bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Depths
Authors: Elakya R. , Surya S. , Abinaya G (c1edcca3-9bd8-40f6-a0f6-da223586be33  , Shanthana S. , Manoranjitham T.
Published: December 2024

Deep-sea ecosystems, harbouring extraordinary biodiversity and geological wonders, remain largely unexplored due to their remote and inhospitable nature. Recent technological advancements, particularly in the realm of machine learning (ML), offer promising avenues for unravelling the mysteries of the deep and safeguarding its fragile ecosystems. This abstract presents an overview of the manifold applications of ML in deep-sea ecosystem analysis, focusing on key areas such as species identification, habitat characterization, and event detection. Primarily, ML algorithms, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Random Forests, are deployed for automated species identification, leveraging vast repositories of underwater imagery. By discerning intricate visual patterns, these algorithms facilitate rapid biodiversity assessment and aid in monitoring shifts in species distributions. Moreover, ML techniques, such as Decision Trees, K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), and deep learning architectures, are instrumental in habitat classification endeavours. Through the analysis of multifaceted sensor data, these algorithms enable the delineation of distinct seafloor habitats, empowering conservationists with invaluable insights into ecosystem structure and function. Furthermore, ML-based anomaly detection algorithms, Hidden Markov Models (HMMs), and reinforcement learning (RL) strategies contribute to event detection efforts in the deep sea. By scrutinizing temporal data streams from underwater sensors, these algorithms detect aberrations indicative of natural phenomena or anthropogenic disturbances, thus facilitating timely interventions and mitigative actions. In conclusion, the integration of ML techniques into deep-sea ecosystem analysis represents a paradigm shift in our approach to understanding and preserving these enigmatic realms. By automating labor-intensive tasks, enhancing data processing capabilities, and fostering real-time monitoring, ML empowers scientists and conservationists to unlock the secrets of the deep and embark on a journey towards sustainable stewardship of these invaluable ecosystems.
Utilizing Temperature Difference for Sustainable Maritime Transportation
Authors: Raja Maheswari , Sandhya S. , Roshini M. , Shrivarsha S. , Sri Sivaranjani V. R. , Nair Meghna Manoj
Published: December 2024

There is a growing need for sustainable energy sources, especially in industries like maritime transportation, where there is a need for cleaner forms of propulsion. Hence, it is important to find realistic techniques to generate electricity through renewable resources. The temperature difference between underwater and surface water can be measured using a thermistor .To quantify how much energy has been produced, you need a thermistor in contact with both the surface and underwater regions because they have different temperatures. The proposed system involves having hydrophobic heat exchangers mounted external walls of the ship's hull while hydrophilic ones are placed on the inner walls. The heat exchanger turns hot water into a liquid over a water flow, then cools it down so that it continues becoming steamed. The heat exchangers condenses cold water into the liquid. The energy produced is stored within the power packs. This is a step towards sustainable maritime operations through the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Breaking the Herd Leveraging Financial Mindfulness to Combat Investor Herding Behavior
Authors: Manjusha J. , Bhooshetty Lakshmi
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines herding behaviour in investors that affect the financial market. Herding involves investors mimicking others' actions due to factors like limited information, market sentiments, and psychological biases. Individual investors, less informed and more susceptible to emotions, herd more. Drawing from Buddhist economics, financial mindfulness emerges as a crucial intervention to mitigate herding. It promotes awareness of one's financial situation, enhancing independent decision-making and reducing impulsive behaviour. Empirical evidence supports mindfulness-based interventions in improving financial decisions and managing debt effectively. By cultivating a thoughtful approach to finance, financial mindfulness empowers investors to resist herd behaviour, fostering stability in financial markets.
Herding Through the Ages
Authors: Loang Ooi Kok
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the multifaceted influences on herding behaviour in financial markets, focusing on the impact of historical market events, regulatory changes, economic indicators, social and political events, and technological advancements. Utilizing market structure as a moderating variable and investor learning as a mediating variable, the research provides a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics that drive herding behaviour. The study employs panel data regression and structural equation modeling to analyze the interactions between these variables and their collective impact on herding behaviour. The findings indicate that historical market events, regulatory changes, economic indicators, social and political events, and technological advancements significantly influence herding behaviour. Market structure moderates these relationships, with certain structures either amplifying or dampening the effects. Additionally, investor learning mediates the impact of these factors, with higher levels of financial literacy and education mitigating herding behaviour.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Market Overreaction
Authors: Gupta Sushil Kumar , Nerlekar Varsha Shriram , Sane Anjali , Gadekar Manjiri , Waghulkar Shrikant
Published: November 2024

Market overreactions, driven by psychological and cognitive factors, have significant economic consequences, impacting individual investors and broader financial systems. This chapter explores how emotions like fear, anxiety, greed, and euphoria contribute to market volatility, alongside cognitive biases such as confirmation and anchoring. It also examines herding behavior, the influence of authority figures, and the role of media in shaping market sentiment. Additionally, it considers neurological and physiological factors like stress and dopamine responses in investor behavior. Through case studies, the chapter illustrates these drivers' real-world impacts and offers strategies for mitigating emotional and cognitive biases. Emphasizing diversification, risk management, and regulatory measures, it provides insights for investors and policymakers to navigate and stabilize market overreactions.
The Herd Mentality
Authors: Nerlekar Varsha Shriram , Sane Anjali , Gadekar Manjiri , Gupta Sushil Kumar , Waghulkar Shrikant
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores herding behavior in financial markets, where individuals follow the actions of a larger group, impacting market dynamics and asset prices. It covers key theories and models, such as social influence, behavioral finance, and empirical studies, to explain why herding occurs. Psychological biases like overconfidence, fear, and greed are highlighted as drivers of this behavior. Models such as rational expectations, noise traders, and information cascades are discussed, along with methods to measure herding. Case studies like the dot-com bubble and the 2008 financial crisis demonstrate its effects on market volatility and efficiency. The chapter also addresses regulatory implications and future research on the influence of technology and social media in shaping herding.
The Paradox of Crowd Wisdom
Authors: Xu Xiong
Published: November 2024

The notion of “wisdom of crowds” postulates that collective decision-making often outperforms individual judgements. However, in financial markets, this collective intelligence can falter, leading to inefficiencies and anomalies. This study investigates the factors contributing to the failure of collective intelligence in financial markets, specifically examining information cascades, cognitive biases, market sentiment, herding behaviour, and market performance. Using the Adaptive Market Hypothesis (AMH) as a theoretical framework, the research explores how these factors interact and impact market efficiency. Employing panel data regression and quantile regression, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of market dynamics across different conditions. The findings underscore the crucial roles of investor education and regulatory environment in moderating and mediating these relationships, offering valuable insights for policymakers, financial managers, and investors in enhancing market stability and efficiency.
Comprehensive Roadmap and Integrated Model for Waste Management in Rural Tourist Destinations
Authors: Singh Malini , Chaudhary Hare Krishna , Tiwari Akshita
Published: December 2024

Effective waste management in rural tourist destinations is crucial due to the interplay of limited infrastructure, diverse waste types, and seasonal tourism fluctuations. It explores the unique waste types encountered in rural tourist settings, including organic waste, plastics, e-waste, and construction debris, highlighting the significant environmental issues. The chapter also identifies unique challenges, such as logistical difficulties, inadequate infrastructure, seasonal waste surges, and the need for community engagement. A theory synthesis approach integrates system theory, stakeholder theory, and practical waste management practices to develop a structured roadmap for managing these issues. The chapter also outlines a comprehensive integrated model for waste management to rural tourist destinations, addressing waste reduction, recycling, composting, and safe disposal. By presenting case studies and the latest trends in waste management, the chapter provides actionable insights for various stakeholders involved in sustainable tourism and waste management.
Effective Solid Waste Management Strategies for Rural Communities
Authors: kohli Rupali , Singh Saurabh , Baghel Dileep Singh , Sharma Shruti , Awasthi Alka , singh Kumkum , Kumar Ravinder , Buddhadev Sheetal
Published: December 2024

Rural communities face particular difficulties in managing solid waste because of inadequate infrastructure, tight budgets, and poor public awareness. Open dumping, burning, composting, recycling, and feeding animals are common practices. Open burning and dumping are economical but have serious health and environmental risks. Vermicomposting and composting provide environmentally friendly ways to dispose of organic waste, but they also need for community support and careful management. Reuse and recycling lessen the load on landfills, however they have challenges because of inadequate infrastructure. A multifaceted strategy is required to address these issues, including adopting cutting-edge technologies, regulatory reforms, infrastructural investment, and community education to promote sustainable waste management practices in rural areas.
Residents' Perceptions and Intentions On Solid Waste Source Separation and Composting Initiatives in Accra
Authors: Akayuure Peter , Danso-Wiredu Esther Yeboah , Hammond Christiana , Bingab Bernard B. B. , Akyiaw Stephen Osei , Kissi Philip Siaw , Hayford Samuel Kweku
Published: December 2024

The city of Accra is confronting escalating waste management issues driven by rapid urbanisation. These challenges have strained the city's waste management infrastructures. A waste characterisation study commissioned by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly in 2020 revealed that about 40% of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the city is accounted for by the waste generated. In response, city authorities have proposed the municipal solid waste source separation and compost initiative as a solution. This study presents findings from a community survey assessing the state of residents' existing practices, perceptions and behavioural intentions to practice solid waste source separation and composting. The survey was informed by the Integrative Model of Behavioural Prediction, which looks at an understanding of residents' intentions to adopt the city's initiative. Data was collected via questionnaires administered to 1,617 respondents. The study discusses the implications for policy, public education, and the integration of informal waste actors into the formal waste management framework.
Data Privacy and Data Security in Electronic Records
Authors: Samantaray Rashmi Rani , Azeez Abdul
Published: December 2024

Any digitally recorded information, including a broad range of documents, transactions, and communications, is referred to as an electronic record. Electronic health records (EHRs) in the healthcare industry and financial transactions in banking systems are only two examples of how the digitization of data has improved accessibility, reduced procedures, and increased efficiency. For people and organizations entrusted with sensitive information, data privacy and security are critical considerations because of the new vulnerabilities and threats brought about by this digital transition.The idea of data privacy, which includes people's rights to manage the gathering, use, and sharing of their personal data, is at the center of the conversation.
Navigating Digital Citizenship and AI Surveillance in High-Population Countries
Authors: Anitha Cuddapah , Muthusamy Nantha Kumar , Shende Vaishali Gajendra , D. U. Karthik , Rasal Dhananjay Jairam , Pandit Karuna
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the intricate intersection of digital citizenship and AI surveillance in high-population countries, focusing on their societal implications and regulatory challenges. It delves into how digital citizenship evolves in the context of pervasive AI surveillance, analyzing its impact on privacy, civil rights, and governmental oversight. Key aspects include the balance between security and individual freedoms, the role of technology in shaping democratic processes, and the ethical considerations of AI-driven monitoring. Case studies from diverse regions illustrate varying approaches to managing digital rights amidst technological advancement. By examining these dynamics, the chapter aims to provide insights into fostering responsible governance frameworks that safeguard both public security and individual liberties in an increasingly interconnected world.
Cybersecurity Challenges in the Legal and Political Sectors
Authors: Sissodia Rajeshwari , Rauthan ManMohan Singh , Barthwal Varun , Dwivedi Vinay
Published: December 2024

The legal and political sectors are facing growing cybersecurity challenges as they increasingly rely on digital platforms to manage critical and sensitive information. Legal institutions handle confidential client data, intellectual property, and case details, while political organizations are responsible for voter data, classified government information, and national security assets. These sectors have become prime targets for cyberattacks such as phishing, ransomware, state-sponsored espionage, and insider threats, which jeopardize the integrity of data, privacy, and institutional trust. The shift to remote work has amplified these risks, especially for smaller firms with limited resources and inadequate cybersecurity measures. This chapter examines the multifaceted cybersecurity threats impacting the legal and political sectors and highlights the importance of adopting advanced technologies like AI, implementing strong regulatory frameworks, and developing robust cybersecurity strategies to protect critical information and ensure the stability of legal and political institutions.
A Study on the Implementation of Cutting-Edge Techniques Into Sericulture
Authors: Mahesh Vijayalakshmi G. V.
Published: December 2024

Silk is preferred over other textiles due to its luster, heat resistance,dyeing efficiency and absorption of water. Silk industry with its rural based farm activities has enormous employment generation potential to provide employment for a large section of the population.The Silkworms are reared to produce silk and this process is termed as Sericulture which is labor-intensive and multidisciplinary in nature. It involves onfarm activities such as mulberry cultivation, silkworm rearing, cocoon production, egg production and post cocoon activities such as raw silk reeling, spinning, throwing and weaving. Although silk industry is a large segment, the farmers continue to practice traditional methods in various activities due to which the production gets affected leading to reduction in yield. Thus it is important to leverage technology to aid farmers to improve the yield and income. This chapter presents a survey of various works carried and presented adapting recent technologies in the field of sericulture replacing traditional methods with advanced practices to improve the production.
Khap Panchayats and Their Misogynistic Approach
Authors: Lee Heeuk D. , Agrawal Aranya
Published: December 2024

Khap Panchayats have historically played a significant role in administering justice at local level, criticism arises due to their male-dominated, patriarchal nature, often resulting in anti-women biases. Their members often include in barbaric practices of killing on the name of safeguarding honor which violate the fundamental and democratic rights of people. An honor killing is a murder carried out to reclaim or preserve the family's honor, often perceived as damaged by the actions of the victim. Honor Killings, viewed as a form of punishment, highlight the manifestation of patriarchal ideologies. This chapter examines the role of Khap Panchayats behind honor killings and explores their dominance in society, influencing even prominent politicians. The chapter further delves into the phenomenon of Khap Panchayats, the self-proclaimed Kangaroo Courts lacking constitutional legitimacy yet enjoying authority within specific caste segments as guardians of honor. The study seeks to understand the reasons for the continued existence of Khaps in India and analyzes their source of strength.
MEREC-Based Combined Framework for Multiple-Attribute Group Decision-Making in Probabilistic Linguistic Environment
Authors: Liang Xiaotong
Published: November 2024

The deployment of our country's innovation driven strategy has been implemented, and transforming the economic development mode has become an important content. It is particularly important to use finance to serve technological innovation and promote economic development. The efficiency evaluation of technology finance development is multiple-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM). Presently, the utilization of Logarithmic TODIM (LogTODIM) and CoCoSo approach was implemented to address the MAGDM challenges. To effectively evaluate the development of technology finance, the application of probabilistic linguistic term sets (PLTSs) has been illustrated as a method to characterize uncertain information. This research introduces the probabilistic linguistic LogTODIM-CoCoSo (PL-LogTODIM-CoCoSo) approach to address MAGDM concerns within PLTSs. Additionally, the MEREC approach is illustrated to handle the weight assignment process under PLTSs. Finally, numerical example for efficiency evaluation of technology finance development is put forward to validate the LogTODIM-CoCoSo approach.
The Application of Big Data Technology in the Optimization of Preschool Education Model
Authors: Huang Jun , Wu Guangzhi
Published: November 2024

According to existing data, many kindergartens in various places are ineffective in their development and implementation of educational technology. The level of informatization development varies in different regions. With the popularization of information technology in preschool education, there has been a certain accumulation of data in various areas of preschool education. However, data on the unsafe behaviors of young children have the dual characteristics of imbalance and sparsity. By introducing an integrated model of under-sampling, feature selection, and ensemble learning, the integrated recognition of unsafe behaviors has been achieved, and computer programming calculations have been applied to actual preschool education models. The application of big data technology in optimizing preschool education models has also been studied.
An Insight into the Role of IL-10 and Foamy Macrophages in Infectious Diseases
Authors: Steffy Katherin , Ahmed Asma , Srivastava Shruti , Mukhopadhyay Sangita
Published: December 2024

Dysregulation of lipid homeostasis causes the deposition of lipids in the form of tiny droplets within foamy macrophages (FMs). In FMs, host-derived lipids aid in survival of various intracellular pathogens leading to sustained infection. In several infectious diseases, the transformation of macrophages into a foamy phenotype is linked to the presence of high IL-10, a potent immune-modulatory cytokine. This review aims to understand the role of IL-10 in the signaling events that are crucial in generation of FMs and highlights how various intracellular pathogens targets the IL-10–FM axis for successful establishment of infections. The review also briefly discusses how the IL-10–FM axis can be a target for developing novel therapeutic strategies to prevent intracellular infections.
Hypoimmunogenic HLA-E Single Chain Inhibits Alloreactive Immune Responses
Authors: Maldini Colby R , Coholan Lindsey J , Karaca Cisem
Published: December 2024

Chimeric Ag receptor T cells derived from universal donors are susceptible to recipient immunologic rejection, which may limit their in vivo persistence and compromise treatment efficacy. In this study, we generated HLA class I–deficient T cells by disrupting β2-microglobulin to evade recognition by HLA-mismatched CD8+ T cells, and then restored NK cell tolerance by forced expression of an HLA-E single-chain receptor. We specifically report on an optimized hypoimmunogenic disulfide trap HLA-E4 (dtHLA-E4) molecule that exhibited increased surface expression, enhanced NK cell inhibitory potential, and abrogated CD8-dependent T cell recognition. Our dtHLA-E4 molecule comprised the CD4 (4) transmembrane domain and truncated cytoplasmic region, as well as disulfide trap mutations to anchor an HLA class I signal sequence-derived peptide. Functional comparison of dtHLA-E4 molecules fused to different VL9 epitopes showed that peptides derived from HLA-A and HLA-C allotypes maximized NK cell inhibition and minimized NKG2C+ NK cell activation. Furthermore, incorporation of mutations into the α3 domain of HLA-E diminished the immunogenicity of dtHLA-E4 by reducing CD8+ T cell recognition, but crucially, these mutations left NK cell inhibitory function intact. These findings demonstrate the systematic construction of a hypoimmunogenic dtHLA-E4 molecule, which promises to facilitate persistence of allogeneic HLA class I–deficient chimeric Ag receptor T cells by overcoming NK cell missing-self recognition.
Mental Health Review Board Members’ understanding of the policy guideline on 72-hour assessment
Authors: Mpheng Ontlotlile I. , Sehularo Leepile A. , Moagi Miriam M. , Kovane Gaotswake P. P.
Published: November 2024

Background: The Mental Health Care Act (No 17 of 2002) promotes the involvement of Mental Health Review Board (MHRB) members in the oversight, execution and evaluation of assessments and admissions of individuals in accordance with the 72-h policy guidelines. However, the MHRB experiences dissatisfaction with the implementation of policy guidelines on 72-h assessment of involuntary Mental Health Care Users (MHCUs).Objectives: This study explores and describes the MHRB members’ understanding of the policy guidelines on 72-h assessment of involuntary MHCUs in South Africa.Method: A qualitative exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was used. Data were collected using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) from MHRB from three provinces of South Africa, namely North West, Northern Cape and Gauteng. Three FGDs involving a total of 13 participants were conducted.Results: Three themes emerged from the data, namely: MHRBs’ understanding of the policy guideline on 72-h assessment of involuntary MHCUs, MHRBs’ challenges with the policy guideline on 72-h assessment of involuntary MHCUs and MHRBs’ recommendations to strengthen the implementation of policy guideline on 72-h assessment of involuntary MHCUs.Conclusion: Certain issues regarding dissatisfaction related to improper implementation of the 72-h policy guideline persist. Therefore, MHRB recommends that there should be skilled Mental Health Care Practitioners, adequate infrastructure, community involvement, and family and stakeholder collaboration to improve care towards the involuntary MHCUs.Contribution: The study illustrated there is a need to strengthen the implementation of 72-h assessment of involuntary MHCUs through ensuring enough human resources, designated facilities and involvement of the community as raised by the MHRBs.
Religion, gender-based violence and silence: A radical feminist reading of women’s agency in Chika Unigwe’s novel
Authors: Mavengano Esther
Published: December 2024

The intersection of religion, culture and gender-based violence (GBV) continues to provoke critical debates in feminist scholarship and activism. Although substantial steps are noticeable in terms of addressing numerous forms of violence against women, religion and culture in the African context continue to promulgate harmful practices. Chika Unigwe’s novel, The Middle Daughter, highlights a world where religion, GBV, social norms, rape myths, silence and agency intersect, shaping women’s lived experiences. Nani, the protagonist, overwhelmed by the loss of her sister and father merely 2 years apart, is lured by a preacher – a wolf in sheep’s clothing – who shoves her into an abusive marriage. Raped but determined to keep the assault under the tongue, Nani further drifts away from her family, friends and community. Imprisoned and battered, yet, Nani’s silent resilience emerges – a quiet but radical strength that defies religio-sociocultural norms. This study is a review of African feminism in eradicating GBV. It discusses how Unigwe’s radical feminist lens unveils the competing female strength and the limits of silence as a form of women’s agency, thereby critiquing the dominant ‘soft’ African feminist approaches.Contribution: This study adopts a radical feminist theory to critique the ‘soft’ African feminisms which fail to serve women facing the intersectional forces of religion, culture and GBV. It argues that feminist activism in Africa has been going on for a lengthy period, yet the double standards embedded in religio-sociocultural beliefs and practices sustain women’s oppression.
The dynamics of empowering women in the post-missionary Church of Christ in Zimbabwe
Authors: Masengwe Gift , Dube Bekithemba
Published: December 2024

The evolution of the Ladies’ Circle into the Mother’s Union in the Church of Christ in Zimbabwe (COCZ) holds great significance in that circles in Africa symbolize collectiveness and consensual decision-making. The Ladies’ Circle emerged as a response by white women influenced by the Victorian Womanhood Cult with regard to the discontent they felt with patriarchy in the church. Black women supported white female missionaries in leadership roles, when they (black women), continued to face oppression due to (white and black) male resistance to change, as well as fear of losing male-privileges. Empirical evidence in the COCZ suggests that black women in Zimbabwe made significant progress in the secular world compared to their progress in church. This study uses a Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as a theoretical framework to examine how the transformation of the Ladies’ Circle into the Mothers’ Union empowered African women to deal with their own oppression. It aims to understand how white women overcame restrictive Victorian norms and the Womanhood Cult, which promoted submissiveness and domesticity as defining aspects of womanhood. The study further notes that inconsistencies in addressing race and gender differences in the church perpetuated the dominance of African men on women within the church. This study thus acknowledges that the Women’s Unions, like the Mothers’ Union, have the potential to empower COCZ women and challenge racial and gender oppression within that church.Contribution: The study reveals that denying women’s involvement in church can have debilitating effects on gender equality in Zimbabwe. The Ladies’ Circle, a platform created by the Church of Christ, provides women with a space for social and religious participation. The intersection of gender, race, and religion used by religious and cultural authorities to control women, call for a re-examination of the COCZ’s theological foundations on these subjects.
Evaluation of disaster safe education unit programme implementation in Mt. Merapi using the pressure state response approach
Authors: Wardhani Puspita I. , Musiyam Muhammad , Wibowo Yunus A. , Rahmadana Aries Dwi W. , Utami Sri , Maulana Edwin
Published: November 2024

Disaster Safe Education Unit (SPAB), also known globally as Comprehensive Safe School (CSS), aims to improve school residents’ resilience. Three pillars of SPAB have been established, but their implementation, to date, has not shown satisfactory results. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the SPAB programme in the disaster-prone area (KRB) of Merapi Vulcano in Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Data collection was conducted using a field survey combined with in-depth interviews. Overall, the study focussed on the 32 schools in the KRB Merapi. The SPAB implementation was evaluated by considering the Pressure-State-Response (PSR) indicator. The study results showed that not all schools in KRB Merapi implemented the SPAB programme. Safe schools have not fully implemented the three pillars of SPAB. Pillar 3 had the highest rate (96.40%) of implementation in safe schools, whereas Pillar 1 had the lowest (54.5%). Legality, funding and human resources are the critical plausible explanations for why the SPAB pillars have not been implemented well. These problems affect school infrastructure, the capacity of educators, consistency and school motivation in implementing SPAB programme.Contribution: The response to overcome these issues is strengthening regulations related to SPAB implementation. Strong regulations will provide space for funding components to increase the capacity of school residents, improve infrastructure, as well as increase school motivation. Stakeholders can utilise these findings to formulate more robust regulatory formulations for implementing SPAB in other KRB zones with similar typologies.
Vocational identity and work engagement: The mediating effect of career adaptability
Authors: Naidoo Vurshayna , Mabitsela Tshegofatso , Nel Petrus
Published: November 2024

Orientation: Given that freelancers work for multiple clients for varying periods, it is their responsibility to enhance their own levels of work engagement. For organisations to benefit from the use of freelancers, they need to ensure that freelancers utilise emotional, cognitive and physical energies in completing their work to become engaged.Research purpose: This study set out to examine: (1) the influence of freelancers’ vocational identity and career adaptability on their work engagement and (2) whether career adaptability mediates the relationship between vocational identity and work engagement.Motivation for the study: The study posited that vocational identity and career adaptability function as resources aiding freelancers to enhance their work engagement levels.Research approach/design and method: Using a quantitative, cross-sectional approach, we examined 124 freelancers’ vocational identity, career adaptability and work engagement. Mediation analysis guided the evaluation of hypotheses.Main findings: Results revealed a significant positive relationship between vocational identity and work engagement. Interestingly, only the control dimension of career adaptability showed a significant positive link with work engagement. The control dimension of career adaptability partly mediated the direct link between vocational identity and work engagement.Practical/managerial implications: Practically, freelancers seem to employ both their vocational identity and career control to enhance their levels of work engagement. Suggesting that a freelancer’s work engagement is contingent upon the extent to which they can express their preferred self in their work and their perceived control over their futures.Contribution/value-add: This study advances the current understanding of the factors that influence freelancers’ work engagement.
The lifeworld of families of mental health care users in rural South Africa: A phenomenological study
Authors: Mbedzi Takalani E. , Van der Wath Anna E. , Moagi Miriam M.
Published: November 2024

Background: In recovery-oriented mental health care, family members of mental health care users form part of the caring team. Families are expected to care for mental health care users without support in the under-resourced rural Vhembe district in South Africa.Aim: This study aims to describe the lifeworld of family members caring for mental health care users in rural areas to inform the development of a support programme.Setting: Purposive sampling was used to select 16 family members from eight community health centres in the Vhembe district.Methods: A qualitative approach, using a descriptive phenomenological design, was adopted to conduct unstructured interviews that were transcribed, translated and analysed using a descriptive method.Results: Family members continuously contemplate their responsibilities. Endless concerns and stress result in forgetfulness and physical problems such as insomnia, hypertension and pain. Family members feel powerless and helpless when there is no improvement and support from community resources. Fear of being violated, embarrassed and stigmatised by community members results in social isolation and depression.Conclusion: Caregiving is burdensome in poorly resourced areas. Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness Psychosomatic and depressive symptoms relate to the lack of effective community support which are likely to result in compromising the care they provide.Contribution: The results call for the Department of Health to strengthen community mental health services and for health care professionals to provide supportive interventions based on the needs of mental health care users and their families.
Population-based Research in AYUSH: Lessons from Study among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups to Determine Burden of Sickle Cell Disorders
Authors: Nambison Nisanth K. M. , Dwivedi Abhishek Dhar , Kumar Sanjeev , Goel Garima , Prasad Pankaj , Singh Gyanendra , Rajasubramaniam S. , Kumar Ravindra
Published: November 2024

Background:

Population-based research (PBR) plays a critical role in generating externally valid evidence and engaging local communities in health interventions. However, there is a lack of examples in the field of homeopathy. This study describes the transformation of a Homoeopathy Medical College and Hospital to initiate and sustain PBR. The focus was on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of India, with a specific emphasis on sickle cell disorders (SCD), a significant health concern among tribal populations in Madhya Pradesh (MP).

Aims and Objectives:

The study aimed to estimate the burden of SCD among PVTGs in MP and evaluate the effectiveness of homeopathy as an adjuvant therapy.

Materials and Methods:

A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was used, incorporating document analysis, a structured literature review on PubMed, and a search of homeopathy journals and conference abstracts. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted using probability proportional to size (PPS) sampling in four districts of MP. Blood samples were collected for SCD diagnosis, and ethical clearance was obtained from the Government Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal.

Results:

The study surveyed 27,892 individuals (mean age 27.71 ± 18.11 years) from the Baiga and Bhariya PVTGs across 346 villages. Out of these, 23,320 participants were deemed eligible for screening. Sickle cell solubility tests revealed that 9.4% (n = 2195) of participants were suspected to have SCD. A comprehensive module and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on PBR in homeopathy was developed for future researchers.

Conclusion:

This study provides a blueprint for implementing PBR in homeopathy, particularly with vulnerable populations. The use of mixed methods research in PBR, especially for assessing homeopathy’s role in managing SCD, is valuable for extending research in underrepresented populations.
Estimation of Serum Magnesium Levels and Its Correlation with Asthma Control Score in Mild Persistent Asthma among Children Aged 6–14 Years
Authors: Singh Satwinder Paul , Gupta Harsh Vardhan , Rai Seema , Kaur Gurmeet , Dhir Shashin Kant
Published: November 2024

Background:

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. There are multiple factors affecting symptom control in asthma and serum magnesium is one of the factors thought to influence disease control in childhood asthma.

Aims and Objectives:

To estimate the serum magnesium levels in mild persistent asthma patients aged 6 to 14 years. To correlate serum magnesium levels with Asthma control score (ACT) of mild persistent asthma patients. To correlate serum magnesium levels with peaked expiratory flow rate (PEFR) in mild persistent asthma patients.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a hospital setting on newly diagnosed cases of mild persistent asthma and serum magnesium was assessed. The normal range of serum Mg levels is considered to be 1.5-to-2.0 mg/dl in children. The ACT score provided a snapshot of how well asthma has been controlled in the last four weeks, giving a simple score out of 25. A PEFR monitor was used to perform the PEFR test. The serum magnesium levels were correlated with PEFR and ACT.

Results:

Out of 275 cases studied, 247 (89.8%) had serum magnesium levels ≥1.5 mg/dl and 28 (10.2%) had serum magnesium levels <1.5 mg/dl. It was seen that children with serum magnesium levels ≥1.5 mg/dl have better asthma control than children with serum magnesium levels <1.5 mg/dl. (P-value = 0.001). Children with serum magnesium levels of ≥1.5 mg/dl had better PEFR than children with serum magnesium levels of <1.5 mg/dl.

Conclusion:

It was concluded that low serum magnesium levels were found in mild persistent asthmatic patients. Serum magnesium levels (<1.5 mg/dl) were statistically significantly lower in mild persistent asthmatic patients.
The Investing Layer of the Deep Cervical Fascia: An Alternative Site for Ultrasound-guided Supraclavicular Nerve Block – A Cadaveric Anatomical Study
Authors: Diwan Sandeep , Shivaprakash S. , Timane Rasika , Pai Pallavi , Bohra Zenab , Nair Abhijit Sukumaran
Published: November 2024

Background:

It is very well known that the supraclavicular nerve (SCN) which occupies the inferior part of the superficial cervical plexus basically originates from the ventral rami of C2–C4, then travels caudally into the investing layer of the deep cervical fascia (IL-DCF) alternatively termed the “prevertebral fascia.”

Methods:

This cadaveric study (a total of 6 soft-embalmed cadavers and bilateral dissections, i.e. 12 specimens) intended to ascertain the location of SCN within the layers of the IL-DCF. We hypothesized that ultrasonography identification of SCN within the IL-DCF and needle tip positioned between the layers of IL-DCF provide an alternative site for the blockade of the SCN.

Results:

After dissection, we described a compact double-layered IL-DCF hosting the SCNs and a specific topographic arrangement at the C4 root with SCN lateral and C4 branches of the phrenic nerve medial to the C4.

Conclusion:

We recommend another alternative site for the SCN block at a site in the compact double layer of IL-DCF. We conclude that a caudal site at the exit of SCN from the IL-DCF would be appropriate to perform the intervention.
The Use of Shear Wave Elastography in the Diagnosis of Prestenotic Phase of Takayasu’s Aortoarteritis
Authors: Kapoor Atul , Kapur Aprajita , Mahajan Goldaa , Mahajan Rohit , Nagpal Swapan
Published: November 2024

We report the use of shear wave elastography with dispersion imaging in diagnosing a case of prestenotic Takayasu’s arteritis which presented with symptoms of fever of unknown origin with persistently raised C-reactive protein levels. Vessel wall inflammation was detected in the carotid arteries on dispersion and shear wave imaging along with increased wall stiffness which was characteristic of vasculitis seen in a prestenotic phase of Takayasu’s disease. These findings preceded the sonographic finding of vessel wall thickening described as the earliest sign of the disease on routine ultrasonography and not only helped to make an early diagnosis in a patient with a fever of unknown origin but also in the posttreatment follow-up.
Too Much of a Good Thing: Updated Current Management and Perinatal Outcomes of Polyhydramnios
Authors: Wu Fang-Tzu , Chen Chih-Ping
Published: November 2024

Amniotic fluid assessment is crucial in prenatal ultrasound to monitor fetal conditions, with polyhydramnios, characterized by excessive amniotic fluid, affecting 1%–2% of pregnancies. Polyhydramnios is linked to complications such as placental abruption, preterm labor, congenital anomalies, and postpartum hemorrhage, emphasizing the need for early detection and management. While idiopathic causes account for 60%–70% of cases, other causes include impaired fetal swallowing and increased urine production due to maternal, fetal, and placental conditions. Accurate amniotic fluid volume (AFV) assessment and surveying the underlying cause are important, with ultrasound methods such as deep vertical pocket (DVP) and amniotic fluid index (AFI) preferred. Polyhydramnios is defined by an AFV exceeding 2000 ml, an AFI over 24 cm, or DVP more than 8 cm. Management typically targets underlying causes, with treatments such as amnioreduction and indomethacin for severe cases. Antepartum monitoring includes detailed fetal ultrasound, genomic and genetic examinations, and tests for maternal diabetes and infections. Intrapartum management addresses complications such as malpresentation and shoulder dystocia, whereas postpartum care involves monitoring for uterine atony and hemorrhage. Perinatal outcomes in idiopathic polyhydramnios are generally poorer, with increased risks of fetal demise, preterm delivery, and neonatal complications, but these results may need further stratification and verification.
Translation and adaptation of adolescent language test in Marathi
Authors: Dharmadhikari Gayatri Nishikant , Waknis Aarti Pushkar
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

Adolescents belong to the age group between 12 and 20 years, during which later language development takes place across all the domains of language that encompass metalinguistic, cognitive, and social advancements. This development impacts both the social and academic achievements of adolescents. Due to the non-availability of validated tools to assess the Marathi language spoken by adolescents, there is a paucity of information on the development of language in the population.

Materials and Methods:

The items of “Manipal Manual of Adolescent Language Assessment” for the age range 10–13 years were translated and adapted in Marathi and were administered to 162 adolescents (10–13 years) attending Marathi medium schools to determine its psychometric properties.

Results:

The translated and adapted tests had good internal consistency (Cronbach α > 0.7) and discriminant validity. The criteria for determination of language age of the original test are applicable, except for the task of morphological derivations in both auditory and visual domains, where the criteria have been modified.

Conclusion:

The translated and adapted MMALA can be used for assessment of language of Marathi-speaking adolescents attending Marathi medium schools in the age range of 10–13 years.
Conductance and F45° in the detection and differential diagnosis of middle ear pathologies in comparison to resonant frequency
Authors: Maruthy Sandeep , Raju Sundara , Ranjan Ranjeet , Pazhayapisharath Indira C. , Megha  , Keelara Shivaraj Sharath Kumar
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to compare the clinical utility of two measures of multifrequency tympanometry – F45 and conductance – at resonant frequency (RF) with that of RF.

Materials and Methods:

RF, F45°, and conductance at RF (ΔG) were determined in 109 participants with normal and 84 participants with pathological middle ears, all with either “As” or “Ad” tympanograms. The measures were compared between normal and pathological ears (otosclerosis, otitis media, ossicular chain discontinuity, and monomeric tympanic membrane). The sensitivity and specificity of the measures in detecting different middle ear pathologies were determined. The ability of the measures to differentiate the middle ear pathologies was derived through discriminant analysis.

Results:

There was a significant difference across middle ear pathologies in RF, F45°, and ΔG. RF showed the highest sensitivity in detecting otitis media, whereas ΔG showed the highest sensitivity in detecting otosclerosis. The measures could account for 94.8% of the variance in discriminant function.

Conclusion:

Conductance-based parameters can effectively detect and differentiate middle ear pathologies. Conductance at RF is better than RF in detecting otosclerosis. The measures can differentiate the pathologies even when the total admittance, as measured in single-frequency tympanometry, fail to differentiate.
Evaluating the Retreatability of Hydraulic Calcium Silicate-Based Root Canal Sealer Using Root Canal Instrumentation—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Malik Akanksha , Kothari Anjali , Mehta Charmi , Rao Vinay , Sule Kavita , Agrawal Deep , Patel Priyal
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:

This study aimed to compare the retreatability of hydraulic calcium silicate-based (HCSB) and epoxy resin-based sealers in single-rooted mandibular premolars, with a specific focus on sealer remnants and retreatment duration.

Methodology:

Sixty mandibular premolars were biomechanically prepared and obturated with BioRoot RCS, MTA Fillapex, or AH Plus. After a one-month period, the gutta-percha was removed and the specimens were analyzed under a stereomicroscope.

Result:

BioRoot RCS showed the most remnants and longest retreatment time, while AH Plus was the most efficient.

Conclusion:

BioRoot RCS is less favorable for retreatment, with AH Plus being the most effective.