Potential Negative Effects Research Articles

Metal (loid) Exposure and Overweight and Obesity in 6–12-Year-Old Spanish Children

AbstractEpidemiological studies focusing on metal(oid) exposure and excess body weight among children show inconsistent results and the influence of metal(loid) mixtures has been little studied. We aimed to explore the effect of 10 metal(loid)s, individually and in combinations, on overweight and obesity among children aged 6–12. Urinary levels of these metal(oid)s from 92 controls and 51 cases with overweight and obesity were analyzed. Metal(loid) levels were log-transformed and categorized into tertiles according to the control group cutoff points. Two logistic regression models and weighted quantile sum regressions (WQS) were run: model 1 adjusting for age, sex, creatinine, energy intake and physical activity and model 2 additionally adjusting for maternal education, rice and fish consumption. In the single metal(oid) exposure model, there was a trend of significant negative association for urinary cobalt (Co), where children in the third tertile had lower odds of present overweight and obesity than those in the first (Odds Ratio, OR = 0.43; 95% Confidence Interval, CI = 0.20–0.93). Urinary chromium (Cr) levels were borderline-significant negatively associated with overweight and obesity (ORa = 1.70; 95% CI = 0.97–2.98). Molybdemun, Cr and Co had a major contribution to the inverse association between metal(loid) mixture and overweight and obesity as well as lead, cadmium and total arsenic in the positive relationship. Our findings in this explorative study suggested an inverse association of high urinary Co levels with overweight and obesity. Moreover, metal(loid) mixture exposure may have influence on overweight and obesity with an important contribution of Co in the potential negative effect.

Investigation of the Post-Fire Behavior of Different End-Plated Beam–Column Connections

Heat affects the mechanical properties of steel and the bearing capacity of steel structures, with joints being a crucial factor in determining their behavior. Steel can regain its mechanical properties that are lost owing to heat if the temperature remains below 600 °C, allowing for the possibility of reusing steel after cooling. In such cases, it becomes essential to assess the damage caused by heat exposure to decide whether to demolish the structure or continue using it. However, continuing its usage requires anticipating the potential negative effects of heat. To achieve this, it is necessary to determine the behavior of steel joining tools experimentally or numerically after exposure to heat. This study aims to ascertain the post-fire behavior of various end-plated beam and column connections, providing a cost-effective alternative to expensive fire experiments. Three different end-plated combination models were heated to a specified temperature, and steel frames were constructed after the elements cooled. Six three-point bending tests were conducted, and the experimental data obtained were validated using finite element models. The results indicate that the temperature causes a reduction in the bearing capacity of the joint, and the length of the end plate has a significant effect on the connection behavior. The finite element model validated by experiments is expected to facilitate numerical studies with different characteristics.

Small-scale land-use change effects on breeding success in a desert-living social bird

Abstract Human villages in deserts can provide resources in an otherwise stark environment, potentially buffering against extreme environmental conditions. It is thus expected that breeding within these villages would result in higher fitness. However, choosing to raise offspring in these resource-rich environments may have unintended negative consequences. Here, we studied the breeding success of a cooperative breeding bird nesting in habitats with different levels of human disturbance—the Arabian babbler (Argya squamiceps), in the Negev desert of Israel. We recorded 42 breeding attempts from 15 groups between March and July 2022. We examined overall breeding success, brood size, and causes of nest failure. When nestlings were 6 days old, we also calculated daily change in body mass and adult provisioning rate. We found that despite higher resource abundance in villages, proximity to villages did not affect provisioning rate, and nestlings gained less mass at higher temperatures for all nests. Currently, there is no evidence that human villages are providing oases of resources for nesting babblers. Further, various conservation interventions (e.g., encouraging residents to keep cats indoors) could improve babblers’ overall fitness. Ultimately, we highlight how, for some desert specialists, additional resources provided by humans may not do enough to counter potential negative effects.

A double-edged sword: Insights from practitioners on the short and long-term negative effects of psilocybin-assisted psychological interventions

AbstractBackground and aimsInterest in psychedelic research has grown significantly in recent years and the naturally derived substance psilocybin, in combination with therapy, has shown promising results as a treatment for a range of psychiatric conditions. However, the negative effects and risks of psilocybin-assisted treatment are not well-established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential negative effects of psilocybin-assisted psychological interventions in both the short and long term.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted with eight psychedelic treatment providers and facilitators. Their content was thematically interpreted.ResultsThree themes of short-term negative effects were identified. They included negative reactions to psilocybin dosing sessions, undesirable processes in the therapeutic relationship, and difficult self-experiences. Four themes of long-term negative effects were identified. They included destabilization of the client, difficulties adapting to life post-treatment, complications in the treatment relationship, and undesirable outcomes.ConclusionsThese results highlight the multifaceted challenges clients may face, emphasizing the need for thorough pre-intervention assessment and post-intervention support. The findings both confirm previous research and highlight new aspects that can contribute to increased safety and be relevant for clinical implementation. Further rigorous research is needed to ensure safety, establish ethical guidelines, and optimize the positive effects of these experimental medicines. Integrating various research approaches and types of measurements will be vital to further our understanding of negative effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Natural magnetite as an effective and long-lasting catalyst for CWPO of azole pesticides in a continuous up-flow fixed-bed reactor

The global occurrence of micropollutants in water bodies has raised concerns about potential negative effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health. EU regulations to mitigate such widespread pollution have already been implemented and are expected to become increasingly stringent in the next few years. Catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO) has proved to be a promising alternative for micropollutant removal from water, but most studies were performed in batch mode, often involving complex, expensive, and hardly recoverable catalysts, that are prone to deactivation. This work aims to demonstrate the feasibility of a fixed-bed reactor (FBR) packed with natural magnetite powder for the removal of a representative mixture of azole pesticides, recently listed in the EU Watch Lists. The performance of the system was evaluated by analyzing the impact of H2O2 dose (3.6–13.4 mg L−1), magnetite load (2–8 g), inlet flow rate (0.25–1 mL min−1), and initial micropollutant concentration (100–1000 µg L−1) over 300 h of continuous operation. Azole pesticide conversion values above 80% were achieved under selected operating conditions (WFe3O4 = 8 g, [H2O2]0 = 6.7 mg L−1, flow rate = 0.5 mL min−1, pH0 = 5, T = 25 °C). Notably, the catalytic system showed a high stability upon 500 h in operation, with limited iron leaching (< 0.1 mg L−1). As a proof of concept, the feasibility of the system was confirmed using a real wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent spiked with the mixture of azole pesticides. These results represent a clear advance for the application of CWPO as a tertiary treatment in WWTPs and open the door for the scale-up of FBR packed with natural magnetite.

Development and In vitro Evaluation of a Nanoemulsion Containing Piroxicam for Topical Drug Delivery

ABSTRACT Background: A specific type of emulsion with a compatible droplet size of 20–500 nm and a submicron size range is termed nanoemulsion (NE), often referred to as mini emulsion. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as piroxicam are employed to treat discomfort after surgery, acute gout, degenerative arthritis, and arthritis with inflammation. Objectives: With the aim of minimizing adverse medication reactions as well as enhancing compliance among patients, the study intends to develop and assess a piroxicam NE that includes oleic acid and Tween 80. It will do this by investigating the impact of the oil phase, surfactants, and cosurfactants on the product’s chemical and physical characteristics. Materials and Methods: After being homogenized, Tween 80, oleic acid, and paraffin oil are emulsified with ethanol and water. Zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency, spreadability, viscosity, pH evaluation, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are being employed for the characterization of the dosage form. The procedure involves the dropwise addition of ethanol and continuous mixing. Results: According to accelerated experiments, four of the six formulations displayed good stability, suggesting their stability. This strategy is viable for NE formulations, with the entrapped drug percentage varying from 99.51 to 101.01. The range included additional factors such as drug release, texture, entrapment efficiency, spreadability, SEM zeta sizer, and polydispersity index value. Conclusions: Because of its potential negative effects, the study aimed to develop a stable NE of piroxicam for topical use by combining oleic acid, tween, paraffin, and ethanol. Because of their repelling characteristics, the charges strengthen stability, and the pH’s modest acidity helps to prevent skin infections. The study promotes spontaneous emulsification as the most suitable technique for producing NEs.

Effects of water salinization and substrata quality on the performance of the shredder Schizopelex festiva (Trichoptera; Sericostomatidae)

Secondary salinization is a growing concern for freshwaters worldwide. The lethal and sub-lethal effects on shredders are known, but not whether these result from direct exposure to contaminated aquatic medium and/or from indirect effects of distinct substrate quality through fungal conditioning in salinized media. Here, chestnut and oak leaves were conditioned for 4 weeks in reference (Cond0, 0 g/l NaCl) or salinized (Cond3, 3 g/l NaCl) media before being offered to the shredder Schizopelex festiva maintained in reference (Inv0) or salinized (Inv3) media. Fungal biomasses associated with leaf litter and consumption, respiration rates, growth, survival, and feeding preference of S. festiva were assessed. We found lower fungal biomass in both leaf species conditioned in Cond3 medium. Consumption rates were higher for oak than chestnut, and in Inv0 than Inv3, but were not affected by conditioning media. Growth was also affected by invertebrate media (Inv0 > Inv3), while Inv3 led to the lowest survival. Schizopelex festiva preferred Cond0 over Cond3 oak leaves only in Inv0. Results strongly suggest that direct exposure to salinized media is a main pathway of salt toxicity to shredders through a generalized reduction in invertebrates’ metabolic rates when facing salt stress. Salt addition to the media may result in an energetic investment in osmotic regulation at the expense of consumption and growth, with consequences for invertebrate survival. Potential negative effects of salt contamination on shredders’ ability to select more nutritious food items may contribute to cascading effects throughout the stream food webs, particularly in streams lined with more recalcitrant leaf litter.

The Effects of Trans-generational Conflict on Trans-generational Entrepreneurship Performance from the Perspective of First-generation Entrepreneurs’ Networks: Evidence from China

After more than four decades of China’s reform and opening up, many family businesses in China are welcoming the peak of trans-generational inheritance. Therefore, more research is needed to help the second-generation successors avoid the potential negative effect of trans-generational conflicts and keep and maintain the sustainable development of their family businesses. To fill these gaps in the literature, this paper explores the impact of trans-generational conflicts on trans-generational entrepreneurial performance and investigates the moderating role of first-generation entrepreneurs’ business and social networks. Based on a survey data captured from the 221 matched responses from founder and second-generation successors dyads in China, we found that both cognitive and process conflicts have negative effects on trans-generational entrepreneurial performance, and process conflict has a greater negative impact than cognitive conflict. Furthermore, we found that the first-generation entrepreneurs’ business and social networks independently alleviate the negative impact of cognitive conflict on trans-generational entrepreneurial performance. By examining the three-way inaction effect, we also found that the negative effect of process conflict on trans-generational entrepreneurial performance is alleviated. Theoretical and managerial implications are also provided.

Neurodevelopmental outcomes in children conceived by assisted reproductive treatment

IntroductionImpact of assisted reproductive treatment (ART) techniques on the child’s mental development is the focus of numerous studies. Whereas several studies have found potential negative effects on ART children’s psychosocial health, others recognized that the data on the cognitive and psychosocial development of ART children are comforting.ObjectivesHere, we aim to state the current findings concerning psychological outcomes in children conceived by ART.MethodsUsing as key words “assisted reproductive” and as filter “meta-analysis”, we comprehensively reviewed the scientific literature through new meta-analysis during the five last-years resuming the main conclusions of these studies to define principal through psychological conditions in children conceived by diverse ART techniques and approaches.Results Our review showed that since 1978, the date of the first birth using in vitro fertilization technology (IVF), more than 10 million children are conceived by ART. Our research revealed 441 meta-analysis. After a comprehensive analysis of abstracts, only four meta-analysis were selected. Chronologically from 2019 to 2023, the first studies showed that the risk of intellectual disability and autism spectrum diseases (ASD) were higher in intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) children compared to conventional IVF children. The differences in the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born after frozen and fresh embryo transfers were not significant. Analysis of potential cofounder effects such as multiple and preterm birth having a significant correlation with neurodevelopmental disorders suggested that ART is unlikely to cause negative impacts on children’s neurodevelopment. The findings of the most recent meta-analysis showed that the use of ART did not associate with the risk of ASD,ConclusionsGiven the multitude of factors modulating ART, from the indication and parental background to the type of used technique and approach, the results of the studies that investigated the association between ART and neurodevelopmental outcomes remain yet contradictory.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Removing Price Subsidies and Impacts on Consumption and Production Patterns: Evidence From a Systematic Literature Review

Due to the increasing trend in prices for food and energy products in global markets, subsidy removal and complementary policies have received significant attention in recent years. Critics of subsidy removal express concerns about the potential negative effects on the economy, including impacts on GDP, employment, household welfare, and production sectors. This has led to worries among majority economic policy-making bodies regarding potential social unrest, particularly its impact on low-income households. Therefore, there exists a debate in the literature on the potential impacts of subsidy removal. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the impacts of subsidy removal policies and related subjects using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The main research question is, ‘Do subsidy removal schemes necessarily lead to economic distortions?’ The results indicate that impacts on the economy and household indicators are more explored than the influences on government and industry. The magnitude of these impacts varies depending on the types of subsidies and the extent of subsidy reduction. Considerable attention has been given to the impact of energy subsidy removal in Asian developing countries, while there is a lack of studies on other subsidized products and developed countries. Governments are advised to investigate their unique internal policy dynamics while considering external environments.

Important Contribution to Aerosol Oxidative Potential from Residential Solid Fuel Burning in Central Ireland

Numerous studies have shown negative health effects related to exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM), likely due to induced oxidative stress. In this study, we have examined ambient PM samples from Birr, a small (~5000 inhabitants) town in central Ireland, for their water-soluble DTT-based oxidative potential (OP_DTT) with a resolution of 6 h, together with online chemical characterization measurements, to assess the OP of organic aerosols, in particular from residential solid fuel burning. The OP_DTT normalized by the volume of sampled air shows a high variability, ranging from &lt;0.1 to 3.8 nmol min−1 m−3, and a high correlation with PM mass. A lower variability was associated with the mass-normalized OP. Nevertheless, both tended to present higher values during night-time pollution episodes. Simple and multivariate linear regression approaches linked OP_DTT to residential solid fuel burning, and in particular to wood (~87%) and peat (~13%) combustion. The results of the present study show how residential solid fuel burning can have a severe impact on air quality, even in small towns, with potential negative health effects on the exposed population.

Impact of Hydroxytyrosol-Rich Extract Supplementation in a High-Fat Diet on Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata) Lipid Metabolism.

High-fat diets (HFDs) enhance fish growth by optimizing nutrient utilization (i.e., protein-sparing effect); however, their potential negative effects have also encouraged the search for feed additives. This work has investigated the effects of an extract rich in a polyphenolic antioxidant, hydroxytyrosol (HT), supplemented (0.52 g HT/kg feed) in a HFD (24% lipid) in gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). Fish received the diet at two ration levels, standard (3% of total fish weight) or restricted (40% reduction) for 8 weeks. Animals fed the supplemented diet at a standard ration had the lowest levels of plasma free fatty acids (4.28 ± 0.23 mg/dL versus 6.42 ± 0.47 in the non-supplemented group) and downregulated hepatic mRNA levels of lipid metabolism markers (ppara, pparb, lpl, fatp1, fabp1, acox1, lipe and lipa), supporting potential fat-lowering properties of this compound in the liver. Moreover, the same animals showed increased muscle lipid content and peroxidation (1.58- and 1.22-fold, respectively, compared to the fish without HT), suggesting the modulation of body adiposity distribution and an enhanced lipid oxidation rate in that tissue. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering this phytocompound as an optimal additive in HFDs for gilthead sea bream to improve overall fish health and condition.

Mint species (Mentha longifolia and Mentha spicata L) growth, essential oil generation and chemical components are impacted by turmeric curcumin applications

Mint essential oil has several applications in pharmacy and food industries. As mint species multiplied, active chemicals evolved, resulting in changes in their biological effects. Mint growth in Egypt’s sandy soils is hampered by abiotic stress. Phenols like turmeric curcumin reduce abiotic stress which plant suffers. Finding active chemicals in various aromatic plant species to substitute synthetic ones is an enticing approach to developing a new pharmaceutical regimen; these plants need to be studied to locate active components. Therefore, this study aimed to reduce the potential negative effects of abiotic stress in sand soil on horsemint (Mentha longifolia) and spearmint (Mentha spicata L) by applying turmeric curcumin (as organic elicitor), to assess if growing them in the new reclamation zones is a viable option in order to obtain essential oil naturally. Both species received 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin. Horsemint exposed to 30 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin produced the maximum values of plant length (93 cm), fresh herb (114.73 g plant−1) and dry herb (33.81 g plant−1); spearmint × 30 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin resulted in the greatest amounts of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids with values of 5.38, 1.83 and 1.45 mg g−1, respectively. The maximum values of eucalyptol (65.44%), camphor (23.81%), carvone (65.95%) and limonene (15.9%) were recorded under 90 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin. Horsemint plants subjected to 60 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin gave the highest essential oil yield (1.52 g plant−1), sesquiterpenes (31.4%), soluble sugars (102.19 mg g−1), free amino acids (8.73 mg g−1), phenols (3.71 mg g−1), flavonoids (5.28 mg g−1), free radical's inhibition (64.35%), protein (17.09%) and nitrogen (1.27 g plant−1); spearmint × 60 mg L−1 turmeric curcumin resulted in the greatest values of monoterpenes (98.76%), nitrogen (2.74%), phosphorous (0.54% or 0.17 g plant−1) and potassium (0.56% or 0.18 g plant−1). Control × spearmint gave the maximum value of sodium (0.17% or 0.04 g plant−1). To mitigate the detrimental effects of stress-related factors on sandy soil, turmeric curcumin can be applied to mint species; additionally, it could broaden the sources of natural products. On the other hand, this work provides as a guide for choosing mint species for usage in industries connected to essential oils based on pertinent components.

Estimating the carbon footprint of Mexican food consumption based on a high-resolution environmentally extended input-output model.

Increased global attention is being paid to the food-health-climate trilemma. In this study, we evaluate the climate impacts of Mexico's food consumption patterns by creating a high-resolution (262 sectors) Environmentally Extended Input-Output (EEIO) model called MXEEIO. We focus on the differences between food away from home (FAFH) and food at home (FAH) and compare Mexico's results with those of the USA. The results show that the main components of food spending in Mexico were meat, baked products, and beverages, raising concerns about their potential negative health effects if consumed excessively. Mexico's total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from food consumption were estimated at 149 million metric tons (MMT) in 2013, as opposed to 797 MMT for the USA. Meat and dairy products were the main contributors to Mexico's food-related GHG emissions, accounting for 57% of total emissions. Mexico spent a much smaller proportion of food-related income on FAFH than the USA (13% vs. 52%), suggesting great potential for growth as Mexico's per capita GDP continues to rise. Detailed contribution analysis shows that reducing Mexico's food-related GHG emissions would benefit most from a transition to low-carbon cattle farming, but mitigation efforts in other sectors such as crop cultivation and electricity generation are also important. Overall, our study underscores the significance of food-related GHG emissions in Mexico, especially those from meat and dairy products, and the mitigation challenges these sectors face.

On the of seawater desalination environmental impacts and brine treatment based challenges and mitigation measures in Algeria

In this paper the environmental impacts of seawater desalination is investigated and highlighted. Indeed despite the various benefits of desalination there is growing apprehension about the potential negative environmental effects it may bring and generate. Both during the plant construction and its operation service. There is the possibility of leading and causing adverse environmental impacts. A significant concern with desalination is the co-produced and generated waste known as 'brine' or 'reject,' which contains high salinity as well as chemical residuals which are released into the marine environment. Viable and cost-effective brine management systems are necessary to mitigate the negative impact of brine, also referred to as concentrate, which is a by-product of the desalination process. This high salinity substance poses a threat to the environment and must be managed effectively in order to reduce pollution. Aside from brine other difficulties include marine species entrainment and trapping, as well as high chemical use. This paper provides an extensive overview and evaluation of desalination technologies used in Algeria including thermal methods such as Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) and Multiple Effect Distillation (MED) as well as Membrane Reverse Osmosis (RO). Furthermore in order to assess the potential environmental implications of desalination and brine treatment on the Algerian coast, mitigation strategies are proposed to curb the environmental negative impact. To protect water resources for present and future generations, improved brine management techniques are needed to minimize adverse environmental effects and lower the financial burden of disposal. This will encourage further advancements in desalination plants. Ultimately, the paper emphasizes upcoming research opportunities in brine treatment technologies with a focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of desalination.

IMPACT ANALYSIS OF SAKURA SCHOOL SIMULATOR GAME ON LANGUAGE ACQUISITION OF 7-YEAR-OLD CHILDREN

This study investigates the impact of the smartphone game Sakura School Simulator on language acquisition in 7-year-old girls in Wajak village, Wajak sub-district, Malang district, East Java. It also investigates the understanding of language development in children, including the biological and social aspects that influence the process. The purpose of this study is to understand the extent to which the Sakura School Simulator game can influence language skills in 7-year-old children, with a focus on the use of English. The method used in this study was based on a descriptive qualitative approach and included observation of children playing the Sakura School Simulator game by listening and taking notes. The results showed that children who played the Sakura School Simulator game actively used various English terms in the game, understood instructions in English, and were able to use various game features and options in English. However, the study also warned about the potential negative effects of overusing the game, such as addiction, lack of socialization, and lack of politeness in language use. In conclusion, the use of Sakura school simulator can contribute to language acquisition, especially English in children aged 7 years, but supervision is needed to ensure a positive and effective play experience in children's language development. Keywords: Sakura School Simulator, Language Acquisition, 7 Year Olds

Unpacking Fragile Access to Justice in a Small Island State Amidst Global Pandemic: Narratives from Experiences of Niue, the Rock of Polynesia

Abstract This study considers the challenges and features of law and development faced by small island developing states (SIDS) during the COVID-19 global pandemic. This research analyzes the pre- and post-pandemic situation of access to justice in SIDS to clarify the transformation of society and the critical impact of the pandemic and to consider potential negative effects and revealed features of fragile justice in small island states. In this context, this research focuses on the case study of Niue, which is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand since 1974 and is recognized as a small island developing state by the United Nations. Niue, known as “the Rock of Polynesia,” is home to approximately 1900 people and consists of a single isolated island of only 261 square kilometers. The principal research question to be addressed is as follows: What did the COVID-19 pandemic reveal in Niue as a challenge in the context of law and development? By exploring the current situation of access to justice among people in Niue and based on interview responses with local people, government officers, and legal practitioners, this research aims to provide policy suggestions for initiatives and assistance to guarantee the right of access to justice in Niue.

A Comprehensive Review on the Impact of Vacations on Teaching Effectiveness

Vacations are an integral part of the human experience, providing individuals with an opportunity to relax, rejuvenate, and recharge. While the benefits of vacations on physical and mental well-being have been extensively studied, their impact on teaching effectiveness remains a relatively underexplored area. This research paper aims to investigate and analyze the influence of vacations on teaching effectiveness. By examining various aspects of educators' experiences during and after vacations, we aim to shed light on the potential positive and negative effects of vacations on pedagogical outcomes. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, we provide insights into how educators can optimize their vacation experiences to enhance their teaching effectiveness.

Factors influencing Jordanian parents' COVID-19 vaccination decision for children: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundVaccine hesitancy is a major public health problem that emerged post-COVID-19 pandemic, especially for children. Different factors influence parents' perspectives about vaccinating their children and can vary across different populations and contexts. PurposeThis study aimed to explore the vaccine hesitancy among parents in Jordan to vaccinate their children between the ages of 5 and 18. Design and methodsA descriptive cross-sectional design was used. A convenient sample was used to recruit Jordanian parents. Data was collected via an online questionnaire including demographic data, the Vaccine Hesitancy Questionnaire, the Questionnaire of Vaccine Hesitancy Reasons, and the Vaccine Conspiracy Beliefs Scale. ResultsOver 177 parents, the mean age was 37.74 years (SD = 8.39); the majority of them were females (74%). 51.4% of the participants refused to give the COVID-19 vaccine to their children. Concerns about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine and lack of information about disease and vaccine were the common reasons for the parents' hesitancy. In addition, 54.2% of participants agreement was with the conspiracy theory that pharmaceutical companies cover up the dangers of vaccines. Parents' younger age and fewer children were associated with hesitancy to vaccinate their children with COVID-19. ConclusionsMany parents are hesitant to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Concerns about the vaccine's efficacy and safety as well as potential long-term negative effects were the main reasons for vaccine hesitancy. Practice implicationsNurses play a critical role in determining parental hesitancy. Providing detailed, accurate, evidence-based vaccine information is essential to reduce this hesitancy.

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on employment and economic growth in BRICS: Does the moderating role of governance Matter?

The BRICS countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, are committed to achieving and sustaining Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8 of the United Nations, which focuses on sustainable economic growth and productive employment and decent work for all. However, the empirical research question on how to effectively harness the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the presence of governance dynamics is yet to be addressed in the literature, particularly concerning the BRICS economy. Hence, it is crucial to examine the impact of AI investment on employment and economic growth in the BRICS countries from 2012 to 2022, taking into account the moderating role of overall governance as well as specific governance indicators such as political governance, institutional governance, economic governance etc. Cross-Sectional Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) technique is used to analyze the data. The findings of the study suggest a long-run equilibrium relationship among the variables analyzed in both the employment and growth models. The causality results for our main variables of interest differ in the employment-growth models. Based on the CS-ARDL results, the study recommends that BRICS governments and policymakers prioritize and enhance the integration of AI into their governance systems to promote employment and stimulate growth in both the short- and long-term. However, the study cautions against overlooking interaction between AI and general governance as it did not demonstrate support for growth, it is crucial to implement robust measures to mitigate any potential negative effects arising from AI's interaction with political and institutional governance. Therefore, the study proposes the formulation of AI-friendly governance policies among BRICS nations to stimulate employment and growth, recognizing the embryonic status of AI as a pivotal technology in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.