Individual Capabilities Research Articles

THIẾT KẾ, CHẾ TẠO GĂNG TAY HỖ TRỢ PHỤC HỒI CHỨC NĂNG CHO NGƯỜI KHUYẾT TẬT SỬ DỤNG CÁC NGÓN MỀM

This article presents the development and production process of a glove designed for rehabilitation, and enhancing object manipulation capabilities for individuals with hand mobility limitations, using soft finger design. The soft fingers are constructed from a composite structure consisting of silicone rubber material. An automated calculation program is created in Python and integrated with Abaqus/CAE software, enabling the concurrent exploration of numerous parameters governing the soft fingers to choose a rational design of glove. Experimental tests reveal that the error of the experiment and simulation results is less than 7.8%. Furthermore, these deformable soft fingers can closely mimic the contours of human fingers. Leveraging the successful construction of the soft fingers, a corresponding soft glove is manufactured. Preliminary validated experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of these soft gloves in aiding patients with diverse exercise rehabilitation. Additionally, they provide support for basic tasks such as grasping objects weighing approximately 600 grams.

The Relationship between Emotional Recognition and Psychopathic Trait

The ability to recognize and understand emotions plays a fundamental role in human social interaction and is essential for effective communication and interpersonal relationships. Psychopathy, a personality disorder characterized by persistent antisocial behavior and impaired empathy, holds significant relevance in understanding criminal behavior, societal impact, and the implications of psychopathic traits on social functioning. In the intricate interplay between psychopathic traits and emotion recognition, prior research has highlighted the profound role of emotional processing in an individual's social functioning and development, alongside the considerable impact of psychopathic traits on these facets of life. To develop further into this complex relationship, this paper synthesizes existing research findings while elucidating current research gaps. These studies collectively revealed the diminished accuracy and efficiency in the emotional processing capabilities of high psychopathic individuals, as well as the emergence of atypical automatic emotional responses and subjective selection of emotional information in their interactions with emotional stimuli. Additionally, this review emphasizes the critical role played by primary psychopathic traits in shaping abnormal attention patterns, particularly the tendency of highly psychopathic individuals to divert their attention away from crucial emotion-carrying cues, such as the eyes of facial stimuli, especially when confronted with negative emotional expressions. The present review also recognizes certain limitations, mainly arising from sample size, self-report assessments, and the lack of comparison between clinical and nonclinical populations with high psychopathic traits. To address these constraints and further enrich people’s comprehension, future research should focus on conducting longitudinal studies within high-risk populations.

Factors influencing employee retention of academic home tutors in a private school

This study’s goal is to investigate the links between pay and benefits, worklife balance, professional development, and employee retention among academic home tutors in a Malaysian private school. Data from 80 respondents from this private school were gathered using a quantitative survey method. Statistical package for social science (SPSS) was employed throughout the study to analyze the data. The study results showed that salary & compensation and career enhancement positively correlate with employee retention. Meanwhile, work-life balance was not statistically linked with employee retention. The management should revise the human resource management practices by including these elements. The management should design salary & compensation packages that fit with individual knowledge, capabilities, and performance. The management may also consider offering flexible work schedules, such as training, mentoring, job mobility, and a reduction in working hours, as well as wellness assistance, such as counselling services and health and wellness initiatives. This will give employees the chance to advance their careers.

Mn-TiO2 catalyst collaborates with trace O3 to enhance the removal of mercury in ESP environment

Ozone, known for its strong oxidizing properties, is commonly utilized in water pollution control. However, the catalytic ozonation of gaseous pollutants also shows potential as an emission reduction technology. The challenge lies in the high concentrations of ozone required in the catalytic process, which increases costs and complexity, hindering widespread adoption. Industrial electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) powered by high-voltage sources can produce ozone during operation, potentially causing environmental pollution if not managed. This study suggests utilizing a catalyst in the low-concentration ozone environment generated by an ESP for the catalytic oxidation of Hg0 in flue gas. The removal efficiency of Hg0 by either the catalyst alone or ozone alone (O3: 10 ppm) is modest at 43 % and 8 % respectively. However, when combined, the catalyst and ozone demonstrate a remarkable removal efficiency of over 98 %, significantly outperforming their individual capabilities. Furthermore, this process exhibits consistent high efficiency in a wide temperature range of 50–150 ℃. The study reveals that in the absence of O3, adsorbed oxygen acts as the primary oxidant, limiting the oxidation of Hg0. The introduction of O3 enhances electron transfer within the Mn-Ti catalyst, optimizing the electronic structure of oxygen and enhancing the oxidizing capacity of lattice oxygen, resulting in superior Hg0 removal efficiency. These findings offer valuable insights for the catalytic ozonation of Hg0.

Leveraging Knowledge Management Techniques for Developing Multimedia Exercise Guides for Elderly Fall Prevention

In this research study, the primary objective was to develop a comprehensive exercise program specifically designed for elderly individuals. The focus was on evaluating various exercise postures and validating their impact on muscle groups. By integrating knowledge management systems with knowledge engineering methodologies, the aim was to optimize the design of exercise postures and promote optimal health outcomes for the elderly. Divided into three distinct experiments, the study employed a systematic approach to acquire, represent, and validate knowledge related to exercise postures for the elderly population. The use of knowledge management systems and engineering methodologies facilitated the design of effective exercise postures tailored to meet the unique needs and capabilities of elderly individuals. Experiment I focused on knowledge acquisition through structured interviews with physical therapists. The acquired knowledge was used to screen and prioritize exercise postures suitable for elderly individuals. Expert recommendations and analysis were employed to select a set of exercise postures. Using a matrix combination approach, 189 possible exercise postures were generated by combining aerobic and dance postures. Through a screening process, 52 postures were selected as suitable for elderly individuals. Experiment II utilized kinesthetic representation techniques to visually represent the 52 selected exercise postures for the elderly. Additionally, frame representation was employed to capture muscle specifications associated with each posture. The representation design was validated by physical exercise experts. In the first step of Experiment III, a total of 52 exercise postures were implemented and evaluated with elderly participants. The implementation and validation process aimed to identify the best and most appropriate postures for the elderly, considering factors such as satisfaction levels, difficulty levels, and safety considerations. Through this rigorous evaluation, the initial selection of 52 postures was narrowed down to a final set of 21 suitable postures. The validation results provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of the exercise postures and their impact on the elderly participants. It ensured that the chosen postures were not only effective in promoting optimal health outcomes but also minimized the risk of injury. The iterative assessment and refinement process contributed to the development of an evidence-based exercise program specifically tailored to the unique needs and capabilities of elderly individuals. For the second step of Experiment III, the effects of the selected exercise postures on different muscle groups were validated. Three physical exercise experts evaluated the impact on upper limb, trunk, and lower limb muscles. Specific muscle groups, such as brachioradialis, deltoid, quadriceps, and hamstring, were found to be strongly focused on during the exercises, while trunk muscles were rated as poor overall. The evaluation involved implementing and evaluating a total of 52 exercise postures with elderly participants. The selection of the final 21 postures was based on the evaluation results and provided insights into satisfaction levels, difficulty levels, and safety considerations for each exercise posture. The validation outcomes showed a high level of agreement among the experts, ranging from 79% to 91%. For conclusion, this research aimed to enhance exercise programs for the elderly by developing more effective methodologies for designing exercise postures. By considering the specific requirements of the elderly population and utilizing knowledge management systems, the study successfully created exercise postures that maximize health benefits and overall well-being. Through the implementation of knowledge engineering methodologies and the utilization of knowledge management systems, the research optimized the design of exercise postures for elderly individuals. The division of the study into three experiments enabled a comprehensive analysis of the acquired knowledge, leading to the development of exercise postures specifically tailored to the needs of the elderly population.

Exploring Thesis Topic Choices in Undergraduate Chinese Language Studies

The paper discusses the importance of topic selection in research, emphasizing that the chosen topic determines the scope, depth, and content of the study. The appropriateness of the topic is crucial for the successful completion of a thesis. An ideal topic should have academic value, align with personal interests, and be suitable for the individual's research capabilities. The direction, difficulty, scale, and method of formulating the topic are all significant aspects worthy of in-depth discussion.Keywords: Topic Selection; Difficulty; Formulation; Evaluation

“Deep Learning Based Classification of Single-Hand South Indian Sign Language Gestures”

Gesture recognition is a branch of computer science and language technology dedicated to utilizing mathematical algorithms for the analysis of human gestures. Within the realm of non-verbal communication, the pivotal role of human arm movements and gestures remains a focal point. This research introduces advanced multi-stream deep transfer learning models tailored for identifying signs from South Indian languages, specifically Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu. The primary aim is to offer support to individuals encountering speech disorders or disabilities. The key deep transfer learning models utilized include Inception-V3, VGG-16, and ResNet-50, which have been modified and improved to attain heightened classification efficacy. The dataset comprises 35,000 images capturing single-hand gestures. In the realm of models, Inception-V3 exhibits the utmost test accuracy, standing at 91.45%, alongside a validation accuracy of 93.45% when tasked with the classification of single-hand gesture images across thirty-five distinct categories. The importance of this study lies in its prospective utility for creating an automated system that can support and improve the functional capabilities of individuals facing speech disorders or disabilities.

Features of psychological resilience development in the context of contemporary psychological research

This article illuminates the dynamic nature of psychological resilience development against the backdrop of contemporary societal changes. It draws attention to the necessity of integrating an individual's internal capabilities with external support factors. Based on current psychological research, it emphasizes the multifaceted components of resilience, which include self-regulation, optimism, cognitive flexibility, and the vital role of social support systems. The work summarizes the contributions of modern scholars to the field of psychological resilience, particularly highlighting valid, including relatively new, resilience assessment scales applied as effective tools for both measuring and facilitating resilience development across various societal categories. Furthermore, the article reveals aspects of resilience research that were previously underexplored, such as the need for a deeper investigation into cross-cultural dimensions, the impact of digital technologies, and the formation of comprehensive support programs tailored to the challenges of the modern world. The goal of this article is to synthesize theoretical and empirical findings, offering a generalized summary of the research overview by contemporary scientists active in the field of psychological resilience, while also identifying future directions for study and application. This comprehensive review not only aids in a better understanding of how psychological resilience develops but also highlights unexplored aspects and opportunities for future research. By integrating findings from various sources, it provides a foundation for creating effective assistance methods that could enhance psychological resilience in individuals regardless of their age, social position, and cultural background.

Occupational therapy role in enhancing creativity and intelligence development—A review study

This article provides a comprehensive review of the impact of occupational therapy (OT) on the development of creativity and intelligence, areas of growing interest within the field of cognitive and developmental psychology. Through a systematic examination of the literature, this review aims to elucidate the role of OT in enhancing cognitive functions that underpin creativity and intelligence, including problem-solving skills, cognitive flexibility, and executive functioning. The methodology employed involves a rigorous search of peer-reviewed articles, employing inclusion and exclusion criteria designed to capture relevant studies, followed by a qualitative synthesis of findings to identify common themes and insights. The review reveals that OT interventions, particularly those incorporating creative activities and tasks targeting executive functions, can significantly contribute to cognitive development. Studies highlighted within the review demonstrate improvements in cognitive flexibility, problem-solving abilities, and overall intelligence quotients (IQ) among participants engaging in OT. Theoretical frameworks, such as Cognitive Stimulation Theory and Environmental Enrichment Theory, provide insight into the mechanisms through which OT may foster creativity and intelligence. In conclusion, this article underscores the potential of OT to enhance creativity and intelligence, suggesting that OT interventions could be a valuable component of educational and developmental programs. By fostering engagement in meaningful and challenging activities, OT not only supports the rehabilitation and adaptive capabilities of individuals with various needs but also contributes to the cognitive and emotional growth of a broader population. This review advocates for the integration of creative and cognitively stimulating activities within OT practice, highlighting the importance of further research to expand our understanding of these relationships.

Unlocking cognitive potential: a comprehensive review of neurocognitive interventions in Down Syndrome

Background: Down Syndrome (DS) poses unique challenges in cognitive functioning, characterized by deficits in language, memory, and executive functions. This review synthesizes current research across educational, behavioral, pharmacological, and physical interventions to enhance cognitive capabilities in individuals with DS. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, incorporating studies that explored diverse interventions for cognitive enhancement in DS. Educational interventions, behavioral strategies, pharmacological approaches, and physical modalities were systematically analyzed to provide a holistic overview of the current landscape. Objectives: This review aims to consolidate findings from various intervention studies, offering insights into the efficacy of educational, behavioral, pharmacological, and physical approaches in ameliorating cognitive deficits in DS. The diverse range of interventions and their respective outcomes were critically examined to guide future research and intervention strategies. Discussions: Educational interventions, such as language and speech therapy, technology-assisted learning, and working memory training, displayed promising outcomes. Behavioral approaches, including responsive teaching and motor skill-focused interventions, added valuable insights to cognitive enhancement. Pharmacological interventions exhibited varying degrees of success, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches. Physical interventions, particularly regular physical activity and assisted cycle therapy, emerged as potential catalysts for cognitive improvement. This review highlights the multifaceted nature of cognitive deficits in DS and underscores the importance of personalized perspectives in intervention strategies. The discussions provide a comprehensive understanding of the current interventions' effectiveness, contributing to the ongoing discourse on cognitive enhancement in DS. Future research should focus on personalized approaches, considering the heterogeneity in DS phenotypes, to optimize cognitive outcomes for individuals with DS.

Features of the content of the training of highly qualified judo wrestlers

Judo belongs to the group of complex coordination sports. Its main content consists in the interaction of opponents through motor resistances, the task of which is to bring them out of balance with the help of technical actions in the stance with the subsequent pursuit of the opponent in a lying fight (parterre). The purpose of the pursuit is to win with binding knots of a restraining, suffocating or painful nature in accordance with the rules of the competition. As a martial art, judo is aimed at competitive activity. The purpose of the work is to study the impact of effective training of judokas in a competitive microcycle. Judo's arsenal contains a set of technical actions for fighting in the stance (throw technique) and parterre (holding technique, technique of pain techniques on the elbow joint, technique of choking techniques), the study of which is determined by the traditional system of degrees of mastery (from simple to complex). As part of basic training, active learning of judo allows students not only to improve physical qualities and strengthen health, master physical exercises and motor skills, but also to successfully develop mental processes and moral qualities, to form consciousness and thinking, creative approach and independence, etc. Methodology. Judo wrestling refers to sports with extremely complex and varied movement techniques. The following methods were used as components of her technique to organize the research: basic techniques and stances, their modifications, complex technical-tactical actions (combinations and countermeasures), elementary actions (movement, capture, disequilibrium, ground insurance and self-insurance). the following methods were used to organize the research: theoretical analysis and generalization of scientific and methodical literature, protocols of judo competitions, pedagogical observation, testing. Scientific novelty. It is aimed at the organization, planning of sportsmanship during performance at competitions of various ranks. Timely analyzed, predicted and simulated competition and training situations will be used for further planning of a balanced training process, regarding optimal loads at different stages of training of judokas of different qualifications to achieve the highest results in judo. Conclusions. The training process should be selected to achieve specific sports goals and results, should take into account the individual characteristics and capabilities of athletes. This approach should help ensure wrestlers have the opportunity to achieve high results and maintain competitiveness at the international level.

Features of physical education and sports rehabilitation for teenagers with hearing impairments

The number of children suffering from partial or complete hearing loss is steadily increasing according to the Worldwide organization protection health. This trend is a cause for concern, as this condition can hinder a child's overall development and social adaptation. The aim of this article was to characterize the features of physical and sports rehabilitation for adolescents with hearing impairments. Scientific publications on physical and health rehabilitation of children with partial or complete hearing loss were analyzed. The effectiveness of physical exercises, massage, the use of technical rehabilitation means, methods of correction of motor disorders, swimming training, and activation of cognitive activity were revealed. It was indicated that hearing impairment leads to underdevelopment of speech, slowing down or specific development of other functions associated with the affected organ, which slows down mental development as a whole. Underdevelopment in the functioning of some sensory organs and the relative preservation of others are also characteristic. A correlation was found between hearing impairments and the characteristics of the development of the emotional sphere, attention, memory, and thinking. Such features negatively affect the quality of life of a child, especially during adolescence, since this stage is considered critical. Attention is drawn to the fact that modern Ukrainian state policy is aimed at the formation and strengthening of democratic egalitarian attitudes, as well as the recognition of each person regardless of their physical, mental, or intellectual state. This leads to the expansion of the infrastructure of social rehabilitation institutions to help families raising children with disabilities. The implementation of this strategy lies in the development of a rehabilitation process that takes into account the individual capabilities of each child with problems in physical, intellectual, social, and psychological status. The conclusion was made about the necessity and relevance of developing a program of physical and sports rehabilitation for adolescents with hearing impairments.

To Study the Importance of Staff Training and Development in the Front Office Through Collaborations

"Effective staff training and development in the front office is crucial for enhancing customer service, improving operational efficiency, and fostering a positive work environment. By incorporating collaborations, employees can learn from each other, share best practices, and collectively contribute to the success of the organization. “By fostering collaborations among front office staff, organizations can unlock a myriad of benefits. Firstly, it promotes a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Through collaborative training initiatives, employees have the opportunity to share their knowledge, skills, and best practices with one another. This not only enhances individual capabilities but also builds a collective knowledge base within the organization. Moreover, collaborations in staff training and development foster teamwork and synergy among front office employees. By working together, they can develop a deeper understanding of each other's roles, responsibilities, and challenges. This enables them to provide seamless and consistent service to customers, creating a positive and memorable experience.

Seeking for associations of I/D polymorphism of ACE gene with self-reported work performance, memory, and cardiovascular health in a professional leadership community

Introduction. Maintaining labor efficiency, working under conditions of stress and uncertainty, high level of requirements to the functional state of workers in various professions actualize the occupational health study of work performance. Methodological applications of predictive medicine and psychogenetics make it possible to identify specific hereditary (biological) predispositions of individuals, to carry out professional orientation of a person, to provide humanistic recommendations on occupation of a certain type of professional activity.
 The study aims to identify a correlation between ACE genotypes and work performance capability in individuals from a professional leadership community.
 Materials and methods. Individuals from a professional leadership community, after dividing into two cohorts consisting of entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs, were interviewed and genotyped for evidence of genotype-by-insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism associations of the angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) gene and health status. Answers to 4 questions characterized the state of work performance and memory, and another 4 questions characterized the cardiovascular system. The mean age was 37±1.7 years for entrepreneurs and 34.23±0.66 years for non-entrepreneurs. There were 44 females and 129 males among them.
 Results. Analysis of genotyping of 173 people (25 entrepreneurs and 148 non-entrepreneurs) revealed a significant deviation of actual frequencies of I and D alleles from theoretically expected values in the whole group of managers and between non-entrepreneurs (p=0.95, χ2>3.8). In all groups, there was a marked increase in the frequency of the I/I genotype at the expense of a decrease in the frequency of the D/D genotype compared to the literature data. A significant difference between D/D and I/D genotypes in work performance was found in entrepreneurs (p=0.9817), which coincides with a significant difference between their representatives by age (p>0.99). Contrary to expectations, representatives of the D/D genotype, at least entrepreneurs, demonstrated the most optimal level of functioning of the autonomic nervous system. No associations were found between the genotype for the ACE gene (rs4646994) and work performance and memory.
 Conclusion. In the total sample of leaders and among the subgroup of non-entrepreneurs, a strong and reliable change in the frequencies of alleles I and D was found compared to the theoretically expected (frequencies). There was a significant increase in the frequency of I/I genotype in all groups. The significant difference in the rates between the D/D and I/D groups coincides with a significant difference between their representatives in terms of age. According to the results of test answers, representatives of entrepreneurs of D/D genotype had the most optimal level of vegetative nervous system functioning.

Maintaining the Meritocracy Myth: A critical discourse analytic study of leaders’ talk about merit and gender in academia

The belief in meritocracy – that advancement is based solely on individual capabilities and hard work – remains ingrained in organizations despite evidence that it is a flawed concept perpetuatings gender and other social inequalities. Critical streams of research have highlighted the ideological character of meritocracy discourse, its entrenched nature and acceptance as ‘common-sense’. Less is known about how this ‘meritocracy myth’ is maintained, that is, how this hegemonic discourse retains its potency in day-to-day talk in organizations. We argue that leaders, given their active discursive roles and opportunities to establish and control discourses, play an important but underexamined role in the reproduction and legitimization of this seemingly progressive yet ultimately destructive discourse. We conduct a critical discourse analysis (CDA) drawing on qualitative interviews with leaders in higher education institutions in the United Kingdom focusing on their talk about women’s recruitment and progression in academic roles. We identify three discursive interventions through which leaders routinely maintain and reinforce and on occasion challenge the existing system of meritocracy: invisibilizing gender inequality through gender-neutrality; denying constraints through individualization; and problematizing meritocracy to uphold or challenge the status quo. We argue that by uncovering the means through which meritocracy discourse retains its resilience, our paper offers the opportunity to scrutinize and challenge these discursive underpinnings that uphold the ‘meritocracy myth’. We suggest that it is possible to re-imagine what might be considered ‘merit worthy’ in universities, recognizing and centring structural gender and other social inequalities to create more equal institutions.

Analisis Kinerja Pegawai Dalam Pelayanan Administrasi Kependudukan

This study aims to analyze the performance of employees in the Civil Registration Administration Service in the Village of Kajeksan, Tulangan District, Sidoarjo Regency. Employee performance in civil registration administration is essential for community needs related to population data. The lack of human resource skills poses challenges for employees in providing effective and efficient services, leading to dissatisfaction among individuals dealing with population documents. The research employs a qualitative descriptive research method to examine the conditions of a specific object. The results indicate that; The quality of employee performance is good in utilizing the information technology available, with employees fulfilling their duties and responsibilities; The quantity of employee performance is optimally sufficient, even when handling a large number of documents, despite server constraints; Timeliness of employee performance is reasonably optimal, considering the ability to provide services within a timely manner, although there are server-related challenges; The effectiveness of employee performance ensures the delivery of the best services, facilitated by technological tools; Employee self-reliance is optimal, with individual capabilities aligning with the community's expectations for processing population documents. Keywords - Employee Performance, Population Administration, Service

Supportive Families and Self-Compassion: Keys to Alleviating Academic Stress in Thesis-Engaged Undergraduate Students in Indonesia

Academic stress arises from academic demands that exceed an individual's adaptive capabilities. The family is one of the elements causing academic stress. Families are essential in reducing the possibility of academic stress. This study delves into the mediation role of self-compassion within the interplay of family support and academic stress among undergraduates working on their thesis in the Faculty of Engineering and Science at a Banyumas, Indonesia university. By examining whether self-compassion acts as a conduit through which family support impacts academic stress, the research uncovers the intricate psychological dynamics shaping how students respond to academic demands. Employing a rigorous sampling method, the study involved 181 participants and utilized established measurement scales. The analysis, conducted via bootstrapping procedures, elucidated the dual influence of family support on academic stress—both directly and indirectly through self-compassion. These findings contribute to understanding academic stress experiences, suggesting interventions to bolster well-being and stress management strategies. The study's outcomes underscore the significance of familial support in reducing academic stress while highlighting self-compassion's protective mechanism. The study advocates for the implementation of interventions promoting self-compassion and fostering supportive family environments, offering valuable insights for educational institutions and policymakers to enhance student mental health and academic success.

Workplace trauma and professional quality of Life in clinical and forensic psychiatry: the CRITIC study.

Frontline staff in psychiatry need to perform at a very high professional level in order to ensure patient and community safety. At the same time they are exposed to high levels of stress and workplace trauma. This may have severe consequences for their professional quality of life. In addition, health care workers in general have higher incidence levels of childhood adversity than the general population. The CRITIC (CRITical Incidents and aggression in Caregivers) Study aims to improve increased understanding of the interaction between personal life history (childhood adversity and benevolence), individual capabilities, exposure to trauma and violence at work and Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL). The Critic Study is a cross-sectional survey of these aspects in frontline, treatment and administrative staff in clinical and forensic psychiatry. We aim to include 360 participants. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires on childhood adversity and childhood benevolence (assessing personal life history), professional quality of life, current trauma and violence exposure, current mental health (depression, anxiety and stress), coping, social support, work engagement and resilience. In this study we will examine the moderating role of adverse and benevolent childhood experiences in the association between workplace trauma exposure and professional quality of life. Finally, a theoretical model on the relationships between trauma, stress and coping in the context of professional functioning will be tested using structural equation modelling. The CRITIC study examines which factors influence the complex relationship between childhood adversity and benevolence, and ProQOL in healthcare workers. It also aims to provide insight into the complex relationship between personal life history, individual characteristics, exposure to trauma and violence at work and ProQOL. The results can be used for designing interventions to increase resilience to trauma and to improve professional quality of life among health care professionals. The CRITIC study has been approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of the Erasmus Medical Centre, under trial registration number NL73417.078.20.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Adaptive Aerobic Exercise in Improving Quality of Life for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) significantly impacts individuals’ quality of life (QoL), particularly in regions with high prevalence rates like China, where environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to disease severity. Traditional management focuses on pharmacological treatments, but the potential of adaptive aerobic exercise to enhance QoL and physical health in COPD patients remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an adaptive aerobic exercise program tailored to individual patient capabilities and limitations in improving QoL and physical health parameters among COPD patients in China. A quasi-experimental study design was implemented, involving COPD patients from multiple healthcare centers across China. Participants were divided into two groups: the intervention group, which participated in a 12-week adaptive aerobic exercise program, and the control group, which received standard care. Primary outcome measures included QoL changes, assessed by the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and physical health improvements, measured by the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and spirometry (FEV1 and FVC). Secondary outcomes focused on exercise adherence, self-reported symptom changes, and healthcare utilization. The intervention group showed significant improvements in QoL, evidenced by reduced CAT scores and improved SGRQ outcomes, particularly in the domains of symptoms and activity level. Physical health also significantly improved, with increased 6MWT distances and enhanced spirometric measures indicating better lung function. High adherence rates (over 80%) and reduced self-reported exacerbations, along with decreased healthcare service needs, were observed in the exercise group. Adaptive aerobic exercise significantly improves the quality of life and physical health of COPD patients in China, demonstrating the value of integrating tailored physical activity interventions into COPD management strategies. The program’s high adherence rates and the observed decrease in healthcare utilization underscore its potential to be a viable, cost-effective addition to standard COPD care.

APRTC: advanced precise rapid thermal cycling in blow molding by applying fuzzy controller on thermoelectric devices for cooling and heating applications

This study presents an innovative approach to enhance thermal control in the blow molding production process, specifically focusing on achieving rapid and precise temperature regulation. To address the significant time consumption during mold closure, strategically deploying thermoelectric modules (TEMs) arranged according to the mold’s geometry enables meticulous temperature monitoring through integrated thermocouples. The configuration forms a matrix of interconnected TEMs, thermocouples, and controllers, orchestrating precise temperature adjustments across the mold surface. The research integrates fuzzy algorithms to facilitate seamless communication between thermoelectric devices and thermocouples for precise mold temperature control. Simulation of thermoelectric devices using COMSOL Multiphysics and implementation of fuzzy controllers in Matlab, connected through a live-link, enables real-time. I have adjustments and precise control. This integrated approach allows for a comprehensive analysis and optimization of the thermal control system, ensuring effective and adaptive temperature regulation. TEMs, operating as solid-state heat pumps, offer size versatility, adaptability to diverse mold shapes, and maintenance-free operation. Leveraging individual control capabilities significantly enhances heat transfer resolution, enabling precise manipulation of heat flux. Emphasizing the reduction of cooling time and achieving high-gloss surface quality, the study introduces the Advanced Precise Rapid Thermal Cycling in Blow Molding (APRTC) method. APRTC strategically employs TEMs to expedite cooling and elevate temperature determination accuracy, guaranteeing enhanced temperature resolution on the core mold surface. Furthermore, the study optimizes energy utilization through a closed-loop fluid circulation system, harnessing waste energy from other stages. Comparative analysis highlights APRTC's superiority, revealing a remarkable 91%\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$91 \\%$$\\end{document} reduction in temperature differentials during the cooling cycle and an 89%\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$89 \\%$$\\end{document} decrease in the heating stage. These findings underscore APRTC's efficacy in maintaining minimal temperature variations throughout the entire molding process.