Continued Engagement Research Articles

Wounds and Vulnerabilities. The Participation of Special Operations Forces in Experimental Brain-Computer Interface Research.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) exemplify a dual-use neurotechnology with significant potential in both civilian and military contexts. While BCIs hold promise for treating neurological conditions such as spinal cord injuries and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the future, military decisionmakers in countries such as the United States and China also see their potential to enhance combat capabilities. Some predict that U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) will be early adopters of BCI enhancements. This article argues for a shift in focus: the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) should pursue translational research of medical BCIs for treating severely injured or ill SOF personnel. After two decades of continuous military engagement and on-going high-risk operations, SOF personnel face unique injury patterns, both physical and psychological, which BCI technology could help address. The article identifies six key medical applications of BCIs that could benefit wounded SOF members and discusses the ethical implications of involving SOF personnel in translational research related to these applications. Ultimately, the article challenges the traditional civilian-military divide in neurotechnology, arguing that by collaborating more closely with military stakeholders, scientists can not only help individuals with medical needs, including servicemembers, but also play a role in shaping the future military applications of BCI technology.

Advancing process safety management systems in the oil and gas industry: Strategies for risk mitigation

Process Safety Management (PSM) is critical for mitigating operational risks and enhancing worker safety in the oil and gas industry. This paper explores the essential components of PSM systems, such as hazard analysis, incident investigation, and management of change, highlighting the role of safety culture, leadership, and accountability. Key challenges in implementing effective PSM, including aging infrastructure and compliance issues, and lessons learned from industry incidents are examined. The paper presents strategies for improving risk mitigation through advanced technologies like digital tools, predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and continuous workforce training and engagement. The findings underscore the need for a balanced approach that integrates human oversight with technology to ensure more effective risk management. Recommendations include further investments in digital transformation, stronger leadership commitment to safety, and collaborative efforts with regulatory bodies to improve industry standards. The oil and gas sector can significantly reduce risks and improve operational safety by adopting these strategies.

Public innovation and policy change in the security policy in Nuevo León

AbstractThis article explores the dynamics of policy change and innovation in the context of the security crises in Nuevo León, Mexico, drawing insight from past experiences and ongoing challenges. From 2003 to 2023, with an emphasis on 2006–2011, the article examines the role of the state government and civil participation in shaping innovative policy responses. Key findings highlight the importance of collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector in developing effective and sustainable solutions. While successful initiatives like the establishment of Fuerza Civil demonstrate the potential of public innovation, challenges such as funding uncertainties and changes in political leadership underscore the need for institutionalized mechanisms for collaboration and evaluation. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in policymaking processes; and advocating for continued civil engagement to address security challenges and foster a safer and more resilient future.

Bridging the Gap Between Industry Needs and Student Skills for Quality Education Through Sdgs: An Industry-Academia Collaboration in Curriculum Development

Objective: This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between student skills and industry demands, proposing a robust Industry-Academia Collaboration (IAC) framework to enhance curriculum alignment with dynamic industry requirements, thereby contributing to quality education and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Theoretical Framework: Grounded in Action Research, this study adopts a post-positivist approach to examine and address real-world educational challenges. By embedding critical thinking and participatory research, the framework aims to foster a symbiotic relationship between academia and industry. Method: Utilizing insights from two action research studies conducted in collaboration with universities, this method emphasizes iterative development and participatory research. The approach is centered on continuous engagement with industry partners, allowing for ongoing refinements and adaptations in educational strategies and interventions. Results and Discussion: Findings reveal that sustained Industry-Academia Collaboration facilitates multiple iterations of curriculum refinement, leading to enhanced alignment with industry needs and improved educational outcomes. The collaborative process not only bridges the skill gap but also fosters a deeper understanding of the practical application of academic knowledge in real-world settings. Research Implications: The study highlights the critical role of iterative collaboration in curriculum development, suggesting that such approaches are essential for achieving SDG 4, which focuses on quality education. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature by demonstrating how action research can effectively enhance Industry-Academia Collaboration, thereby supporting the integration of SDGs into curriculum development.

Language Proficiency, Second Language Educational Experience, and Psychological Well-being Among International Students at U.S. Universities

Study abroad comes with challenges, yet it is not clear how language proficiency may longitudinally predict students’ social engagement and well-being. Recent changes in international student demographics, including age decreases and increased international school backgrounds, may also affect students’ well-being. This study views language as a culturally specific symbolic tool that serves cognitive, social, and emotional interactions, both interpersonal and intrapersonal. By surveying 387 international students from 14 U.S. universities over 1.5 years, this study explored the role of English proficiency in facilitating students’ adaptability to psychosocial challenges and well-being. The findings suggested that both English proficiency and prior-to-admission second language educational experience predict well-being, while the latter may have afforded more nonacademic adjustment to international students’ continuous social engagement. In addition, the onset of social engagement and sense of belonging showed a likely importance which highlights the value of pre-study-abroad programming for facilitating international students’ continuous social engagement.

Designing a User-Friendly Data Request Management System for a Growing Health Data Network - A Case Study in the AKTIN Registry.

The AKTIN Emergency Department Registry, a German health data network, faces operational challenges due to rapid growth. Manual data request processes have become inefficient, hindering timely research and straining personnel. To address these challenges, we undertook a user-centered analysis utilizing Design Thinking principles to identify pain points and functional requirements in current data request creation and management processes. Future work will prioritize iterative implementation of the created concepts with continuous user engagement and rigorous software validation.

Re-imagining the use of integrated assessment models from a social science perspective—lessons from the Sustainable Development Pathways (SDP)

Abstract Socio-political factors in Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs), and their scenario narratives often lack transparency for policymakers and interdisciplinary scholars. As these tools increasingly support sustainable development goals, their assumptions and methodologies require scrutiny, particularly from social scientists. We address critiques of climate isolationism, overemphasis on technological transitions, and insufficient inter- and transdisciplinarity, advocating for robust interdisciplinary integration and clearer methodological transparency. Our recommendations stem from expert interviews and over 200 stakeholders across 30 countries from 2019 to 2024, emphasizing the need for cohesive theory and comprehensive social science engagement to refine these critical tools.
Our main case study uses a new scenario set, the Sustainable Development Pathways (SDPs), that made substantial efforts to address social sciences critiques. The SDPs consist of both narratives and IAM-quantified target-seeking scenarios that are supported by social science concepts and theories to ensure not only theoretical coherence, but also their credibility among policymakers. As such tools are increasingly used to facilitate policies and actions for sustainability transformation, questions are raised about how they can effectively represent the complexities behind the current polycrisis that is marked by the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, economic inequality and social injustice. 
The paper concludes by reflecting on the remaining challenges and open questions related to the role of exogenous sociopolitical factors, the potential for scenarios to transcend political ideologies, and the need for ongoing adaptation of SDPs to reflect the dynamic global context. It calls for continued engagement and exploration of these issues to ensure the scientific representation of sustainable and equitable futures.

Sensitization and Habituation of Hyper-Excitation to Constant Presentation of Pattern-Glare Stimuli.

Pattern glare, associated with cortical hyperexcitability, induces visual distortions and discomfort, particularly in individuals susceptible to migraines or epilepsy. While previous research has primarily focused on transient EEG responses to patterned stimuli, this study aims to investigate how continuous presentation of pattern-glare stimuli affects neural adaptation over both fine (seconds) and coarse (entire experiment) temporal scales. EEG recordings were obtained from 40 healthy participants exposed to horizontal square-wave gratings at three spatial frequencies presented continuously for three seconds each across multiple trials. Participants' susceptibility to visual stress, headaches, and discomfort was assessed using questionnaires before and during the experiment. The experiment employed a two-by-two design to evaluate habituation (exponentially decreasing response) and sensitisation (exponentially increasing response) effects at two different time granularities. Mass univariate analysis with cluster-based permutation tests was conducted to identify significant brain response changes during the period of constant stimulation, which we call the DC-shift period. Significant effects were observed during the DC-shift period, indicating sustained hyper-excitation to the medium-pattern glare stimulus. In particular, the mean/intercept analysis revealed a consistent positive-going response to the medium stimulus throughout the DC-shift period, suggesting continued neural engagement. Participants reporting higher discomfort exhibited sensitisation at fine temporal granularity and habituation at coarser temporal granularity. These effects were predominantly localised to the right posterior scalp regions. The study demonstrates that individuals sensitive to pattern-glare stimuli exhibit dynamic neural adaptation characterised by short-term sensitisation and long-term habituation. These findings enhance the understanding of cortical hyperexcitability mechanisms and may inform future interventions for visual-stress-related conditions, such as migraines and epilepsy. Further research is needed to explore the underlying neural processes and validate these effects in clinical populations.

Experiences of Research Coproduction in Uganda Comment on "Research Coproduction: An Underused Pathway to Impact".

This commentary reflects on the principles of research coproduction discussed by Rycroft-Malone et al through our experiences in Uganda, particularly within the partnership between Nottingham Trent University (UK) and Makerere University (Uganda). The commentary highlights the coproduction process we have employed in community health projects in Wakiso district, Uganda, by examining both the opportunities and challenges inherent in this collaborative approach. We further highlight the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement, contextspecific communication, and power-sharing, demonstrating how research coproduction can decolonize research methodologies and enhance the relevance and impact of health interventions. By recognising the inequities between North-South partnerships, this commentary contributes to the discourse on how research coproduction can practically be implemented to drive meaningful, community-centred change while addressing the complexities involved. The lessons drawn from our experiences offer a pathway for other global partnerships aiming to integrate the principles of research coproduction into their work.

From Attraction to Retention: How Vlogger Attributes, Vlog News Content Quality, and Platform Features Affect Continuance Intention of Vlog News

In the digital media era, video blogs (vlogs) have become a crucial news platform, gaining attention for their personalized and interactive features. However, research has yet to fully explore the factors influencing sustained audience engagement with vlog news. Grounded in Media-system Dependency (MSD) Theory and Parasocial Interaction (PSI) Theory, this study examines key drivers of continuous user engagement, including vlogger attributes, content quality, and platform technicalities. A survey of 553 users, analyzed with Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), reveals significant effects of vlogger attractiveness and expertise, content’s entertainment and information quality, and the platform’s interactivity and fluency on PSI and ongoing viewing intentions. Additionally, the emotional bond between users and vlog news moderates the PSI and sustained viewing relationship. These findings enrich the media consumption framework and offer practical insights. Notably, the role of algorithmic content curation, enhancing media dependency and PSI through personalized content recommendations, is acknowledged.

Understanding Adult's Experiences and Perceptions of How to Maintain Physical Activity: A Systematic Review and Qualitative Synthesis.

Many adults do not meet physical activity recommendations for optimal health, and this is often because people find it difficult to maintain physical activity in the long term. This study focuses on identifying and synthesising factors that may influence the maintenance of physical activity in adults with and without known health conditions. A systematic review and qualitative synthesis using thematic analysis was conducted. Four databases (MEDLINE, SPORT Discus, APA, and Web of Science) were systematically searched for studies published from inception to February 2023 that included qualitative data about people's experiences of maintaining physical activity. A total of 9337 abstracts were screened and 68 studies from 14 countries were included. Six main themes were identified: (1) influence of others (e.g. four forms of social support, accountability); (2) contextual and environmental influences (e.g. cost and access of physical activity, weather); (3) health-related influences (e.g. reflexivity about how physical activity improves health conditions, weight control); (4) making it work (e.g. flexibility, prioritising exercise); (5) habits; and (6) psychological processes (e.g. enjoyment, identifying as a physically active person). People who maintained their participation in physical activity found it enjoyable, prioritised it, and integrated it into their daily routine. Participants were motivated to continue being physically active when they realised the benefits for their health. Social support, in particular companion support, was a key component facilitating continued engagement. Findings specific to maintenance of physical activity included reflexivity of how physical activity benefited health, flexibility, and identifying as a physically active person.

FAGOTERAPIA COMO ALTERNATIVA NO COMBATE A INFECÇÕES RESISTENTES: AVANÇOS E DESAFIOS NO TRATAMENTO DE E. COLI UPEC E EPEC

Resistant bacterial infections represent one of the biggest public health challenges today, resulting in a significant increase in morbidity and mortality linked to infectious diseases. On the other hand, Escherichia coli stands out as one of the most significant bacteria, particularly the uropathogenic (UPEC) and enteropathogenic (EPEC) variants. Infections caused by these strains have become a problem due to their ability to develop resistance to various antibiotics, thus harming therapeutic alternatives. The objective of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of phage therapy as an alternative in combating resistant bacterial infections, focusing on UPEC and enteropathogenic EPEC strains of Escherichia coli. Methodologically, it was an exploratory and comparative bibliographic review through qualitative research. As a result, it was found that future directions in phage therapy present a promising outlook, full of technological innovations, research needs and ethical considerations. The success of phage therapy as a viable alternative to treating resistant bacterial infections will depend on collaboration between different disciplines, careful consideration of ethical implications, and a commitment to ensuring that new technologies benefit society as a whole. The development of robust guidelines and regulations, along with increased public awareness, will be critical to the effective integration of phage therapy into clinical practice and public health. It was concluded that progress in this area represents a response to the bacterial resistance crisis, as it opens up new perspectives for biomedical research and clinical practice. Therefore, the continued engagement of researchers, health professionals and policy makers will be essential to ensure that phage therapy is established as an integral component in the fight against bacterial infections, benefiting public health in a broad and effective way.

Escaping the reality with humanized brands: Examining the role of anthropomorphized brands in fostering continued engagement

Escaping the reality with humanized brands: Examining the role of anthropomorphized brands in fostering continued engagement

Integrating AI Chatbots in ESL and CFL Instruction: Revolutionizing Language Learning with Artificial Intelligence

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in language teaching has emerged as a transformative approach, particularly in the realms of English as a Second Language (ESL) and Chinese as a Foreign Language (CFL). This article explores the potential of AI chatbots as effective tools for enhancing language acquisition. By examining the current landscape of AI in language education, we identify the unique benefits that chatbots bring to the learning process, including personalized interaction, immediate feedback, and continuous engagement. The article delves into the design and implementation of AI chatbot systems tailored for ESL and CFL contexts, highlighting their role in vocabulary development, grammar practice, and conversational skills. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges and limitations of using chatbots in language teaching, proposing strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Through case studies and empirical data, the article demonstrates how AI chatbots can be harnessed to create a dynamic and interactive learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of language learners. Ultimately, this work advocates for the thoughtful integration of AI chatbots to complement traditional teaching methods, thereby paving the way for more effective and accessible language education

An Analysis of the Import Management System (IMS) 2023 in India: Impacts and Implications

The Import Management System (IMS) 2023 in India was introduced to enhance the efficiency and transparency of import processes, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and promote domestic manufacturing. This study evaluates the impact of IMS 2023 by analyzing secondary data from government reports, industry analyses, and academic sources. The findings indicate significant improvements in processing times and regulatory compliance, although challenges such as unclear guidelines and the readiness of domestic industries persist. Sector-specific impacts vary, with industries like IT hardware and pharmaceuticals experiencing notable changes. The study highlights the need for continuous stakeholder engagement and iterative policy adjustments to maximize the benefits of IMS 2023. Recommendations for future research and policy improvements are also discussed.

Optimizing last-mile delivery of essential medicines in Nigeria: Insights from Niger State’s health-care supply chain

Last-mile delivery of health commodities is a critical component of efficient supply chains, and third-party logistics (3PL) providers are pivotal in ensuring cost-effective and reliable product distribution. This study explores the implementation of last-mile delivery outsourcing by government-operated warehouses and drug management agencies (DMAs). This research focuses on the relationship between 3PL utilization and key performance metrics, such as cost reduction, timely delivery, and end-user satisfaction. This study combines a literature review, surveys, and interviews conducted with employees of the DMAs in Minna, Niger State, to establish significant correlations. The findings show that using 3PLs significantly reduced operational costs, improved the frequency of timely deliveries, and enhanced end-user satisfaction. These findings underscore the need for continued engagement with 3PL providers to optimize supply chain performance and improve service delivery outcomes. Managers are recommended to maintain and expand such collaborations to sustain these benefits.

Global digital overload: how Snapchat communication cycles influence workplace efficiency

Purpose This paper aims to explore the growing integration of social media, specifically Snapchat, into workplace environments and its impact on communication behaviors, especially among Generation Z and Millennials. The focus is on analyzing how Snapchat’s communication cycles, such as notifications, Snap streaks and best friend rankings, affect workplace efficiency. This study also investigates how cultural variations around connectivity and work-life balance amplify or mitigate these effects in global settings. Design/methodology/approach This research uses social comparison theory and self-determination theory to examine the psychological and social impacts of Snapchat’s features on workplace productivity. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative literature, the paper explores how different cultural contexts influence employees’ interaction with Snapchat during work hours. Theoretical frameworks are applied to understand the cognitive and social disruptions caused by social media, while practical strategies for human resource management are explored. Findings Snapchat’s design fosters continuous user engagement, often leading to fragmented attention and reduced productivity, particularly in work environments. Cultural norms surrounding social media usage and work-life boundaries either intensify or alleviate the disruptive effects of Snapchat. For example, the pressure to maintain social ties amplifies workplace distractions in collectivist cultures. In contrast, individualistic cultures may emphasize productivity over social connection, allowing for more effectively managing these distractions. Originality/value This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on social media’s impact on workplace dynamics by offering a culturally nuanced approach to understanding digital distractions. By focusing on Snapchat, a platform with unique features that encourage habitual interaction, the study provides novel insights into how global human resource strategies can be tailored to different cultural settings. The findings suggest practical solutions for managing digital overload and optimizing employee performance in increasingly interconnected work environments.

Barriers and facilitators to continuous quality improvement engagement among rural physicians in British Columbia, Canada: a mixed-methods study.

Rural physician engagement in continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities is vital to improving quality of care, patient safety, and healthcare delivery efficiencies. However, there is a lack of evidence surrounding the barriers and facilitators to CQI uptake across rural medical practices. This study aimed to explore enablers and barriers to CQI implementation and identify ways to foster greater engagement of rural physicians. A mixed-methods triangulation study design was undertaken encompassing a survey and focus group interviews with physicians practising in rural communities of British Columbia, Canada. The survey was distributed to 1584 rural physicians, and 299 responses were received (response rate of 19%). Seven focus groups were conducted with 33 participants. Survey respondents indicated strong support towards CQI and the benefits of improved patient outcomes and practice quality. Less than half (47%) of respondents had participated in a CQI initiative within the previous 2 years. Key barriers to CQI engagement included time constraints, limited knowledge of CQI principles, and a lack of understanding of accessing and using relevant data. Key motivators for CQI engagement were opportunities for peer collaboration and receiving practice improvement feedback. Key enablers included more usable and accessible data and appropriate staffing resources to assist with undertaking CQI activities. Given rural physicians' time demands, better support systems are required to enhance rural physician engagement in systematic CQI activities. Specific support areas include dedicated CQI staff resources and better practice data systems and processes to support CQI initiatives.

From curriculum to clinic: a qualitative study of junior doctors’ perceptions of global health and sustainable development

IntroductionThe role of global health and sustainable development in medical education is often debated. However, research regarding medical doctors’ views on the application of their global health knowledge in the...

Planning and evaluating an integrated clinical exercise oncology service: an exploratory mixed-methods study

BackgroundThis project aimed to design and evaluate the potential to integrate an exercise oncology service into clinical care in a local healthcare system. The goal was to inform the design of an implementation strategy to promote its sustainable use in standard care.MethodsThis two-phase, exploratory study used a mixed-methods approach. First, qualitative measures were used to understand the context for exercise integration into oncology care by clinicians and administrators in the healthcare system. Next, the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework guided a comprehensive evaluation of the exercise service. Reach and Adoption were measured via number of patients enrolled in the program relative to those treated. Adoption was measured via referrals from stakeholders. Implementation was described using the program structure and delivery. Maintenance was described using hospital funding decisions. Effectiveness was assessed using the Bellarmine Norton Assessment Tool (BNAT) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Fatigue Scale.ResultsPhase 1 context analysis suggested critical elements to guide program delivery, including limiting participants to post-primary treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and radiation) and streamlining referral process. The Phase 2 evaluation demonstrated suboptimal program reach (2%); significant program effectiveness (improved physical function (BNAT; p = 0.05 ) and decreased fatigue (p < 0.05)); receptiveness to program adoption (75%); and strong potential for program maintenance.ConclusionsTraditional approaches to exercise oncology research trials are not easily integrated into healthcare systems. Designing an exercise program for meaningful integration and sustainment requires understanding the context where the program will be delivered, followed by intentional and continuous engagement with key stakeholders to ensure the program continues to meet the needs of the system. Initial exploration of the settings is critical to inform a comprehensive implementation strategy.Trial registrationclinicaltrials.gov: NCT06039488. Prospectively Registered Sept 15th, 2023.