Practical Advice Research Articles

A New Fuzzy MCDM Model to Select Wireless Network Types in Healthcare Facilities

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the need for wireless network connection in healthcare facilities. This is a result of the requirement for immediate access to patient data as well as the growing number of medical devices that are internet-connected. To guarantee dependable and secure communication as well as support for diverse healthcare applications and services, it is essential to choose the right wireless network type. However, the selection procedure can be difficult because it includes a number of variables that are frequently arbitrary and subjective. The difficulties of choosing the best wireless network type to be used in healthcare facilities are addressed in this research by the introduction of a new fuzzy model for multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM). The approach considers several evaluation factors, including patient cost, patient privacy, patient safety, and patient comfort and convenience. The model uses a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to compute the weights of these criteria. In addition, the model uses fuzzy methods like fuzzy ARAS, fuzzy EDAS, and fuzzy TOPSIS to rank the different kinds of wireless networks according to their performance. It is clear from the results that the suggested model can effectively and dependably assess different alternatives. Additionally, it provides useful and practical advice on how to choose the right wireless network types for medical facilities. The best feature is that this approach is easily adaptable to other healthcare industry decision-making procedures.

The rise of multidisciplinary clinics in hepatology: A practical, how-to-guide, and review of the literature.

Multidisciplinary clinics (MDCs) are gaining momentum throughout the medical field, having initially been pioneered in oncology clinics due to their inherent ability to streamline complex care and improve both patient outcomes and the patient care experience. Liver transplant and hepatobiliary tumor clinics are examples of established MDCs in hepatology. With the changing landscape of liver disease in regard to etiology and patient complexity and acuity, there is a clear need for efficient, highly coordinated care. These changes highlight opportunities for hepatology MDCs in alcohol-associated liver disease, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, and palliative care. This review provides practical advice in navigating the complex logistics of establishing and maintaining a hepatology MDC while also reviewing the emerging evidence on clinical outcomes for patients seen in these MDCs. As hepatology looks to the future, establishment of MDCs in key clinical areas will be the cornerstone of patient care.

An Interview with Reece Steinberg: Teaching and Learning in the Libraries

In this interview, Reece Steinberg, Head of Library Learning Services and Business Liaison Librarian at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), shared insights into his extensive experience in library instruction and research support. With 17 years in librarianship, Steinberg has specialized in assisting entrepreneurs and business students while exploring topics such as the ethics of storytelling, library instruction, and the impact of neoliberalism on business research. He discussed his preparatory approach for teaching, emphasizing the importance of understanding course content and collaborating with professors to tailor lessons. Steinberg described the dual nature of his instructional work, which includes both recurring class sessions and one-on-one interactions, highlighting the value of diverse teaching methods to reach and support students. He shared practical advice on effective teaching, such as soliciting real-time feedback to adjust lessons. Reflecting on changes in instructional work, Steinberg noted the evolving impact of technology and anticipated shifts in assignment formats due to emerging tools like ChatGPT. His insights offer a comprehensive view of current trends and future directions in library instruction.

The Translation of English Proverbs into Albanian Language in the Religious Genre

Proverbs are short culturally-bound expressions that give practical advice or a moral based on real life experience; they constitute a source of folk wisdom. The translation of proverbs has long been recognized as a critical issue in the field of translation due to their cultural peculiarities and semantic properties. The meaning of a proverb cannot be understood by the individual words it is composed of. This study explores how proverbs are translated in the religious genre, from English to Albanian language. 100 proverbs have been selected from “KJV’S Holy Bible”’s chapter entitled “Proverbs” in order to collect data. The corpus of proverbs has been thoroughly analyzed; each of the proverbs has been individually analyzed in order to identify the translation strategy that has been employed. Mona Baker’s model of translation for idioms and fixed expressions is used as the theoretical framework of this research for the analysis of translation strategies. The study concluded that the majority of the proverbs are translated by using a proverb with a similar meaning but a different form. Nevertheless, a considerable number of proverbs have been translated by means of a proverb with a similar meaning and form. Additionally, the study demonstrates whether domesticating or foreignizing translation strategies are more suitable for the translation of the proverbs in question. The results of the study have concluded that domestication is a more suitable translation strategy for the proverbs of the religious genre. Received: 6 June 2024 / Accepted: 25 July 2024 / Published: 29 July 2024

Real-time monitoring of middle cerebral artery blood flow using intraoperative transcranial doppler during trans-carotid artery revascularization

ObjectiveTranscarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) has emerged as a safe and effective method for carotid revascularization, offering several key advantages over carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). Intraoperative transcranial Doppler (TCD) monitoring plays a pivotal role in assessing cerebral hemodynamics and detecting embolic signals during TCAR at our institution. MethodsThis review synthesizes the current literature and provides guidance for TCD monitoring throughout the various phases of TCAR, from preoperative assessment to postoperative management. Key considerations include probe placement, waveform evaluation, interpreting monitoring parameters such as mean flow velocity (MFV), pulsatility index (PI), and percentage change in the MFV (Δ%). Techniques for maintaining the insonation of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) M1 segment and optimal parameter settings for intraoperative TCD monitoring are detailed. ResultsTCAR phases are highlighted, including transcarotid access and vessel control, sheath insertion, the establishment of flow reversal, pre-dilation, stent placement, post-dilation, and closure, while emphasizing the importance of real-time feedback provided by TCD monitoring in identifying embolic signals and assessing changes in cerebral perfusion. The review discusses limitations of TCD monitoring, such as inadequate temporal windows, incorrect vessel identification and reliability issues with automatic emboli detection counters. Furthermore, practical advice is provided on how to navigate common pitfalls encountered during intraoperative TCD monitoring. ConclusionBy understanding the nuances of TCD monitoring and its application in TCAR, intraoperative TCD monitoring may aid to minimize the low but potential risk of intraprocedural embolic events, periprocedural hypoperfusion and postoperative hyperperfusion. Finally, we suggest opportunities for further research in embolization quantification and additional strategies to optimize quality control in TCAR.

Keys to successful clinical audit and feedback: essential steps to making impactful improvements in patient care.

Up to 40% of care provided to patients is either wasteful or harmful. The practice of audit and feedback can help identify where care can be improved. However, such audits must be executed in a systematic way that engages with clinicians to maximize the impact of feedback, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Currently, audit training is not integrated into formal education pathways and clinicians need guidance to support them in this activity. This paper explores contemporary research, with the aim of providing practical advice for recommendations to maximize the impact of audit and feedback. http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A239.

Examining the Relationship Between Innovative Product Design, Cognitive Ergonomics, and the Effectiveness of Entity Design-system: Focusing on the Environment of Big Data-driven Interface

The evolution of design systems has undergone a transformative shift towards entity-based frameworks. These systems represent a paradigmatic departure from traditional design approaches by structuring design elements around modular, reusable components known as entities. This study examines the elements that affect entity-based design system effectiveness and its effects on computer-related sectors. The study examines how creative product design, cognitive ergonomics, and big data-driven interfaces affect system efficacy. The study also examines how information processing efficiency mediates and technology infrastructure moderates the relationship between design elements and system results. Data was collected from 254 Chinese design system specialists and practitioners using quantitative methods. Participants' design, technology, and system efficacy perceptions were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. AMOS was used for mediation and moderation analyses to evaluate study hypotheses and examine variable correlations. This study found strong correlations between design elements, technology capabilities, and entity-based design system efficacy. Innovative product design, cognitive ergonomics, and big data-driven interfaces had an impact on system results, both individually and together. Information processing efficiency was a key mediator, while technology infrastructure moderated system efficacy. This study adds to the literature by revealing the complex elements that affect entity-based design systems in computer-related sectors. The study improves our theoretical understanding of design systems by investigating the relationship between design factors, technology capabilities, and system results. It also offers practical advice for organizations looking to improve their design processes and user experiences.

Comprehensive Guide to AI Regulations: Analyzing the EU AI Act and Global Initiatives

Purpose: The whitepaper is a comprehensive guide on global AI regulations, focusing on the EU AI Act as a pivotal framework. It analyses its impact on industries, outlines key guidelines, and compares global AI initiatives. Methodology: The whitepaper employs a detailed analysis of the EU AI Act, examining its stringent rules for AI ethics and safety. It also involves a comparative study of global AI initiatives to understand the broader landscape of AI regulations. Findings: The whitepaper finds that the EU AI Act inspires global standards for AI ethics and safety. It highlights businesses' compliance challenges and the need for responsible innovation to build consumer trust. Unique contribution to theory, practice, and policy (recommendations): Businesses should stay updated on evolving AI laws to ensure ethical AI use. The whitepaper offers insights into the regulatory landscape and practical compliance advice, suggesting that aligning global AI regulations with the strict standards of the EU AI Act could be beneficial

Ayurvedic Principles for Holistic Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide to One’s Health

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system, promotes a holistic approach to health, stressing the connection between the body, mind, and spirit. This extensive guide introduces Ayurvedic principles aimed at achieving holistic health, with a focus on the "One Health" concept that links personal well-being with environmental balance. It covers the fundamental aspects of Ayurveda, including the three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), which symbolize different bodily energies and their impact on health. The guide provides dietary recommendations, lifestyle practices, and therapeutic techniques tailored to individual constitutions and imbalances. It underscores the significance of preventive care, emphasizing the role of daily routines, seasonal adjustments, and mindful living in maintaining balance. Additionally, the guide explores the use of herbal remedies, detoxification methods, and mental health practices such as meditation and yoga to enhance overall wellness. By harmonizing personal health with the natural world, Ayurvedic principles advocate for a sustainable and balanced way of living. This guide is a valuable resource for those looking to improve their well-being through Ayurveda, offering practical advice and actionable steps to achieve a state of health and vitality.

Optimizing group work strategies in virtual dissection.

Due to its haptic and interactive nature, virtual anatomy provides an opportunity for small-group learning, enabling students to develop their group work skills before they graduate. However, there is currently little practical guidance supported by pedagogic principles detailing how to incorporate it into curricula. Anatomy educators at the University of Plymouth conducted action research aiming to capture students' overall perceptions of the virtual anatomy platform Anatomage. Questioning the benefits and challenges students face while interacting with Anatomage prompted the creation of evidence-based interventions to be later evaluated. Although a plethora of themes were identified, this report specifically examines those relating to group work. Thematic analysis of initial focus group data found group size and group dynamics impacted students' experience with the platform. Following the implementation of interventions to resolve these issues, a questionnaire and second series of focus groups were conducted to determine whether they were successful. Additional subthemes found from these data included facilitation, social pressure, peer learning and working with friends. This study contributed to the improvement of small group learning and integration of virtual anatomy into curricula based on student and staff feedback. As such, these data support the development of effective group working skills which are fundamental for healthcare professionals and widely recognized by regulators such as the General Medical Council and Health and Care Professions Council. In this report, the authors provide practical advice informed by pedagogy and principles from management and psychology to provide a multidisciplinary perspective.

The black box of the relationship between breast cancer patients and accompanying patients: the accompanied patients’ point of view

BackgroundThe PAROLE-Onco program was introduced in the province of Quebec, Canada in 2019. It integrates accompanying patients (APs), i.e., people who have been affected by cancer, into the clinical team as full members. These APs use their experiential knowledge with people undergoing treatment and with clinical teams. The aim of this paper is to evaluate, within the framework of two university medical centers, the perceptions of breast cancer patients who receive support from APs, particularly in terms of their active involvement in their care trajectory.MethodsA qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with accompanied patients was performed. Fourteen individual interviews were conducted between July and September 2021 with women presenting different profiles in terms of age, education, professional status, type of treatment, family situation, and clinical background. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on patients’ perceptions of APs’ contributions and suggested improvements for accessing AP support.ResultsThree themes emerged from the semi-structured interviews: communication modalities used to connect patients with their APs, the characteristics of the support provided by APs, and the perceived effects of this support on the patients. Patients expressed a preference for telephone communication, highlighting its convenience and accessibility. The support provided by APs included emotional and informational support, neutrality, and adaptability. This relationship improved patient communication, reduced anxiety, helped regain control, and enhanced overall quality of life. The results emphasized the added value of APs in complementing the support offered by healthcare professionals. Patients noted the critical role of APs in helping them navigate the healthcare system, better understand their treatment processes, and manage their emotions. The ability of APs to provide practical advice and emotional reassurance was particularly valued. Overall, the findings underscored the significant impact of AP support on patients’ experiences and highlighted areas for enhancing this service.ConclusionThis study highlights, during the care trajectory of people affected by breast cancer, APs’ contribution to patients’ emotional well-being because they improve, in particular, the management of emotions and communication with health professionals.

Neurologic pelvic pain: Diagnosis and treatment, with attention to hip–spine–pelvis exam

This article summarizes the 2023 International Continence Society (ICS) Workshop 5 focused on neurologically mediated chronic pelvic pain (CPP) (Workshop 5). A team of experts share practical advice and tools for assessment, diagnosis and management relevant to pudendal neuropathy or other nerve entrapment, central nervous system diagnoses such as herniated disc, radiculopathy, Tarlov cyst, tethered cord, hip confounders, and systemic neuropathy such as small fiber neuropathy, neuroinflammatory disease (e.g. Lyme, Multiple Sclerosis) and central sensitization.

Foreign language olympiads as a way to increase motivation for its studying in the educational paradigm of higher education

The relevance of the research problem is substantiated by the fact that this procedure creates the basis for developing students’ interest in constant progress in mastering foreign languages (i.e., it increases the level of motivation to learn a foreign language), in systematizing and deepening knowledge of a foreign language. The scope of the research is a consideration and description of the methodology for holding foreign language olympiads as a motivation factor in learning. Thegoal of the research is to prove the positive impact of holding an online Foreign Language Olympiad on motivation in learning a foreign language.The research objectives: to analyze the experience of holding foreign language olympiads, to develop practical advice on the methodology for conducting such procedures. Methods used by the authors to illuminate the stated issues: comparative analysis of sources on the above-mentioned topics, experimental method, statistical mathematical method of data processing – Student's T-test. The results of the research has proved hypothesis about the positive impact of holding olympiads on motivation in learning a foreign language through appropriate scientific research methods. It has been concluded that the results can be recommended as a tool for conducting olympiads of this kind both at the university and at other levels of education.

Analgesic advice for children with special needs who have odontogenic pain

Many children struggle or refuse to take oral medications. The refusal of medication occurs for many reasons including learned and pre-existing anxiety, sensitivity to tastes and textures and sensory–motor/coordination difficulties (for tablet swallowing). Oral analgesics play a vital role in managing the odontogenic pain of children. This is especially true when they have limited access to appropriate dental care services, are pre-cooperative or lack the ability to be compliant for conventional dental treatment. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Practical advice around the facilitation of analgesic administration for odontogenic pain is lacking for parents of children who may not accept conventional preparations.

APIs and SIPs for library and information services

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate a practical strategy for integrating application programming interfaces (APIs) and standard interchange protocols (SIPs) within library and information services. This study will seek to determine how such an integration strategy can improve access to resources, enhance the user experience, optimize library operations and improve the overall efficiency of library services. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach to research will be used in this study. This study will be based on the review of relevant literature sources, case studies and real examples. The data analyzes to determine the practical application of SIP and API integration and identify the major methods, approaches and processes used by libraries to successfully implement integration projects. Findings This study explores that library and information services may achieve numerous benefits from API and SIP integration. The cases describe how libraries have managed to improve access, user experience, operational efficiency and general performance. Libraries have integrated APIs and SIP to create seamless search experiences, establish communication networks in real-time, and develop automated workflows and customer services. API and SIP integration will transform libraries in future. Originality/value The originality of this study is the focus of the API and SIP integration. While other authors have discussed the concept of integration from a theoretical standpoint, this study presents practical recommendations and implementation advice for librarians and researchers. This study uses real cases and examples to illustrate how libraries today have managed to improve their operations with the help of APIs and SIP integration.

Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression, and Body Dysmorphic Disorders Among Dermatology Outpatients With Acne Vulgaris at a Public Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, affecting a person's physical appearance. Anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) are the three primary psychological conditions seen in dermatological patients. This study aimed to assess how prevalent anxiety, depression, and BDD in acne patients and the negative effect of acne on quality of life and self-esteem in dermatology patients. This cross-sectional study was done at the dermatology clinic in East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Data was collected using two pre-designed questionnaires. Part 1 contained demographic information and part 2 included four sets of questionnaires including the dermatology life quality index (DLQI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Post-acne hyperpigmentation index (PAHPI), globalscale for acne scar severity (SCAR-S), and LEEDS were used by the dermatologist to assess the patients' acne severity, post-acne scars, and pigmentation conditions. Data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). The majority of the participants were females (76%), Saudi Arabians (95%), students (58%), single (82%), and attended university (66%). The mean acne duration was 5.75 ± 4.58 years and 44% of the participants used social media for more than five hours per day. The participants scored high on the RSES (27.54 ± 3.05), indicating normal self-esteem. The HADS-A score was 11.14 ± 2.74, whereas the HADS-D score was 11.46 ± 1.78, indicating anxiety and depression symptoms. Their mean SCAR-S score is 4.38 ± 2.89. DLQI scores (6.04 ± 6.05) indicate that acne had a moderate effect on patients' quality of life. The percentage of positive BDD patients is significantly higher than those with negative BDD (p = 0.022). Furthermore, a significant association between PAHPI total score and SCAR-S (r = 0.48, p ≤ 0.001) and HADS-D (r = 0.39, p = 0.005) total scores. The study focuses on how acne vulgaris affects patients' quality of life. The findings suggest that acne-related quality of life is positively associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms. This study provides clinicians with practical advice for implementing a more thorough management strategy for acne vulgaris.

Web‐based application to guide sampling on salmon farms for more precise estimation of sea louse abundance

AbstractObjectiveEfficiently managing sea lice on salmon farms through active surveillance, crucial for lice abundance estimation, is challenging due to the need for effective sampling schemes. To address this, we developed an application that considers infestation levels, farm structure, and management protocols, enhancing the precision of sampling strategies for sea louse abundance estimation.MethodsSimulation‐based methods are valuable for estimating suitable sample sizes in complex studies where standard formulae are inadequate. We introduce FishSampling, an open Web‐based application tailored to determine precise sample sizes for specific scenarios and objectives.ResultThe model incorporates factors such as sea lice abundance, farm pen numbers, potential clustering effects among these pens, and the desired confidence level. Simulation outcomes within this application provide practical advice on how to decide on the number of fish and pens to sample, under varying levels of assumed clustering.ConclusionThis approach can be used across the salmon aquaculture sector to improve sampling strategies for sea lice abundance estimation and balance surveillance costs against health objectives.

The Importance of Positionality for Qualitative Researchers

Qualitative researchers are required to be critically reflective and explain to readers their positionality on their work. This account can be relatively straightforward, but there are occasions when this process of reflection and outlining one’s positionality is much more complicated. This method-paper explains this process. It outlines, using examples of different occasions and situations, where and why such complications may arise, for example, around values and personal experiences. It concludes with further practical advice on writing the section on positionality for novice social scientists.

Earthing System Analysis for Steel Tower Carrying 33kV Line

This study examines the critical analysis of earthing systems connected to steel towers that carry 33 kV power lines. Ensuring the safety and dependability of power transmission infrastructure becomes crucial in light of the growing demand for energy. By utilizing sophisticated computational methodologies and simulation approaches, this research carefully investigates how well the earthing system performs in various operational circumstances and fault scenarios. A thorough modeling technique is used in the analysis, which considers a number of variables including fault currents, tower design, soil resistivity, and grounding electrode configurations. In order to give a comprehensive understanding of the behavior of the system and its consequences for operational reliability, the study simulates many situations, including normal operation and fault occurrences. By using sophisticated numerical simulations and sensitivity analysis, the research pinpoints important factors affecting the earthing system's efficiency and suggests creative optimization techniques. These optimization techniques could involve changing the location of the grounding electrode, improving the materials used in the conductor, or putting additional safety precautions in place. The researcher's conclusions have important ramifications for the engineering community since they provide practical advice on how to strengthen the security and robustness of power transmission networks. The study adds to the continuous efforts to improve the efficiency and dependability of electrical grids by addressing potential weaknesses in the architecture of the earthing system. This thorough study advances the field of earthing system engineering by offering a solid platform for next studies and real-world implementations. Through this work, we can better understand the dynamics of earthing systems and optimization methodologies, which will help build more resilient and sustainable power transmission infrastructure that can adapt to society's changing energy needs.

What’s Wrong with Enterprise Risk Management?

Enterprise risk management (ERM) was introduced in the 1990s and has since become expected by boards of directors and regulators as a sign of good management and good corporate governance. However, many organizations struggle to implement ERM, and still seek practical advice on ERM implementation. This article explains many of the reasons why organizations are unsuccessful in their efforts at implementation and provides practical solutions provided by an experienced risk manager and consultant, an ex-Chief Risk Officer, and an academic, all of whom have written extensively on the subject. This article should be of interest to practitioners involved in implementing ERM, to consultants in ERM, and to academics teaching courses on ERM, risk management, and related topics. This article also provides a base against which further future research can be performed as ERM best practices continue to evolve.