Sensitive Issues Research Articles

A novel myocarditis detection combining deep reinforcement learning and an improved differential evolution algorithm

AbstractMyocarditis is a serious cardiovascular ailment that can lead to severe consequences if not promptly treated. It is triggered by viral infections and presents symptoms such as chest pain and heart dysfunction. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is a valuable tool for identifying this condition. However, the detection of myocarditis using CMR images can be challenging due to low contrast, variable noise, and the presence of multiple high CMR slices per patient. To overcome these challenges, the approach proposed incorporates advanced techniques such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), an improved differential evolution (DE) algorithm for pre‐training, and a reinforcement learning (RL)‐based model for training. Developing this method presented a significant challenge due to the imbalanced classification of the Z‐Alizadeh Sani myocarditis dataset from Omid Hospital in Tehran. To address this, the training process is framed as a sequential decision‐making process, where the agent receives higher rewards/penalties for correctly/incorrectly classifying the minority/majority class. Additionally, the authors suggest an enhanced DE algorithm to initiate the backpropagation (BP) process, overcoming the initialisation sensitivity issue of gradient‐based methods like back‐propagation during the training phase. The effectiveness of the proposed model in diagnosing myocarditis is demonstrated through experimental results based on standard performance metrics. Overall, this method shows promise in expediting the triage of CMR images for automatic screening, facilitating early detection and successful treatment of myocarditis.

An overpressure monitoring system based on PVDF integrated Electronic sensor with enhanced noise attenuation capability

The measurement of shockwave overpressure is of great significance for the safe use of explosives. The traditional overpressure monitoring systems are based on Integrated Electronics Piezo-Electric (IEPE) ceramic sensors. However, the brittleness of piezoelectric ceramic limits the application of overpressure monitoring system in high impact overpressure testing. Herein, a novel overpressure monitoring system based on Integrated Electronic Poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) (PFIE) sensor with electromagnetic interference shielding capability and parasitic vibration noise elimination function was designed for intense overpressure acquiring. PVDF, as a polymer, can endure much higher impact pressures compared to piezoelectric ceramics. However, its larger internal resistance makes it more prone to electromagnetic interference. To address this, an electromagnetic shielding structure was designed, incorporating an impedance matching circuit that effectively reduces the sensor's output impedance. Additionally, to mitigate excessive vibration noise during overpressure testing, the differential noise reduction technique has been implemented. Both the laboratory testing and the real blast testing with 10 kg trinitrotoluene were performed to validate the PFIE overpressure monitoring system. The result shows that the electromagnetic noise suppression ability of the PFIE overpressure sensors developed for the monitoring system was improved by 45 dB, and the parasitic vibration noise could be attenuated from 30 % to 1 %, what’s more the RMS errors of the overpressure dynamic parameters obtained by the monitoring system were below 10 %. This work has successfully addressed the noise sensitivity issue inherent in PVDF when used as a pressure sensor, capitalizing on its robust impact resistance. This approach has provided a viable solution for measuring overpressure in scenarios involving intense shock pressures, leveraging the strengths of PVDF in such demanding applications.

Falsification of home rapid antigen lateral flow tests during the COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, lateral flow tests (LFTs) were used to regulate access to work, education, social activities, and travel. However, falsification of home LFT results was a concern. Falsification of test results during an ongoing pandemic is a sensitive issue. Consequently, respondents may not answer truthfully to questions about LFT falsification behaviours (FBs) when asked directly. Indirect questioning techniques such as the Extended Crosswise model (ECWM) can provide more reliable prevalence estimates of sensitive behaviors than direct questioning. Here we report the prevalence of LFT FBs in a representative sample in England (n = 1577) using direct questioning (DQ) and the ECWM. We examine the role of demographic and psychological variables as predictors of LFT FBs. We show that the prevalence estimates of the FBs in the DQ condition were significantly lower than the ECWM estimates, e.g., reporting a negative result without conducting a test: 5.7% DQ vs 18.4% ECWM. Moral norms, subjective norms, anticipated regret, perception of risk to self, and trust in government predicted some of the FBs. Indirect questioning techniques can help provide more realistic and higher quality data about compliance with behavioural regulations to government and public health agencies.

Social media as a primary source of information: Exploring its role in disseminating the current situation in Palestine

The proliferation of social media has changed the global information paradigm, enabling immediate and direct access to breaking news. This research examines the role of social media as a primary source of information, focusing on the context of the conflict in Palestine. Through a qualitative desk research approach, it explores how social media contributes to disseminating current events in Palestine. The analysis involved a review of literature related to social media development, conflict information dynamics, and its impact on public opinion. The results show that social media has become an essential tool in accelerating and expanding the reach of information about the situation in Palestine. Individual actions, such as sharing news or personal views, can trigger significant public responses and shape narratives that influence global perceptions. Moreover, the active engagement of social media users in relaying actual information plays a key role in shaping opinions and attitudes toward the conflict. This research provides insight into the complex dynamics of social media as a key source of information, illustrating how information is disseminated and understood in the context of the Palestinian conflict. The implications of this research can contribute to further understanding social media's role in shaping public opinion and influencing the global narrative on sensitive issues such as the Palestinian conflict.

AntiBP3: A Method for Predicting Antibacterial Peptides against Gram-Positive/Negative/Variable Bacteria.

Most of the existing methods developed for predicting antibacterial peptides (ABPs) are mostly designed to target either gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria. In this study, we describe a method that allows us to predict ABPs against gram-positive, gram-negative, and gram-variable bacteria. Firstly, we developed an alignment-based approach using BLAST to identify ABPs and achieved poor sensitivity. Secondly, we employed a motif-based approach to predict ABPs and obtained high precision with low sensitivity. To address the issue of poor sensitivity, we developed alignment-free methods for predicting ABPs using machine/deep learning techniques. In the case of alignment-free methods, we utilized a wide range of peptide features that include different types of composition, binary profiles of terminal residues, and fastText word embedding. In this study, a five-fold cross-validation technique has been used to build machine/deep learning models on training datasets. These models were evaluated on an independent dataset with no common peptide between training and independent datasets. Our machine learning-based model developed using the amino acid binary profile of terminal residues achieved maximum AUC 0.93, 0.98, and 0.94 for gram-positive, gram-negative, and gram-variable bacteria, respectively, on an independent dataset. Our method performs better than existing methods when compared with existing approaches on an independent dataset. A user-friendly web server, standalone package and pip package have been developed to facilitate peptide-based therapeutics.

Selective and Accurate Detection of Nitrate in Aquaculture Water with Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Using Gold Nanoparticles Decorated with β-Cyclodextrins.

A surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) method for measuring nitrate nitrogen in aquaculture water was developed using a substrate of β-cyclodextrin-modified gold nanoparticles (SH-β-CD@AuNPs). Addressing the issues of low sensitivity, narrow linear range, and relatively poor selectivity of single metal nanoparticles in the SERS detection of nitrate nitrogen, we combined metal nanoparticles with cyclodextrin supramolecular compounds to prepare a AuNPs substrate enveloped by cyclodextrin, which exhibits ultra-high selectivity and Raman activity. Subsequently, vanadium(III) chloride was used to convert nitrate ions into nitrite ions. The adsorption mechanism between the reaction product benzotriazole (BTAH) of o-phenylenediamine (OPD) and nitrite ions on the SH-β-CD@AuNPs substrate was studied through SERS, achieving the simultaneous detection of nitrate nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen. The experimental results show that BTAH exhibits distinct SERS characteristic peaks at 1168, 1240, 1375, and 1600 cm-1, with the lowest detection limits of 3.33 × 10-2, 5.84 × 10-2, 2.40 × 10-2, and 1.05 × 10-2 μmol/L, respectively, and a linear range of 0.1-30.0 μmol/L. The proposed method provides an effective tool for the selective and accurate online detection of nitrite and nitrate nitrogen in aquaculture water.

Investigating Sensitive Issues in Class Through Randomized Response Polling

This article provides an introduction to randomized response polling, a technique which was designed to allow for questioning on sensitive issues while protecting the respondent’s privacy and avoiding social desirability bias. It is described in terms that are suitable for presentation and use in any classroom environment. Instructions for plain users are included, along with the results of a small in-class implementation. The underpinnings of the method, which are laid out for the statistically savvy, illustrate the tradeoff between data acquisition and privacy protection. A few suitable references are also included for those who wish to dig further into the subject. Supplementary materials for this article are available online.

Differences in sensitivity toward situations classified as sexual harassment in the workplace between men and women in Syria

PurposeSexual harassment is a pervasive and damaging issue that affects the physical and mental health and well-being of employees in the workplace. It is a serious public health concern that requires urgent attention and action and very dangerous problem in management. Our studies have shown that women are more likely to be the victims of sexual harassment and are more dissatisfied with the situation, organizations have a moral and legal obligation to take proactive measures to prevent and address sexual harassment, including implementing effective policies, providing employee training and fostering a culture of respect and accountability. By doing so, we can create safer, healthier and more productive work environments for all the employees.Design/methodology/approachThis study consisted of 344 individuals from the Syrian community who completed a questionnaire, that contained statements about harassment to gauge each gender’s perception and sensitivity toward it. The questionnaire was carefully designed to include 30 questions, including daily situations in the work environment that may occur and how they are classified by males and females. Is it harassment or not, and about the HR department have personal safety and security standards such as the code of conduct and the rules regulating these behaviors or not and our research project was a collaboration between the two nongovernmental organizations (NGOs): Stemosis and Institute of Human Resources Management (IHRM).FindingsOur research reveals a distinction between the thinking patterns and coping mechanisms of females and males when it comes to dealing with this phenomenon. We presented various scenarios to our respondents, depicting situations that an individual might face in their everyday life and asked them questions related to the definition of harassment, its root causes and strategies for addressing it. Research has shown that women are at a higher risk of experiencing feelings of fear and dissatisfaction when subjected to sexual harassment. This unfortunate reality highlights the need for greater awareness and action to combat such reprehensible behaviors. Save Women!Research limitations/implicationsThe study faced several limitations in collecting data due to the sensitive and shameful nature of the topic for both men and women in the Syrian Arab Republic. This caused embarrassment for some participants, leading to their unwillingness to participate in the research. Additionally, the study encountered difficulties in dealing with companies, as they did not accept exposure to such situations and failed to show any codes of conduct under the name of their company, and the participants did not consider certain factors as reasons for harassment. Specifically, 71.2% of participants did not consider inappropriate outfits as a reason for harassment. However, there was a significant difference between the opinions of men and women on this matter (p-value < 0.05). Additionally, political, social and psychological reactions were not considered a reason for harassment by 64.8% of participants.Practical implicationsIn our study, there was a situation that one of the respondents (male) was exposed to by the HR manager (female) who was pretending to be a professional, after he confronted her, she threatened him with expulsion from work and despite his annoyance, he ignored her because it was pointless to talk with her and during the study, (44.7%) of the participants had experienced sexual harassment.Social implicationsVictims of sexual harassment experience a similar condition to post-traumatic stress disorder, which can lead to many mental and psychological issues. The overall organizational environment plays a critical role in the well-being of employees. It is widely accepted that victims of violence suffer from a lack of well-being. Employee well-being is based on feelings of happiness and satisfaction that come from a sense of security. According to the Maslow’s theory of needs, security is fundamental to people and a toxic workplace environment can destroy an individual’s sense of security, negatively impacting their well-being In Syria.Originality/valueIn Syria, society is considered closed about sexual issues and considers it a sensitive issue despite its presence and spread in work environments, as the results showed, and this is one of the challenges we face. Therefore, our study is the first in Syria and the largest that sheds light on this phenomenon clearly, strongly, deeply and directly.

Bilateral aid to Tajikistan; donor tactics and responses to troubled governance

ABSTRACT The amount and form of aid distributed to foreign countries may depend on the contexts and characteristics of the recipient countries. Donors who have aid relations with poorly governed countries, while emphasizing good governance, may have to adjust aid tools to circumvent weak institutional environments. In keeping with the literature on aid in contexts of weak governance, the paper analyses donors’ strategies in Tajikistan – an understudied country with geostrategic importance to traditional donors – showing how bilateral donors provided controlled aid. Donors disbursed aid mainly in the form of projects, a highly controllable aid type. Donors, while clearly interested in Tajik governance, appeared to sidestep politically sensitive areas probably fearing uncalled-for diplomatic frictions with the Tajik leadership. Nonetheless, donors did touch on some politically sensitive issues via non-state channels, enabling them to avoid direct interactions with Tajik authorities. Operating in poorly governed countries can be complicated for bilateral donors: they are accountable to their domestic taxpayers; they have to devise sophisticated aid strategies to achieve aid efficacy, especially in countries also deemed strategically important; and they cannot risk compromising bilateral relations.

(320) Erectile Dysfunction and Men’s Health Websites: How diverse is our Racial, Ethnic, and Sexual Orientation Representation?

Abstract Introduction Images featured in patient educational materials can enhance comprehension of medical conditions, particularly those associated with sensitive issues like erectile dysfunction (ED). Past research indicates that minority men are often underrepresented in online urological content and thus may not relate to the material. Objective The present study aims to evaluate the representation of racial, ethnic, and sexual orientation diversity in ED and men’s health content on reputable urology program websites. Methods Websites of the top urology departments from U.S. News & World Reports 2022 rankings were reviewed as sources of high quality content. All subpages were reviewed to identify ED and men’s health sites with extraction of photo and video imagery depicting human subjects. A three-person review team interpreted race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation categorically. Race was also interpreted using a numeric scale, Fitzpatrick skin rating, and median ratings classified as white (1-3) or non-white (4-6). Consensus ratings were summarized descriptively. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to measure inter-rater reliability of Fitzpatrick ratings and MedCalc’s z-test used to compare diversity proportions to national rates from census data. Results The top 50 ranked urology program websites were reviewed. Seven programs did not have any patient-facing ED or men’s health web pages. Nearly half of programs with sites did not contain any human images (n=19/43, 44%). A total of 113 images were collected and reviewed. Race in the 102 (90.3%) interpretable images included 6 (5.9%) Asian, 16 (15.7%) black, 75 (73.5%) white, and 5 (4.9%) other men. Latino men were represented in 3/70 (4.3%) images. Utilizing Fitzpatrick ratings, 94 (83.2%) subjects were classified as white and 19 (16.8%) non-white. Most images [67 (59.3%)] demonstrated a man without a partner which precluded sexual orientation evaluation. Of those pictured with a partner, 25 (92.6%) were interpreted as heterosexual and 2 (7.4%) as same sex. Between reviewer correlation coefficients for Fitzpatrick ratings ranged from 0.66-0.69. Table 1 compares interpreted image data to population benchmarks from United States census data. Conclusions Limited imagery on academic urology ED websites continues to underrepresent some groups, namely Latinos. Although men in same sex relationships were depicted, the absolute number of such images was low. Conscious effort to improve diversity in online men’s health, and namely ED, content is needed. Disclosure No.

Diplomatic relationship-building in the age of generative AI: the European Union and China

AbstractThis paper examines the impact of generative AI on international diplomacy through the lens of EU–China diplomatic relationship-building. The first section introduces the broader context of AI’s geopolitical impact by distinguishing two different models—the European and Chinese models of regulating and implementing generative AI. The second discuss or explain how the two AI models contrast one another. The third section of the paper focuses on discussing Generative AI and its possible implications for EU–China relations, the extent to which their efforts are likely to strain or facilitate diplomatic relationship-building. The fourth section takes the analysis forward by examining how generative AI could be an unexpected enabling force for EU–China relationship-building. This paper purports that the distinctive EU and Chinese models of generative AI too often belie the opportunities that could potentially enable the EU and China to build their relationship, since generative AI raises shared concerns for the EU and China, and utilising generative AI could make their communications become more efficient, the EU and China may come to reach some kind of shared framework for generative AI development and governance; this could lead to productive talks in other domains such as the trade deficit issue plaguing the EU–China relations or more sensitive cross-strait issues; moreover, in the realm of public diplomacy generative AI could facilitate the EU and China’s public diplomatic efforts towards each other.

(028) The Emerging Role of Telehealth in Sexual Medicine: A Survey of Patient Attitudes

Abstract Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it an increase of healthcare interactions on an electronic interface, but a return to in-person interactions has left many questions open regarding the future utility and viability thereof. Urologic care, and particularly sexual health, frequently involves sensitive issues and understanding patients’ attitudes is imperative to determine how to incorporate telemedicine in the future. Objective This study seeks to characterize patients’ overall perspective on telehealth services in a sexual medicine setting to identify patient preferences and satisfaction with the use of telehealth services. Methods An electronic survey was sent through REDCap to patients who had at least one telehealth visit with a provider in our tertiary referral center since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The accrued patient cohort was sent a 15-question four-pronged survey assessing the purpose of the visit, the patient-provider relationship and communication, the perceived quality of care, and the patient’s overall satisfaction on a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistical analysis was done using REDCap. Results We surveyed 4071 patients and received 771 (18.9%) responses. Of those who replied, 470 (61%) were seen for hypogonadism, 216 (28%) for erectile dysfunction, 50 (6.5%) for infertility, and 35 (4.5%) for Peyronie’s. A majority of patients (78.4%) ‘moderately’ or ‘strongly’ agreed that they are able to maintain a physician-patient relationship, are comfortable with telehealth use for new and follow-up visits alike and perceive a comparable quality of care when averaged across all questions in these sections. 613 (79.5%) of patients reported being ‘somewhat’ or ‘very’ satisfied with their telehealth visits and 513 (66.6%) patients would prefer a telehealth visit over an in-person in the future. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that patients are generally satisfied with telehealth visits, and it would likely be in the best interest for physicians and their patients to increasingly adopt telehealth solutions. The data further suggests that patients with certain diagnoses are less likely to prefer telehealth than others, though a more rigorous statistical analysis is needed once additional patient responses are received. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Consultant for AbbVie, Marius, Tolmar, Endo, Petros, Boston Scientific, Coloplast Investor: Sprout.

The Legal Implications of Adultery: A Comprehensive Analysis

Adultery is a sensitive issue that affects many couples and families around the world. The impact of adultery on marital relationships has been a topic of extensive research in recent years. This research paper aims to explore the effects of adultery on marital relationships and the emotional consequences that the betrayed partner might experience.

Ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry analytical method for the determination of nitrosamine drug substance‐related impurity in sitagliptin base and salts

AbstractA reversed‐phase ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method is presented for the quantification of the mutagenic impurity 7‐nitroso‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]pyrazine found in three sitagliptin drug substances (sitagliptin base [SG], sitagliptin hydrochloride monohydrate [SG HCl{H}] salt, and sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate [SG P{H}] salt). A simple and highly sensitive method was developed for SG, SG HCl(H) salt, and SG P(H) salt. Sample preparation was adapted to each product considering solubility, sensitivity, and accuracy issues. Chromatographic separation was achieved using an Acquity HSS T3 column (3.0 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) and a mobile phase consisting of formic acid 0.1% in water combined with methanol. Detection and quantification of the impurity were carried out using triple quadrupole mass spectrometry detection with electrospray ionization in the multiple reaction monitoring mode. The limit of detection and limit of quantification was found to be 0.1–0.3 and 10 ppb, respectively. The accuracy and precision of the method were satisfactorily determined with recovery values between 74.1% and 119.4%. Linearity is demonstrated in the range of 10 and 2000 ppb with regression coefficients (R) within the range of 0.9918–0.9972. The method is currently used for the analysis of the mutagenic impurity in the three‐drug substances in the Moehs Group.

Journalism and social-political conflict in contemporary society

This study delves into the intricate dynamics between journalism and contemporary social-political conflicts. It aims to comprehend the challenges journalists face when reporting on such conflicts, encompassing physical risks in conflict zones, ethical dilemmas arising from portraying sensitive issues, and economic pressures influencing media coverage decisions. Grounded in the theoretical framework of Peace Journalism, the study adopts principles emphasizing accuracy, fairness, and the promotion of dialogue over sensationalism. Utilizing the descriptive research method, the study consults and analyzes relevant literatures, documents, and records to interrogate media ethics and power in multicultural Nigeria. Findings reveal challenges in conflict reporting, including threats to physical safety, ethical quandaries, and economic constraints shaping narratives. Social-political conflicts trigger shifts in the media landscape, influencing news consumption patterns, contributing to media polarization, and fostering the rise of citizen journalism facilitated by social media platforms. Hence, the study offers a set of recommendations to address identified challenges. These encompass safeguarding press freedom, implementing media literacy programs, providing comprehensive journalist training and support, diversifying news sources, establishing ethical reporting guidelines, promoting peace journalism initiatives, fostering international collaboration, launching public awareness campaigns, investing in conflict reporting, and advocating for ongoing research and continuous monitoring.

Reconceptualizing sensitization in pain: back to basics.

Fillingim RB. Redefining sensitization could be a sensitive issue. PAIN Rep 2024;9:e1126.

Russia's Attitude towards the Taiwan Crises since Putin Came to Power

Abstract: Amid the growing rivalry between the United States and China, Russia has positioned itself as a pivot in the triangular relationship with the two superpowers to turn its weakness into strength. This article uses the Taiwan issue to examine the triangular dynamics and Russian President Vladimir Putin's attitude towards the most sensitive issues in Sino–American relations. Findings have revealed that Moscow exhibited half-hearted responses to nine major incidents that caused severe tensions in cross-strait relations over the past two decades. Therefore, the authors argue that Russia's attitude is one main cause of the non-emergence of a "romantic triangle" of the three powers.

OPPRESSIVE MECHANICS IN THE NOVEL "TODAY IS FRIDAY AND TOMORROW IS THURSDAY" BY THE NOVELIST SOFIAN RAJAB

The current research selected the novel Today is a Friday and tomorrow is a Thursday by the Tunisian novelist Sofian Rajab as a subject of its study. The selected novel draws attention to the excluded minority in Tunisia, which is a sensitive issue that may face rejection and reprisals from some. The research sought to analyze the content through the narrative construction, and to consider oppression and its mechanisms. This novel is really a multilayer tale since it has two stories that intersect and intervene for the pivotal character, (Hero/Irella), where both characters seek to be (a revelation) that tells of a religious message, there are as well changes and secondary increases in both, for instance, Irela al-Qamrani could not complete her message, which caused her to be repudiated by the group that sheltered her, so Irilla Al-Malih took it upon herself to preach her ambitions of missionary purposes. By this behavior, she was able to achieve her desires through persuading Moses to implement a number of orders and adapt it to the new situation, It was like Moses's time reported by his message, therefore she was able to change and adapt. This multi-layer narrative that is composed of two paths each specified to one of the two characters, (Irela alQamrani and Irela al-Maleh), that are both located inside the narrative tale, (the self of action/Irela al-Qamrani) and (the self of reverse/ Irela al-Maleh), and were made to be separated. The first appears in the middle of the novel, the second dominates all over the narrative until the end, they meet and overlay at the moment of the travels, where they were given the space for confrontation, that spread between reciprocity or conflict, also to regard the relationships of the human structure towards (the conflict of masculinity and femininity, the class conflict, the ...). This text goes beyond the process of defending that oppressed, suppressed and rebuked group, becoming a record that effectively addresses religious dialogue and peaceful coexistence among communities of religious faith and minorities of specific sect, and how it transcends the age-old conflict between religions and sects, and an attempt to demonstrate that all religions are divine and serve humanity. This paper discusses two important themes across two pillars of research: persecution from the other, which is different in its religion, and social support between the two as a reaction to persecution. We introduce a descriptive analytical approach so that we can investigate the manifestations and mechanisms of oppression and support in the selective narrative text and pursue it as we consider it under the microscope of drilling and interpretation.

Video Games as Awareness Raisers, Attitude Changers, and Agents of Social Change

The widespreadness of video games, particularly among digital natives, requires ongoing exploration of their profound effects. This study aligns with this need, investigating video games as possible tools for positive societal influence and exploring their potential to address sensitive social issues. Transportation theory underscores the transformative potential of video games, casting players as “travellers” who, traversing stages of reality dissolution, emotional connection, and altered return, present a pathway for attitude transformation. Participants (N=98) engaged with “Survival,” “Paper, Please,” and “Against All Odds” to explore the effectiveness of video games in addressing the refugee crisis, increasing awareness of the issue at hand, changing perceptions, and encouraging them to take action in real life. The study’s results align with integrated threat theory, revealing that immersive gaming experiences can induce significant changes in attitudes, decrease denial, and increase empathy. The results highlight the potential of video games to educate people about pressing global issues and invoke empathy without trivialising problems. Consequently, while this study extends the current body of knowledge, it offers some promising directions for further research to validate the affirmative impact of video games in this realm.

Portrayal of Jammu-Kashmir in Bollywood Narrative

Bollywood often shows the amazing beauty of Jammu-Kashmir. However, the region is also shown as a place of socio-political conflict and complexity. The portrayal of Jammu Kashmir in Bollywood serves as a visual and narrative backdrop that both celebrates its natural beauty and raises awareness of the ongoing issues in the area. This study explores the representation of the Jammu Kashmir region in the context of Bollywood. This research goes through the portrayal of Jammu Kashmir over the decades. The aim and objective of this study are to understand the complex relationship between Bollywood and this beautiful area. The methodology of this research is an in-depth examination of how Bollywood has depicted Jammu Kashmir. The study identifies themes and stereotypes associated with Jammu Kashmir in cinemas. It would contribute to our understanding of the representation of Jammu Kashmir in Indian cinema. It would provide insights into how filmmakers show sensitive socio-political issues within their storytelling in cinemas. The research findings will offer a glimpse into Bollywood's engagement with this part of India.