bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appreciating the Complexity of Local Gender-Based Violence Needs Assessments: Some Key Considerations and Tensions in Context
Authors: Rieger Agnes , Watkins Dora N. , Garthe Rachel C.
Published: December 2024

Needs assessments can be a pragmatic method to shape interventions addressing gender-based violence. They are complex endeavors even—or especially—at the local level (e.g., rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters). Focusing on the US context, we highlight examples of the ways needs assessments can support the gender-based violence movement, and key tensions and considerations within needs assessment practice. We explore decisions that practitioners make when pursuing needs assessments and highlight conceptual and design considerations. We also provide a general discussion of needs assessment approaches. This paper aims to support nascent practitioner and researcher/evaluator work in gender-based violence needs assessments.
Workflow evaluation of environmental contamination with hazardous drugs during compounding and administration in an UK hospital
Authors: Sessink Paul JM , Barry Beverley , Dunbar Lisa , Cameron Lisa T , Kirkness Tessa , Campbell Karen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Exposure of healthcare workers to hazardous drugs may result in adverse health effects underscoring the importance of validating working procedures and safety precautions to minimise the risk. The objective was to monitor environmental contamination caused by the hazardous drug workflow: from drug vials, compounding process, to patient administration.

Methods

Surface wipe samples were collected from potentially contaminated surfaces in the compounding department and in the administration department. The outside of drug vials, compounded syringes, bags, elastomeric pumps, and gloves used by the nurses for administration were also monitored. Stationary air samples were collected near the isolators and above the bench top. Personal air samples were collected from pharmacy technicians, pharmacists, and nurses. Monitoring was performed in three trials during two-months. Samples were analysed for cyclophosphamide, 5-fluorouracil, docetaxel, and paclitaxel using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Contamination was mainly found for 5-fluorouracil and cyclophosphamide on isolator surfaces, bench top, trays, and compounded products. Lower levels of contamination were measured in the administration department on trays, trolley arms and gloves of the nurses. Paclitaxel and docetaxel were incidentally detected. Air contamination was found for paclitaxel in the compounding department in one trial, and 5-fluorouracil was detected once in front of an isolator. Docetaxel was found in one air sample of a nurse.

Conclusions

Contamination was mainly found for 5-fluorouracil and cyclophosphamide on the products compounded in the isolators. Contamination was further spread along the workflow towards the administration department causing surfaces in between being contaminated too.
Delays in Infrastructure Projects: Main Reasons in the Design, Procurement, and Construction Phases
Authors: Orya Farid , Calahorra-Jimenez Maria
Published: December 2024

Delays during the development of infrastructure projects are a common phenomenon that implies a lack of efficiency in using taxpayers’ money. Several studies were conducted to investigate the causes of these delays. However, they did not explore the reasons for the delays in each project phase. This research presents the results of a systematic literature review to identify the primary causes of delay in the phases of design, procurement, and construction of infrastructure projects. Thirty-seven (37) relevant papers published in peer-reviewed journals between 2010 and 2024 were selected and analyzed using a four-step process comprised of structured literature review, descriptive statistical analysis, content analysis, and reasons categorization. The study revealed that 80% of the reasons occur in the construction phase, while 20% are associated with the design and procurement phases. Identifying the reasons for the delay within each phase may aid public owners, design firms, and construction firms in developing specific measures to mitigate the delays in each phase.
Stillbirth and Congenital Syphilis: Autopsy and Placental Findings of 11 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ilgenfritz Raquel , Lai Ana Catarina , Pereira Filipa Galante , Braga Ana Costa , Pontinha Carlos Miguel , Patrier Sophie
Published: December 2024

Syphilis is a preventable and treatable disease, which continues to strike low-income countries and vulnerable populations in high-income countries. It is caused by T pallidum, a spirochete capable of traversing the placental barrier, with a high rate of fetal and placental infection. Congenital syphilis (CoS) has poor prognosis if left untreated. Autopsy and placental evaluation are important tools to diagnose this disease in the obstetric scenario, to reveal the correct cause of demise and prevent complications in future pregnancies. We describe the histologic findings of eleven feto-placental examinations of non-treated CoS with fetal hydrops and stillbirth. Fetal findings are variable, with hydrops, X-ray long bone metaphyseal bands and hepatic lesions as the most consistent autopsy findings. The combination of chronic and acute villitis/intervillitis is a common placental feature in CoS, and the presence of mixed inflammatory populations is a key to suspect treponemal infection. Mothers from vulnerable populations and with poor obstetric care also deserve increased efforts to rule out CoS as cause of death. This constellation of findings must lead to further testing with direct methods (PCR or tissue immunohistochemistry for T pallidum).
Measuring Personality When Stakes Are High: Are Graded Paired Comparisons a More Reliable Alternative to Traditional Forced-Choice Methods?
Authors: Lingel Harriet , Bürkner Paul-Christian , Melchers Klaus G. , Schulte Niklas
Published: December 2024

In graded paired comparisons (GPCs), two items are compared using a multipoint rating scale. GPCs are expected to reduce faking compared with Likert-type scales and to produce more reliable, less ipsative trait scores than traditional binary forced-choice formats. To investigate the statistical properties of GPCs, we simulated 960 conditions in which we varied six independent factors and additionally implemented conditions with algorithmically optimized item combinations. Using Thurstonian IRT models, good reliabilities and low ipsativity of trait score estimates were achieved for questionnaires with 50% unequally keyed item pairs or equally keyed item pairs with an optimized combination of loadings. However, in conditions with 20% unequally keyed item pairs and equally keyed conditions without optimization, reliabilities were lower with evidence of ipsativity. Overall, more response categories led to higher reliabilities and nearly fully normative trait scores. In an empirical example, we demonstrate the identified mechanisms under both honest and faking conditions and study the effects of social desirability matching on reliability. In sum, our studies inform about the psychometric properties of GPCs under different conditions and make specific recommendations for improving these properties.
A Systematic Review on the Outcomes of Climate Change in the Middle-Eastern Countries: The Catastrophes of Yemen and Syria
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen , Mojtabaeian Seyyed Morteza , Sarvestani Mina Aghamaleki
Published: December 2024

The Middle East is facing serious climate change challenges, rendering it as one of the most affected regions worldwide. This paper aimed to investigate the outcomes of climate change in the Middle East. In 2024, a qualitative study was conducted employing a methodology that integrated systematic review for data collection and thematic analysis for data analysis. Such integration of the approaches provided valuable insights into the findings within the literature in a comprehensive and categorized format. PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched for relevant studies published between 2000 and 2024. The quality of these studies was assessed using the AACODS (Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date, Significance) checklist. The data extracted from the included studies underwent a thematic analysis utilizing Braun and Clarke’s methodology. After completing the screening process, a total of 93 papers were deemed suitable for inclusion in the study. The quality assessment of these selected studies demonstrated a notably high standard, particularly in terms of authority, accuracy, coverage, objectivity, and significance. Moreover, minimal levels of bias were observed within the included studies. Subsequent thematic analysis of the findings from the systematic review identified 6 overarching themes: “Human Health Outcomes,” “Animal Health Outcomes,” “Plant Health Outcomes,” “Ecological Outcomes,” “Economic Outcomes,” and “Political Outcomes.” The study revealed ecological outcomes as the most prevalent consequences of climate change in the Middle East, including alterations in habitat distribution, temperature increase, water scarcity, and more. The outcomes seemed to be interconnected, exacerbating each other. Yemen and Syria had faced severe consequences, leading to political unrest and humanitarian crises in which Yemen ranking among the most water-stressed nations globally, while Syria contending with millions of displaced individuals living in dire conditions.
Geometric Deep learning Prioritization and Validation of Cannabis Phytochemicals as Anti-HCV Non-nucleoside Direct-acting Inhibitors
Authors: Charles Ssemuyiga , Edgar Mulumba Pius
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The rate of acute hepatitis C increased by 7% between 2020 and 2021, after the number of cases doubled between 2014 and 2020. With the current adoption of pan-genotypic HCV therapy, there is a need for improved availability and accessibility of this therapy. However, double and triple DAA-resistant variants have been identified in genotypes 1 and 5 with resistance-associated amino acid substitutions (RAASs) in NS3/4A, NS5A, and NS5B. The role of this research was to screen for novel potential NS5B inhibitors from the cannabis compound database (CBD) using Deep Learning.

Methods:

Virtual screening of the CBD compounds was performed using a trained Graph Neural Network (GNN) deep learning model. Re-docking and conventional docking were used to validate the results for these ligands since some had rotatable bonds >10. About 31 of the top 67 hits from virtual screening and docking were selected after ADMET screening. To verify their candidacy, 6 random hits were taken for FEP/MD and Molecular Simulation Dynamics to confirm their candidacy.

Results:

The top 200 compounds from the deep learning virtual screening were selected, and the virtual screening results were validated by re-docking and conventional docking. The ADMET profiles were optimal for 31 hits. Simulated complexes indicate that these hits are likely inhibitors with suitable binding affinities and FEP energies. Phytil Diphosphate and glucaric acid were suggested as possible ligands against NS5B.
Care homes and primary care in England working together: A multi-method qualitative study
Authors: Warmoth Krystal , Aylward Alex , Goodman Claire
Published: December 2024

Objective

In England, most long-term care for older people with complex health care needs is provided by private care homes. They rely on primary care to provide medical care and access to specialist health care services. This study explored the working relationships between care homes and primary care in one region in England to inform a theory of change for achieving improved relationships.

Methods

We carried out a multi-method qualitative study using appreciative inquiry. We thematically analysed data from 33 survey responses, 15 interviews, and eight workshops with care home and primary care staff, family carers, and other community specialists to populate the theory of change. A patient and public involvement representative supported data collection, analysis, and write-up.

Results

Study participants described activities that encouraged role understanding, communication, and learning together benefitting staff, relationships, and quality of services. The lessons and experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic had shaped participants’ understanding of what is required to sustain cross-sector collaboration. Key inputs included time, staff, and funding to facilitate learning how to work together effectively, as well as the capacity to adapt to diverse care settings and address the complex, individual needs of care home residents. Participants noted the few opportunities they had to share their learning and discuss best practice.

Conclusion

The theory of change identified different dimensions of good practice, providing insight into areas for action to inform service design and practice. Ongoing organisational changes should consider what is already working well and build on these achievements to enable positive care home and primary care working relationships and so foster high quality care and equitable access to services.
Netflix teen series and the globalization of difference
Authors: Asmar Axelle , Raats Tim , Van Audenhove Leo
Published: December 2024

This contribution discusses what we term the globalization of difference: the fluency with which subscription video-on-demand services such as Netflix move between different cultural universes while remaining a distinctive point of anchorage for (local) audiences. We argue that, in the streaming era, the use of diversity and the emphasis on categories of differences has become an aspect of conspicuous localism, a way of articulating a strong sense of local authenticity with a cosmopolitan outlook on the world. Therefore, this contribution explores how global narratives around diversity—gender and sexuality in particular—are tailored to local contexts and audiences. Based on a textual analysis of three Netflix teen original series, we highlight how, as subscription video-on-demand service such as Netflix balance global dimension with local ambitions, cultural diversity becomes a key tool of transnational expansion, supporting the transnational circulation of texts while appealing to the distinct concerns and preferences of local audiences.
Making academia suck less: Supporting early career researchers studying harmful content online through a feminist ethics of care
Authors: Brown Megan A , Lukito Josephine , Pruden Meredith L , Riedl Martin J
Published: December 2024

Early career researchers (ECR) in communication and media research face increasing problems and stressors due to systemic challenges in academia, including the precarity of being an ECR and the politicization of research and targeting of researchers. For researchers studying harmful content online (HCO), research-related trauma (RRT) can compound these stressors. In this study, we present results from interviews with 18 ECRs from communication studies and adjacent disciplines studying HCO. We find researchers frequently experience RRT from harmful content, pressure from superiors to conduct research on harmful content, and outside harassment related to their research. In addition, researchers frequently use individualized self-care practices for dealing with RRT or couch their trauma. Drawing from widespread consensus by our participants that their needs are not being institutionally met, we offer a vision of what an ethics of care framework for ECRs should provide.
Large-eddy simulations of noise reduction via fundamental-harmonic interactions in a supersonic rectangular jet
Authors: Malczewski Benjamin J , Salehian Saman , Golubev Vladimir V , Mankbadi Reda R
Published: December 2024

This work explores the use of bi-modal excitation to reduce the noise in a supersonic rectangular jet. The excitation is guided by previously published reduced-order modelling, suggesting that harmonic interactions can reduce the dominant noise sources in the jet. An unexcited jet is considered first as the baseline case, which showed Strouhal number 0.15 as the most dominant near field coherent structure, which also appeared as a prominent peak in the far field noise at low emission angles and as a secondary peak at the peak emissivity angle, thus it was taken as the fundamental frequency to target with excitation. The jet is then excited with the single-mode harmonic, St 0.30. Other cases are considered with bi-modal excitation at St’s 0.15 and 0.30 with various phase lags. Both single-mode and bi-modal excitation show a considerable reduction of the near field coherent structures at St 0.15 and amplification at 0.30. Reduction of the fundamental in the bi-modal cases shows a dependence on the initial phase lag whereby reduction is maximized when harmonic amplification is maximized. All excited cases are also shown to reduce the eddy convection velocity. Reduction in far field sound pressure levels at St 0.15 is obtained for all excitation cases up to 13 dB. For all metrics, it is shown that bi-modal excitation is more effective than single-mode excitation given an optimized phase lag. All results ultimately support the use of fundamental-harmonic interactions as a noise reduction mechanism.
Subcutaneous Implantation of Open Microwell Islet Delivery Devices in Pigs
Authors: Tol Maarten C. , de Vries Rick H. W. , Engelse Marten A. , Carlotti Françoise , van Apeldoorn Aart A. , de Koning Eelco J. P. , Huurman Volkert A. L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Intraportal pancreatic islet transplantation is a treatment option for patients with severe beta cell failure and unstable glycemic control. However, this procedure is associated with loss of beta cells after intrahepatic transplantation. Islet delivery devices (IDDs) implanted at extrahepatic sites may support engraftment and improve survival of pancreatic islets. We assessed the surgical feasibility, tolerability and safety of implantation of open microwell devices at subcutaneous sites with varying friction in pigs.

Methods

Open, non-immunoisolating microwell islet delivery devices were made from polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Empty (n = 26) and islet-seeded devices (n = 8) were implanted subcutaneously in 6 immunocompetent pigs in low-friction sites (abdomen and lateral hip) and high-friction sites (anterior neck) for 3 months. Retrieved grafts were analyzed histologically with haematoxylin and eosin, and Masson’s Trichrome staining.

Results

Islet-seeding and transportation of IDDs was free from complications with minimal islet spillage. IDDs were implanted subcutaneously using standard surgical equipment, without complications during the surgeries. IDDs implanted in the neck and IDDs co-transplanted with human islets were expelled and retrieved after 10 days. Empty IDDs were removed after 3 months. The abdominal site showed reduced signs of inflammation as compared to the neck region, while similar tissue ingrowth and vascularization of devices were found in the two locations.

Conclusions

Open microwell IDDs can safely be implanted with standard surgical equipment and successful islet-loading can be performed. Low-friction sites are preferable over high-friction sites for subcutaneous implantation in the porcine model since these lead to the least amount of foreign body reaction.
Research on underwater target detection error compensation based on improved binocular vision
Authors: Wang Wenhui , Ye Fumeng , Peng Yumin , Dong Shi
Published: December 2024

A novel binocular vision error compensation method is proposed to solve the major error compensation problem caused by nonlinear distortion of camera and projector on underwater target detection. By optimizing the visual structure and integrating the projector with two cameras, the method enhances the adaptability and robustness of the system in the complex underwater environment. Through fine signal preprocessing such as multi-scale decomposition and feature extraction, the three-dimensional information of the target is captured more effectively and the data noise is effectively removed. The characteristics of underwater target detection error compensation data are extracted, and the characteristic parameters reflecting the significant difference between them are obtained. In order to ensure the accuracy of compensation results, a multi-scale attention mechanism is introduced into the improved binocular vision, and feature parameters are taken as the input of binocular vision model. After continuous learning and training, high-precision error compensation for underwater targets is realized. Experimental results show that different underwater targets can be detected when the average error value compensated by this method is less than 0.1 mm, and the maximum error value is always less than 1.5 mm. The structural similarity index measure of the proposed method is above 0.91, and the fluctuation is small. This method has significant advantages in reducing errors, adapting to different terrain targets, and providing stable and high-precision output, which shows its application potential and superiority in the field of underwater target detection, and provides a more effective and reliable technical solution for underwater target detection.
An educational money management program for undergraduate students with intellectual disabilities: A pilot study
Authors: Ataviado Carmela B. , Frye Sara K. , Meyer Kristy L.
Published: December 2024

This pilot study evaluated a money management skills program for students within the scope of occupational therapy practice. Three undergraduate students with intellectual disabilities attended sessions twice weekly for six weeks, learning financial concepts and applying knowledge through technology-based activities. The students were nonrandomly selected through a program that works to support college students with intellectual disabilities. Perceptions of money management skills pre- and post-intervention were assessed using a novel developed quantitative questionnaire. The Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills (KELS) Assessment (money management section) was used to score and assess the participants’ money management skills using descriptive indicators. The results demonstrated improvements in KELS Assessment and Likert-question scores from pre- to post-program implementation. Further research should be conducted to draw significant statistical conclusions on the effectiveness of a technology-based money management program for college students with intellectual disabilities.
Inverted dome radial osteotomy and ulnar shortening for neglected paediatric distal radial epiphyseal injury with ulnar impaction syndrome
Authors: Wang Angela , Luo An-Jhih , Wang Jung-Pan
Published: December 2024

Neglected distal radial epiphyseal injuries can result in radial deformity and positive ulnar variance. We describe an inverted-dome radial osteotomy and ulnar shortening osteotomy to treat a paediatric distal radial malunion with ulnar impaction syndrome.

Level of evidence: V
From tradition to innovation: Proposing agile leadership as the new paradigm for a higher education institution in a developing country
Authors: Barrett-Maitland Nadine , Williams-Shakespeare Eraldine , Allen Denise , Edwards-Braham Shaula
Published: December 2024

Higher education institutions (HEIs) face competition globally. Many HEI’s were unable to respond to the changing dynamics amidst decreasing public funds, bureaucratic constraints, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic (Ivetic and Ilic, 2020; Philbin, 2015). This challenging environment contributed to low morale and high staff turnover. Survival in this new era requires leadership approaches that are responsive to the dynamic, fast-paced realities of today’s higher education environment. Agile leadership is a flexible, proactive, and technologically driven management approach that reduces bureaucracies. This explanatory sequential mixed-methods study explored leadership style practices within a Jamaican HEI and the implications for its success. The research addressed three concerns: faculty perceptions of current leadership approach; how the leadership approach supports and advances the organization’s goals; and how the application of the agile leadership model can strengthen the effectiveness of its leaders. The findings indicate weaknesses in leadership capacity stemming from lack of training and reliance on cultural practices. Participants’ perceptions of their understandings of the different leadership approaches differed greatly from the overall leadership practices that were identified and their perceived leadership practices. Recommendations include the need for training for members in positions of leadership and for the adoption of an agile leadership approach.
Isolation, Characterization, Chemical Profiling and Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Potential of Innula cappa (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) DC Leaves in Alloxan-Induced Type 2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Rahman Shahid , Jan Gul , Jan Farzana Gul
Published: December 2024

Background

Innula cappa (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) DC (Compositae) is used in folkloric medicine to treat diabetes and other ailments. The current study aimed to assess the anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of methanolic extract and solvent fractions of I. cappa leaves as well as bioassay guided isolation of active compounds from the active extract.

Method

The α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition of the extracts was evaluated by colorimetric assays, and the anti-diabetic activity was tested on alloxan-induced diabetic mice model. Moreover, flame emission and atomic absorption spectrometry techniques were employed to analyze the chemical composition of the plant. Compounds were identified and isolated from the leaf latex of I. cappa using FTIR, GCMS, silica gel column chromatography, and their structures were determined using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and ESI-MS spectral data.

Results

The results showed that the ME showed significant α-amylase, α-glucosidase inhibitory hyperglycemic activities, significantly improving body weight, glucose tolerance, lipid profiles, and hematological markers. The UV-FTIR spectra revealed diagnostic peaks corresponding to several functional groups whereas GC-MS spectral analysis revealed 35 phytochemical components with different retention times in the ME of I. cappa. Spectroscopic isolation of the ME led to the isolation 5 compounds including ursolic acid, benzoic acid, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, stigmasterol and β -sitosterol.

Conclusion

ME exert significant antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effects demonstrating the medicinal value of I. cappa and emphasize its significance as unexplored natural reservoirs of phytogenic chemicals that require further investigation using cutting-edge analytical techniques.
Curriculum Innovation: Clinical Documentation Integrity Education for Neurology Trainees
Authors: Aghajan Yasmin , Molyneaux Bradley J.
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

High quality clinical documentation is a fundamental skill for practicing physicians and important for quality improvement. However, documentation and coding are rarely integrated into medical education curricula and there is a lack of standard neurology curriculum on this topic. We developed and evaluated a teaching session on clinical documentation for neurology resident physicians.

Methods

The education consisted of a didactic session designed by a neurologist with content about risk-adjusted mortality, clinical documentation integrity (CDI), impact of documentation on patients, and neurology-specific documentation guidance. A pre-post survey design was used to compare baseline and post-intervention self-reported knowledge and attitudes.

Results

61 responses were collected (37 pre- and 24 post-intervention). Residents had increased understanding of the impact of documentation on quality metrics ( P = 0.004), risk-adjusted mortality ( P < 0.0001), and impact on patients ( P = 0.02). Attitude towards CDI education improved significantly ( P = 0.0016), as well as agreement that CDI is important to resident physicians ( P = 0.003). The portion of residents who agreed training on CDI is useful and valuable increased significantly ( P = 0.004). 92% agreed this curriculum was useful, and 96% agreed they understood the role of CDI better after the session.

Conclusions

In this study of a teaching session for neurology residents on clinical documentation, we found this format of teaching was well-received and highly effective in improving resident attitudes and self-reported knowledge.
Applying modern technological approaches to teaching the works of folk poets
Authors: Mamatova Altynkyz , Kenzhebaiova Aichurok , Isaeva Maktym , Nurmamatova Meilikan , Tolubaeva Gulnara
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to explore innovative methods for teaching the literary works of folk poets. The research focused on the use of modern technologies to enhance the teaching of folk literature in secondary schools and higher education institutions in the Kyrgyz Republic. The study emphasized the cultural significance of teaching folk poetry, which enriches students’ cultural knowledge, instils moral values, promotes patriotism and respect for national traditions. The study proposed several innovative teaching strategies, including gamification (through role-playing and quests), integration of video and audio resources, use of social media platforms, project-based learning, and organizing meetings with folk culture and poetry experts. An example of implementing these approaches was provided using the works of Barpy Alykulov, a renowned Kyrgyz poet. Additionally, a comparison between traditional and innovative teaching methods was made, with recommendations for selecting appropriate techniques based on student age, interests, and developmental needs.
Nutrition information and the menopause: An online survey of perimenopausal and menopausal women
Authors: Davies Eleanor , Halliday Vanessa
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore where perimenopausal and menopausal women get their nutrition information from, and how reliable they perceive these sources to be.

Study design

This was a cross-sectional study that used an online survey to collect data about nutrition information seeking habits. The survey was generated using the Qualtrics software and promoted via social media. The convenience sample included women over the age of 40 years living in the UK. Main outcome measures: Quantitative data.

Results

Two hundred and sixty-nine responses were analysed. The majority of respondents were over the age of 50, and from a white British background. Online sources were most commonly used by women to access nutrition information, namely official websites such as the British Menopause Society (BMS) and National Health Service (NHS) websites. The majority of participants believed that these, along with research papers, were the most reliable sources. However, receiving nutrition information from healthcare professionals was most likely to cause women to change their behaviour towards nutrition. The majority of women were interested in receiving targeted menopausal nutrition information, and this would ideally be from official websites or their healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

Findings from this study suggest that women predominantly rely on online sources for information about nutrition, perceiving official websites as reliable sources. There is a demand among women for tailored nutritional guidance during the menopausal transition, emphasising the importance of providing accessible and targeted resources to support women’s health needs during this life stage.
The added value of an internet-based intervention for treatment of aggression in forensic psychiatric outpatients—study protocol for a multicentre, mixed-methods randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kip Hanneke , Haneveld Lisa Klein , Kelders Saskia M
Published: December 2024

Background

Even though internet-based interventions have been used in treatment of forensic psychiatric outpatients for over 10 years, no robust effectiveness studies have been conducted in this complex branch of mental healthcare.

Objectives

To present the protocol of a study that investigates whether the addition of the internet-based intervention “Dealing with Aggression” to treatment as usual (TAU) leads to better treatment outcomes than TAU that is delivered solely in-person.

Methods

This study uses a multicentre mixed-methods randomized controlled trial (RCT) design, with four Dutch forensic outpatient organizations. Patients are included if they receive outpatient treatment for aggression. They will be randomized into an experimental condition, in which the intervention is added to TAU (n = 64), or a control condition, with only TAU (n = 64). Participants are assessed four times: at baseline (T0), halfway during the 10-week intervention (T1), after completing the intervention (T2), and after 3 months (T3). Primary outcome measure is self-reported aggression, other outcome measures are regulatory emotional self-efficacy and treatment readiness, the number of treatment sessions, and dynamic risk factors. Adherence to and engagement with the internet-based intervention will be investigated as predictors for effectiveness. Perceived effect and points of improvement are identified via semistructured interviews with patients and therapists.

Discussion

This will be the first study to investigate the effectiveness of an internet-based intervention in a forensic psychiatric outpatient sample. By means of the mixed-methods design and use of adherence and engagement as predictors, this study will answers questions about if, but also why and for whom this intervention works.
Impact of Energy Consumption on Industrial Sector Performance
Authors: Anyanwu Ogochukwu Christiana , Kur Keghter Kelvin
Published: December 2024

In order to stimulate economic growth, most African countries have engaged the industrial sector to reduce their dependence on importation. This prompted the need for this study to investigate the impact of energy consumption on industrial performance. The study utilized panel data across 32 Sub Saharan African countries from 2002 to 2019. The Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), Pooled Mean Group (PMG) and Generalized Linear Model (GLM) techniques were employed to evaluate the long-term impacts. To ensure an in-depth study, the paper focused on two groups of countries; the lower-middle-income and low income countries and merged them into a single group. The major findings from the study is the positive associations between energy consumption, renewable energy consumption and fossil fuel consumption on industrial sector performance. This means that increased energy consumption enhances the productive capacities of industries, which steers economic growth across the region. Further findings revealed a negative association between foreign direct investment and industrial sector performance. The study recommended the usage of clean energy since increased energy consumption in form of fossil fuels influences climate change.
Determinants of Maternal Near-Miss in Ethiopia: The Implication for the First and Second Delays in the Health-Seeking
Authors: Negero Ameyu Kumesa , Bala Elias Teferi , Ayana Mulatu , Geleta Leta Adugna
Published: December 2024

Maternal near miss refers to a very ill pregnant or delivered woman who nearly died but survived a complication during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy. In Ethiopia, in spite of all efforts, the maternal mortality rate remains unacceptably high. Thus, the study was aimed to identify the determinants of maternal near-miss among admitted women and their implications for the first and second delays in health-seeking. An unmatched case-control study was conducted from August to October 2021 among 248 (83 cases and 165 controls) women admitted for obstetric care at Gedo General Hospital. Cases were selected consecutively, whereas controls were selected randomly. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were presented using tables, figures, and texts. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was done to identify determinants of the maternal near miss at p-value <.05 and 95% confidence interval. Monthly income [AOR: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.48], decision to seek health facility [AOR: 4.54; 95% CI: 1.56, 13.21], time it takes to reach near health facility [AOR: 6.95; 95% CI: 2.29, 21.01], and birth preparedness and complication readiness [AOR: 4.1; 95% CI: 1.59, 10.58] were the determinants of maternal near miss. Monthly income, time it takes to reach a nearby health facility, and birth preparedness and complication readiness were identified as determinants of maternal near miss in this study. Therefore, policymakers and other concerned parties are recommended to improve socio-demographic development, enhance access to health care, counsel on health-seeking behavior, birth preparedness, and complication readiness to minimize the maternal near-miss.
Financial Literacy, Food Security, and Farmers’ Mental Health in Rural Nigeria: Insights from the Cashless Policy Enactment
Authors: Mercy Funke Salami , David Akanbi Itiola , Kehinde Kikelomo Osasona , Temilehin Faruq Lawal , Ayomide Abdulazeez Salawu
Published: December 2024

Nigeria has witnessed significant efforts to promote the digitalization of her economy through the implementation of the cashless policy using Naira redesign and cash withdrawal limits as instruments. However, while Digital Financial Literacy (DFL) is crucial for farmers to cope with monetary policy shocks, DFL has not been in favor of households in rural Nigeria where farmers reside thus exacerbating their economic vulnerabilities. This study thus examined the relationship between rural farmers’ DFL scores and economic vulnerability outcomes specifically food security and mental health, 3 months post-enactment of the last nationwide cashless policy using the Multidimensional Digital Financial Literacy Index (MDFLI), Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the multinomial regression model. A 4-stage method of random sampling was employed to choose 432 rural farming households from three states in the southwestern geopolitical zone of Nigeria namely: Lagos, Ogun, and Osun. The result revealed that the DFL score of farmers in rural southwestern Nigeria is generally low (31.13%). The multinomial analysis results revealed a strong inverse relationship between the DFL scores of rural farmers and their GAD-7 scores, a proxy to measure their mental stability. In addition, rural farmers’ food security status was hampered following the cashless policies enactment with an average HFIAS score of 14.49, only 3.24% of the households were food security with the remaining 97% being food insecure at different degrees. It is therefore recommended that efforts should be geared towards closing the financial literacy gap in rural Nigeria.
Exploring the Popularity and Acceptability of Indian and South Korean Films among Chinese Audiences: A Survey-Based Analysis
Authors: Yaqoub Muhammad , Jingwu Zhang , Haizhou Wang
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the popularity and acceptability of Indian and South Korean films among Chinese audiences, highlighting the dynamics of film globalization within Mainland China. The study aims to investigate the appeal of Indian and South Korean cinemas among Chinese moviegoers. Data were collected through a questionnaire-based survey with 1963 respondents. The findings indicate that 45% of respondents regularly watch Indian films, while 34% frequently watch South Korean films. A positive correlation was identified between increased monthly film consumption and heightened interest in non-Hollywood/non-Western movies. Respondents reported various sources for discovering new foreign films, expressing general satisfaction with the genres of South Korean and Indian cinema. Additionally, the study revealed that the thematic content and narrative structures of these films offer learning opportunities for the Chinese film industry. Notably, Indian actor Aamir Khan and South Korean director Bong Joon-ho emerged as particularly popular figures among Chinese audiences. The survey underscores those Chinese moviegoers value high-quality films, regardless of their country of origin. The findings suggest that enhancing the accessibility and promotion of Indian and South Korean films in China could further diversify Chinese film consumption and foster cross-cultural learning and appreciation.
The Surname War: Chinese Women’s Discursive Resistance Against Patronymy Online
Authors: Wang Yayun , Chang Jiang
Published: December 2024

This article employs semi-structured interviews with 42 Chinese women to examine discursive strategies adopted in their participation in the online protest against patronymy, and investigate possible approaches to a feminist political agenda within contemporary Chinese contexts. Three main strategies are discovered and discussed to shed light on the unequal gender power structure that is manifest in the discursive resistant activism: linking patronymy to women’s loss of rights in private and public spheres; defining patronymy as a symptom of effort-reward imbalance rather than a mere gender issue; and framing activism against patronymy as a gender war between women and men. This paper aims to identify the value of these strategies and probe the potential social and political implications of digital Chinese feminism by politicizing what was once seemingly only a personal issue. It also explores the potential advantages and setbacks of these online discourses.
The Elephant in the Room: Prior Exposure to Misinformation and Correction Effect
Authors: Wang Tianjiao , Yu Wenting
Published: December 2024

Prior exposure to misinformation has been shown to increase beliefs associated with that misinformation when it is seen again, which is called the repetition effect, a phenomenon not unusual but understudied. This study aims to examine the influence of prior exposure to misinformation on misinformation effect in experimental settings. Using data from an experiment embedded in an online survey ( N = 1,645), the current study examined the effect of prior exposure to misinformation in two commonly observed scenarios: a misinformation condition and a correction condition. The results confirmed the existence of the repetition effect by showing that presenting corrections may not protect individuals with prior exposure to misinformation when it is seen again. In addition, the more the individuals trusted the correction sources, the more they believed in the misinformation they had been exposed to. Knowledge can sometimes weaken, but cannot eradicate, the effect of prior misinformation exposure. The findings raise questions of study design concerning misinformation on balancing between external validity and confounding effects of repeated exposure to real-life misinformation. Also, it provokes thoughts and reassessment on theories of motivated reasoning and selective exposure, as well as the role of knowledge in combating misinformation.
An Evaluation of the Healthy Relationships Program for Male Adolescents in Juvenile Detention: A Mixed Method Approach
Authors: Warner Rae-lee , Dellar Kristie , Roberts Lynne
Published: December 2024

Currently, there is limited empirically published Australian studies on effective rehabilitative programs in youth justice. This study used a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the Healthy Relationships program which was designed to challenge attitudes relating to intimate partner violence for male adolescents in detention in Western Australia. Paired group analyses compared pre and post measures of attitudes towards intimate partner violence and traditional gender roles and stereotypes for the total sample ( N = 65). Given the significant overrepresentation of First Nations youth in detention, additional analyses were also run separately for this group ( n = 51). Participation in the Healthy Relationships program was expected to reduce participant endorsement of attitudes supporting intimate partner violence and endorsement of attitudes supporting traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Results supported our expectations for the total sample and the First Nations youth sample, indicating significant improvements across all outcomes following program participation. Qualitative analysis of participant program feedback further supported the quantitative results and identified the importance of the therapeutic alliance and incentives-based learning approaches. The findings contribute to the “what works” literature and provide insights into factors that improve positive treatment outcomes for youth in detention. Suggestions for program improvements and future research directions are discussed.
Safety Leadership Training Effectiveness Evaluation on Behavior Change Among Large-Herd U.S. Dairy Farm Supervisors
Authors: Douphrate David I. , Rodriguez Anabel , Kines Pete , Hossein Javid Amir
Published: December 2024

Background

Prior research suggests leader-based interventions are considered to have a much stronger influence on worker safety behavior and climate than worker-based interventions. However, no prior research has evaluated training effectiveness of safety-specific leadership skill development for front-line supervisors on dairy farms. A tailored safety leadership training program targeting dairy farm supervisors was developed, delivered, and evaluated for its training effect on the supervisor’s safety leadership behavior.

Methods

A 12-module safety leadership training program was developed and delivered in an asynchronous format using e-learning methods to 73 dairy farm supervisors, representing 30 farms across five western U.S. states. We employed the Kirkpatrick Model to evaluate different levels of training effectiveness.

Findings

Evaluation of knowledge gained among participants revealed significant differences between pre- and post-test scores with medium to very large learning effect sizes across all training modules, particularly with training modules addressing safety culture, workplace conflict, and safety meetings. Safety leadership behavior change evaluation revealed significant pre-post training effects across most training modules, particularly regarding safety dialogue, hazard assessment, safety modeling, and conducting safety meetings.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that safety leadership training can result in essential leadership behavior change among front-line dairy farm supervisors.

Application to Practice

This study provides many insights into the successful implementation of a safety leadership training program in a challenging industrial sector (rural/remote workplaces, immigrant workforce), as well as training effectiveness evaluation using novel data collection methodology. Additional research is needed on the effectiveness and sustainability of safety leadership training in high-risk industrial sectors such as agriculture.
Collaboration Around Transition for Students With Visual Impairments: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Travers Hilary E. , Muri Irland Christina
Published: December 2024

In this explanatory mixed method study, we surveyed 79 special educators and teachers of students with visual impairments who worked with at least one transition-aged youth with a visual impairment (VI). Following the survey, we interviewed a smaller convenience sample of 18 teachers. Across the survey and follow-up interviews, we explored (a) with whom teachers of students with VI and special educators collaborate around transition for students with VI and the frequency of their collaborations, (b) differences in collaboration partners between teachers of students with VI and special educators, and (c) perceived barriers/facilitators to collaboration. Findings indicated that both teachers of students with VI and special educators collaborate with a range of persons but at moderate frequencies. Interview findings helped identify multiple barriers to collaboration with in-school personnel, outside personnel/agencies, and families. We offer strategies to overcome these barriers to collaboration and provide recommendations for collaborative models that may improve student outcomes.