Implementation Of Safety Measures Research Articles

“Empathy for children is often missing”: a mixed methods analysis of a German forum on COVID-19 pandemic measures

BackgroundThe pandemic and its preventive measures disrupted daily routines and posed unforeseen obstacles for families. Users of public online forums chronicled these challenges by freely expressing their sentiments in unrestricted text-length formats. We explored a German COVID-19 forum to understand family perspectives and experiences of pandemic measures, particularly in terms of testing and vaccinating children. Our findings aim to inform future epidemic health policies.MethodsWe retrieved all 11,207 entries from a COVID-19 forum during its lifespan (June 2020 - December 2021), posted during the height of the pandemic. We classified the entries into topic clusters including general pandemic situation, testing, or vaccination using state-of-the-art text embeddings and clustering algorithms. The clusters were selected based on the research’s aims and analysed qualitatively using a health policy triangle framework.ResultsUsers generally appreciated pandemic public health safety measures for everyone’s protection, yet voiced concerns about inconsistent policies and disproportional disadvantages for children compared to other societal groups, like the elderly. Non-compliers were overwhelmingly regarded with skepticism and critiqued. Users found COVID-19 (exit) strategies and information about the benefits of vaccination unclear. This created hurdles for parents and caregivers in navigating their children’s school and social life. Users endorsed vaccinating children mainly for “normalising” children’s lives rather than for their physical health benefits. Some users suggested prioritising teachers and early childhood educators on the vaccination eligibility list to speed up a return to “normality”.ConclusionsDuring pandemics, governments should prioritize addressing the societal and mental health needs of children by implementing participatory and family-oriented public health measures for schools and kindergartens. Clear communication coupled with consistent design and implementation of safety measures and regulations, would be crucial for building trust in the general population and for ensuring compliance regarding testing and vaccination. Communicating the benefits and risks of vaccinating children is of paramount importance for informed decision-making among parents. In future epidemics, computer-aided analysis of large online qualitative data would offer valuable insights into public sentiments and concerns, enabling proactive and adaptive epidemic responses.

Mapping the relationship between traffic accidents, road network configuration, and urban land use

Understanding the nature of traffic accidents in relation to urban access networks is crucial for building safer and more resilient cities. This paper examines the issue of traffic accidents through the lenses of urban configurational theory and urban land use. Three data layers were used in the study, including space syntax analysis conducted in Depthmap X, geotagged traffic accidents collected by the police department, and geotagged land-use data. The method involved superimposing these data layers and exploring potential correlations using a geographic information system (GIS). The findings indicate significant correlations between the spatial frequency of traffic accidents and the choice measure (at 2500 m), local integration, and active land use. The findings of this study can help inform planners and policymakers about the best location to implement safety measures to reduce the risk of traffic accidents in urban access networks.

Assessing through a longitudinal study of dietary habits among Romanian school children: effects of COVID-19 pandemic as well as of a school based educational program for promotion of healthy nutrition.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has forced implementation of safety measures, leading to changes in people's lives. This study investigated several dietary habits among Romanian children before and during the pandemic. Also, it assessed the effectiveness of an educational program promoting healthy diet and evaluated factors influencing certain eating habits. A longitudinal study was conducted in schools. Students were assigned to Control and Intervention groups. Data were collected at baseline (T1) (October -November 2019, 880 children) and post-intervention (T2) (December 2020-February 2021, 484 students). 350 children participated in both assessments. Baseline measurements revealed inadequate consumptions of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and increased intake of soft drinks and sweets. At follow-up, the Intervention showed significant improvements on average intake of fruits and vegetables and in children eating ≥ 5 servings/day, compared to its baseline. Regarding self-perceptions on dietary habits during confinement, children from both groups reported healthier behaviors, with a significant decrease of comfort food. Compared to the Control group, Intervention increased its average intake of fruits and vegetables, consumed more ≥ 5 portions/day, reduced the number ≥ 2 cups/day of carbonated beverages and ≥ 3 portions/day of sweets. Age, gender, weight management, body mass index were associated with dietary habits at T1. Age, gender, Intervention group, weight management influenced eating patterns at T2. Eating behaviors at T1 influenced dietary habits at T2. Our program demonstrated positive changes in students' dietary habits, despite challenges of COVID-19. Results highlight the role of health education and emphasize the importance of integrating such programs consistently in schools.

Assessing head injury risks in electric scooter accidents: A multi-body simulation study with insights into sex differences

E-scooters have become increasingly popular for short-distance travel in urban areas, but this rise in usage also brings about an increased risk of accidents. Studies have shown that approximately 40% of electric scooter accident victims admitted to hospitals suffer head injuries. Therefore, it is crucial to implement safety measures and improve safety systems and equipment to mitigate these risks. One approach to gaining insights into the injuries users face is through simulations using the multi-body method. This method allows for the reconstruction of accidents by modeling and analyzing the dynamic behavior of interconnected bodies. This study aims to assess the impacts on the user’s head and the injuries they may sustain in electric scooter accidents using numerical methods. Initially, a reference scenario was established based on a YouTube video, with the assumption that the user was an average-height man. Simulations were conducted for various percentiles, including both males and females. Different velocities were simulated to determine the threshold velocity at which survival becomes practically impossible. Two scenarios were considered: one where the car braked for 0.333 s and another where the distance between the start the braking task and the collision was kept constant. The location of the first head impact on the vehicle was also examined. Injury assessment was conducted using two criteria: Head Injury Criterion (HIC) and Brain Injury Criterion (BrIC). The study found that smaller individuals are more vulnerable to severe injuries, and higher car velocities correlate with more severe user injuries. Furthermore, the location of the first impact varies between genders, with women more likely to experience impacts in the lower part of the windshield, while men tend to experience impacts in the central zone. This study highlights the importance of considering user characteristics and accident dynamics in assessing injury risks associated with e-scooters.

Corrosion-induced changes in bio-oil aging: A gas chromatography exploration

Understanding the interactions between metals, corrosion products, and bio-oil (BO) is crucial for safe and efficient BO operations. This study explored BO aging and BO + steel (carbon steel (CS) and stainless steel (SS)) immersion at 80 °C for 168 h, alongside experiments adding synthetic Fe2O3 and Cr2O3 powders to BO. Gas generated was analyzed via gas chromatography (GC). Results showed 80 °C was an optimal pre-heating temperature for BO without gas evolution. BO aging at up to 220 °C for 24 h increased CO2 and CO evolutions. CS immersion at 80 °C produced more H2 and CO2 than those at 50 °C, due to higher corrosion rates. The BO + Fe2O3 trial released less H2 but more CO2 compared to BO + CS immersion, due to internal BO reactions catalyzed by Fe2O3. BO + SS304L and BO + Cr2O3 trials showed similar H2 and CO2 production, highlighting the catalytic effect of Cr2O3. Leached Fe ions in BO formed chelate complexes with organic compounds, causing phase separation. These findings have significant implications for producing renewable biofuels via BO co-processing operations by emphasizing the need to optimize preheating temperatures, validate the compatibility of construction materials, and implement safety measures to mitigate gas accumulation risks.

Building Back Better: Exploring the Resilience of Schools in Disaster Recovery

As natural and human-made disasters escalate globally, the urgency to rebuild resilient communities is increasingly evident. With this study, Building Back Better: Exploring the Resilience of Schools in Disaster Recovery explores the experiences, disaster recovery, challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights of three school administrators and four teachers designated as school Disaster Risk Reduction coordinators in the Monkayo East District of Davao de Oro. This study utilized qualitative phenomenological study to delve into the lived experiences of educational professionals during post-disaster recovery. This research aims to gain a deep understanding of the challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights from a purposive sample of four teachers designated as school Disaster Risk Reduction coordinators and three school administrators who have directly engaged with the recovery processes following natural disasters. The data were gathered through an in-depth face-to-face interview and used an audio recorder to record the discussion. The significant finding from the study is the multifaceted and long-lasting impact of disasters on students' learning environments. This finding highlights how disasters not only cause physical damage to school infrastructure but also disrupt the educational process, widen achievement gaps, and affect the emotional well-being of students. The disruption of normal routines and the psychological stress experienced by students underscore the critical need for comprehensive recovery strategies, including academic support and mental health resources, to help students regain stability and continue their education effectively. This emphasizes the importance of preparedness and resilience in educational institutions to mitigate the impact of such crises. This study highlights the need for timely assessments, repairs, and coordination with local authorities to ensure the structural integrity of school facilities. It underscores the importance of disaster preparedness and the implementation of robust recovery strategies to mitigate the impact on the educational environment and maintain a safe and conducive learning space. This focus on infrastructure is foundational, as it directly influences the ability of schools to function effectively post-disaster. Teachers and school heads are pivotal in disaster risk reduction within educational institutions. They create safety plans, organize drills, and educate students on emergency procedures, fostering a culture of preparedness. School heads provide leadership, while teachers act as first responders, guiding students to safety and offering necessary care. Collaboration between teachers, school heads, and stakeholders is crucial for a resilient school environment. By involving the entire school community in planning and implementing safety measures, schools can effectively respond to disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved. This partnership promotes a proactive approach to disaster preparedness, making safety a priority in all school activities.

Landfill reclamation using the example of the municipal waste disposal plant in Puławy – a case study

Landfilling remains a dominant method of waste disposal worldwide, largely due to inadequate waste management frameworks, despite efforts to promote recycling and reuse. As populations and consumption levels grow, waste generation continues to increase, highlighting the need for effective waste management solutions. Landfills are sites where waste undergoes various physical, chemical and biological transformations, making the implementation of safety measures, leachate collection and gas recovery systems critical. This article presents a case study of the reclamation of the Puławy municipal landfill, which has been in operation since 1998. The reclamation process involved extensive steps such as forming the landfill body, securing the slopes, constructing a degassing layer, implementing a sealing layer and applying a cover layer. These measures were crucial in mitigating the negative environmental impact of the landfill, reducing harmful emissions and improving local groundwater quality. The results of the Puławy municipal landfill reclamation include reductions in leachate and gas emissions, improvements in air/groundwater quality and the transformation of the site into a green space that provides recreational opportunities for the community. This reclamation project serves as a model of responsible waste management and community involvement, demonstrating how degraded landfills can be transformed into valuable public resources. The article also discusses the broader implications of landfill reclamation, noting both the positive and negative aspects. Benefits include environmental protection, resource recovery, enhanced biodiversity and improved quality of life for local communities. However, challenges such as the long-term monitoring and maintenance of reclaimed sites and the financial costs associated with reclamation efforts are also considered. This study also underscores the importance of landfill reclamation in the process of shaping and promoting environmental sustainability, as well as addressing modern waste management challenges.

SARS-CoV-2 Transmission during High-Altitude Field Studies.

Grimm, Mirjam, Lucie Ziegler, Annina Seglias, Maamed Mademilov, Kamila Magdieva, Gulzada Mirzalieva, Aijan Taalaibekova, Simone Suter, Simon R. Schneider, Fiona Zoller, Vera Bissig, Lukas Reinhard, Meret Bauer, Julian Müller, Tanja L. Ulrich, Arcangelo F. Carta, Patrick R. Bader, Konstantinos Bitos, Aurelia E. Reiser, Benoit Champigneulle, Damira Ashyralieva, Philipp M. Scheiwiller, Silvia Ulrich, Talant M. Sooronbaev, Michael Furian, and Konrad E. Bloch. SARS-CoV-2 Transmission during High-Altitude Field Studies. High Alt Med Biol. 25:197-204, 2024. Background: Throughout the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, virus transmission during clinical research was of concern. Therefore, during high-altitude field studies performed in 2021, we took specific COVID-19 precautions and investigated the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: From May to September 2021, we performed studies in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and in healthy school-age children in Kyrgyzstan in high-altitude facilities at 3,100 m and 3,250 m and at 760 m. The various implemented COVID-19 safety measures included systematic SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen testing (RAT). Main outcomes were SARS-CoV-2-RAT-positive rate among participants and staff at initial presentation (prevalence) and SARS-CoV-2-RAT-positive conversion during and within 10 days after studies (incidence). Results: Among 338 participants and staff, SARS-CoV-2-RAT-positive prevalence was 15 (4.4%). During mean ± SD duration of individual study participation of 3.1 ± 1.0 day and within 10 days, RAT-positive conversion occurred in 1/237(0.4%) participants. Among staff working in studies for 31.5 ± 29.3 days, SARS-CoV-2-RAT-positive conversion was 11/101(10.9%). In all 338 individuals involved in the studies over the course of 15.6 weeks, the median SARS-CoV-2-RAT-positive incidence was 0.00%/week (quartiles 0.00; 0.64). Over the same period, the median background incidence among the total Kyrgyz population of 6,636 million was 0.06%/week (0.03; 0.11), p = 0.013 (Wilcoxon rank sum test). Conclusions: Taking precautions by implementing specific safety measures, SARS-CoV-2 transmission during clinical studies was very rare, and the SARS-CoV-2 incidence among participants and staff was lower than that in the general population during the same period. The results are reassuring and may help in decision-making on the conduct of clinical research in similar settings.

In vivo evaluation of guide-free Cas9-induced safety risks in a pig model

The CRISPR/Cas9 system has shown great potential for treating human genetic diseases through gene therapy. However, there are concerns about the safety of this system, specifically related to the use of guide-free Cas9. Previous studies have shown that guide-free Cas9 can induce genomic instability in vitro. However, the in vivo safety risks associated with guide-free Cas9 have not been evaluated, which is necessary for the development of gene therapy in clinical settings. In this study, we used doxycycline-inducible Cas9-expressing pigs to evaluate the safety risks of guide-free Cas9 in vivo. Our findings demonstrated that expression of guide-free Cas9 could induce genomic damages and transcriptome changes in vivo. The severity of the genomic damages and transcriptome changes were correlate with the expression levels of Cas9 protein. Moreover, prolonged expression of Cas9 in pigs led to abnormal phenotypes, including a significant decrease in body weight, which may be attributable to genomic damage-induced nutritional absorption and metabolic dysfunction. Furthermore, we observed an increase in whole-genome and tumor driver gene mutations in pigs with long-term Cas9 expression, raising the risk of tumor occurrence. Our in vivo evaluation of guide-free Cas9 in pigs highlights the necessity of considering and monitoring the detrimental effects of Cas9 alone as genome editing via the CRISPR/Cas9 system is implemented in clinical gene therapy. This research emphasizes the importance of further study and implementation of safety measures to ensure the successful and safe application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system in clinical practice.

Predicted multispecies unintended effects from outdoor genome editing

CRISPR/Cas9, a potent genetic engineering tool widely adopted in agriculture, is capable of introducing new characteristics into plants on a large scale and without conventional breeding methods. Despite its remarkable efficiency, concerns have arisen regarding unintended consequences in uncontrolled environments. Our aim was to assess potential activity in organisms that could be exposed to genome editing in uncontrolled environments. We developed three scenarios, using irrigation, fumigation and fertilization as delivery methods, based on outdoor uses in agriculture, namely pest and disease control. Using publicly available software (Cas-OFFinder, NCBI Genome Data Viewer and STRING), off-target effects were predicted in multiple species commonly found in the agroecosystem, including humans (16 of 38 (42 %) sampled). Metabolic enrichment analysis (gene IDs), by connecting off-target genes into a physiological network, predicted effects on the development of nervous and respiratory systems. Our findings emphasize the importance of exercising caution when considering the use of this genome editing in uncontrolled environments. Unintended genomic alterations may occur in unintended organisms, underscoring the significance of understanding potential hazards and implementing safety measures to protect human health and the environment.

Outdoor worker knowledge of ticks and Lyme disease in Québec.

Lyme disease is a well-known occupational risk across North America caused by exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi via blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). As the geographic range of B. burgdorferi advances with the increasing distribution of blacklegged ticks, more outdoor workers are at risk of contracting Lyme disease. In this study, we examined the demography and personal perceptions of outdoor workers within one framework to better determine the overall risk for those working outdoors. We analysed outdoor worker knowledge of ticks and of behaviours that can prevent tick bites and Lyme disease. We then compared these risk perceptions of individuals across age, sex, education, and industry, as well as time spent outdoors. We tested the hypothesis that the risk perception of an individual and their knowledge of Lyme disease transmission was dependent on their demographics, experience in their job, and the region in which they spend time outdoors. We estimated a knowledge-based risk score based on individuals' answers to a questionnaire on risk perception given to voluntary participants who work outdoors. Those who had higher risk scores were more at risk. We found that knowledge-based risk scores were correlated with geographic risk levels and with the number of hours per day spent outdoors. Those who work longer hours and who work in areas with mid-level risk had higher risk scores. Those who spend more time outdoors recreationally had lower risk scores. Further examination and acknowledgment of the reasoning behind why these factors are affecting workers' risks must be considered to recognize that it is not necessarily demographics or geographically high-risk areas that affect an individual's risk. Workers' knowledge of these risks is affected by several variables that should be taken into consideration when implementing safety measures and awareness programs.

Invisible threats: An investigation of electrical hazards and safety practices among residential electricity consumers

Understanding electrical hazards and implementing safety measures is paramount to protecting lives and property. Therefore, this research investigates electrical hazards in households and safety measures taken by residents in Sokode–Etoe, Ghana. The primary objective is to identify gaps in knowledge regarding electrical hazards among domestic electricity consumers and offer recommendations to enhance safety and mitigate the risks. The data were systematically collected from 200 participants, including both homeowners and tenants, using a structured questionnaire. The results were presented using Likert scale analysis, sample t-test, binary logistic regression analysis, involving statistical hypothesis testing of predictor variable coefficients, Importance-Performance Map Analysis (IPMA) and Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA). Participants showed a high awareness of electrical hazards, yet demonstrated a weaker grasp of safety practices, correct emergency procedures, and infrequent testing of wiring systems by homeowners. The predominant electrical accident that emerged was electrical shock. Most homeowners have not engaged certified electrical inspectors for a decade, reflecting uncertainty about the safety protocols in place. Furthermore, respondents expressed a degree of uncertainty regarding the safety measures implemented in their households concerning electricity usage. This study underscores the pressing need to raise awareness and promote safe electrical practices in residential environments. Such an educational initiative could utilize a variety of communication channels, social media influencers, renowned personalities, customised mobile applications and other platforms. This research stands out as the inaugural investigation offering a comprehensive examination of the hazards related to energy consumption and safety precautions in Ghana. It focuses on an often-overlooked demographic of electricity users in Ghana, shedding light on domestic electrical safety issues and the growing hazards.

Exploring the perception of safety culture among nurses in Saudi Arabia

BackgroundMedical errors and adverse events pose a serious challenge to the global healthcare industry. Nurses are at the frontline in implementing safety measures and protecting patients. This study aimed to investigate nurses’ perceptions of the patient safety culture in Saudi Arabia.MethodsThis cross-sectional descriptive study used convenience sampling to survey 402 nurses from various hospitals in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture was used for the data collection.ResultsNurses reported a moderate perception of safety culture, with 60% positive responses. Teamwork had the highest safety culture rating at 77.8%, while responses to error and staffing were the lowest at 39.75% and 46.17%, respectively. Qualifications significantly predicts nurses’ safety culture rating (B = -0442, t = -4.279, p < 0.01). Positive correlations were found between event reporting frequency and communication openness (r = 0.142, p < 0.01), and patient safety grades with communication about errors (r = 0.424, p < 0.01) and hospital management support (r = 0.231, p < 0.01).ConclusionsNurses in Saudi Arabia demonstrated a strong sense of teamwork and commitment to organizational learning. However, critical areas such as staffing and error response require attention to improve patient safety.

A Case Study of Existing National Highway no. 5 &amp; 6

Abstract: The case study of National Highways 5 and 6 provides insights into the infrastructure development, economic impact, and challenges associated with these critical transportation corridors. National Highway 5 stretches from Chennai to Kolkata, while National Highway 6 runs from Mumbai to Kolkata, serving as vital arteries connecting major cities and facilitating trade and commerce across regions. Both highways underwent significant upgrades and expansions to meet the growing demands of transportation and enhance connectivity between key economic hubs. This involved road widening, modernization of toll systems, and the implementation of safety measures to improve the overall quality of the highways. The case study may conclude by discussing future prospects for NH 5 and 6, including potential expansions, technology integration for smart transportation systems, and strategies to address emerging challenges such as climate change resilience and sustainable mobility.

Security protocols in healthcare: A comprehensive study of AI-Enabled IoMT

The Internet of Medical Things IoMT has driven a paradigm shift in the way things have been done traditionally within medical Healthcare practices and this is evidence that Smart Personal systems (Health Care) are shaping up with mighty forces. By merging these technologies, IoT has transformed data communication and provided the means to directly interconnect medical devices and sensor systems. The use of advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence( AI), Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Federated Learning has highly equipped and transformed the IoMT’s performance. These integrations also raise concerns on data privacy and security, and addressing these challenges become more important as without proper security and privacy measures people can face serious disruption both online and offline leading to upcoming catastrophes already waiting at its end line. This chapter looks into the intricacies of a highly secure communications system powered by AI, specifically in the age where disasters like COVID-19 [10], emphasizes the need for increased security on data transmission as well as storage. IoMT has wide applications for integrating remote patient monitoring, enhancing user satisfaction and interdimensional hospitalization rates, we delve into how IoMT works in conjunction with machine learning, particularly federated Learning intends to address any possible concerns. The chapter begins with IoMT systems, including IoMT ecosystems, implantable medical devices IMDs, and Internet-worn gadgetry. Special attention is given to the AI-powered Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) in IoMT environments, while network security remains the research focus helping practitioners to implement safety measures enterprise-wide; analysis, comparison, and evaluation all encompass machine learning, deep learning mechanisms as precautions against potential attacks. We will also consider another study on the services of an AI-provisioned lightweight protocol communication system that ensures data authenticity and responds to diverse security implications in IMD. The chapter makes a U-turn by alluding to internet wearable devices, pointing out federated learning and blockchain reinforcements that indicate the need for an integrated framework. The amalgamation of future technologies supports the ethical and secure integration of IoMT. Collaboration, as a guiding principle, compels healthcare practitioners and policymakers to partner efficiently to guide the future where the security of health is ever easier. In the end, a summary of modern ethical and regulatory paradigms in IoMT is provided, emphasizing that there could be an urgent need for new laws.

Occupational Safety and Health Implementation Model in Construction Safety Management System Based on PUPR Minister Regulation Number 10 Of 2021 to Support Infrastructure Development in East Java Province

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the application of occupational safety and health in the construction safety management system and develop a framework for implementing it based on PUPR ministerial regulation Number 10 of 2021, to support infrastructure development in East Java Province. Method: This study used a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach to gather detailed descriptions of participants' impressions, opinions, and views. It applied Alfred Schutz's approach to establish statements and causal relationships between themes. The research involved six participants and took place at the Department of Public Housing in East Java Province. Results and conclusion: The results and conclusions of the research unveil (1) 8 groups of themes and meanings shaping the implementation of occupational safety and health within the construction safety management system, rooted in PUPR Ministerial Regulation Number 10 of 2021 to bolster infrastructure development in East Java Province. (2) These findings are consolidated into 8 major propositions, leading to the construction of a comprehensive model for implementing occupational safety and health aligned with PUPR Ministerial Regulation Number 10 of 2021. Research implications: The findings of this study can help construction companies and policymakers in East Java Province and beyond improve safety measures. Understanding the framework developed here can lead to safer work environments for construction workers. The qualitative methods used in this research also add to the toolbox of qualitative research methods, providing effective ways to capture subjective experiences. Originality/value: This study offers a unique framework for implementing safety measures in construction projects, specifically designed for the East Java Province and based on relevant regulations. By bringing together various themes from qualitative data, it presents new perspectives on applying regulatory frameworks. Additionally, the use of Alfred Schutz's approach enhances our understanding of how regulations, organizational practices, and individual experiences interact to ensure safety.

Assessment of Its Implementation on Safety on Yamuna Expressway

With the promise of fast connectivity between Greater Noida and Agra, the Yamuna Expressway represents modern infrastructure in India. Amidst all this splendor, though, is a grave worry: security. In order to reduce hazards and improve safety standards, this article investigates the complex network of obstacles that has been encountered while implementing safety measures on the highway. Numerous accidents, including fatalities, have been a recurring problem on the Yamuna Expressway since its opening. The expressway's relatively straight and smooth construction makes it easy for drivers to speed and act irresponsibly, which is the main cause of these incidents. Drivers disregard safety protocols and speed limits with complete disregard for the consequences, which is worsened by the lack of effective enforcement of traffic regulations. The absence of necessary safety elements is one of the primary obstacles to guaranteeing safety on the Yamuna Expressway. Poor lighting, inadequate signage, and restricted emergency services are some of the initial shortcomings that have greatly impacted drivers' ability to navigate safely, especially in bad weather or at night. There have been ongoing attempts to resolve safety problems, but the results have been mixed. The expressway's safety infrastructure has been strengthened by the implementation of measures such as crash barriers, better signage, expanded CCTV surveillance, and more police patrolling. Unfortunately, problems with corruption within law enforcement agencies, a lack of staff, and limited resources make it difficult to apply these restrictions effectively. The Yamuna Expressway can only be made safer with a comprehensive plan. A culture of safety among drivers can be greatly enhanced by public awareness programs that promote responsible driving and emphasize the repercussions of reckless driving. Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) integrate cutting-edge tech to improve traffic management and accident prevention via tools like speed cameras, automatic toll collecting, and real-time traffic monitoring. The Yamuna Expressway is an impressive example of India's infrastructure, yet it will remain unfulfilled until the critical problem of safety is resolved. The Yamuna Expressway has the potential to become a model of safe and efficient transportation for the millions of people who use it every day if we recognize the problems, find lasting solutions, and encourage everyone to do their part to keep everyone safe.

DETOURS AND DELAYS: NAVIGATING THE PANDEMIC'S IMPACT ON INDIA'S TRANSPORT SECTOR AND TOURISM

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the Indian transport industry, affecting various sectors such as aviation, railways, road transport, and maritime. The nationwide lockdowns and travel restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus led to a significant decline in passenger traffic and freight movement, causing severe financial distress to the industry. This almost standstill in the movement of the people severely affected the Indian tourism industry which provides 7 per cent of GDP and 9 per cent of employment by 2019. The aviation sector witnessed a sharp decline in passenger traffic, leading to financial losses for airlines and airports. Many airlines were forced to suspend operations or reduce their workforce to survive. Similarly, the Indian Railways faced challenges due to the suspension of passenger trains, impacting revenue generation. The road transport sector also suffered due to the lockdowns, with restrictions on inter-state and intra-state movement affecting the movement of goods and passengers. The maritime sector faced challenges due to disruptions in global trade and port operations. To mitigate the impact of the pandemic, the Indian government announced various relief measures, including financial assistance, waivers, and restructuring of loans for the transport industry. The government also launched initiatives such as the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate stranded Indians and the One Nation, One Card scheme for seamless travel across different modes of transport. By recognising the importance of the revival of tourism in India Indian Government announced many sops and reliefs to the tour operators, travel agents and transport organisations. Despite these measures, the road to recovery for the Indian transport industry remains challenging. The industry will need to adapt to the new normal by implementing safety measures, embracing digital technologies, and diversifying its operations to ensure resilience in future crises. KEYWORDS: Covid -19, Road transport, Railways, Civil aviation, Tourism

Nurses' Views on Caring for Lonely Patients During the Pandemic: A Qualitative Study.

The implementation of safety measures in hospitals due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including family visitation restrictions, forced the family to be absent during the patient's hospitalization. Nurses were confronted with new roles and responsibilities, as caring for lonely patients was a new phenomenon that emerged during the pandemic. The purpose of this study was to explore the nurses' views on caring for lonely patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative research method based on an inductive content analysis approach was used. Data collection was carried out using semi-structured interviews. The sample consisted of 11 nurses who worked in COVID-19 wards and units. Content analysis was used to analyze the interview data. The analysis of the data revealed three main themes: 1) caring for the patient and the family; 2) extending conventional care; and 3) developing supportive mechanisms for better care. Caring for lonely patients brought about changes in patients's management and care and significantly affected communication patterns as well as nurses' roles and responsibilities. Providing care beyond limits, supporting care through the utilization of new technologies, and transforming organization and care were mentioned as areas of challenge for nursing practice. Conclusions: Maintaining communication and supporting the family's involvement in patient care are considered to be equal to healing for the lonely patient. Reshaping working conditions and caring practices to meet the needs of the nurses, the patients, and their families during health crises may contribute positively to the provision of holistic care for patients and their families.

Impact of the revised Unified Federal Traffic Law on crash casualties in Abu Dhabi Emirate: Interrupted time series analysis

In recent years, different developing countries have shown growing interest in enacting road safety policies. However, research on their effectiveness in reducing crashes, injuries, and deaths is limited. This study evaluated the impact of traffic safety measures introduced in the revised Unified Federal Traffic Law in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi (AD) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on crash and casualty reductions. In particular, it examines the 2009 enactment of the black-point system. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to consider this topic in a desert or UAE context. Box–Tiao intervention analysis was used to examine monthly AD police data from January 2007 to December 2013. The analysis utilized a dynamic programming approach to test for structural changes in the AD casualty data and empirically confirm the presence and exact location of breakpoints (intervention time). The interrupted time-series analysis results indicated a significant drop in casualty rates post-intervention. Since the intervention, the AD has witnessed a slow downward trend in the crash casualty rate. These findings confirm the effectiveness of the implemented safety measures. They provide quality information to authorities regarding implementing and adopting life-saving interventions and road safety management.