bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Study of User Acceptance Behaviours of Internet Banking in Tunisia Using UTAUT2 Model
Authors: Nasri Wadie
Published: August 2021

The conceptual model proposed was based on the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2). The proposed model was empirically tested using survey data provided by 203 respondents and was analyzed using a structural equation model (SEM). The analysis results indicated that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions show a significant positive impact on the users' behavioural intention to use internet banking services. However, price value, hedonic motivation, and habit do not positively influence the behavioural intention. This study offers Tunisian banks some guidelines to develop strategies and to improve their services in order to increase the adoption of mobile banking by their customers.
Designing a Mobile Chat Application Based on Android Platform
Authors: Căpuşneanu Sorinel , Fülöp Melinda Timea , Topor Dan Ioan , Iacob Nicoleta Magdalena , Solomon Alina Georgiana , Ifrim Ana Maria
Published: August 2021

Securing confidential information on mobile platforms has been, is, and will be a topical issue for specialists. In order to eliminate these vulnerabilities, specialized companies have made some patches, but these do not constitute a real guarantee that the same or any other applications will not be attacked and exploited without the users' will. Mitigating these attacks on smartphones can be achieved by securing mobile phones from both users and mobile providers. This article proposes the development of a chat application on the Android platform as a solution to ensure the security of digital data that is transferred through the available communication platforms. When designing this mobile application, the sudden increase in the number of users was taken into account so that the application is stable and creates a pleasant experience for them.
Review Product Distribution Through Different Channels
Authors: Qin Zhaoqiong
Published: August 2021

This study aims to investigate the literature in product distribution and channel competition. In this study, past work related to the product distribution through different channels is extensively reviewed. Based on the channel differentiation, channel competition is also reviewed. Finally, the study proposes that the future research may focus on helping the producer make a decision whether to sell the product through its own direct channel (online) through a physical channel or both based on the difference between these two channels.
Stability, Structural and Electronic Properties of Indium Phosphide Wurtzite-Diamantane Molecules and Nanocrystals: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Fayyadh Hamid A.
Published: August 2021

The density functional theory is applied for examining the electronic structure and spectroscopic properties for InP wurtzite molecules and nanocrystals. In this paper we present calculations of the energy gap, bond lengths, IR and Raman spectrum, reduced mass and force constant. The results of the presented work showing that the InP’s energy gap was fluctuated about to experimental bulk energy gap (1.49 eV). Results of spectroscopic properties including IR and Raman spectrum, reduced mass and force constant as a function of frequency were in accordance with the provided experimental results. In addition, the study of the Gibbs free energy proved the stability phase of InP wurtzoids against transition to InP diamondoids structure.
Physical and Magnetic Characterization of Hard/Soft SrFe12O19/CoFe2O4 Nanocomposite Magnets Made by Mechanical Alloying and Ultrasonic Irradiation
Authors: Idayanti Novrita , Dedi  , Manaf Azwar
Published: August 2021

In this study, the particle sizes of SrFe12O19 in hard/soft SrFe12O19/CoFe2O4 nanocomposite magnets made using mechanical alloying and ultrasonic irradiation were investigated. SrFe12O19/CoFe2O4 nanocomposites were combined in a ratio of 75:25, with each magnetic material being prepared separately. SrFe12O19 powder was prepared from Fe2O3 and SrCO3 powder by mechanical alloying and ultrasonic irradiation for different times, 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 h. Varying the ultrasonic time during the preparation of the SrFe12O19 samples resulted in differences in morphological characteristics, crystal structure, particle size, crystal size, microstrain, density, porosity, and magnetic properties. The longer the ultrasonic time, the crystal size and particle size decreases, the density increases, and the porosity reduction which affects the magnetic properties. SrFe12O19 after 12 h ultrasonic process reach Ms value = 61.29 emu/g. CoFe2O4 powder was produced from Fe2O3 and CoCO3 powder by mechanical alloying with a 10 h milling time. Furthermore, each SrFe12O19 sample was composited with CoFe2O4 powder by ultrasonic irradiation for 1 h and these composite samples also showed different characteristics, where there is an increase in Mr and Ms compared to the single SrFe12O19. The morphology, crystal structure, particle size, and magnetic properties of the samples were measured using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, particle size analysis, and PERMAGRAPH. The crystal size and microstrain were calculated using a Williamson–Hall plot, and density and porosity were determined using Archimedes’ law.
Nonlinear Behavior of Single Walled Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Aluminium Alloy Beam
Authors: Selmi Abdellatif
Published: August 2021

This paper aims to analyze the nonlinear vibration of clamped-clamped buckled beams made of Aluminium alloy (Al-alloy) reinforced with uniformly dispersed Single Walled Carbon Nanotube (SWNT). The mean field homogenization technique is used to predict the effective material properties of the beams. The equation of motion governing the nonlinear behavior is solved using an exact method. The effects of various parameters including axial load, vibration amplitude, SWNT volume fraction, SWNT aspect ratio and beam slenderness ratio on the nonlinear frequency and on the phase trajectory plots for pre- and post-buckling states are studied.
Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Hydrothermal Processing
Authors: Surenjav Enkhtuul , Buyankhishig Battseveen , Byamba-Ochir Narandalai , Davaadorj Nemekhbayar , Song Zhi Qiang , Tegus Ojiyed
Published: August 2021

Hydrothermal water treatments of silver acetate (CH3COOAg) were investigated to reveal the factors controlling the formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with uniform size distribution. The effects of reaction time and concentration of silver acetate solution on the synthesis of Ag nanoparticles were studied, and the fabricated products were characterized. The hydrothermal water treatments of CH3COOAg were carried out between the temperatures of 250 - 450 °C in a batch reactor. In supercritical water regions, at 400 °C and a pressure of 31.5 MPa, silver particles are rapidly synthesized due to reaction rate increases at a low dielectric constant of supercritical water. The preparation of the silver particles with 30-80 nm in size showed a highly crystalline structure identified by XRD and TEM observations.
TM Standing Wave Solution of Maxwell Equations in a Self-Defocusing Kerr Media and its Application to a Thin-Film Waveguide
Authors: Nyamsuren Ochirbat , Munkhbaatar Purevdorj , Ulam-Orgikh Duger , Davaasambuu Jav , Ochirbat G.
Published: August 2021

We applied the dielectric function method to solve analytically L-NL-L structure problems with negative Kerr nonlinearity. A damped wave in linear and a periodic standing wave in non-linear media had to be matched at boundaries. We gave a formulation of boundary conditions that did not explicitly include a film thickness. The boundary-value of a dielectric function can be expressed through the constant of non-trivial integral of motion. Using it, one generates a family of matched solutions satisfying boundary conditions. Then arbitrary film thickness can be checked against this family of solutions in search of matches. As a result, all fitted solutions are determined straightforwardly.
Static Displacements and Short-Range Order in Ni-14 at. % Ir Alloy
Authors: Enkhtor Lkhamsuren , Silonov Valentin , Gantulga Tsedendorj , Ragchaa Galbadrakh , Amartaivan Tsenddavaa , Odbadrakh Khorgolkhuu
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we are proposing a novel method to estimate static displacements of atoms caused by size effects in fcc substitutional binary polycrystalline solid solutions. Fourier transforms of static displacements of the atoms on every considered shell were calculated using the equations that include dynamical matrix and Fourier transform of interatomic forces. Short-range order parameters on the first seven shells of Ni-14 at. % Ir alloy have been identified from X-ray diffuse scattering intensity by accounting microscopic static displacements of atoms on a particular shell. Pairwise interatomic potentials on the considered shells and critical temperature of disorder-order phase transition were calculated using values of short-range order parameters.
Solubility Property of Baganuur Coal: Performance Assessment by FTIR Spectroscopic Analysis
Authors: Sambuu Munkhtsetseg , Tsagaanaa Khandmaa , Ganbold Erdene-Ochir , Ragchaa Galbadrakh , Sukhbaatar Enkhtor , Oleshkevich Anna Nikolaevna , Lapchuk Natalia Mikhailovna
Published: August 2021

In the present work, the extraction of Mongolian Baganuur coal in solvents as pyridine and ionic liquid with 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl) anion was first applied. The as recieved coal, its extracts and insoluble residues were then characterized using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The obtained FTIR spectra have revealed many new features in the field of coal study. An appearance or sharpening of the particular bands after the chemical treatment allow a determination of inactive or weak fundamental vibrations precisely. Some emphasis are as follows, substantial quantitative change, the integrated area decrease of water molecule band at 3260 cm−1 comparing to as received sample and ionic liquid treated extract, can be seen for the extract spectrum in the pyridine treatment. Pyridine react to coal structure particularly in long-wave frequency zone means very susceptible to the oxygen containing functional group. Upon interaction between acidic group of the coal and the basic solvent as pyridine, the inter-fragment hydrogen and ester bonding in the coal structure is breaking, thus increasing the solubility of the individual fragments via producing new components. Towards forming H bond in the short wave zone Cl− anion shows a strong effect on the coal molec-ular structure. A stabilization of hydrogen bonds show well fluidization and a strong intermolecular interaction of the process via its powerful spectral intensity that is followed many new bands and con-siderable strengthening of band spectral integral area in this frequency region. In long-wave vibrational region there are appearances of many new bands, shift in frequency and depletion of the as recieved coal bands. [Bmim]Cl treatment exhibits the highest effect of the disruption on the carboxylic acids dimer.
Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Hierarchical Porous Carbon Materials and its Catalytic Ability in Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Jin Hao , Zhang Wunengerile , Wu Yun , Muschin Tegshi , Jia Jing Chun , Agula Bao
Published: August 2021

Hydrolysis for hydrogen production is one of the most efficient ways to produce hydrogen energy. In order to realize its wide application, people urgently need to find cheap and efficient metal-free electrocatalysts to replace the noble-metal electrocatalysts in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, N-doped hierarchical porous carbon materials were successfully fabricated without any template. We changed the nitrogen and carbon source needed to prepare the material and tested HER performance. In all samples, the ethylenediamine-based porous carbon material (NPC-2) compared with other nonmetallic heteroatom doped carbon materials and some traditional metallic catalysts exhibited outstanding HER performance and stability in acid solution. To achieve a 10 mA/cm2 HER current density, the nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon materials (NPC-2) required an overpotential of 398 mV.
Perception of Bao as Sports Tourism: Evidence from Tanzania
Authors: Mkwizu Kezia H.
Published: August 2021

Sports tourism is one of the ways for countries to rebuild the tourism sector. Existing literature on Bao as a board game is mostly from a historical, educational, and cultural angle, whilst there is less attention on the potential of Bao as sports tourism. To expand the literature, this study focuses on Bao from a sports tourism perspective by exploring the perception of Bao as sports tourism from the residents’ views. An interpretivism paradigm approach was applied, and the data collection instrument was designed with open-ended questionnaire to gather data from the respondents. Purposive sampling was used to select the respondents, and the collected qualitative data was subjected to content and thematic analysis. The main findings revealed that perception of Bao as sports tourism from residents’ views such as leisure, refreshing the mind, locals and tourists are attracted to Bao, can play Bao with family and friends, and locals and tourists join playing Bao. Further findings revealed that a sense of belonging to a group and a sense of belonging to a community is how residents perceive Bao as sports tourism. Researchers in other parts of the world, such as South Asia, where mancala board games are played, can conduct similar studies and even go beyond to apply a quantitative approach to further understand the phenomenon of mancala from a tourism marketing perspective. The tourism stakeholders such as destination marketing organizations should consider the factors such as leisure, refreshing the mind, the attraction of locals and tourists to Bao, and the sense of belonging to a group or community when promoting Bao as sports tourism.
Serum Adsorption Study to Validate the Specificity of a Rapid Test to Detect Strongyloides stercoralis Infection
Authors: Noordin Rahmah , Osman Emelia , Anuar Nor Suhada , Juri Nor Mustaiqazah , Rahumatullah Anizah , Ahmad Hilmi Nur Athirah
Published: August 2021

A lateral flow rapid test for strongyloidiasis will greatly facilitate the control and elimination of the disease. Previously SsRapid prototype rapid test showed high diagnostic specificity to detect Strongyloides infection, determined using non-Strongyloides sera negative by IgG-ELISAs. Since high specificity is crucial before a test is used for public health control activities, further validation of its specificity is needed. Also, it needs to be ascertained whether non-Strongyloides sera positive by IgG-ELISAs and SsRapid are truly positive for Strongyloides or are cases of cross-reactivity. We performed 84 rapid tests (two types of dipsticks and cassettes) using 34 serum samples. They were divided into four groups based on Strongyloides infection and coinfection with other parasites and the availability of recombinant proteins and rapid tests for the latter. Sera was adsorbed using polystyrene microspheres beads separately coated with four recombinant parasite proteins. The small sample size is a limitation of this study; however, the overall results showed that the sera adsorption procedure was successful, and the SsRapid test is specific.
Exhuming and highlighting the nearly forgotten Gold Coast intelligentsia: The life and times of Prince Kwamin Atta Amonoo V
Authors: Gibbs James
Published: August 2021

The name K. A. Amonoo sits in the Roll of Honour in the entrance hall of Queen’s College, Taunton, Somerset, England together with the names of other former pupils who served in the First World War. In recent times, focus on K. A. Amonoo has been on his palatial residence, which he built in Anomabo, a coastal town in Ghana, in colonial Gold Coast, as Micots (2015 and 2017) have sought to emphasize in terms of the architectural design of his residence. Therefore, what this paper seeks to do is to bring to light a historically significant narrative of who Amonoo was, as a case study to examine and foreground the contributions of some of the nearly forgotten African intelligentsia of coastal Ghana. Through close analysis, the paper also places a central gaze on his activism within colonial Gold Coast and Calabar in colonial Nigeria as subtle moves to counter the growing authority of the British administration. Utilizing a set of key biographical prompts, the paper reflects on thematic issues such as class and status, modernity, and resistance to British colonial hegemony.
Anxiety in adult foreign language learning: The case of Ghanaian undergraduate students of Spanish
Authors: Lomotey Benedicta Adokarley
Published: August 2021

This study investigates students’ anxiety levels through the administration of the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) among Spanish learners at a Ghanaian University. The differences according to level of instruction, the association between classroom anxiety and performance, as well as the possible relationship between language immersion and anxiety are also analysed using descriptive statistics, and Pearson’s Moment Correlation Coefficient. The findings indicate that the majority of student participants experienced foreign language classroom anxiety. Nonetheless, contrary to previous research findings, anxiety was not found to decrease systematically as proficiency increased. Additionally, as confirmed by previous studies, the result of the Pearson correlation analysis showed that students’ overall Spanish classroom anxiety and their classroom achievement had a negative association.
The spirit of empowerment: A study of Acts 3:1-10
Authors: Salakpi Alexander
Published: August 2021

The words of Peter and the stretch of his right hand empowered the cripple to become like “the others.” Within a society are people who need a little push to be themselves. There are also people in the society who can empower others but either they are not conscious of it or just do not want to help. A piece of advice, a smile, a touch, an amount of money, education, and food, in a selfless effort or in a sacrifice, are some of the numerous ways of empowering people to do what they think is impossible. Exegetical analysis of Acts 3:1-10 demonstrated how Peter and John healed the cripple, restored his human dignity, and empowered him from begging. This paper contributes to the discussion on cultural attitudes towards empowerment.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Gibbs James
Published: August 2021

Alastair Niven, In Glad or Sorry Hours, London: Starhaven, 2021, 0-936315-482, 256 pp.
Trematode Infections in Freshwater Snails and Seasonal Variations in Iringa and Arumeru Districts, Tanzania
Authors: Nzalawahe J.
Published: August 2021

Understanding of the larval trematode infections in snail intermediate hosts is essential in designing appropriate control measures. The current study was designed to determine larval trematode infection and seasonal variations in freshwater intermediate host snails Iringa and Arumeru Districts where trematode infections in cattle are endemic. A repeated cross-sectional study was adopted whereby Snails were collected three times a year (dry, early wet and mid wet). The selection of water bodies for sampling was based on random sampling and snails were collected by scooping method. The collected snails were identified based on the published morphological keys. A total of 2,016 snails were collected and 134 (6.6%) were found to be infected with trematode larvae. Six species of snails were identified that were Radix natalensis, Bulinus africanus group snails, Bulinus tropicus group snails, Bulinus forskalli group snails, Biomphalaria pfeifferi and Ceratophallous natalensis. Five morphologically different types of cercariae were identified that included gymnocephalous, amphistomes, mammalian Schistosoma, avian Schistosoma and Xiphidiocercariae. The findings on overall seasonal snail infection rates indicated low rate during the wet season while peak of infections were in the dry and early wet seasons. It is concluded that domesticated ruminants in the study areas are at high risk of getting infected with the trematodes (Fasciola and amphistomes) during dry and early wet seasons. Therefore, deworming of domesticated ruminants with an effective flukicide is recommended at the end of the wet season and followed by a treatment in mid dry season and the last treatment in early wet season.
Crescimento de guanandi em sistemas agroflorestais e em plantio homogêneo em planície inundável
Authors: Devide Antonio Carlos Pries , Castro Cristina Maria de , Ribeiro Raul de Lucena Duarte , Abboud Antonio Carlos de Souza , Pereira Marcos Gervasio
Published: August 2021

O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar o crescimento de guanandi (Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess.), em planície inundável, em plantio homogêneo (controle) e em dois sistemas agroflorestais - SAFs (simples e biodiverso). O plantio de guanandi foi instalado no Vale do Paraíba, estado de São Paulo, em 2007. De 2011 a 2014 avaliou-se o crescimento de guanandi em um experimento em delineamento em blocos ao acaso, com oito repetições. Os SAFs consistiram do plantio de culturas anuais nas entrelinhas de guanandi. O SAF biodiverso foi acrescido de 16 espécies arbóreas, bananeiras (Musa sp.) e palmeira juçara (Euterpe edulis Mart.). As árvores de guanandi apresentaram similaridade morfológica no plantio homogêneo e nos sistemas agroflorestais, atingindo, em média, 5,40 m de altura total aos sete anos de idade. A taxa de crescimento relativo foi similar nos três tratamentos, com maiores valores atribuídos ao raio da copa (2,59%) e à circunferência a 1,30 m do solo (1,86%). Os sistemas agroflorestais são promissores, por aliar os benefícios da geração de renda e da restauração ecológica ao plantio de guanandi em planície de inundação.
Re-thinking the dynamics of a pluralistic society in Acts 15:1-35 and contemporary Zimbabwean society: A Narratological Approach
Authors: Marevesa Tobias
Published: August 2021

From time immemorial, ethnic diversity in society often resulted in conflict instead of cooperation. Religion played a pivotal role in uniting or dividing people. In the New Testament world, James Dunn (2006) describes the dynamics of a pluralistic society as that of unity in diversity. Furthermore, other prominent scholars in the New Testament studies such as Haenchen (1985:467) and Witherington (1998:439) aptly describe Acts 15:1-35 as a “turning point” and a “watershed”, respectively, in relation to the dynamics of ethnic conflict resolution. The main thrust of this paper to interrogate a conflict-resolution in the pluralistic environment of Acts 15. This paper will be informed by insights and the lens of narrative method. The coming of this method into the New Testament studies was not well received by traditional scholars who viewed it as taking the Bible as fictional as work. Nevertheless, this paper maintains that the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15 (50 CE) can be examined and analysed using narratological insights.
Protection of Cultural Heritage: Risk Management in Museums in Turkey
Authors: ERTURK Nevra
Published: August 2021

The concept of risk management has started to be used in museums towards the end of 1980’s and it has been suggested that an analytical approach could be used for risks in preventive conservation work. Risk management has started to be discussed as a separate area of study in museums in Turkey with 1999 earthquakes. In this context, the aim of the article is to examine the studies carried out on risk management in museums in Turkey and assess the current situation; to explain the risk management needs of museums based on this review and to make suggestions. In the article, risks about museum buildings and collections will be explained at first; information on the legal regulations, strategies, action plans, institutional initiatives and projects related to risk management in museums in Turkey will be given by examining the existing documents and the studies carried out in this field; risk management work both in state and private museums will be examined and suggestions will be made for the needs of museums related to risk management. In the article, laws, regulations and reports related to the subject were examined with the document analysis method, and the studies in the field were searched with the literature review. According to the research findings, the activities carried out on risk management in museums in Turkey are mostly limited with earthquake risk and preventive conservation. In the current legal regulations, there is a need to refer to the issue of risk management for museums. Risk management policies and plans should be developed for museums and holistic studies, which cover all risk factors, should be carried out accordingly. An institutional structuring, which can give service in the national scale on risk management issue for all moveable and immoveable cultural properties, museums, libraries and archives, is a need.
La consolidación de las masas, ideología y ética en Freud [The consolidation of the masses, ideology and ethics in Freud]
Authors: Jaimes Cienfuegos Javier
Published: August 2021

El significado que implica el concepto de hombre en el siglo XX, al igual que las nuevas formas de sublimación que se estructuraron en la sociedad tecno-científica que trajo consigo sujetos sin oposición, sin crítica y ética, requirió del análisis del concepto de masas a través de la obra de Freud y por medio de esta indagación, se da a conocer el significado que implica el concepto de hombre en el siglo XX. Finalmente se definió la represión (término central del presente estudio) a partir de un análisis teórico, que dará paso al estudio freudiano de las sociedades y a la transformación dialéctica del hombre, El diseño de la investigación corresponde al denominado transaccional descriptivo no experimental. Es de carácter documental, debido a que pretende puntualizar a través de la consulta de textos y el análisis de los mismos. Respecto al psicoanálisis, es imperante mencionar que ciertas situaciones pueden partir de mecanismos de defensa como la proyección o la sublimación, esto en el caso de las personas con deseos de reprimir o ser reprimidas por una autoridad (la iglesia o el ejército).
Evaluation of the Effect of Two Exercise Regimes in Producing Forces on Anterior Cruciate Ligaments: A Systematic Review
Authors: van Usen Carla , Pumberger Barbara
Published: August 2021

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common. A goal of rehabilitation is to restore functional capacity. Currently, there are contrary opinions regarding the effectiveness of using either closed or open kinetic chain exercises (CKC, OKC) only, or a combination of both, following ACL injury, to obtain the most effective outcome. The debate also reflects the approach which places the least force on the ACL itself. Objective: To identify the evidence of effectiveness of closed versus open kinetic chain exercises, or a combination of both, in anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation. Methods: A systematic review was undertaken of experimental studies published since 1990. Included studies were on humans with ACL injury. The ACL ligament could be healthy, ruptured, deficient or reconstructed. Studies on animals and cadavers were excluded. The methodological quality of included studies was appraised with the PEDro tool. Studies were graded according to hierarchy level, methodological quality, statistical significance, effect size, and clinical relevance. Recommendations were made on the strength of the body of evidence. The outcome measure of interest was force on the ACL during exercise. Results: 23 eligible studies were included. The majority of studies reflected lower level experimental designs with moderate methodological quality. Three studies showed a significant difference in ACL force comparing CKC and OKC exercises, 11 demonstrated trends towards significant differences in outcome and nine showed no significant differences. Conclusion: There is moderate evidence to recommend CKC exercises or a combination of CKC and OKC exercises, rather than OKC exercises alone, for ACL rehabilitation when considering forces on the ACL.
For Falls Sake: Older Carers' Perceptions of Falls and Falls Risk Factors
Authors: Mackintosh Shylie , Fryer Caroline , Sutherland Michele
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Older carers play an important role in falls prevention through their influence over their dependent’s actions and by their own behaviour. This study aimed to determine the perceptions of falls and fall-related risk factors by older carers in an Australian metropolitan community to inform the development of effective falls prevention strategies in this population. Method: A questionnaire was mailed to all members of a carers group in January 2003 and responses from carers aged 60 years or above were included in the study (n=121). Results: The majority of older carers (85%) understood that falls are a problem for their age group and that falls can be prevented (74%). Poor pavement maintenance and balance problems were rated as the most important risk factors for falls. The importance of unsafe behaviour as a falls risk was undervalued. The majority of respondents (74%) indicated they would talk to their doctor if they were concerned about falling. Conclusions and Recommendations: The results of this study indicate that older carers in a metropolitan community acknowledge falls are both important and preventable. The awareness of unsafe behaviour as a falls risk factor needs to be raised. Health professionals are trusted by older carers and should discuss falls prevention strategies with both the older patient and their carer. The next stage is to explore if older carers understand how they can reduce the risk of falling for themselves and their dependents, and how to effectively engage and enable older carers to do this successfully.
Genetic Disorders: Implications for Allied Health Professionals: Two Case Studies
Authors: Smith Michaele , Danoff Jerome , Jain Mina , Long Toby
Published: August 2021

With advances in study of the human genome, increasingly accurate genetic testing has become available. Genetic-based birth defects may result in progressive dysfunction. Consequently, because of the negative associations, many people do not want to consider prognostication testing or accept the most appropriate treatments. The allied health practitioner may see this as counter to the goal of optimal health care. However, consideration must be given to the patient’s comfort with advanced knowledge. In this paper we discuss ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic testing and how these relate to patients seen in an allied health environment. First, background on genetic disorders, their causes, and how they are characterized is presented. Then two case studies are described. One is a 50-year female with Huntington’s disease (chorea), an inherited autosomal dominant condition leading to central nervous system deterioration. The second is a 5-year boy with Stickler syndrome, a hereditary autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder affecting Type II collagen. Symptoms, therapeutic approaches, and long term prognoses are discussed. Working with patients having genetic disorders presents unique challenges for allied health professionals because of the social and political implications of these maladies. Suggestions are provided on how allied health professionals may respond to these issues.
A Study of the Self-Regulated Learning Inventory on a HBCU Student Population in Allied Health
Authors: Goodpasture James , Lindner Reinhardt , Thomas Mathews
Published: August 2021

Increased numbers of minorities in the allied health disciplines are sought for a number of reasons. One approach to increasing minority graduates in allied health sciences is to ensure that minority applicants have the learning behaviors necessary to succeed in the academic setting. In this study, we sought to determine if self-regulated learning, assessed via a self-report inventory, was significantly related to Grade Point Average (GPA) in undergraduate students enrolled in a historically black college or university (HBCU). The Self Regulated Learning Inventory V. 5 (SRLI V.5) was distributed to undergraduate HBCU students enrolled in allied health majors. The inventory was completed by 134 undergraduate students who provided the data for the study. Results indicated that the SRLI was not significantly correlated with academic success (based on student GPA). Further investigation revealed that different methods used in calculating GPA and the inclusion of transfer students likely decreased the statistical power of the association between academic performance and self-regulation.
What is the Effectiveness of a Biopsychosocial Approach to Individual Physiotherapy Care for Chronic Low Back Pain?
Authors: George Susan
Published: August 2021

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of a biopsychosocial approach to management for chronic low back pain when applied by individual physiotherapists. Eight primary databases and three secondary databases were searched electronically. A manual reference search was also performed. To be eligible, trials had to provide treatment according to biopsychosocial principles in primary care or comparable settings. This approach is a holistic intervention that addresses social, psychological, and biological aspects of chronic pain. Included trials defined chronic low back pain as of greater than eight weeks duration. Primary outcome measures were reductions in pain or improvement in function. Nine trials were identified that provided a biopsychosocial intervention evaluated qualitatively by evidence of a combined approach of education and empowerment of the patient, neurobiological conditioning, and graded exposure. Comparison treatments included exercise alone, cognitive behavioral therapy alone, usual care, and no treatment. Data from these trials were extracted for comparison and the findings synthesized against research evidence quality dimensions to evaluate the effectiveness of a biopsychosocial approach applied by physiotherapists. Five trials found strong evidence for the effectiveness of a biopsychosocial approach to individual physiotherapy care, three trials found moderate evidence, and one trial found limited evidence. This review supports the use of biopsychosocial approaches for chronic low back pain and informs clinical practice. The findings may have particular relevance for physiotherapists working in professional or geographical isolation.
Breastfeeding Helps Prevent Two Major Infant Illnesses
Authors: Story Lysa , Perish Thomas
Published: August 2021

Background: Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality rates due to gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses in children worldwide. Components of breast milk give the breast milk its protective mechanism against childhood illnesses. Additionally, breast milk is economical, costing parents nothing financially. Objective: To provide evidence to healthcare providers regarding the protective effects of breast milk against the incidence of gastroenteritis and pneumonia in infants. Methods: Fifteen published studies were reviewed regarding the effect of breastfeeding on the incidence of gastrointestinal and/or respiratory illnesses. Studies ranged from six months to twelve years in length, comparing the incidence of illnesses between breast and formula fed infants. Databases used were MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, DynaMed, and CINAHL. Results: The majority of studies found a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. Research shows breastfeeding for any length of time is beneficial. Breastfed infants are less likely to visit doctors or be admitted for illnesses. Conclusion and Recommendations: Studies have consistently reported a decrease in the incidence of diarrhea and lower respiratory tract infections in breastfed infants. By breastfeeding, mothers are providing a natural form of nourishment, reducing long-term healthcare cost, eliminating formula cost, and nurturing a bond with her child. As clinicians, recommendations should be made to soon-to-be parents regarding the importance of breast milk during routine obstetric and pediatric visits.
Evidence-Based Practice Approach Over Three Visits in the Management of a Patient with Tibio-Femoral Osteoarthritis: A Case Study
Authors: Gomersall Sjaan , McEvoy Maureen
Published: August 2021

Supervised training is essential for developing an evidence-based practice (EBP) approach for future health care clinicians. While the skills associated with asking a research question, accessing databases for best research evidence (BRE), and appraising this evidence can be taught in the classroom, the day-to-day application into patient management needs to be taught, and there is a lack of best practice models for this. This case study of a patient with osteoarthritis of the knee demonstrates over a series of three clinic visits how EBP can be used as a framework for guiding assessment and management from the perspective of a final year physiotherapy student.
Day Therapy Programs for Adolescents with Mental Health Problems: A Systematic Review
Authors: Deenadayalan Yamini , Kumar Saravana , Machotka Zuzana , Perraton Luke
Published: August 2021

Day therapy programs are one of many interventions available for adolescents with mental health issues. Day therapy programs utilise a multi-disciplinary community-based approach to the treatment of mental health issues and allow adolescents to remain under the care of their family. To date, no review has specifically investigated the effectiveness of day therapy programs for adolescents. This review aims to investigate both the effectiveness of day therapy programs for adolescents with mental health problems and highlight the key components underpinning these programs. A systematic review of peer- reviewed literature was undertaken, using recognised processes. Eight studies were included in this review, including both interventional and descriptive study designs. All eight studies found positive effects of varying degrees for day therapy programs for adolescents with mental health problems. Most used a multi-modal, multi-disciplinary group-based approach and utilised one or more co-interventions. A frequency of once per week was most commonly used; however, the optimal frequency and duration of day therapy programs remains unclear. Most studies used more than one type of health professional to deliver their intervention. Unsurprisingly, psychologists or psychiatrists were involved in delivering interventions in all but one study. Current research evidence suggests that day therapy programs may be an effective intervention for adolescents with mental health issues. A multimodal and multidisciplinary group-based treatment approach may be most effective, and participants could benefit from the involvement of at least one health professional from a psychology or psychiatric background. However, a range of health professionals may contribute to a day therapy program and a range of locations and settings may be appropriate. Further high-level, high-quality research using standardised outcome measures is required to support these findings and determine key parameters, such as an optimal frequency and duration for day therapy programs.
Emergency Department Physical Therapist Service: A Pilot Study Examining Physician Perceptions
Authors: Lebec Michele , Cernohous Steven , Tenbarge Lisa , Gest Colleen , Severson Kristen , Howard Sharon
Published: August 2021

Though physical therapist consultation has been described as a means of enhancing care in the Emergency Department (ED), such services are rare and often poorly understood. This pilot study utilizes qualitative methodology for the purpose of describing how one group of emergency physicians experienced with physical therapist consultation in the ED perceive these services and the challenges associated with their provision. Transcripts of interviews with 11 emergency physicians were analyzed for recurrent themes. Findings indicated that these physicians found ED physical therapist services to be of value for themselves, their patients, and the department as a whole and described specific manners in which such consultations enhanced emergency care. Implementation and maintenance of the program, however, presented various challenges. Furthermore, physicians perceived that possession of certain characteristics better prepared physical therapists for success in this practice environment. These findings may help clarify the role of the ED physical therapist and aid in communicating the potential benefits and complications associated with the delivery of such services.
A Professional Learning Plan has Value in Guiding the Continuing Education of Athletic Trainers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Walker Stacy , Berry David , Pitney William , Lauber Christine , Hossler Phil , Hughes Brian
Published: August 2021

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to pilot the use of and explore the feasibility of an individualized professional learning plan (PLP) designed to guide the continuing education of athletic trainers (AT) based on their individual learning needs and explore the participants’ perceptions of its usefulness and feasibility. Method: A sample of 18 ATs (11 males and 7 females) completed the PLP and follow up the survey. Of these 18 individuals, five were also interviewed regarding their experience. The PLP Follow-up Survey consisted of 10 demographics items and 11 Likert-scale items (strongly agree = 5, strongly disagree = 1) assessing experiences with the PLP. Inductive analysis was utilized to analyze the qualitative data. Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze the quantitative data. Results: Ninety four percent (94%) of the survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the concept of having a PLP would assists in developing meaningful continuing professional education. Also, 78% agreed or strongly agreed that the PLP could aid with their selection of future continuing education. Three themes emerged from the qualitative data: 1) identifying learning needs; 2) planning continuing education; and 3) flexible guidance. Conclusion: The survey data and themes capture participants’ experience related to believing that the PLP was helpful in assisting ATs in identifying and self-analyzing individual learning needs and providing planning strategies to address these needs. Moreover, participants utilized the PLP to help guide their continuing education and also found it flexible enough to adapt based upon individual workplace challenges and financial considerations.
Attitudes and Perceptions towards Men in Nursing Education
Authors: Bartfay Wally , Bartfay Emma , Clow Kimberly , Wu Terry
Published: August 2021

Purpose: The aim of the current investigation was to compare and contrast societal perceptions and attitudes towards men in nursing as reported by male and female nursing and non-nursing university students. Methods: A comparative study design was employed to investigate societal attitudes and perceptions towards male nurses enrolled in school of nursing in a mid-sized university in Ontario, Canada. A convenience non-random sampling method was employed that consisted of undergraduate nursing (N = 82) and non-nursing (N = 67) students. Perceptions and attitudes towards men in nursing were assessed using the Attitudes Towards Men in Nursing Scale (ATMINS). Results: Sixty-seven non-nursing students partook in this investigation, including 36 males and 31 females. The non-nursing female students ranged in age from 19 to 25 years (mean = 21.6 +/- standard deviation [S.D.] 4.9), and non-nursing male students ranged in age from 19 to 37 years (mean = 23.9 +/- 4.9 S.D.). The nursing female students ranged in age from 19 to 44 years (mean = 21.8 +/- 8.8 S.D.), and the male nursing students ranged in age from 19 to 46 years (mean = 28.9 +/- 8.8 S.D.). Overall, both female nursing and non-nursing students were found to have less favourable perceptions and negative attitudes towards male nursing students. Conclusions and Recommendations: Our findings suggest that there is a general perception in Canadian society that nursing is a more suitable career choice for women than men. Moreover, societal perceptions and stereotypes towards male nurses (e.g., they are gay, effeminate, less compassionate and caring than females nurses) prevail, which may negatively contribute to their recruitment and retention in nursing programs. Greater efforts need to be taken to recruit more positive male role models in clinical practice and academia. Furthermore, recruitment ads for nursing should make greater efforts to portray the male presence in the profession.These strategies will help to address in part the current national and global shortages for nurses and also help to encourage diversity in the profession.
Ipecac: A Lesson in Clinical Guidelines
Authors: Pfister Regina
Published: August 2021

In 1965, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of ipecac for over-the-counter sale. For years, ipecac remained on the list of “must have” items for households with small children. Typically, Ipecac was used to administer an emetic quickly before reaching the emergency room or to prevent the patient from having to be referred to a medical facility. In 2004, new ipecac guidelines were published stating that the routine stocking and use of ipecac would no longer be recommended. The new guidelines would change what had been accepted for decades. Though Ipecac is no longer suggested for home use, the possibility may still exist that for particular populations, it may still be necessary. The decision is left to the individuals’ healthcare provider or poison control center, as the recommendation states that the experts would be able to the make the best decision in determining a need to administer ipecac. The recommendation reinforces the need for healthcare providers to use current clinical guidelines and their own clinical judgment in providing advice to patients. The access to care problems we face will make it imperative that all healthcare providers keep up-to-date on public health issues. In this way, we can help our patients to become better health advocates
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Patients with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Hagan Elizabeth , Feldman Harvey
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) accounts for 7-9% of all congenital heart diseases. It is fatal unless surgically corrected. Survival has improved overtime. However, neurodevelopmental outcomes have not been known until recently. This paper discusses the neurodevelopmental outcomes of patients with HLHS and the factors that influence these outcomes. Methods: A search of the literature was performed using several databases, medical textbooks and other on-line sources to locate research related to HLHS and neurodevelopment in HLHS. Results: Mean performance IQ scores tended to be lower than mean verbal IQ scores. Mean motor scores were below normal population values indicating impairment. Growth was impaired in many of those with HLHS. Factors that had negative impact on outcomes included deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA), cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), longer hospital length-of-stay, seizures, and lower socioeconomic status (SES). Conclusions: The studies show that children with HLHS do have neurodevelopmental deficits. Intelligence, motor development and growth are all affected. Focus during care of these patients should be spent on improving the factors discussed that have been shown to have negative impacts on outcomes.