Analysis Approach Research Articles

Exploring sexual life enrichment: a journey into strengthening well-being for women post- menopause through qualitative study

Backgroundwomen post-menopause, are faced with various physical, emotional, and relational challenges. One such aspect that tends to be overlooked is the impact of menopause on sexual well-being. This study aimed to elucidate the concept of enriching the sexual life of women post-menopause.MethodsA qualitative research strategy was adopted using a conventional content analysis approach. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 24 participants (17 women post-menopause and 7 experts), using purposive sampling.ResultsThe data analysis resulted in the extraction of 341 codes, 24 subcategories, and 8 categories. Ultimately, the following three themes emerged: “maintaining and enhancing the position of sexual relationships,” “deepening sexual relationships and expanding intimacy,” and “improving communication skills with the spouse “.ConclusionEnriching the sexual life of women post-menopause, as suggested by the themes, involves nurturing their relationships, keeping these connections strong and valued, deepening intimacy, and promoting effective communication to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable experience during this phase of life. This leads to a sense of security, health, and tranquility, ultimately manifesting positive repercussions on the couple’s and family’s health.

Unraveling the Deposition and Dissolution Behavior of the Ag-Modified Li Surface Based on Electrochemical Atomic Force Microscopy.

Lithium is a promising anode material for advanced batteries because of its high capacity and low redox potential. However, its practical use is hindered by nonuniform Li deposition and dendrite formation, leading to safety concerns in Li metal batteries. Our study shows that Ag-based materials enhance the uniformity of Li deposition on Ag-modified Li (AgLi) surfaces, thereby addressing these key challenges. This improvement is due to the strong affinity of Ag for Li, which promotes uniform deposition and dissolution. Additionally, the AgLi surface demonstrated an improved cycling stability, which is crucial for long-term battery reliability. Emphasizing our analytical approach, we utilized comprehensive techniques such as Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) and electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM) to locally analyze the electrical properties and unravel the Li deposition/dissolution mechanisms. KPFM analysis provided crucial insights into surface potential variations, while EC-AFM highlighted topographical changes during the Li deposition and dissolution processes, contributing significantly to the development of safer and more efficient Li metal batteries.

Effects of ease of doing business and components of good corporate governance on foreign direct investment: Evidence from the Western Balkans

The research aims to quantify the effect of easy doing business (EDB) on foreign direct investments, especially their resulting consequences. Meanwhile, the research combines supplementary components that are associated with sound corporate governance practices, consisting of control of corruption (CC), lending interest rate (LIR), regulatory quality (RQ), and governance effectiveness (GE). To achieve the stated aim, the research employs secondary data from 2015-2022 and employs regression analysis as the analytical approach. Following examining outcomes, it is observed that EDB and GE have a statistically significant positive effect, while the variables resulting in a significantly negative effect on FDI were LIR and RQ. Concerning CC, there have been surprising results since it has harmful effects that are nevertheless statistically insignificant. Research from the perspective of science's contribution and creative thought relies on the application of a quantitative approach with a mixture of variables that directly affect FDI. The discoveries of the research definitely will challenge numerous stakeholders who operate within this field, such as scholars, and researchers, while nonetheless not omitting the implication of members who are additionally competent in the legislative part. The conclusions of this research will encourage an in-depth review of the implications for policymaking. Specifically, it requires upgrading certain regulations to make them more attractive for FDI.

Estimation of suspected estrogenic transformation products generated during preservative butylparaben chlorination using a simplified effect-based analysis approach

Estrogenic transformation products (TPs) generated after water chlorination can be considered as an environmental and health concern, since they can retain and even increase the estrogenicity of the parent compound, thus posing possible risks to drinking water safety. Identification of the estrogenic TPs generated from estrogenic precursor during water chlorination is important. Herein, butylparaben (BuP), which was widely used as preservative in food, pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), was selected for research. A simplified effect-based analysis (EDA) approach was applied for the identification of estrogenic TPs generated during BuP chlorination. Despite the removal of BuP corresponds to the decrease of estrogenicity in chlorinated samples, an significant increase of estrogenicity was observed (at T = 30 min, presented an estrogenicity equivalent to 17β-estradiol). Chemical analysis of the estrogenic chlorinated samples that have been previously subjected to biological analysis (in vitro assays), in combination with the principal component analysis (PCA) evaluation, followed by validating the estrogenic potency of most relevant estrogenic TPs through an in silico approach (molecular dynamics simulations), identified that the halogenated TP3 (3,5-Dichloro-butylparaben) increased by 62.5 % and 61.8 % of the estrogenic activity of the parent compound in samples chlorinated with 30 min and 1 h, respectively being classified as a potentially estrogenic activity driver after BuP chlorination. This study provides a scientific basis for the more comprehensive assessment of the environmental and health risk associated with BuP chlorination, highlighting the necessity of identifying the unknown estrogenic TPs generateded from estrogenic precursors chlorination.

IAT/ML: a metamodel and modelling approach for discourse analysis

IAT/ML: a metamodel and modelling approach for discourse analysis

Motivation for patient engagement in patient safety: a multi-perspective, explorative survey

Background and ObjectivesDespite increasing calls for more patient engagement in patient safety, limited knowledge remains on what actually motivates key stakeholders in healthcare to promote patient engagement. We therefore set out to survey key stakeholders of patient engagement in patient safety (i.e., patients, healthcare professionals, and managers). We aimed to identify and explore stakeholder’s distinct and shared motives for patient engagement.MethodsA stepwise Delphi method was applied, utilizing semi-structured online interviews for determination of stakeholder motives for patient engagement in patient safety. In a subsequent online survey, statements were evaluated and identified. 34 subject-matter experts from all relevant stakeholder groups completed the online interviews and 33 the online survey. We used content analysis approaches for qualitative and descriptive analyses for quantitative measures. Further, we evaluated the consensus on distinct and shared motives across stakeholder groups.ResultsSeven key motives for patient engagement in patient safety were identified. Major motives attributed to patients were: (1) To improve experiences and care outcomes for oneself, as well as (2) for future patients, (3) to express gratitude and appreciation, (4) to cope successfully with treatment-related emotions. A motive shared by patients and professionals was (5) to contribute actively to improved delivery of healthcare. To optimize patient safety, costs, and care processes (6) was shared by professionals and managers. Lastly, (7) to improve patient-provider relationships was jointly shared by all stakeholder groups. For four motives (1, 2, 6, 7) consensus was established.ConclusionsIn order to unlock the full potential of future interventions in patient engagement, a deeper understanding of stakeholder motives is essential. We identified a set of distinct and shared motives for patient engagement across relevant stakeholder groups. Our findings may inform future interventions in patient engagement that take account of the motivational foundations and aspirations of all stakeholders who are key for the success for collaborative patient safety and care improvements.Trial registrationID DRKS00031837 (Date May 8, 2023).

Improving Student Learning Outcomes in Science and Science Subjects Through a Problem-Based Learning Model for Class V.A SD Negeri 27 Palembang

This study aims to improve the learning outcomes of students in the subject of Natural and Social Sciences (IPAS) by applying the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) learning model in class V.A SD Negeri 27 Palembang. This research used the Classroom Action Research (CAR) method which was carried out in three cycles. Each cycle involved planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. For data analysis, both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. The results showed a significant increase in students' learning outcomes in Chapter 2 “Harmony in Ecosystems”. The average score of students increased from 62.6 in cycle I with 62% learning completeness, to 70.1 in cycle II with 70% learning completeness, and reached 83.3 in cycle III with 83% learning completeness. Thus, the PBL learning model proved effective in improving student learning outcomes in IPAS subjects in class V.A SD Negeri 27 Palembang.

Prospectively identifying risks and controls for advanced brain-computer interfaces: A Networked Hazard Analysis and Risk Management System (Net-HARMS) approach

The introduction of advanced digital technologies continues to increase system complexity and introduce risks, which must be proactively identified and managed to support system resilience. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are one such technology; however, the risks arising from broad societal use of the technology have yet to be identified and controlled. This study applied a structured systems thinking-based risk assessment method to prospectively identify risks and risk controls for a hypothetical future BCI system lifecycle. The application of the Networked Hazard Analysis and Risk Management System (Net-HARMS) method identified over 800 risks throughout the BCI system lifecycle, from BCI development and regulation through to BCI use, maintenance, and decommissioning. High-criticality risk themes include the implantation and degradation of unsafe BCIs, unsolicited brain stimulation, incorrect signals being sent to safety-critical technologies, and insufficiently supported BCI users. Over 600 risk controls were identified that could be implemented to support system safety and performance resilience. Overall, many highly-impactful BCI system safety and performance risks may arise throughout the BCI system lifecycle and will require collaborative efforts from a wide range of BCI stakeholders to adequately control. Whilst some of the identified controls are practical, work is required to develop a more systematic set of controls to best support the design of a resilient sociotechnical BCI system.

Ergonomic Design for inclusive public spaces: a socio-demographic perspective on Chıld’s ergonomıcs ın Umranıye and Kadikoy, Istanbul

ABSTRACT This study employs mixed methods, integrating demographic variables to analyze public space space usage in child ergonomics Utilizing Space Syntax and Pierre Bourdieu’s theory within the framework of inclusive public space, it explores the relationship and needs between ergonomics and the socio-demographic statuses of children. The research applies an analytical approach based on Bourdieu’s focus on spatial capital to compare neighborhoods with varying socio-demographic characteristics in Istanbul’s Umraniye and Kadikoy districts. A critical spatial analysis emerges from comparing 14 public spaces in Umraniye’s Cakmak neighborhood (CS1) with a public area in Kadikoy’s Suadiye neighborhood (CS2). Methodologically, the study includes weekday (day 1) and weekend (day 2) field observations, Space Syntax analysis, TSI 2022 demographic data, digital maps, and anthropometric measurements specific to children aged 7–11. This effective mixed methodology provides a notable comparative spatial examination in child ergonomics research, highlighting clear disparities between the public spaces in CS1 and CS2.

Sleep Quality and Urinary Incontinence in Prostate Cancer Patients: A Data Analytics Approach with the ASCAPE Dataset

Sleep Quality and Urinary Incontinence in Prostate Cancer Patients: A Data Analytics Approach with the ASCAPE Dataset

Bar adsorptive microextraction and liquid chromatography-diode array detection of synthetic cannabinoids in oral fluid.

In recent years, synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have become a major public health issue. For this reason, there is a need for innovative analytical methods that allow its monitoring in biological matrices. In this work, we propose a novel methodology to screen eight SCs (AM-694, cumyl-5F-PINACA, MAM-2201, 5F-UR-144, JWH-018, JWH-122, UR-144 and APINACA) in oral fluids. A bar adsorptive microextraction method followed by microliquid desorption combined with high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (BAµE-µLD/HPLC-DAD) was developed to monitor the target SCs. The main factors affecting the BAµE technology were fully optimized for oral fluid analysis. Under optimized experimental conditions, the proposed methodology showed good linear dynamic ranges from 20.0 to 2000.0 µg L-1 (r2 > 0.99, relative residuals < 15%), limits of detection between 2.0 and 5.0 µg L-1 and suitable average recovery yields (87.9-100.5%) for the eight studied SCs. The intra- and interday accuracies (bias ≤ ± 14.7%) and precisions (RSD ≤ 14.9%) were also evaluated at three spiking levels. The validated methodology was then assayed to oral fluid samples collected from several volunteers. The proposed analytical approach showed remarkable performance and could be an effective alternative for routine monitoring of the target compounds in oral fluid.

The methodology of health education programs in schools—Qualitative study

ObjectiveTo assess strengths and weaknesses of the methodology of health education programs, carried out in the period 2010–2020, in schools in Serbia. DesignQualitative study, a thematic analysis approach. SiteRepresentatives of Public Health institutions, Serbian biggest nongovernmental organization, Youth organization, Ministry of education and municipality. ParticipantsNine professionals working in the field of Public Health and Health education. MethodFocus group gathered nine health and non-health professionals in 2022 year. Focus group was recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded and analyzed by three research team members. A coding template evolved through the analysis, providing the expansion of key concepts. Themes were, one by one, extracted, encoded, classified as the smallest units and interpretive, thematic analysis was applied. ResultsAlthough the Focus group in our study identified among other advantages, support of Health sector to Educational sector as crucial, it emphasized as well following weaknesses: Analyzed health education programs were implemented insufficiently as a separate process in schools, did not have the image of programs shared and integrated into community; Health education needs of schoolchildren, parents, and teachers should be examined prior the education implementation; Well-educated interdisciplinary educators have to be strengthened and supported; Parents participation is necessity; Standards and good practice guidelines are needed, and those developed through Health Promoting Schools program could be practiced. ConclusionIt is necessary to support cross-curricular competence, where health education should be integrated into all school subjects, and should go far beyond the school, grow into a culture of community life, which will interconnect all stakeholders in strong Public Health network.

Perspectives of Chinese nephrology nurses on discussing sexual dysfunction with patients receiving haemodialysis: A qualitative study.

The study underscores the crucial yet often neglected issue of sexual dysfunction in haemodialysis patients. Despite nephrology nurses'close relationships with patients, there is a significant communication gap on this topic. In China, limited research highlights the need for further study. To describe the perspectives of Chinese nephrology nurses on discussing sexual dysfunction with patients receiving haemodialysis. A qualitative descriptive study. Ten Chinese nephrology nurses from a tertiary public hospital in Guizhou province, China. Semistructured interviews were conducted using an interview guide. Qualitative content analysis approach was utilised in analysis. There were five themes described: (1) lack of training in sexual education, as nephrology nurses described never being trained to manage patients' sexual health issues; (2) discomfort when discussing sexual topics, Chinese nephrology nurses found the topic of sexual dysfunction embarrassing and avoided discussing it; (3) sexual dysfunction viewed as a nonurgent topic, nephrology nurses prioritise physical health to aid patient survival; (4) belief in physicians as ultimate care advisors, nephrology nurses believed that doctors should handle discussions on sexually related topics; and (5) lack of a suitable environment for discussing sexual dysfunction, nephrology nurses viewed sex as a private matter, inappropriate for discussion in a public unit. The study identifies barriers to discussing sexual dysfunction in healthcare, including provider knowledge deficits, discomfort and lack of supportive environments. It recommends specialised training and conducive settings to improve communication in renal care. Future research should evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions.

Are light curve classification metrics good proxies for SN Ia cosmological constraining power?

When selecting a lc classifier for use as part of a photometric supernova Ia (SN Ia) cosmological analysis, it is common to make decisions based on metrics of classification performance, such as the contamination within the photometrically classified SN Ia sample, rather than a measure of cosmological constraining power. If the former is an appropriate proxy for the latter, this practice would save those designing an analysis pipeline from eliminate the computational expense of a full cosmology forecast in the analysis pipeline design process This study tests the assumption that lc classification metrics are an appropriate proxy for cosmology metrics. We emulated photometric SN Ia cosmology lc samples with controlled contamination rates of individual contaminant classes and evaluated each of them under a set of classification metrics. We then derived cosmological parameter constraints from all samples under two common analysis approaches and quantified the impact of contamination by each contaminant class on the resulting cosmological parameter estimates. We observe that cosmology metrics are sensitive to both the contamination rate and the class of the contaminating population, whereas the classification metrics are shown to be insensitive to the latter. Based on these findings, we discourage any exclusive reliance on classification-based metrics for analysis design decisions, which (counterintuitively) include but are not limited to the classifier choice. Instead, we recommend optimising science analysis pipeline design choices using a metric of the information gained about the physical parameters of interest.

Flame stabilization and emission reduction: a comprehensive study on the influence of swirl velocity in hydrogen fuel-based burner design

Purpose This study aims to numerically analyse a full-scale burner across a wide range of operating pressure conditions and determine the effect of swirl velocity on flame stabilization, flame holding and combustion performance. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a numerical analysis approach to investigate a three-dimensional full-scale burner. Modified governing equations are used to determine the effect of swirl velocity on flame stabilization and flame holding. The GR-Mech 3.0 chemical reaction mechanism is used to predict the combustion process. To validate the model, a grid independence study is performed. Findings The study reveals that swirl velocity enhances flame stability, resulting in better combustion rates. As the swirl velocity increases, higher flame temperatures are observed due to high convective heat recirculation. The heat transfer coefficient and high radiative extinction coefficient are found to vary based on fuel swirl velocity. The mass fraction of CH4 and CO emphasizes the role of swirl velocity on flame structure. Increasing velocity potentially improves combustion by delaying the process, leading to better combustion and lower emissions. Originality/value The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of swirl-stabilized combustion and can guide the development of advanced combustion technologies, making it a valuable addition to the existing combustion field.

Incorporating cross-linguistic and time-based dimensions to Critical Metaphor Analysis: a specialised hands-on analytical approach

ABSTRACT Critical Metaphor Analysis (CMA) regards metaphor as a fundamental means of conceptualising the world, through which the ideology embedded in discourse can be unveiled. Drawing upon the methodologies of Critical Discourse Analysis and Corpus Linguistics, CMA comprises four principle stages: initially, contextual analysis for formulating research questions and selecting texts, followed by metaphor identification, interpretation, and explanation. This schematic four-stage CMA has found widespread applications in analyses of sensitive discourses, particularly political discourses. This study builds upon these schematic four stages, putting forward a more specialised, hands-on analytical approach that is well suited for a range of research objectives in translation and bi/multilingual settings where both cross-linguistic and time-based perspectives can be considered. To provide a step-by-step guide of this cross-linguistic and time-based analytical approach, this study presents two case studies of the Chinese newspaper Global Times’ Chinese-English bilingual COVID-19 reports in 2020. Specifically, metaphor translation and a time series analysis of the attitudinal intensity (strengthening, weakening, or keeping the negativity towards the pandemic unchanged) as manifested through the translation of WAR metaphors were explored. The study concludes by suggesting the application of this analytical approach to other types of metaphor correspondence and time-based analyses.

Interpretable Support Vector Machine and Its Application to Rehabilitation Assessment

This paper does present an interpretable support vector machine (SVM) and its application to rehabilitation assessment. We introduce the concept of nearest boundary point to standardize the one-class SVM decision function and determine the shortest path for data from abnormal cases to become those from normal cases. This analytical approach is computationally simple and provides a unique solution. The nearest boundary point of abnormal data can also be used to analyze the cause of abnormal classification and indicate countermeasures for normalization. These properties render the proposed interpretable SVM valuable for medical assessment applications and other problems that require careful consideration of classification results for treatment. Simulation and application results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.

Analytical approach for vertical dynamic responses of stiffened deep cement mixing pile in unsaturated ground

Stiffened deep cement mixing (SDCM) piles present excellent engineering performance compared with conventional pipe piles and thus are often applied to the structure foundation in coastal soft-soil area. This study intends to explore the vertical dynamic behavior of a SDCM pile in unsaturated soil by developing an analytical approach. In the proposed approach, the SDCM pile divides into two parts. The first part is considered as a composite pile formed by a prestressed high-strength concrete (PHC) pipe pile and a cement mixing pile through high-strength bonding, and the second part formed by the PHC pipe pile and an unsaturated soil column. The closed-form solution for the dynamic impedance of the SDCM pile has been determined and then verified by contrasting with the existing solutions, where the dynamic impedance is mainly characterized by dynamic stiffness and dynamic damping at SDCM pile head in the vertical direction. Numerical discussions are finally implemented to analysis the dependence of physical parameters of cement mixing pile, PHC pipe pile, and unsaturated soil on the vertical dynamic impedance of SDCM pile. It can be concluded that increasing the depth, radius and elastic modulus of the cement mixing pile at relatively low load excitation frequencies is beneficial for enhancing the vertical vibration resistance of the SDCM pile, while the reverse is true at higher load excitation frequencies. Quantitatively, under relatively low load excitation frequencies, the reinforcement depth of the cement mixing pile should not exceed 2/3 of the length of the PHC pipe pile, while its elastic modulus should be 5 ‰ to 2 % of the elastic modulus of the PHC pipe pile.

The quantum spectral method: from atomic orbitals to classical self-force

Can classical systems be described analytically at all orders in their interaction strength? For periodic and approximately periodic systems, the answer is yes, as we show in this work. Our analytical approach, which we call the Quantum Spectral Method, is based on a novel application of Bohr’s correspondence principle, obtaining non-perturbative classical dynamics as the classical limit of quantum matrix elements. A major application of our method is the calculation of self-force as the classical limit of atomic radiative transitions. We demonstrate this by calculating an adiabatic electromagnetic inspiral, along with its associated radiation, at all orders in the multipole expansion. Finally, we propose a future application of the Quantum Spectral Method to compute scalar and gravitational self-force in Schwarzschild, analytically.

Metaverse adventures into libraries: what librarians and information users need to know

PurposeThe study explores the transformative potential of the metaverse in libraries, highlighting opportunities for innovative patron engagement and challenges such as digital equity, privacy concerns, and accessibility barriers.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed an interpretive content/document analysis approach, drawing insights from diverse literature sources including Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.FindingsThe findings indicate that through the integration of immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), libraries can enrich their offerings and reach a broader audience. However, addressing challenges in libraries requires proactive measures, including bridging the digital divide and implementing inclusive design practices. Furthermore, cultivating metaliteracy skills among librarians and information users is essential to navigating the complexities of the metaverse responsibly.Originality/valueThe study’s originality lies in its comprehensive exploration of the implications of the metaverse for libraries and information users. Thus, exploring the nexus of immersive technologies, digital equity, and the evolving role of libraries, the research provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the metaverse. The value outlines the key strategies for libraries to thrive in the metaverse by emphasizing the integration of immersive technologies, enhancing digital literacy, fostering collaborative partnerships, prioritizing accessible design, investing in research and innovation, and advocating for inclusive policies, the study equips libraries with a roadmap to fulfill their mission of providing equitable access to information and fostering lifelong learning in the digital age. The insights from the study will inform the strategic planning and decision-making of library administrators, policymakers, and information professionals as they navigate the transformative potential of the metaverse.