irrigation frequency for higher growth and yield of A. calcarata is watering with 14-day intervals. Daily watering appeared to be the most suitable treatment to enhance oil cell density associated with secondary metabolite production of A. calcarata.
Effect of intra-row spacing, gibberellic acid concentration and N:P2O5:K2O ratio on growth and yield of potato variety Royal
Authors: Ruwanpathirana C. H. , Ranawana S. R. W. M. C. J. K. , Wanigasekara R. B. H. K. , Herath H. M. S. K.
Published: November 2024

The potato variety Royal is suitable to make French fries due to its frying qualities. However, the tubers lack the long-oval shape which is preferred in processing of French fries. Despite the lower nitrogen (N) requirement of variety Royal, farmers apply same recommendation ignoring the varietyspecific needs. Thus, two experiments were conducted to (a) evaluate the possibility of changing tuber shape by manipulating intra-row spacing and gibberellic acid (GA3) application and to (b) identify the best N:P2O5:K2O ratio to optimize growth and yield. The first experiment was conducted with 45 cm inter-row spacing, as a two-factor factorial RCBD. Factors one and two were intra-row spacing (15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 cm) and foliar-applied GA3 concentration (0, 150, 200, and 250 ppm), respectively. In the second experiment, recommended N:P2O5:K2O ratio, 8.0:3.5:8.5, (Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka) with organic manure (control) and the same without organic manure were compared with three other N:P2O5:K2O ratios. Each treatment had 4 replicates, with 12 plants per replicate in both experiments. Data were analysed with Two-Way ANOVA in the first experiment and One-Way ANOVA in the second, using Minitab 17. Tukey’s mean comparison test was used to compare the mean values of both experiments. Intra-row spacing and GA3 interaction did not significantly (P>0.05) affect the tuber yield and shape. By increasing IRS, yield per plant increased, but yield per unit land area (YPL) decreased. The effect of GA3 on tuber yield was not significant (P>0.05). GA3 at 200 ppm recorded the highest number of long-oval tubers (62% increment). N:P2O5:K2O ratio had no significant (P>0.05) effect on growth, yield, and quality. Therefore, a fertilizer ratio with low nutrient input will be more sustainable and cost-effective for potato variety Royal with lower nutrient needs. Closer intrarow spacing (15 cm) with 200 ppm GA3 can be recommended for higher YPL with higher number of long-oval tubers.
Biofilm biofertilizer application in paddy cultivation: pioneering studies in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ekanayake S. N. B. , Premarathna M. , Pathirana A. , Seneviratne G.
Published: November 2024

The National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS) developed Biofilm Biofertilizer (BFBF) in-vitro and it was tested for efficacy in paddy cultivation, progressing from controlled greenhouse experiments to large-scale field trials, conducted in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DoA) and other stakeholders. The outcomes of this research program have proven a substantial reduction of Chemical Fertilizer (CF) usage up to ca. 50% when combined with the BFBF applied at the rate of only 2.5 L/ha. With this fertilizer combination, the BFBF demonstrated the real and significant (p<0.05) crop yield improvement effects, boosting the yields on average ca. 25% compared to DoA's CF practices in the long-term extensive research. The widespread adoption of the BFBF across ca. 0.11 Mha of paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka revealed the practicality of its use. In conclusion, the BFBF integrated an eco-friendly fertilizer technology into commercial-scale paddy cultivation. As such, the BFBF stands out as a sustainable and transformative solution, providing a blueprint for future agricultural innovations with global implications. This research program serves as a testament to the vital role played by fundamental research in driving a meaningful change for the benefit of agriculture.
Exploring pre-requisites for clinical learning indicators: A scoping review
Authors: Chilemba Evelyn B. , Chiundira Felistas , Phiri Chrissie , Chisoni Felix
Published: November 2024

Background: Understanding how clinical learning takes place and what could stand as an indicator of clinical learning is crucial. There are existing challenges in the clinical learning environment that require clinical indicators. These serve as accountability standards in settings that have challenges of human resources and material poverty. Thus, clinical indicators are pre-requisites for self-regulation and self-directedness to promote lifelong learning. The reality that exists in today’s Malawian health education institutions and clinical settings requires that those in training receive support and guidance on how essential competencies and skills can be acquired during training.Objectives: The objective of this scoping review was to identify current literature on clinical learning indicators among health professional students.Method: The Joanna Briggs Institute’s (May 2020) standards for scoping reviews including narrative synthesis were followed in the conduct of this review. The protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework https://osf.io/yj9nr.Results: The results generated seven themes on clinical learning process and these are (1) planning for learning, (2) awareness of self-directedness in clinical learning, (3) knowledge of achievement of learning outcomes, (4) educators’ evidence of students’ clinical learning, (5) students’ perspective on clinical learning, (6) students’ knowledge of achievement in practice and (7) impact of prior knowledge on clinical learning.Conclusion: Clinical learning indicators among undergraduate health professionals are essential and clinical learning should be a planned endeavour by the students before the clinical placement settings.Contribution: This study contributed to understanding clinical learning indicators and self-regulated learning practices among healthcare students.
The SMHP™ position statement on therapeutic carbohydrate reduction for type 1 diabetes
Authors: Kalayjian Tro , McNally Beth J. , Calkins Matthew W. , Cucuzzella Mark T. , Cywes Robert , Dikeman Hayden , Dikeman David T. , Bourdua-Roy Evelyne , Rice Sarah M. , Lake Ian , Buchanan Laura A. , Reynolds Douglas B. , Kalamian Mirian , Westman Eric C.
Published: November 2024

This article presents the position of the Society of Metabolic Health Practitioners (SMHP) regarding therapeutic carbohydrate reduction (TCR) nutrition interventions for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). A modified Delphi methodology was used to arrive at a consensus consisting of several focus groups, multiple rounds, and an anonymous survey. The field of endocrinology has seen many new advances for the treatment of T1DM including hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery systems and continuous glucose monitors for better glycaemic control, monoclonal antibodies to delay the onset of disease and increased access to paediatric endocrinologists, among many other noteworthy achievements. Despite these advancements, standard of care approaches to T1DM result in higher than acceptable morbidity and mortality, with a high prevalence of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Insulin resistance in type 1 diabetes is an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes even in well controlled type 1 diabetes. In 2021, only 21% of adults with T1DM in the United States achieved the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA’s) target haemoglobin A1C goal of 7.0%, while data in the paediatric and adolescent population have demonstrated worse glycaemic control. Supported by observational and interventional evidence, the SMHP advocates for the reevaluation of the prevailing nutritional therapy for T1DM with more broad consideration for TCR. The SMHP recommends open access and clinical support for TCR nutrition interventions for individuals with T1DM of all ages and calls upon the medical community to help foster more attention and research on TCR for T1DM.
Teaching through and with decolonial love in a neoliberal South African University
Authors: Maluleka Paul
Published: November 2024

The public university in South Africa continues to propagate capitalist, competitive and neoliberal agendas that are inconsistent with agendas that could be considered to be of public good. These market-orientated logics and discourses have compromised teaching in the university because of increased casualisation of faculty as a result of cost cutting and commodification of education meant to realise artificial efficiency. This has meant that faculty are now confronted with larger class sizes to teach and less support in the process. This approach to teaching has framed the academic project as an individual pursuit rather than a collective one. Thus, the academic project has been reduced to a project that only generates unequal and impossible expectations. In this article, aided by coloniality and decoloniality as my preferred philosophical orientations, I propose decolonial love as one transformative pedagogical approach that university teachers can employ in the implementation of their mandate, which is to teach and educate students for the epistemic, human, social and public good. I argue that such an approach to teaching would and can contribute to the promotion of transgression of knowledge boundaries for knowledge co-construction and thus enable a way of teaching that promotes pluriversal (situated) knowledges.Contribution: I also assert that by employing decolonial love as a pedagogical approach, university teachers can come to value what their students bring to their lecture rooms and thus use cultural heritage of their students to develop innovative pedagogies that are culturally relevant and also underpinned by a pedagogy rooted in love.
Theological Reflection on Love based on 1 John 4:7–8 through the Siri Pinang tradition in Atoni Pah Meto Culture
Authors: Talan Yesri E. , Bilo Dyulius T. , Purdaryanto Samuel
Published: November 2024

The theology of love in the practice of giving betel nut with ‘okomama’ in Atoni Pah Meto culture reflects the values taught in 1 John 4:7–8. This study, utilizing qualitative methods and a descriptive ethnographic approach, explores how this tradition embodies Christian teachings of love within the local cultural context. It examines the values of love expressed in this practice and its impact on social and cultural relationships within the Atoni Meto community. The findings reveal that the offering of betel nut with ‘okomama’ symbolizes affection, respect, brotherhood, and serves as a tool for conflict mediation, cultural preservation, and the strengthening of community identity. This tradition enriches social relationships, maintains harmony, and applies the values of love in daily life.Intradisciplinary and interdisciplinary implications: This research makes a significant contribution to the study of culture, anthropology, and theology by examining how Christian love values are reflected in local practices. It encourages further exploration of the interaction between culture, religion, and theology, while also opening opportunities to study the sustainability of traditions and community identity in modern contexts.
Hypermagnesemia-induced pseudonecrotizing enterocolitis and respiratory distress in a preterm infant: A case report
Authors: Srinivas K Nimishashree , Rangaswamy Darshan Rajatadri , Kamble Niranjan
Published: November 2024

Rationale:

This case highlights the rare yet critical diagnosis of hypermagnesemia in a preterm infant, who presented with symptoms mimicking necrotizing enterocolitis. It underscores the importance of considering hypermagnesemia as a differential diagnosis in neonatal respiratory distress and gastrointestinal symptoms, even when the cause is not immediately apparent.

Patient’s Concern:

An extremely low birth infant with respiratory distress further had episodes of apnoea and cyanosis. The infant eventually exhibited abdominal distension and bilious vomiting, symptoms mimicking necrotizing enterocolitis.

Diagnosis:

The infant’s clinical features were attributed to hypermagnesemia, despite no magnesium being administered and no apparent cause identified. Screening the apparently asymptomatic mother confirmed a serum magnesium level of 4 mg/dL, suggesting transplacental transfer as the likely cause of the neonate’s condition.

Interventions:

The newborn was treated supportively with adequate hydration and maintenance calcium gluconate.

Outcomes:

Magnesium levels decreased, and the baby showed signs of improvement.

Lessons:

Hypermagnesemia, though uncommon, should be investigated and considered even when the symptoms are not apparent.
A community-based cross-sectional study of injuries and risk factors in Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Authors: Lahare Vipin K , Verma Nirmal , Chandrakar Aditi
Published: November 2024

Objective:

To investigate the epidemiology of injuries and risk factors in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 selected wards of Raipur. Data were collected from injured individuals using a structured questionnaire. Socio-demographic characteristics, injury mechanisms, medical care-seeking behavior, and outcomes were assessed.

Results:

312 individuals with injuries were included, with 193 men and 119 women. Males were more likely to be injured than females (61.86% v.s. 38.14%). Younger adults aged 21-30 were at highest risk (21.5%). The most common injuries were falls (38.8%) and road traffic accidents (34.9%). Injuries occurring on-road are the most frequent, followed by, at home with a highly significant association (P<0.001). Most individuals sought medical care (90.1%), primarily in private facilities (51.3%).

Conclusions:

This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of injuries in Raipur. The findings can inform the development of evidence-based interventions to reduce the burden of injuries and improve the health and well-being of the population.
Vitamin D as a Possible Biomarker for the Development of Diabetic Retinopathy among Libyan Diabetics
Authors: Younis Mustafa Younis G. , El-Zalitni Naeima M. , Khalleefa Ahlam Moftah
Published: November 2024

Background:

Vitamin D (VD) is a fat-soluble vitamin produced in the skin through photosynthesis. It plays many important physiological roles, including maintaining bone structure, regulating the immune response, and helping to prevent various health conditions from general fatigue to cancers. VD deficiency (VDD) is a well-known condition diagnosed by low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. VDD is considered a risk factor for many health issues, including diabetes and its complications such as retinopathy.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of VD as a biomarker for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and to study the correlations between VDD and other study investigations such as glycosylated hemoglobin and lipid profile.

Materials and Methods:

The study population was divided into three groups: Group 1 – diabetics with retinopathy “DR” (30 patients), Group 2 – diabetics without retinopathy “non-DR” (30 patients), and Group 3 – nondiabetics “control” (30 subjects). Blood samples were drawn from study subjects to investigate 25-hydroxyvitamin D, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), blood glucose, and lipid profile from April 2022 to December 2022.

Results:

Regarding 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), the difference in means between the groups was statistically highly significant (P < 0.001). The DR group had the lowest mean of 25(OH)D3 (14.7 ± 5.9 ng/mL) when compared to the other two groups – the non-DR group (17.6 ± 5.4 ng/mL) and the control group (22.8 ± 6.6 ng/mL). The mean HbA1c of the diabetic group (8.2% ± 1.6%) and the mean HbA1c of the nondiabetic group (5.5% ±0.5%) were statistically low significant (P < 0.001) compared to the mean of HbA1c of the DR group (9.2% ± 1.2%). The DR group had a mean and standard deviation (SD) of (137.3 ± 62.0 mg/dL) of triglycerides (TGs) which was very significantly lower (P < 0.049) than the means of serum TG of the non-DR group (mean and SD of TG was 170.3 ± 62 mg/dL). The present study’s correlation coefficient results revealed a significant negative (r = −0.388) correlation between VD and HbA1c, indicating that a decrease in 25(OH)D3 levels is associated with an increase in HbA1c levels and that VDD coexisted with elevated HbA1c levels. The other finding indicates a positive correlation (0.261) between serum cholesterol and VD, meaning that elevated levels of VD coexisted with elevated levels of total cholesterol.

Conclusion:

The findings of our study showed a significant decrease of 25(OH)D3 in the DR group compared to the control. Moreover, the negative correlation between 25(OH)D3 and the HbA1c levels indicated that VDD coexisted with higher HbA1c levels (a sign of poor diabetic control). Higher HbA1c levels are usually accompanied by an increased risk of incidence of DR. Collectively, our findings suggested that low levels of 25(OH)D3 could be used as a proposed future biomarker for the incidence of DR.
To Evaluate the Effect of Structured Training Program about Premenstrual Syndrome on the Knowledge and Perception of Nursing Students at a Government Nursing Teaching Institute in Northern India
Authors: Latika  , Batra Namita , Dahiya Pushpa
Published: November 2024

Background:

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) encompasses a range of symptoms that manifest in individuals between menstruation and ovulation. The prevalence of PMS will be lower among students with sufficient knowledge about PMS than among those without such information.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to assess nursing students’ knowledge and perception on PMS. Furthermore, the study aimed to determine if structured training interventions were effective in enhancing the students’ initial knowledge and perception levels.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on nursing students from Govt. Nursing College, using a single-group pre–post interventional design. A pretested questionnaire was utilized as the research instrument. The intervention in the form of structured training program was imparted to the participants.

Results:

The pretest group exhibited a lower mean knowledge score (M = 25.0000, standard deviation (SD) =8.26225, standard error (SE) =0.55704) than the posttest group (M = 29.4773, SD = 9.64315, SE = 0.65014). A noteworthy difference was observed in the mean knowledge scores (t = −7.590085, P = 0.00001). The pretest group exhibited a lower mean perception score (M = 34.7591, SD = 3.55404, SE = 0.23961) than the posttest group (M = 36.2182, SD = 3.96533, SE = 0.26734). There were significant differences in perception scores, as evidenced by the statistical analysis (t = −6.244328, P = 0.00001).

Conclusions:

The results showed that the educational intervention led to significant improvements in their knowledge and perceptions about PMS.
Knowledge, Awareness, and Vaccination Compliance of Hepatitis B among the General Population in Aseer Region
Authors: Alzahrani Mohammed Attieh , Asiri Abdulaziz Arar , Alshehri Mousa Mohammed , Alahmari Faisal Nasser , Alahmari Mohammed Nasser , Alshahrani Muteb Amer , Alammari Dhafer Hamed , Abutaleb Mohammed Yahya
Published: November 2024

Background:

The current study aimed to assess knowledge, awareness, and vaccination compliance of hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV infection remains a public health problem worldwide. Furthermore, poor disease awareness, low diagnosis rates, and nonadherence to therapy amplify the disease burden.

Methods:

A cross-sectional web-based study was conducted in Southern Saudi Arabia to assess public knowledge and awareness about HBV and vaccination in the Aseer region. Participants aged 18 years and above were enrolled, and an online questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire included demographic data and knowledge about HBV vaccination. The study was published on social media platforms, with participants encouraged to participate and confidentiality clarified. The final questionnaire was uploaded until no new answers were obtained.

Results:

A total of 916 eligible participants completed the study questionnaire. Participants’ ages ranged from 18 to more than 60 years with a mean age of 33.1 ± 11.9 years old. Exact of 647 (70.6%) participants were males. Exact of 355 (38.8%) of the study participants received the HBV vaccine. Only 180 (19.7%) had a good knowledge level, 368 (40.2%) had an average knowledge level, and 368 (40.2%) had a poor knowledge level about HBV and vaccines. High education, working in the medical field, and having a family history of HBV infection were significantly associated with a high knowledge level (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The study found fair public awareness of HBV in the Aseer region, but a lack of knowledge about transmission and prevention. Most know about the HBV vaccine, but coverage is below the World Health Organization recommended.
Two- and Three-dimensional Imaging in Carcinoid Heart Disease
Authors: Shetty Abhiman Balakrishna , Chiramel Sam Jacob , Nair Rajesh Gopalan
Published: November 2024

A 70-year-old male presented with a history of pedal edema, abdominal distension, and dyspnea on exertion New York Heart Association Class III for cardiology evaluation. He was a known case of a neuroendocrine tumor of the small intestine diagnosed 3 years back and was on octreotide injection monthly for 20 months, now presented with features of the right heart failure. Transthoracic echocardiography showed thickened shortened immobile tricuspid valve leaflet with severe tricuspid regurgitation, and transesophageal echocardiography also confirmed the same. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography showed a tricuspid valve thickened and retracted with restricted mobility called a club-shaped leaflet, and with this, a diagnosis of carcinoid heart disease was made. This case mainly aims at stressing the need for early echo in neuroendocrine patients, which helps with early diagnosis and intervention to improve their survival significantly, and the application of 3D echo which will provide detailed anatomical information, particularly if tricuspid and pulmonary valves are involved.
Plantar Fascia Thickness Difference Between Pregnant and Nulliparous in Indonesia
Authors: Foraldy Jeffry , Jehosua Seilly , Momole Ansye , Tumewah Rizal , Runtuwene Theresia , Wariki Windy Mariane Virenia
Published: November 2024

Background:

Pregnancy is associated with distinct risks of fascia thickness compared to nulliparous. Therefore, this study aimed to compare plantar fascia thickness between asymptomatic pregnant women and nulliparous, evaluating the relationship with age, body mass index (BMI), arch height index (AHI), gestational age, and number of pregnancies.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2023, and subjects were through a simple random sampling method. The inclusion criteria were subjects aged 18–35 years old, while those with a history of foot pain, trauma, surgery, special orthosis during pregnancy, and other complications were excluded. Fascia thickness was measured at 10 mm distal from the insertion in the calcaneus. Age, BMI, AHI, gestational age, and pregnancy history were recorded. Student’s t-tests were used to compare both groups.

Results:

The average plantar fascia thickness in pregnant women was 2.67 ± 0.44 mm in both feet, while in nulliparous, it was 2.24 ± 0.41 mm and 2.26 ± 0.37 mm in the right and left foot, respectively. A significant difference was observed between the two groups based on BMI category (P < 0.05). Women who had experienced more than one pregnancy showed thicker fascia (P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, BMI (B coefficient: 0.029–0.031, P < 0.05) and number of pregnancies (0.268–0.267, P < 0.05) had a significant effect on plantar fascia thickness in pregnant women, while age and BMI affected nulliparous.

Conclusion:

Pregnant women had thicker plantar fascia compared to nulliparous. Consequently, screening and prevention in pregnant women and multiparous was necessary to prevent the occurrence of plantar fasciitis.