Research Methods Research Articles

Thermal structure variations and influence factors in a subtropical reservoir, China: Explanations from multiple research methods

Revealing the subtle variations in thermal structure in a reservoir is crucial for accurately understanding the interaction between water and carbon cycle. This study provides a detailed description of the thermal structure of Dalongdong reservoir, a representative subtropical stratified reservoir in Guangxi, China. It unveils the three stable state changes in water, including mixing, microstratification, and stratification, along with their influencing factors. The study emphasizes air temperature (AT) as the primary factor influencing water temperature (WT) stability, followed by water level. Cross-correlation analysis shows that adjacent water temperatures experience a prolonged response hysteresis during the stratification period, while the mixing period exhibits a shorter hysteresis. Wavelet analysis revealed that AT and surface-layer WT exhibited a dominant oscillation period of 16 - 32 hours. The periodicity of other water layers is not obvious. This framework can help to enhance our understanding of material cycles and the protection the water environment.

Safety assessment of sildenafil use in neonates: a real-world data analysis based on the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS)

ABSTRACT Background The safety of neonatal sildenafil use remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate adverse events (AEs) associated with sildenafil use in neonates. Research design and methods We collected data on AEs associated with sildenafil use in neonates from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database, spanning from its inception of the database in 2004 to 2023. Disproportionality measures were employed to analyze the correlation between AEs and sildenafil. Results Sildenafil was identified as the primary suspect drug in 75 AE reports, involving 214 AEs. Three system organ classes, namely, eye disorders, hepatobiliary disorders, and vascular disorders were associated with sildenafil use. Six preferred terms, namely, flushing, retinopathy of prematurity, hyperbilirubinemia, pulmonary hemorrhage, hypotension, and diarrhea were associated with sildenafil use. Notably, hyperbilirubinemia and pulmonary hemorrhage were previously unreported AEs associated with sildenafil use. Conclusion The results highlight the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the safety of neonatal sildenafil use and provide vital support for risk monitoring and identification in neonates receiving sildenafil. Additionally, the study underscores the need for continuous safety surveillance in neonates treated with sildenafil and suggests further exploration of the precise causal relationships between AEs and sildenafil.

Quantification of Longitudinal Patient-Reported Burden of Adverse Drug Reactions Attributed to the Use of TNF-α Inhibitors in inflammatory rheumatic diseases: an observational prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Background There is a lack of knowledge on patient perspectives on adverse drug reactions (ADRs) attributed to the use of biologics. The aim of this study is to quantify the burden over time of ADRs attributed to TNF-α inhibitors in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs) and investigate whether the burden over time differs between different types of ADRs. Research design and methods Data were used from the Dutch Biologic Monitor (DBM), an observational prospective cohort study for patient-reported ADRs attributed to biologics. Patients with an IRD using a TNF-α inhibitor reporting an ADR, lasting for three consecutive questionnaires, were included. Questionnaires were sent every two months and burden was scored on a 5-point Likert-type scale. Burden scores were analyzed using linear mixed models. Results Data from 166 unique patients reporting 274 ADRs were included. The burden score decreased every month by 0.29 points (95% CI -0.34 – -0.24) on average on a 5-point Likert-type scale. The burden score for infections and infestations decreased significantly faster than the burden score for injection site reactions. Conclusions Patient-reported burden of ADRs attributed to the use of a TNF-α inhibitor in patients with IRDs decreased significantly over time, especially for infections and infestations.

The “what, why, and how?” of story completion in health services research: a scoping review

BackgroundThe story completion method provides a different way of doing qualitative research. We note the emergent popularity of this method in health-related research, while much remains to be negotiated in terms of best practices for such studies. This scoping review aims to provide a synthesis on how researchers have used the story completion method in health services research. We offer implications for research and practice for further discussion by the scholarly community.MethodsWe used the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. Six databases were searched for published literature till March 1, 2023: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SAGE Journals Online databases, and SAGE Research Methods. We included primary studies of any study design using the story completion method in health services research.ResultsA total of 17 studies were included. Findings suggest that the story completion method is useful for research on sensitive topics, and affords the use of comparative study designs and large sample sizes which may be difficult with conventional qualitative research methods. More than 80% of included studies used story completion as the sole method. However, the data collected from this method were limited in terms of the inferences that can be drawn; and richness of participant responses may vary widely. Less than 30% of included studies reported piloting of the story stems. Most studies were conducted online and analyzed qualitatively, though the story stem design and sample size varied widely.ConclusionThe story completion method, with its attendant affordances for larger sample sizes, comparative study designs, and streamlined data collection is an innovative and useful stand-alone or adjunct qualitative method for health services research.

PERSEPSI MASYARAKAT TERHADAP PENGELOLAAN HUTAN DESADI NEGERI MORELLA KECAMATAN LEIHITU KABUPATEN MALUKU TENGAH

The purpose of this study was to find out the community perceptions of village forest management in Morella Country. The research method is descriptive qualitative. The sample was determined using a purposive sampling method which only focused on communities directly involved in Village Forest (HD) management with a total of 31 respondents and several figures as key informants. Data collection methods were carried out by means of observation, interviews and literature study. Data analysis used descriptive statistics with a Likert scale as the measurement scale, namely strongly agree (3), agree (2), disagree (1) with high, medium and low categorization for each value. The research results show that the community's perception of village forest management in Morella Country is classified in the 'Medium' category, including perceptions of pre-licensing village forest management, namely socialization and facilitation, formation of LPHD, technical verification and issuance of permits and post-licensing, namely HD planning and implementation..

Uniform stretching behavior of single crease origami arrays

Origami arrays featuring ideal purely rotational creases inherently possess multiple kinematic degrees of freedom. The incorporation of crease rotational stiffness introduces additional constraint relations to the kinematic morphology of the origami array, due to the interaction between the plate and the crease. This paper concentrates on elucidating the coupling effect, employing two theoretical models to systematically analyze the uniform stretch process of a single crease origami array. The validity of our theoretical approaches is substantiated through verification in the finite element method. Firstly, the mechanical equations of the origami unit, together with the length and angle constraint equations of the origami array, are amalgamated to formulate a comprehensive set of morphological computational equations specific to the single crease origami array. This set enables the realization of morphological analysis for general origami arrays. Moreover, energy equations for the origami array are computed using an equivalent rigid plate nonlinear creasing element. When combined with constraint equations corresponding to horizontal stretch displacement, these energy equations contribute to the establishment of a nonlinear optimization framework for determining the morphology of uniform single crease origami arrays. Notably, our investigation reveals that during the early stages of the unfolding process for a single crease origami array, even a small relative horizontal stretch displacement can induce a drastic change in the center crease. Through finite element analysis of general origami arrays, it is shown that the proposed theoretical analysis method applies to different crease stiffness, both unfolding and folding processes, and different plate types. The research method in this paper can provide ideas for systematically analyzing the influence mechanism of crease properties on the morphological features of origami structures.

PERANAN KELEMBAGAAN KELOMPOK USAHA PERHUTANAN SOSIAL HUTAN ADAT DI NEGERI HUTUMURI KECAMATAN LEITIMUR SELATAN KOTA AMBON

Customary Forest is one of the social forestry schemes in the framework of sustainable forest management by utilizing indigenous communities as the main actors in order to improve welfare, environmental balance and socio-cultural dynamics. Customary Forest is a forest located within the territory of the customary law community. This study aims to examine the role of the Social Forestry Business Group (SFBG) and customary institutions in the management of Customary Forests in Hutumuri village.. The research method used was descriptive qualitative, with data collected through interviews and field observations. Sampling is done by purposive sampling where sampling is based on previously known characteristics or properties of the population (Sugiyono, 2016). The results showed that SFBG has an important role in managing forest resources sustainably and improving the welfare of local communities. SFBG functions in social forestry business development, compliance with regulations, supervision, evaluation, and reporting. The SFBG organizational structure includes a chairperson, secretary, treasurer, planning, implementation, and supervision, each with specific roles. Customary institutions also play an important role in the planning and implementation of institutional improvement programs, such as the inauguration of soa heads and saniri negeri, the establishment of SFBG, and training on forest product processing. In addition, there is a role in the application for the determination of customary forests to the Minister of Environment and Forestry, the location of customary forests belongs to the state or Soa, and the marking of boundaries involves each Soa. In conclusion, the synergy between SFBG and customary institutions is crucial for the successful management of Hutan Adat in Negeri Hutumuri.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Prediction of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Perinatal Complications.

Objective: To assess the performance of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-measured glycemic metrics in predicting development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and select perinatal complications. Research Methods: In a prospective observational study, CGM data were collected from 760 pregnant females throughout gestation after study enrollment. GDM was diagnosed using the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24-34 weeks of gestation. Predictive models were built using logistic and elastic net regression. Predictive performance was assessed by the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. Results: The AUROCs of using second trimester percent time >140 mg/dL (TA140) and week 13-14 TA140 in predicting GDM were 0.81 and 0.74, respectively. The AUROCs for predicting large-for-gestational-age (LGA) births and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) using second trimester TA140 were both 0.58. When matching the specificity of OGTT, a model using TA140 in weeks 13-14 achieved similar sensitivity to OGTT in predicting HDP (13% vs. 10%, respectively) and LGA (6% for both methods). Elastic net also demonstrated similar AUROC and diagnostic performance with no meaningful improvement by using multiple predictors. Conclusion: CGM-measured hyperglycemic metrics such as TA140 predicted GDM with high AUROCs as early as 13-14 weeks of gestation. These metrics were also similar statistically to the OGTT at 24-34 weeks in predicting perinatal complications, although sensitivity was low for both. CGM could potentially be used as an early screening tool for elevated hyperglycemia during gestation, which could be used in addition to or instead of the OGTT.

Opportunities and shortcomings of AI for spatial epidemiology and health disparities research on aging and the life course

Established spatial and life course methods have helped epidemiologists and health and medical geographers study the impact of individual and area-level determinants on health disparities. While these methods are effective, the emergence of Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) offers new opportunities to leverage complex and multi-scalar data in spatial aging and life course research. The objective of this perspective is three-fold: (1) to review established methods in aging, life course, and spatial epidemiology research; (2) to highlight some of the opportunities offered by GeoAI for enhancing research on health disparities across life course and aging research; (3) to discuss the shortcomings of using GeoAI methods in aging and life course studies.

Developing a local behaviour change intervention for increased biowaste sorting: a social marketing formative study

Purpose This paper aims to describe a case study of a formative study for the development of a social marketing campaign for increased biowaste sorting. In following the social marketing principles, it provides insights for practitioners willing to implement behaviour change interventions. Design/methodology/approach The case study describes the scoping review, expert interviews, online survey and focus groups, which were integrated to comprehend the specificities of biowaste sorting in the South Suburbs of Athens. This mixed-method research design enabled a comprehensive understanding of biowaste sorting practices that would not have been attainable through a single method. Findings This study found that the “descriptive norm” and “perceived controllability” significantly influenced biowaste sorting. Differential challenges of at-home and out-of-home sorting were also identified. The demand for more information was also highlighted. The tailored intervention comprises of a mix of behavioural modelling, persuasive communication, education and enablement. Originality/value By concretely showcasing how the integration of multiple research methods through the application of social marketing principles can guide the design of a tailored behaviour change intervention, this paper offers an outline for informed decision-making and strategic planning in the realm of (environmental) behaviour change.

Factors affecting the downturn of traditional livestock husbandry in local communities of northwestern rangelands of Iran

Currently, a combination of natural and human factors has led to the lack of cost-effective production, resulting in the downturn of traditional animal husbandry (DTLH) in rural regions. This research aims to investigate the factors contributing to the DTLH in indigenous communities in northwestern Iran. The statistical population consisted of pastoralists residing in the villages of Namin-Ardabil, Iran. The research method employed was descriptive-analytical, and a questionnaire was used as the data collection tool. The sample size was determined by selecting approximately 5–10% of households in each village, preferably the household head. Friedman's test was utilized to prioritize the most significant factors influencing DTLH. The findings reveals that the most crucial economic criteria contributing to the DTLH were “the high cost of providing inputs and fodder required for livestock (mean rank = 11.12),” “more economic opportunities and access to well-paying employment opportunities in the city (mean rank = 8.99)”, and “low profit from livestock farming in the rangeland (mean rank = 10.60)”. Moreover, the most important social criteria were “uncertainty regarding the future well-being of children and the social and economic situation in the village (mean rank = 14.12)”, “motivation for academic and career development in urban areas (mean rank = 14.10)”, and “access to specialized and professional training opportunities in cities (mean rank = 13.80)”. Furthermore, the most crucial ecological criteria impacting the DTLH were “drought” (mean ran = 7.96)” and “non-implementation of range management plans and grazing permits” (mean rank = 6.07)”. In general, the results indicated that the ecological criteria had the highest impact on the DTLH, followed by social and economic criteria, with values of 41.1%, 34.6%, and 24.29%, respectively. Overall, understanding the challenges faced by traditional livestock husbandry and identifying the factors contributing to its decline is crucial for developing effective strategies to support and sustain this industry in rural areas.

Predictors of confidence in research: a cross-sectional survey of pharmacists in the north of England.

Pharmacist-led research is key to optimizing medicines use and improving pharmacy services, yet it is not yet widely embedded into careers. This study aims to identify predictors of confidence in meeting the research learning outcomes in the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) Post-Registration Foundation and Core Advanced curricula, to provide targeted recommendations for building research capability and capacity within the profession. The study was a cross-sectional electronic survey, distributed to eligible pharmacists in March 2023 (n = 253). The survey gathered demographic information, research experience, and self-reported confidence in meeting the research learning outcomes in the RPS Post-Registration Foundation and Core Advanced curricula. Pre-determined independent variables were analysed using two binomial logistic regression models (one per curriculum) to identify predictors of the dichotomous variable: confidence with meeting all research learning outcomes in that curriculum. Participants were more likely to self-report as confident (versus not confident) with meeting all research learning outcomes in a curriculum if they had recent experience (within the previous 12 months) of research or research-related activities, held a postgraduate research qualification, had undertaken research training outside of a postgraduate qualification, discussed research in their appraisal, or worked in the hospital sector. Conversely, male gender, years practicing, and protected time for research did not predict confidence. A targeted approach, including improving access to research methods training, experience-based learning, mentorship, and linking research projects to key organizational objectives, could be the key to developing research capability and capacity across all sectors and career stages.

Pengaruh Kepemimpinan Motivasi Kerja Dan Disiplin Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan Rumah Sakit Muhammadiyah Palembang

This research aims to determine the influence of Leadership, Work Motivation, and Work Discipline on the Performance of Employees at the Palembang Muhammadiyah Hospital. The sampling technique in this research uses the Cluster Sampling technique by taking samples from 217 employees of the Palembang Muhammadiyah Hospital. The research method used is associative research using primary data obtained from the results of questionnaire answers. This research shows that simultaneously and partially, there is a positive and significant influence of Leadership, Work Motivation, and Work Discipline on the Performance of Employees at the Palembang Muhammadiyah Hospital. The three variables, leadership, work motivation, and work discipline, were able to contribute to explaining changes that occurred in employee performance by 83.3%, providing practical implications for hospital administrators and professionals in the field of human resources

PENGARUH PELAKSANAAN HOME CARE TERHADAP KEMANDIRIAN (ACTIVITY DAILY LIVING) PADA PENDERITA STROKE NON HEMORAGIK DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS PARIAMAN

A person who has a stroke cannot do their daily activities which causes them to become less independent and need help from others so that patients must get home care services to train their independence again. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of implementing home care on independence (activity daily living) in non-hemorrhagic stroke patients in the Pariaman Health Center Work Area in 2024. This type of research is quantitative research with the research method being a pre-experimental method with a one group pretest-posttest design. This research was conducted in the Pariaman Health Center Work Area on March 18 to March 25, 2024. The population in this study was 39 people, while the sample taken was 16 people. The results of the study showed that there was an increase in independence in activity daily living after home care was given to stroke patients. The implementation of home care has an effect on independence (activity daily living) in non-hemorrhagic stroke patients in the Pariaman Health Center Work Area (p=value 0.000 < (α 0.05). In conclusion, the provision of home care by nurses has an effect on independence (activity daily living) in non-hemorrhagic stroke patients in the Pariaman Health Center Work Area in 2024.

Performance of Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI)

Banking performance must be maintained and improved so that performance is good, so that the number of customers will increase in the future. The aim of the research is to see the performance of Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) in terms of NIM, BOPO and LDR. The research method uses regression correlation analysis, partial tests and simultaneous tests of BRI's profitability (ROA) for 8 years from 2015 to 2022 in Indonesia. The research results showed that only the BOPO variable had a significant effect on BRI's profitability, while NIM and LDR showed insignificant results, but simultaneously had a significant effect on the Bank's profitability (ROA).

Where is the wolf? A multi‐method comparison of social values and perceptions in a Swiss park

This article presents our recent experience studying public perceptions, discourses, and social values in Park Beverin, a Regional Nature Park in Switzerland. We applied four social research methods (news media analysis, survey with micro‐narratives, go‐along interviews, and focus groups), and delved into the subject of wolf Canis lupus adapting a triangulation protocol and systematic process from the health sciences. We observed the recurring perceptions of ‘wolf' throughout three of the four methods; however, depictions, values, prominence, and presence varied by method. Social values of the wolf were mostly silent when compared to other topics, and ‘wolf amplification' and ‘wolf fatigue' point to the need to rethink the social aspects in wolf management, conservation, and policy. The findings also show the need for diverse research methods for revealing social values and perceptions on sensitive topics that otherwise the use of one method may be masking or amplifying.

HUBUNGAN PENGETAHUAN DAN SIKAP MASYARAKAT TERHADAP PENCEGAHAN DEMAM BERDARAH DENGUE DENGAN 3M PLUS DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS KOTA PARIAMAN

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a health problem in tropical countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2023 reported that an unexpected spike in dengue fever cases resulted in the highest number in history, namely more than 6.5 million cases with more than 7,300 deaths. The prevalence of DHF in West Sumatra in 2020 was 292 cases. The purpose of the study was to determine the Relationship between Knowledge and Community Attitudes Towards DHF Prevention with 3M Plus in the Pariaman Health Center work area. The research method used quantitative research with a descriptive analytical design with a Cross Sectional Study approach. The study was conducted in Kp. Jawa II, Central Pariaman. The research sample was 85 heads of families. Sampling was done by acidential sampling. Statistical tests using Chi Square. The results of the study showed that the majority of the community (69.4%) had low knowledge, (56.5%) had negative attitudes, and (65.9%) the community was low in preventing DHF with 3M Plus. There is a significant relationship between knowledge of dengue prevention and 3M Plus showing p value = 0.000. There is a significant relationship between attitude and dengue prevention with 3M Plus showing p value = 0.000.

Transformational Leadership and Career Development on Hospital Nurse Performance

The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between transformational leadership and career development on the performance of hospital employees. Hospitals are complex organizations that require effective leadership and appropriate career development to achieve optimal performance. This research focuses on the role of transformational leadership in improving hospital employee performance and how career development mediates the relationship between transformational leadership and hospital employee performance. This study involved 150 respondents who were nurses in hospitals. The research method used is a quantitative method with data collection through questionnaire distribution. The respondents of this study are hospital employees at various levels, ranging from medical staff to senior management. The results of this study make practical and theoretical contributions to the development of hospital management and provide recommendations to practitioners and policymakers to optimize the performance of hospital staff through the application of transformational leadership and effective career development.

HUBUNGAN PENGETAHUAN DENGAN SIKAP IBU DALAM PEMBERIAN ASI EKSKLUSIF DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS NARAS

The World Health Organization reported that the incidence of nausea and vomiting in women reached 12.5% ​​in the world with 0.3% in Sweden, 0.5% in California, 0.8% in Canada, 10.8% in China, 0.9% in Norway, 2.2% in Pakistan, 1.9% in Turkey, and in Indonesia reaching 50%-80%. Peppermint aromatherapy containing menthol (35-45%) and menthone (10%-30%) is useful as an antiemetic and antispasmodic on the lining of the stomach and intestines by inhibiting muscle contractions. The ability of peppermint leaves to reduce nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is thought to be related to the content of essential oils such as α-, β-pinenelimonene 1,8- cineole. This study aims to determine the effect of peppermint aromatherapy on reducing nausea and vomiting in pregnant women in the first trimester at the Pauh Kambar Health Center. This research method uses a quasi-experimental design with a one group pretest-posttest design. The population of this study was 70 pregnant women in the first trimester. The number of samples taken was 15 people using purposive sampling technique. Data processing was done using Univariate and Bivariate using t-dependent analysis. The results of the study with the T test showed that there was an effect of peppermint aromatherapy on reducing nausea and vomiting in pregnant women in the first trimester at the Pauh Kambar Health Center (p-value = 0.000 <a = 0.05). It can be concluded that there is an effect of Peppermint Aromatherapy on Reducing Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnant Women in the First Trimester at the Pauh Kambar Health Center

Daylighting Evaluation of Perforated Screen Façade with Light Shelf in the Tropics

The use of large glass facades in buildings without external shading devices leads to a high daylight level, uneven daylight distribution, and glare. A perforated screen facade (PSF) is one of the shading systems that can provide daylight and view and prevent direct solar radiation into a building. More research is needed about the daylight performance of PSF in integration with daylighting systems in the tropics. A combination of PSF and light shelf (LS), a daylighting system that can redirect daylight to the ceiling and enhance daylight distribution, is proposed to improve daylight levels and reduce glare. The research aims to evaluate the daylight performance of PSF and LS in the tropics. The research method is experimental with simulation utilizing IES-VE Radiance IES. Average Daylight Factor (DFavg), Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI), and Daylight Glare Probability (DGP) of a room with a side window were compared with a room with PSF and LS. The results showed that implementing PSF and LS improved daylight performance by lowering the DFavg by 55%, increasing the UDI, and reducing the DGP.