bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le miracle sud-africain ? Avancées sociales… et creusement des inégalités
Authors: Perrot Cécile
Published: December 2024

Malgré la multiplication des aides sociales et l’amélioration de l’accès aux services de base (électricité, eau, éducation, logement, santé) depuis la fin de l’apartheid, la détérioration marquée de la qualité de ces services et la déliquescence des infrastructures publiques, qui s’ajoutent à des taux de chômage stratosphériques et à une répartition foncière structurellement inégalitaire, nourrissent une désillusion grandissante quant à la capacité de l’ anc , seul au pouvoir trente ans durant, de donner corps à la transformation tant espérée et de mettre fin au creusement des inégalités.
Esprit de Madiba, où es-tu ?
Authors: Richet Isabelle , Harris Verne
Published: December 2024

S’appuyant sur les systèmes de savoir indigènes d’Afrique du Sud et l’approche déconstructiviste de Jacques Derrida en particulier, l’auteur interroge ici le lien entre les voix ancestrales et toutes celles qui se relient encore à Nelson Mandela pour mettre en tension la quête d’une justice impossible et sa vocation universelle. L’« esprit de Madiba » devient alors une ressource, un souffle faisant face à tout renoncement.
A hybrid approach to conjugate gradient algorithms for nonlinear systems of equations with applications in signal restoration
Authors: Ma Xuejie , Wang Songhua
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a novel hybrid PRP-HS-LS-type conjugate gradient algorithm for solving constrained nonlinear systems of equations. The proposed algorithm presents several significant advancements and key features: (i) the conjugate parameter is constructed by utilizing the hybrid technique; (ii) the search direction, designed with the conjugate parameter, possesses sufficient descent and trust region properties without the need for a line search mechanism; (iii) the global convergence is rigorously established under general assumptions, notably without the requirement of the Lipschitz continuity condition; (vi) numerical experiments demonstrate the algorithm's efficiency, particularly in solving large-scale constrained nonlinear systems of equations and addressing the sparse signal restoration problem.
Next-Generation Healthcare Online Disease Prediction Consultation and Quantum Blockchain-Based Payment Framework
Authors: Kosaraju Sai Harsha , Bathula Archana , Sanagala Siva Skanda , Badavath Mani Chandra , Banoth Ganesh
Published: December 2024

In the rapidly evolving healthcare sector, effective diagnosis and payment systems are crucial for improving patient care and operational efficiency. This paper presents a system that integrates disease prediction with Polygon Matic cryptocurrency payments, all supported by blockchain technology. The system allows users to enter symptoms for disease prediction, select specific healthcare providers, and pay consultation fees using cryptocurrency. By utilizing advanced machine learning algorithms, specifically the Multinomial Naïve Bayes algorithm, the system accurately predicts diseases based on user-submitted symptoms, facilitating timely medical intervention. Blockchain integration ensures that transactions are transparent, secure, and immutable, fostering trust among stakeholders and protecting sensitive healthcare data. This pioneering initiative at the intersection of healthcare, predictive analytics, and blockchain technology promises to revolutionize healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and security.
The Dark Side of Urban E-Planning?
Authors: Kamete Amin Y.
Published: December 2024

This chapter tries to make sense of how ‘professionalising' the smart city concept has led to elitisization exclusion, and misunderstanding. It analyses the adoption of the smart city concept in Zimbabwe using empirical findings from qualitative research. It reveals how segments of the social system have been excluded from communication on and conversation about the smart city, leading to a lack of political will to incorporate the concept into policy. It argues that professionalising the concept has resulted in elitisization which makes it easy and safe for politicians to ignore it. The paper identifies the failure of the idea of the smart city to make it into the collective imagination as one reason for the exclusion, misunderstanding, and muted political reception, arguing that in innovations that affect the whole social system, a democratic public and collective imagination is indispensable.
Citizen Participation and Citizen Sovereignty in Three Co-Design Initiatives of Urban Spaces in Madrid
Authors: Alvira Ricardo
Published: December 2024

In recent years, institutions have adopted a unified message in favour of increasing citizen participation in public decision-making in order to move towards more democratic systems, with particular relevance for urban e-planning. This momentum has led to significant advances in the technologies used for participative initiatives. However, some authors have warned that these initiatives are not always based on a democratic paradigm, showing through scales that participation can imply different levels of citizens' sovereignty. Moreover, these scales have recently been revised from the perspectives of negotiation and co-design, suggesting that complete citizen self-government may result in less sovereignty than effective co-design between citizens and institutions. This chapter reviews the concepts of citizen participation and sovereignty, and analyses three urban spaces redesign initiatives in Madrid between 1998 and 2023, showing that the evolution of digital tools has not been accompanied by an improvement in the design of the initiatives from the perspective of democracy.
Digital Technologies for Urban and Social Innovation in Affordable, Smart, and Sustainable Neighbourhoods
Authors: De Filippi Francesca , Carbone Carmelo
Published: December 2024

By 2030, the UN estimates that 3 billion people will require adequate and affordable housing. However, current strategies to address this global housing shortage often fail to provide essential services and urban infrastructure. Although digital technologies have demonstrated the potential to enhance both the quantity and quality of housing delivery, limited research has explored their use, specifically focusing on the links between smart cities, urban and social innovation, and affordable housing. A thorough understanding of digitalization is crucial for achieving sustainable development and providing services and infrastructures, especially in vulnerable contexts. Leveraging literature and case studies, this chapter investigates the role of digital technologies in enhancing the quality of living, citizen empowerment, and participation. This chapter outlines current applications, emerging trends, opportunities and future prospects for ICT in urban e-planning, namely in affordable, smart, and sustainable neighbourhoods that are both socially inclusive and environmentally responsible.
Agile Operations in Non-Profit Organizations
Authors: Kalyani V.
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores agile operations as a vital framework for improving efficiency and effectiveness in non-profit organizations. It emphasizes the key principles of flexibility, collaboration, continuous improvement, and a client-centred approach, demonstrating how these concepts enable non-profits to respond quickly to changing needs and circumstances. Agile methodologies foster cross-functional teamwork, empower staff to take ownership of their roles, and drive innovation, resulting in enhanced service delivery. Continuous improvement through iterative planning and regular evaluation further boosts program quality and organizational effectiveness. A client-centred approach ensures that services are tailored to specific needs, improving overall outcomes.
Promoting Agile Supply Chain Management for Exporting Mangos From Tamil Nadu
Authors: Kumar R. Venkatesh , Subanginidevi A.
Published: December 2024

Tamil Nadu's mangoes are highly sought after in international markets, contributing to the country's agricultural export revenues. . These mangoes are primarily exported to countries in the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia, where demand for exotic fruits like mangoes continues to rise. The increasing global demand for Indian mangoes presents a unique opportunity for Tamil Nadu to expand its market presence through improved supply chain practices. However, challenges such as inadequate cold storage facilities, poor transportation infrastructure, and the perishable nature of mangoes make it difficult for the industry to meet international standards. Agile Supply Chain Management (SCM) principles can play a transformative role in the mango export supply chain, emphasizing flexibility, collaboration, and responsiveness to change. This manuscript aims to explore how Agile SCM can be effectively applied to the export of mangoes from Tamil Nadu, addressing both opportunities and challenges in implementing Agile practices in the mango export sector.
Sustainable HRM and Sustainable Performance in the Mauritian Tourism Sector
Authors: Ramgolam Gaitree , Ramphul Needesh , Chittoo Hemant
Published: December 2024

In the current competitive business environment, organisations are required to continuously adapt their strategies to respond to economic, social and environmental challenges. The emergence of Sustainable Human Resource Management (SHRM) is being used as a vital instrument by organisations to achieve sustainable organisational performance (economic, social and environmental) which has become a key area of concern. Hence, the objective of this systematic literature review was to analyse the relationship between SHRM and sustainable organisational performance. A total of 77 research articles on SHRM and sustainable organisational performance were extracted from scopus and google scholar and analysed. The study has therefore shed light on the trends of these two key areas and identified future avenues for research. This chapter has proposed a conceptual framework by integrating sustainable employee performance and sustainable competitive advantage as mediators and examine how SHRM and sustainable organisational performance can help to achieve sustainable tourism.
Gamifying Sustainability
Authors: Krishnaraj Renuga , Subbulakshmi S. , Kamaraj S. , Meeya Nawazkhan , Sankaran Sethu
Published: December 2024

In light of climate change and deterioration, innovative methods are needed to raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices. Conventional methods often fail to engage a wide audience, highlighting the need for new creative methods. Gamification, which uses incentives, rivalry, narrative, and user interaction to encourage and activate people for environmental causes, is a promising solution. This book analyses how gamification might raise environmental awareness and encourage action. This text examines gamification's theoretical foundations, empirical evidence on its usefulness, and successful sustainability programmes that have used gamification. The text also provides a framework for constructing robust gamified programmes. Gamification can make sustainability efforts fun. This method may engage diverse demographics, simplify complex environmental issues, and motivate people to take action. This project aims to inform scholars, educators, legislators, and practitioners who want to promote a sustainable future through creative and engaging methods.
Perspectives and Trends Relating to a Bibliometric Analysis of Hot-Desking Using VOSviewer
Authors: Moreno-Cabezali Belen Maria , Carrasco-Garrido Cristina , Raya Antonio Martínez
Published: December 2024

This chapter examines hot desks, a workspace strategy in which employees use available workstations instead of assigned desks. This has gained importance due to its potential for cost savings and flexibility. The chapter uses VOSviewer to analyze literature on hotdesking from 2010 to 2024. It highlights a peak in publications between 2016 and 2018, followed by a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key contributors include researchers from England, the United States, and New Zealand, which demonstrate significant international collaboration and high impact. The chapter explores key issues such as employee reactions, communication, job satisfaction, open-plan offices, and office design. It emphasizes the need for strategic implementation to maximize benefits and address hot-desk challenges. This bibliometric analysis provides a foundation for future research and practical applications in workspace management, highlighting the importance of international collaboration and adaptation to emerging challenges.
Rural Dental Health Transformation by Adopting Digital Technologies
Authors: Siripipatthanakul Supaprawat , Siripipattanakul Sutithep
Published: December 2024

Dental digitalization improves manufacturing and promotes dentistry in the digital age. Digital social media, AR, VR, and AI have contributed to this rise, as have the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), big data, and analytical algorithms. This Prisma-based systematic review uses reliable Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar sources. Interpretation and analysis employ content analysis. Data reveals that digital components have improved rural dental health and dentistry. These technologies will improve oral health at a fraction of the cost, relieve dentists and dental auxiliary staff of tedious jobs, and encourage personalized oral healthcare. The latest dental digitalization and technology are covered in this systematic review. A conceptual oral health prevention and care approach ensures the integration of quality, efficiency, and strategic rural dentistry care with digital technology in this modern study.
The Innovation and Transfer of Computer Science and Technology in Recent and Modern Railway Transportation
Authors: Ye Yuanlong , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2024

This article aims to discuss the influence of computer technology on the innovation and technology transfer of modern railway transportation. By historical analysis and empirical research, this article first reviews the evolution of railway transportation from steam locomotive to High-Speed Railways, and then compares and analyzes the performance of the improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MPSO) algorithm and traditional particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm in train operation scheduling through designing simulation experiments. The experiment selected the representative train operation data sets, and the first 25 and 15 data items are used as training sets respectively to predict the subsequent data items, and the prediction results of MPSO algorithm, traditional PSO algorithm and support vector machine algorithm are compared. The results show that MPSO algorithm is excellent in prediction accuracy, convergence speed and error control, and its prediction results are closer to the actual train running state, which verifies the effectiveness of computer technology in optimizing railway transportation scheduling.
Propagation of Tropical Almond (Terminalia catappa L.) through Stem Cuttings in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ketipearachchi K. G. , Vidanapathirana N. P. , Silva T. D. , Subasinghe S.
Published: December 2024

Terminalia catappa L. is a multipurpose crop regenerated through seeds. The seasonal nature of seed production limits the spread of the plant due to the limited plant materials. The present study was aimed to identify the most promising cutting type and IBA concentration for propagation of Terminalia catappa L. The experiment was conducted at a protected house located at the University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, Hambantota, Sri Lanka. The completely randomized design was used as a two-factor factorial with the cutting type (softwood, semi-hardwood and hardwood) and IBA concentrations (0 ppm (control), 1000 ppm, 2000 ppm, 3000 ppm and 4000 ppm) as the tested factors. There were fifteen treatment combinations. The percentage of rooted cuttings from two weeks after planting up to twelve weeks after planting, the maximum length of roots and the number of primary roots after 90 days of planting were collected. According to the results, the semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings showed a significantly higher percentage of rooted cuttings, maximum length of roots and number of roots compared to the softwood cuttings. Application of 4000 ppm IBA concentration showed a significant increment of number of roots and maximum length of roots compared to the control (non-treated cuttings). Thus, semi-hardwood cuttings and hardwood cuttings treated with 4000 ppm IBA are suitable for the propagation of Terminalia catappa L. This finding could lead to the providing a substitute for seed propagation.
Accountant's Role in Maintaining Corporate Sustainability Amid Crisis: Evidence from Sri Lankan Apparel Industry
Authors: Balasooriya B. A. D. S. , Samudrage D. N.
Published: December 2024

The primary focus of this study is to explore the role of accounting professionals in connection to corporate sustainability practices and how accountants handle any difficulties that may arise during the crisis in Sri Lanka. This research study employs a qualitative methodology to explore fundamental research questions. Four semi-structured interviews were conducted with sustainability professionals from prominent apparel manufacturing companies in Sri Lanka regarded as industry leaders in sustainability reporting. Legitimacy theory is utilised to explore the role of accountants in fostering corporate sustainability. Results of this research indicate that accountants can significantly contribute to corporate sustainability by playing key roles such as 'sustainability information manager,' 'green accountant’ and 'sustainability trailblaser.' The paper concludes by providing professional accountants and researchers with opportunities to advance and create fresh perceptions of social and environmental values that align with ecological principles and sustainable development. These reflections will contribute to a broader discussion on the future function of accounting for sustainable development.
Influence of Behavioural Factors Towards Individual Stock Investment Decisions and Investment Performance in Sri Lanka  
Authors: Wickramathilaka J. M. , Silva H. P. T. N.
Published: December 2024

This study focused on identifying different behavioural biases affecting individual stock investors at the Colombo Stock Exchange during the economic uncertainty and crisis of 2022. Through an online questionnaire, 384 responses were gathered from individual stock investors using stratified sampling. Identifying decision-making works as a mediator in the relationship between behavioural factors and investment performance, Structural Equation Modelling was used to achieve the study’s objectives. As heuristic and market factors had influenced investors' decision-making and investment performance, it was concluded that the behavioural factors hindered the quality of decisions and investment performance of individual investors at the Colombo Stock Exchange.
The role of job crafting in linking empowering leadership and job performance
Authors: Peral Sergio L. , Davidovitz Jesse
Published: December 2024

Orientation: Job crafting involves employees proactively shaping their job demands and resources, such as physical or relational job boundaries, leading to positive outcomes such as increased meaningfulness and job performance. Leadership is a key catalyst for job crafting within organisations. This study explores how empowering leadership influences job crafting behaviour and, in turn, impacts job performance.Research purpose: This research aimed to examine the mediating effect of job crafting on the relationship between empowering leadership and job performance (task and contextual performance).Motivation for the study: Limited research has explored how empowering leadership shapes employee job crafting behaviours and their subsequent performance. The mechanisms through which leadership drives job crafting remain underexplored.Research approach/design and method: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was used, with data collected from 261 employees.Main findings: Mediational analyses supported the hypotheses. All job crafting dimensions, except for decreasing hindrance demands, mediated the relationship between empowering leadership and job performance.Practical/managerial implications: Organisations should foster autonomy, power-sharing, and developmental support to encourage employees to proactively shape their jobs, enhancing performance outcomes.Contribution/value-add: This study highlights empowering leadership as a key antecedent to job crafting behaviour and underscores its role in promoting proactive workplace behaviours and improved performance.
Assessment of Fetal Cardiac Function by Tissue Doppler Technique in Normal Fetuses of Cairo governorate
Authors: Maher Abdel R.M. , Mohammed Ahmed Mohammed A.S. , El-Rashidy Mahmoud I.
Published: December 2024

Background and aim

The effectiveness of tissue Doppler imaging has been outlined in recent studies. This study aims to establish adjusted reference ranges and study the influence of gestational age (GA) and estimated fetal weight (EFW) on tissue Doppler cardiac function measures.

Patients and methods

This was a cross-sectional study. The study included 385 healthy pregnancies between the GAs of 18 and 42 weeks who were getting ultrasound scan between May 2019 and May 2021. The inclusion criteria were singleton pregnancy without fetal malformations and healthy pregnant women, and those with established medical issues or pregnancy complications were excluded.

Results

The Mean±SD right myocardial performance index (Rt MPI) was 0.46±0.093 for 18–42 weeks of gestation. The Rt MPI seems to be slightly decreased with GA and EFW. The Rt MPI had no correlation with maternal age, BMI, or parity, with P values of 0.5, 0.6, and 0.2, respectively. Median Rt MPI was found to be relatively constant and had a slight decrease from 18 to 42 weeks of gestation.

Conclusion

Fetal Rt MPI remains stable and slightly decreased against GA in second and third trimesters. It may create EFW and GA-adjusted reference range foundation for future investigations.
Impact of ‘tutorial classes’ on learning outcomes, among medical students: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Raju S. Venkata V.G. , Chebrolu Srinivas , Potti Rajesh , DCU Sivakumar
Published: December 2024

Background and aim

Tutorial classes are an interactive and student-centered teaching method that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and active learning. They provide a platform for students to engage with their peers and instructors in a supportive and collaborative environment. This meta-analysis aims to synthesize the existing literature on the role of tutorial classes in learning outcomes among medical students.

Patients and methods

A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to September 2021. A meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software, by considering 22 articles published worldwide. The risk of publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s test.

Results and analysis

Eight studies were randomized controlled trials, seven were quasi-experimental studies, and seven were observational studies. The sample size of the studies ranged from 30 to 500 students. The duration of the intervention varied from 4 weeks to 12 months. The pooled effect size of the 22 studies showed that tutorial classes had a statistically significant positive effect on learning outcomes among medical students (P<0.001). There was significant heterogeneity among the included studies (P<0.001).

Conclusion

Tutorial classes have a significant positive effect on learning outcomes among medical students, and their use should be encouraged in medical education. Further research is needed to optimize their effectiveness and ensure their continued use in medical curricula.
Graded segmental thoracic epidural anesthesia for breast reconstruction in Poland syndrome − a case report
Authors: Chandra Alka , Harichandana Nallapareddy , Chahar Shikha , Chopra Ratna , Bhardwaj Shaleen
Published: December 2024

Poland syndrome, characterized by agenesis or hypoplasia of the pectoralis muscle, is a rare congenital condition. Individuals with Poland syndrome are notably susceptible to malignant hyperthermia. This case report outlines a breast reconstruction surgery performed under graded segmental thoracic epidural anesthesia, considered a safe and effective approach, even though total intravenous anesthesia is often preferred.
Disseminated Cryptococcomas in an Immunocompetent Adult: A Unique Case Report
Authors: Ahmed Basir , Jonathan Edmond , Raju Krishnaprabhu
Published: December 2024

Disseminated cryptococcosis is a disease of the immunocompromised, primarily presenting with pulmonary and cutaneous diseases. We present a case of an immunocompetent 33-year-old male who presented with right calf swelling and progressive left spastic hemiparesis with headache and vomiting and was found to have multiple intracranial and musculoskeletal cryptococcomas on further evaluation. This is probably the first reported case in the world with multiple intracranial and co-existing musculoskeletal cryptococcomas in an immunocompetent individual.
Opportunities and challenges in creating adaptable Artificial Intelligence (AI) models in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): The Indian scenario
Authors: Sood Anubhuti , Mishra Deepika , Surya Varun
Published: December 2024

The last decade has been marked by several transformative works based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning and/or deep learning models in the healthcare ecosystem. As the world gears to adapt itself to this technology, the low- and middle-income countries face significant challenges in this field. The integration of AI with the health ecosystem could improve patient services, reduce clinician’s load, and enable mass remote screening for noncommunicable diseases. The paradigm shift presents both unique learning and employment opportunities provided that the healthcare personnel are primed for a major skill overhaul, collaborative efforts and challenge-based learning.
The Ayush vertical: Pioneering comprehensive public healthcare under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Government of India
Authors: Sharma Ramavtar , Raghu Arackal , Goel Atul
Published: December 2024

India’s public healthcare system is vast and diverse, serving a population of over 1.4 billion with a foray into primary, secondary, and tertiary care, signifying preventive, promotive, and curative health. The Department of Ayush was given the status of a separate Ministry of Ayush in 2014. Ever since, the Ayush system has experienced significant growth, evidenced by initiatives like the National Ayush Mission, Public Health Initiative Scheme under Ayurswasthya Yojana, the establishment of National Institutes, All India Institute of Ayurveda, launch of 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and increased budgetary support for public health programs. For expanding the role of Ayush in integrated health care, there was a need to institutionalize the mechanisms to plan, monitor, and supervise Ayush-specific public health programs. To address this, an Ayush Vertical was created under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in December 2023. This strategic move aims to strengthen the integration of Ayush with modern health care, fostering a more comprehensive and integrated public health system.
Epidemiological assessment of essential life skills and its determinants among adolescents in an urban slum area
Authors: Bose Kritanjali Sahu , Lavangare Sujata , Bose Aritra
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Life skills encompass a broad spectrum of psychological and interpersonal abilities essential for leading healthy and productive lives. This holistic approach, addressing knowledge, attitude, and skills, aims to modify behavior and foster balanced development. Life skills are crucial for supporting the mental health and competency of young individuals facing the challenges of adolescence – a transitional phase between childhood and adulthood.

Material and Methods:

This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in a slum in Mumbai, where 158 adolescents (10–19 years) were selected by systematic random sampling. The sociodemographic profile and life skills were assessed among the study participants. The questionnaire for the measurement of life skills consisted of five domains: Time management, communication, leadership, goal setting, and coping skills.

Results:

Results revealed that skills of time management, goal setting, acquiring coping skills, and global life skills scores improved with the age significantly. Females exhibited better time management, which correlated with overall life skills. The literacy levels of parents influenced adolescents’ communication and leadership skills.

Conclusions:

Recognizing the nuanced influences on life skills development, interventions should address individual capacities and broader socioenvironmental factors. By fostering comprehensive life skills, interventions can contribute to the holistic well-being and positive development of adolescents facing diverse challenges in their transitional phase between childhood and adulthood.
Mucocele of the appendix: A comprehensive case report and literature review
Authors: Neog Bhaskar Jyoti , Gupta Subodh , Rastogi V. K. , Passi Paras
Published: December 2024

Appendiceal mucocele, a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of mucus in the appendix, presents a diagnostic challenge due to its nonspecific clinical features. We present the case of a 60-year-old female with recurrent right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and anorexia, suggestive of appendicular origin. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic cystic mass, prompting further investigation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which confirmed an inflamed appendix. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a retroperitoneal cavity containing mucous gelatinous material, indicative of a mucocele. Histopathological examination confirmed extensive mucosal sloughing, neutrophilic infiltrate, lymphoma cells, and muciphages, along with areas of dystrophic calcification and fibrosis. The patient recovered postoperatively and remained symptom-free during follow-up. Appendiceal mucocele poses a diagnostic challenge due to its variable presentation and resemblance to other abdominal pathologies. Radiological imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis, with abdominal ultrasound and MRI aiding in preoperative evaluation. Surgical resection remains the cornerstone of management, with laparotomy preferred to avoid mucocele rupture.
Investigating the Effect of Ear Canal Length on Improving Earplugs and Earmuffs Performance at 400 and 500 Hz Frequencies
Authors: Ebrahimi Hossein , Forouharmajd Farhad , Pourabdian Siamak , Nazaryan Kamyar
Published: December 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was noise reduction at 400 Hz and 500 Hz frequencies using earplugs and earmuffs, by varying the length of a simulated ear canal.

Methods:

This descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study was conducted in a laboratory environment using a simulated human hearing system based on the anatomical characteristics of the ear. Two types of earplugs and two types of earmuffs were tested. Using LABVIEW software, sound at 400 Hz and 500 Hz frequencies was generated by an ev-av150e sound generator at an 80 dB sound pressure level (weight A) with pink noise through a desktop speaker. A measurement microphone (1/2”, B and K brand) placed at the end of the ear canal, acting as the tympanic membrane, transmitted the received waves to a Data AcQuisition (DAQ) processing center system. Measurements were conducted for ear canal lengths of 20, 25, and 35 mm to assess the noise reduction capabilities of the hearing protection devices at these lengths. The data, reflecting sound attenuation across different lengths and devices, were evaluated and analyzed using SPSS version 26 for comparison under variable conditions.

Results:

There was a significant relationship between changes in the length of the external ear canal and the amount of noise reduction at 400 Hz and 500 Hz frequencies when using earplugs and earmuffs (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The results indicated that the performance of earplugs and earmuffs differed at these frequencies. Specifically, the effectiveness of earplugs increased with longer ear canal lengths, whereas the effectiveness of earmuffs decreased with longer ear canal lengths.
QRISK 3® and ASCVD Risk Calculator in Patients with Diabetes and Their Correlation with Coronary Artery Calcium Scores
Authors: Kannan Subramanian , Venkataraman Murali M. B. , Chandorkar Salila S.
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for asymptomatic cardiovascular disease (CVD). The QRISK 3® score and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores determine the risk of developing CVD over 10 years. The CT coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is a non-invasive imaging modality that identifies sub-clinical atherosclerosis. We studied the correlation between the QRISK 3® and ASCVD scores and the CACS and determined the cut-off for QRISK 3® and ASCVD scores that corresponded to a moderate or accentuated CACS (≥100).

Methods:

In this prospective study, outpatients with diabetes and no prior coronary artery disease (CAD) or their equivalents, or having symptoms suggestive of angina or heart failure, had their QRISK 3® and ASCVD scores calculated. They subsequently underwent 256 slice cardiac CT, and CACS was calculated by the Agatston method.

Results:

A statistically significant correlation (r = 0.28) was found between QRISK 3® and ASCVD with CACS (P = 0.004 and P = 0.007, respectively). A QRISK® score >23 and ASCVD score >10 predicted a CACS score >100 with sensitivities of 85% and 90%, respectively.

Conclusion:

The QRISK 3® and ASCVD scores can be used to triage patients who require further evaluation with CACS to determine the risk of future CVD.
The Role of Neck Ultrasonography and Nuclear Imaging in the Diagnosis of Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Sumathy Soundararajan , Palanivel Sengottaiyan , Nagaraju Kethipalli , Harisankar Chidambaram N. B. , Ashokraja Jeyaraj , Senthilkumar Jayachandran , Sreenivasan Palaniyappan , Sridhar Subbiah
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is the most common preventable cause of mental retardation, and the two important causes of CH are thyroid dysgenesis and dyshormonogenesis. Thyroid imaging is an integral part of identifying the specific aetiology of CH. We aimed to study the aetiological profile of CH and compare the imaging findings of ultrasonography (USG) and nuclear scintigraphy.

Methods:

It is a prospective, cross-sectional study conducted over 3 years. The clinical, USG, and technetium-99 m (99 mTc) scintigraphy reports of CH children were analysed.

Results:

Sixty-two CH children were included in the study with an equal male-to-female ratio (1.1:1). There was a significant association between parental consanguinity and CH observed in 35.5% of cases (P = 0.006). In USG neck, 44 (71%) had normal and/or enlarged thyroid glands at the eutopic location, 16 (27.4%) cases had an absent gland, and ectopic as well as hypoplastic unilateral gland was observed in one (1.6%) each. Among 35 children, who underwent scintigraphy, 12 (34.3%) had absent uptake, 4 (11.4%) had ectopic uptake, and 1 (2.8%) child had unilateral normal uptake. The remaining 18 (51.5%) children, whose scintigraphy showed normal or avid uptakes, were diagnosed with dyshormonogenesis. Three cases were diagnosed as apparent athyreosis.

Conclusion:

Dyshormonogeneis is the more commonly observed etiology of CH as compared to thyroid agenesis in the present study. A combined imaging approach with scintigraphy and USG is needed to delineate the specific etiology of CH. We need long-term Indian data to know the paradigm shift in the etiological pattern of CH as compared to Western studies.
Contact Dermatitis and Chemical Sensitivity among Ceramics Workers
Authors: Tao Rachel E. , Pixley Jessica N. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Contact dermatitis comprises 90%–95% of occupational skin disease cases in the United States. Some of these cases occur in ceramics workers who are in direct and prolonged contact with clays, glazes, and pastes that may cause allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and irritant contact dermatitis (ICD).

Purpose:

Our objective is to characterize the frequency of ACD and ICD among ceramics workers and to describe the culprit chemicals reported to cause chemical sensitization and positive patch test results.

Methods:

A literature review was performed in PubMed between February and July 2023 using the following keywords: “ceramics,” “potter,” “clay,” “eczema,” “hand dermatitis,” “atopic dermatitis,” and “glaze.” Twenty-seven articles were reviewed, of which nine were reports of contact dermatitis in ceramics workers written in English and were included in this review. The positive contactants were reviewed for presence in the ACDS Core Allergen Series and the T.R.U.E® Test series.

Results:

Of the 435 ceramics workers, 23% had active hand dermatitis. Of the ceramics workers with active hand dermatitis, 55% had ACD and 45% had ICD. Of the 52 sensitizing substances, 36 were not present in either of the two patch-testing series evaluated.

Conclusion:

In cases where potential culprit allergens may be difficult to identify for the purpose of patch testing, direct application of the clay body or glaze may be performed. Including these chemical allergens in routine patch testing series could facilitate better outcomes for ceramics workers with dermatitis.
Self-reported Occupational-related Contact Dermatitis: Prevalence and Risk Factors among Health-care Workers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Alshareef Rahaf I. , Alkahtani Abeer R. , Alkahtani Areej R. , Albdaya Norah A. , Aldossary Mohammed S
Published: December 2024

Background:

Occupational skin disease is the second-most common occupational disease according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accounting for 30%–45% of all occupational diseases worldwide, and out of which 95% is contact dermatitis. Health-care workers are at high risk of developing occupational contact dermatitis (OCD).

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to investigate the prevalence of and risk factors for OCD among health-care workers in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2023 after obtaining ethical approval from the institutional review board of the Ministry of Health. We used a newly generated English questionnaire based on the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (2002).

Results:

Overall, 592 health-care professionals were included; 141 had OCD on hands, wrists, or forearms. Most respondents with OCD (66.0%, n = 93) were women, whereas 48% (34.0) were men. Among health-care professionals, OCD was common in doctors; 81 out of 321 reported having the condition. The crude odds ratio for personal and family history of allergy were 3.88 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.62–5.82), and 2.63 (95% CI: 1.75–4.00), respectively, suggesting that participants with these comorbidities had a higher chance of developing OCD than patients without them did.

Conclusion:

OCD is common among health-care professionals in Saudi Arabia. Awareness of disease preventive measures may help improve outcomes.
Frequency and pain intensity of painful procedures in premature infants hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Barzegari Ali-Asghar , Akbarian_rad Zahra , Nikbakht Hossein-Ali , Qalehsari Mojtaba Qanbari , Jafarian_amiri Seyedeh Roghayeh , Zabihi Ali , Kazemi Mobina
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Various painful therapeutic and diagnostic procedures are performed daily for hospitalized infants. These procedures are very effective in their growth and recovery process. This study was conducted to determine “the frequency and pain intensity of painful procedures in premature infants hospitalized in NICU.”

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from February 10, 2023 to April 10, 2023 on all infants who met the inclusion criteria and were admitted to NICU. The data collection tool was a multi-part questionnaire including demographic data, types of painful procedures, and NIPS pain scale. After collecting the data, it was entered into SPSS23 software and analyzed at a significance level of less than 0.05.

RESULTS:

The highest frequency of painful procedures in each of the neonates during hospitalization, respectively, was related to orogastric tube insertion (24.43 ± 20.17), venipuncture (3.81 ± 1.03), IV cannula removal (3.74 ± 0.90) and intravenous insertion (3.72 ± 1.10). Pain intensity was moderate in 62.1% and severe in 36.2% of procedures. Endotracheal intubation, eye examination, nasogastric tube insertion, heel lance, oral suction, intramuscular injection, nasal suction, intravenous insertion, and venipuncture had the highest intensity of pain, respectively. Pain intensity was significantly higher in infants weighing more than 1500 g (P = 0.007) and gestational age more than 32 weeks (P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION:

Premature infants admitted to the NICU frequently undergo painful procedures with moderate or severe pain intensity. Therefore, it is recommended to use appropriate pain management to increase growth and development, maintain and promote health in infants.
Investigating the relationship between happiness and self-esteem with self-efficacy in the clinical performance of midwives working in medical centers and comprehensive health services
Authors: Mohebbi-Dehnavi Zahra , Noroozi Mahnaz
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Self-efficacy is one of the factors affecting correct performance, especially in emergency and stressful situations. The mental state of people can affect their performance. The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the relationship between self-esteem and happiness with self-efficacy in the clinical practice of midwives working in medical centers and comprehensive health services in Isfahan city.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study was a quantitative correlational study that was carried out using a quota method on 200 midwives working in health centers and comprehensive health services in Isfahan in 2021–2022. The tools used in this research were happiness, self-esteem, and self-efficacy questionnaires in clinical practice. The collected data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation coefficient test.

RESULTS:

The results showed that the average clinical performance self-efficacy score in midwives was 24.15 ± 109.02, the average happiness score was 14.95 ± 65.32, and the average self-esteem score was 24.40 ± 1.52. There is a significant relationship between the overall clinical performance self-efficacy score and both variables of happiness (P = 0.001, r = 0.03) and self-esteem (P = 0.04, r = 0.091).

CONCLUSION:

According to the results of this study, paying attention to the happiness and self-esteem of midwives and promoting them can improve their efficiency and performance and ultimately improve the health of mothers and babies and then the society.
Assessment of oral health status among occupational chefs and pantry workers in Hyderabad city
Authors: Kumar Velthuru Srujan , Patanapu Siva Kumar , Sreeja Chilukuri Sai , Kyasanoor Shiva Prasad , Veeraboina Nagarani , Nanamadri Nitya Krishna
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

The chefs and pantry workers environment plays a crucial role in the general and oral health. These workers have some unusual work timings and have a lot of stress and anxiety, and they also consume tobacco, alcohol, and smoke the cigarettes, which has a greater impact on oral health.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

A total of 86 kitchen workers (53 chefs and 33 pantry workers) of ten well-known restaurants in Hyderabad city were included. In clinical oral examination, oral hygiene status was assessed using Simplified-Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) along with demographic details. Dentition status, periodontal condition, and loss of attachment (LOA) according to WHO criteria 2013. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package Social Sciences (SPSS) package version 21.0. Statistically significance was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS:

Age-wise comparison of mean OHI-S scores among chefs and pantry workers reported that all age groups among chefs had significantly higher mean scores compared to workers (P = 0.0001*) for the same age group. When periodontal health status of the study population was considered, chefs of all age groups reported a poor periodontal health with significantly high LOA scores compared to workers except for the age group 25–35 years (P = 0.0001*). Both males and females in the chef group had significantly higher scores for all the oral parameters compared to workers (OHI-S, DMFT, gingival status, periodontitis, and LOA) (P = 0.0001*).

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study show that kitchen workers (chefs and pantry workers) in the community do suffer from various oral health problems such as dental caries and periodontal problems.
Assessment of the relationship between ethical reasoning and conflict management style among nurses
Authors: Dehbanizadeh Abolfazl , Mirzaee Mohammadsaeed , Roustaei Narges
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Clarifying the relationship between ethical reasoning and conflict management style among nurses contributes to improving ethical performance and reducing conflicts. This study aimed to determine the correlation between ethical reasoning and conflict management style among Iranian nurses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study employed a descriptive-correlational design and was conducted on 196 employed nurses in clinical departments of hospitals in Yasuj City in 2022. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using the Nursing Ethical Dilemmas Test and the Conflict Management Style questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

RESULTS:

Nurses predominantly utilized a collaborative conflict management style. The mean and standard deviation of ethical reasoning among nurses were reported as 43.90 ± 8.51. There was a significant positive correlation (P value ≤0.001, r = 0.79) between ethical reasoning and the total score of conflict management styles. Ethical reasoning significantly predicted nurses’ conflict management style (β =0.21, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study demonstrated that ethical reasoning predicts conflict management styles among nurses. It is recommended to utilize the findings of this study to enhance the managerial performance of nurses by promoting ethical reasoning and developing educational, research, and managerial guidelines. It is also suggested that the findings of this study be used to consider management and performance solutions to solve the gaps and ethical problems in clinical nurses.