Research Strategy Research Articles

The interplay between borderline personality disorder and oxytocin: a systematic narrative review on possible contribution and treatment options.

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition marked by instability in mood, relationships, self-image, and behavior. Individuals with BPD often struggle with intense emotions, impulsivity, and maintaining stable relationships. Oxytocin, known as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone," plays a crucial role in social bonding, trust, empathy, and emotional regulation and its dysregulation may contribute to BPD difficulties. This systematic review aims to analyze existing literature, examining the intricate interplay and encouraging future research and treatment strategies. A systematic search of Literature in PubMed, Embase and Psychinfo, without any language or time restriction, was performed until March 2024 combining thesaurus and free-search indexing terms related to "borderline personality disorder" and "oxytocin", producing 310 results (77 in PubMed, 166 in Embase and 67 in Psychinfo). Ninety-four full texts were analyzed, and 70 articles were included in qualitative analysis. Oxytocin may influence attachment styles, parental behaviors, and stress responses, particularly in individuals with a history of childhood trauma. The interaction between oxytocin, genetics, early life experiences, and environmental factors contributes to the complexity of BPD. Genetic variations in the oxytocin receptor gene may influence social and emotional abilities and contribute to the development of psychopathology. Additionally, early adverse experiences, such as childhood maltreatment, can alter oxytocin functioning, impacting social cognition and emotional regulation.However, oxytocin's role in BPD treatment remains uncertain, with some studies suggesting potential benefits for specific symptoms like social threat avoidance, while others indicate adverse effects on nonverbal behavior and mentalizing. Understanding oxytocin's role in BPD offers insights into potential therapeutic interventions. While oxytocin-based treatments may hold promise for addressing specific symptoms, further research is needed.

Examining the Relationship Between Firearm Violence Exposure and Posttraumatic Symptomatology in Adolescents: A Scoping Review

Firearm-related violence is the leading cause of death for adolescents and can have lifelong ramifications, including to one’s mental health and well-being. Through a scoping review of existing literature published since 1980, the current study describes nuanced pathways through which exposure to firearm violence (direct or indirect) can contribute to the development and exacerbation of posttraumatic symptomatology during adolescence (ages 10–19). Furthermore, this review explores moderators and mediators of this relationship, shedding light on the interplay between individual, familial, and societal factors. Findings from the reviewed studies ( N = 16) demonstrate various links between direct and indirect firearm exposure and short- and long-term posttraumatic symptomatology in adolescents and point to necessary solutions that encompass consistent firearm violence prevention and mental health support. Results can inform future research, policy development, and intervention strategies to mitigate the adverse psychological effects of firearm violence on the vulnerable adolescent population.

Critical proximity in translating RRI

ABSTRACT The term ‘translation’ has been proliferating in reflections of researchers who participated in European projects engaging with responsible research and innovation (RRI). Additionally, the outlines of a distinct ‘translational RRI’ approach are increasingly becoming visible. Departing from the observation that RRI researchers are unavoidably implicated in this translational affair, we scrutinise the settings in which RRI travels by focusing on the interactions between ‘RRI researchers’ and ‘healthcare practitioners’ in a regional RRI project. We identify ‘critical proximity’ as a mode of RRI translation to describe the otherwise ambiguous position of RRI researchers and approximate the inherent ‘democratic qualities’ of RRI as a question of research strategy.

Causes of occupational stress and burnout amongst administrative staff in public universities: case of Pakistan

PurposeThe primary aim of this study is to delve into the causes of occupational stress and burnout amongst administrative staff members in Pakistani universities. It does so by employing a qualitative research strategy, offering a comprehensive understanding of the issue.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a qualitative research strategy to examine the causes of occupational stress and burnout amongst administrative staff members in Pakistani universities. Around 20 semi-structured interviews were conducted via Teams with administrative employees in renowned universities in Rawalpindi, Islamabad and the Lahore region of Pakistan. Saldana's (2014) structured inductive data analysis method was used to analyse the collected data.FindingsThe study sheds light on the harsh realities faced by university administrative staff in Pakistani universities. These include top management ineffectiveness, role ambiguity, role conflict, favouritism, inequality, a communication gap with higher authorities, disparity of rewards and recognition, no career paths and opportunities, feeble leadership, corruption, inappropriate use of power, mishandling of qualified staff and non-acceptance of shifting roles from administration to academia. These are not just academic concepts but real-life challenges that demand immediate attention.Originality/valueThe study's findings have significant implications for Pakistan's Ministry of Education. Based on these findings, the recommendations proposed can serve as a roadmap for enhancing interpersonal development, implementing career development programmes, succession planning and supporting university administrative staff. These initiatives can lay the groundwork for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal-4 targets, making this research a valuable resource for policymakers.

Should history education begin in kindergarten?

This ​paper​ presents research related to the perspectives and social representations of both prospective and currently employed educators regarding the ​introduction of​ kindergarten and primary education children to history education. The research was carried out using the Thematic Analysis​ method,​ and ​comprises qualitative data​. The results of this research ​study ​show that educators are influenced by their social representations regarding the type and form of history education, as well as by their education. Social representations shape their perceptions on the ​appropriate ​age for introducing children to history education. This paper presents the theoretical background of the research, its purposes, research strategies, methodology, the results and their analysis, and a final ​section ​for discussion and conclusions.

Gender Selection Dilemma in Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Advertising: Insights from Eye- Tracking Research.

Selecting the gender of a celebrity for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) advertising presents a strategic challenge. Previous research has predominantly concentrated on comparing celebrity spokespersons with non-celebrities, frequently neglecting the intricate distinctions in the effectiveness of male versus female endorsers. This study addresses this research gap by employing both traditional and neuromarketing methodologies. By integrating eye-tracking technology via RealEye and questionnaire-based surveys, the results indicate that female celebrities are more effective in capturing visual attention, whereas male celebrities are more effective in enhancing perceived trustworthiness. These findings are pivotal for both academic research and commercial strategy, as they elucidate the optimal selection of celebrity gender for maximizing FMCG advertising efficacy.

Intellectual capital and green entrepreneurship: a systematic literature review

PurposeThe study aims to analyze how the characteristics of intellectual capital (IC) facilitate green entrepreneurship development in the context of ecology, environment and sustainability. Specifically, the evolution of IC and green entrepreneurship was explored through a systematic review, including the relationships and interactions between human, structural and relational capital and green entrepreneurship.Design/methodology/approachMeticulously combing the Web of Science Core Collection, the researcher conducted a bibliometric analysis of 800 English-language articles from 2002 to 2023. Employing co-word analysis and visualization, the literature on IC and green entrepreneurship was synthesized and systematized, exploring core topics, knowledge architectures and their evolutionary trajectories.FindingsThe IC elements such as human, structural and relational capital interact with green entrepreneurship; IC enhances the innovation and competitiveness of green entrepreneurship, while green entrepreneurship orientation influences the accumulation and reshaping of IC. The flow of IC impacts the establishment of green start-ups and the emergence of green industries, promoting sustainable growth.Originality/valueThe dynamic interplay between IC and green entrepreneurship is marked by intricate relationships and diverse attributes. Currently, no comprehensive theoretical model has been established to address the complexities intrinsic to this study. The evidence suggests that the green entrepreneurial orientation influences corporate initiatives to bolster human and structural capital, with structural capital serving as both a constraint and catalyst for human capital. The paper presents an embryonic framework of IC for green entrepreneurship, highlighting its critical role in the aggregation and reconfiguration of IC or venture creation and industry evolution. This contributes to a more profound understanding of IC in entrepreneurial contexts, providing a basis for future research and practical strategy.

Providing an Ethical Marketing Model for Non-Profit Universities in Iraq

The purpose of this study is to develop an ethical marketing model for non-profit universities in Iraq. A qualitative approach, specifically the strategy of grounded theory, is used. The research began with in-depth interviews with 15 nonprofit university administrators, staff, and marketing experts to develop the initial model. Then, using the grounded theory research strategy, the steps of open, central and selective coding were completed and the initial model of the research was obtained. Based on this model, the research findings were categorized into groups of causal conditions, central phenomena, contextual factors, intervening conditions, strategies and consequences of ethical marketing. The central phenomenon in this mixed study is ethical marketing, which is influenced by several causal conditions such as: increased awareness and social demand, competition in the educational market, and legal and regulatory pressures. The findings of this study contribute to the development of an ethical marketing framework suited to the unique context of non-profit universities in Iraq. The purpose of this framework is to enhance their marketing strategies and promote their social and educational missions.

The Wisdom of the Collective: An Integrated Multi-Level Framework of Shared Leadership in Engineering Management Project Teams

Shared leadership is positioned as a promising field of research. In recent years scholarly interest in shared leadership has grown exponentially. However, studies on shared leadership are limited and underdeveloped in the engineering management context. To advance a holistic understanding of shared leadership in engineering management project teams, this study conducted a systematic, integrated review of 256 articles on shared leadership spanning 25 years (1998–2022). By doing so, we present a synthesis of the definitions of shared leadership; an evaluation of its measurement techniques; and an examination of the research designs (e.g. article types, research strategies, research disciplines and sample types) utilized in shared leadership studies. Moreover, we map shared leadership studies onto a multi-level framework that integrates individual-level, team-level, project-level and organizational-level analyses in terms of its antecedents, consequences, mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions. This framework offers a roadmap for future studies to help researchers systematically target opportunities within the field of engineering management. Also, it brings important managerial implications for engineering management project managers and practitioners who seek to implement good practices in organizations.

Progress on Salt Tolerance in Brassica napus.

In China, saline-alkali lands constitute 5.01% of the total land area, having a significant impact on both domestic and international food production. Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), as one of the most important oilseed crops in China, has garnered considerable attention due to its potential adaptability to saline conditions. Breeding and improving salt-tolerant varieties is a key strategy for the effective utilization of saline lands. Hence, it is important to conduct comprehensive research into the adaptability and salt tolerance mechanisms of Brassica napus in saline environments as well as to breed novel salt-tolerant varieties. This review summarizes the molecular mechanism of salt tolerance, physiological and phenotypic indexes, research strategies for the screening of salt-tolerant germplasm resources, and genetic engineering tools for salt stress in Brassica napus. It also introduces various agronomic strategies for applying exogenous substances to alleviate salt stress and provide technological tools and research directions for future research on salt tolerance in Brassica napus.

Genetic Mutation Due to Pollution

This research delves into the intricate relationship between environmental pollution and human genetics, elucidating the multifaceted mechanisms through which pollutants exert genotoxic effects and impact health outcomes. Through a synthesis of biochemical, genomic, and epidemiological evidence, we elucidate how pollutants induce DNA damage, disrupt epigenetic regulation, and compromise cellular repair mechanisms, leading to a spectrum of adverse health effects including cancer, developmental abnormalities, and reproductive disorders. Leveraging multidisciplinary approaches, including genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, we uncover the molecular underpinnings of pollution-induced genetic mutations, unveiling complex gene-environment interactions and signaling pathways implicated in disease pathogenesis. Population-level genomic surveillance emerges as a pivotal tool for monitoring genotoxic burden, informing evidence-based interventions, and advancing environmental justice. Looking forward, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research strategies hold promise for mitigating genotoxic risk and safeguarding human genetic integrity amidst the challenges posed by environmental pollution.

Research analytics capabilities (RAC) survey: development, validation and revision using the Rasch model

PurposeThe research enterprise within higher education is becoming more competitive as funding agencies require more collaborative research projects, higher-level of accountability and competition for limited resources. As a result, research analytics has emerged as a field, like many other areas within higher education to act as a data-informed unit to better understand how research institutions can effectively grow their research strategy. This is a new and emerging field within higher education.Design/methodology/approachAs businesses and other industries are embracing recent advances in data technologies such as cloud computing and big data analytic tools to inform decision making, research administration in higher education is seeing a potential in incorporating advanced data analytics to improve day-to-day operations and strategic advancement in institutional research. This paper documents the development of a survey measuring research administrators’ perspectives on how higher education and other research institutions perceive the use of data and analytics within the research administration functions. The survey development process started with composing a literature review on recent developments in data analytics within the research administration in the higher education domain, from which major components of data analytics in research administration were conceptualized and identified. This was followed by an item matrix mapping the evidence from literature with corresponding, newly drafted survey items. After revising the initial survey based on suggestions from a panel of subject matter experts to review, a pilot study was conducted using the revised survey instrument and validated by employing the Rasch measurement analysis.FindingsAfter revising the survey based on suggestions from the subject matter experts, a pilot study was conducted using the revised survey instrument. The resultant survey instrument consists of six dimensions and 36 survey items with an establishment of reasonable item fit, item separation and reliability. This survey protocol is useful for higher educational institutions to gauge research administrators’ perceptions of the culture of data analytics use in the workplace. Suggestions for future revisions and potential use of the survey were made.Originality/valueVery limited scholarly work has been published on this topic. The use of data-informed and data-driven approaches with in research strategy within higher education is an emerging field of study and practice.

Novel Coronavirus: An Overview of the History, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management of the Pandemic COVID-19 Catastrophe, with Special Emphasis on Herbal Treatment Alternatives

Abstract: The crisis of COVID-19 pandemic, has shaken up the whole world with its power of transmission and unknown treatment strategy. A disease that starts with fever, cold, and cough leads to extreme fatigue, loss in breathing capacity, alveolar damage, and eventual death. The disease forced human beings to stay at home to protect humankind. Due to the serious nature of this COVID- 19 pandemic, humankind was forced to understand the plausible cause and methods to reduce the spread and find out the best possible therapeutic regimen. Thus, the present review provided new insight into the history, symptoms, pathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical research, and follow-up treatment strategies of COVID-19. Further, In order to deal with such a pandemic situation, we have even introduced a novel concept of natural therapy based on medicinal plants for repurposing it as potential as a therapeutic warrior against COVID-19.

Research strategies for trainee and qualified advanced clinical practitioners that enhance evidence-based practice.

Advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) are integral to modern healthcare, providing high-quality, evidence-based care to patients. While ACPs show some development in clinical practice, leadership, and education, challenges persist in the research pillar. Trainee and qualified ACPs often have difficulties initiating their research journey and may feel uncertain about where to start. Existing studies have explored and emphasised the importance of ACPs developing and maintaining their research skills, yet there remains a gap in understanding how they can effectively demonstrate their research capabilities. Therefore, this article aims to help trainees and qualified ACPs on how to evidence their research pillar capabilities.

Implementasi Program Daily Activity Menggunakan Kata Ajaib dalam Pembentukan Karakter Sopan Santun Kelompok B1 TK Pertiwi Sowankidul

Character education is one of the most important things that young children should get as 80% of their brain development occurs during that time. A lack of respect and regard for others might be influenced by the absence of character education in early life. One of the key institutions in helping kids develop their character is their school, and instructors there have a significant influence on how kids behave. The purpose of this study is to explain how a daily activity program that uses magic words to develop polite character is implemented. This study employs a case study methodology and a qualitative research strategy. Interviews and observation were the research methods employed in this study. According to the study's findings, kids are becoming more aware of the usage of "magic words" (sorry, please, thank you, and excuse me) and their conduct is changing as a result. After executing the daily activity program that uses magic words in the construction of polite character, children who had not previously understood the value of utilizing them in everyday life to create polite character now understand it better and are able to use it in their daily lives.

Use and perceptions of Cannabidiol among individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder

BackgroundCannabidiol (CBD) is a widely available cannabis product with many claims as to potential health benefits including alleviating symptoms related to opioid use disorder (OUD). However, little is known as to how individuals with OUD perceive CBD, to what extent they may already be using CBD, and for what purposes.MethodsA survey was conducted among individuals receiving treatment for OUD at the Addiction Institute of Mount Sinai in New York City from July 2021 to August 2023. The survey consisted of demographic questions, questions about opioid use, CBD use, and perceptions regarding CBD. Statistical analysis using ordinal logistic regression was employed to compare perceptions between CBD users and non-users while adjusting for age and race.ResultsAmong 587 respondents, 550 completed the survey. Among all survey completers, 129 (23%) reported a history of using CBD for a variety of reasons including: anxiety (81, 62.8%), pain (65, 50.4%), sleep (63, 48.8%), depression (62, 48.1%), recreational purposes (32, 24.8%), or for other reasons (8, 6.2%). Of note, 22 (17.1%) respondents reported using CBD to control their addiction and 54 (41.9%) reported using CBD to ease opioid withdrawal symptoms. CBD users demonstrated more positive perceptions regarding its legality (β = 0.673, OR = 1.960, 95% CI [1.211, 3.176], p = .006), social acceptance (β = 0.718, OR = 2.051, 95% CI [1.257, 3.341], p = .004), and therapeutic potential compared to non-users. CBD users also had a more positive view of its potential future role in managing addiction (β = 0.613, OR = 1.846, 95% CI [1.181, 2.887], p = .007).ConclusionsThis study highlights a significant association between CBD usage and progressive views regarding CBD among individuals with OUD, suggesting a growing interest in CBD as a potential adjunctive therapy for individuals in substance use treatment. Some patients are already using CBD for anxiety, pain, sleep, depression, or as a harm reduction intervention to control their addiction or for opioid withdrawal symptoms. These findings underscore the importance of integrating patient perspectives into future research and treatment strategies involving CBD in the context of OUD.

Innovating Cancer Treatment Through Cell Cycle, Telomerase, Angiogenesis, and Metastasis.

Cancer remains a formidable challenge in the field of medicine, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies to combat its relentless progression. The cell cycle, a tightly regulated process governing cell growth and division, plays a pivotal role in cancer development. Dysregulation of the cell cycle allows cancer cells to proliferate uncontrollably. Therapeutic interventions designed to disrupt the cell cycle offer promise in restraining tumor growth and progression. Telomerase, an enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length, is often overactive in cancer cells, conferring them with immortality. Targeting telomerase presents an opportunity to limit the replicative potential of cancer cells and hinder tumor growth. Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is essential for tumor growth and metastasis. Strategies aimed at inhibiting angiogenesis seek to deprive tumors of their vital blood supply, thereby impeding their progression. Metastasis, the spread of cancer cells from the primary tumor to distant sites, is a major challenge in cancer therapy. Research efforts are focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms of metastasis and developing interventions to disrupt this deadly process. This review provides a glimpse into the multifaceted approach to cancer therapy, addressing critical aspects of cancer biology-cell cycle regulation, telomerase activity, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Through ongoing research and innovative strategies, the field of oncology continues to advance, offering new hope for improved treatment outcomes and enhanced quality of life for cancer patients.

Clinical Spectrum of Long COVID: Effects on Female Reproductive Health.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has presented numerous health challenges, including long-term COVID, which affects female reproductive health. This review consolidates the current research on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the menstrual cycle, ovarian function, fertility, and overall gynecological health. This study emphasizes the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme receptors in viral entry and the subsequent tissue-specific pathological effects. It also explores the potential influence of long COVID on hormonal balance and immune responses, contributing to menstrual irregularities and impaired ovarian function. The findings indicate a higher prevalence of long-term COVID-19 among women, highlighting the substantial implications for reproductive health and the need for sex-sensitive longitudinal studies. Enhanced surveillance and targeted research are essential to develop effective interventions that prioritize women's reproductive well-being following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review advocates for a sex-informed approach to ongoing COVID-19 research and healthcare strategies, aiming to provide up-to-date and pertinent data for healthcare providers and the general public, ultimately improving outcomes for females affected by long COVID.

Chemical Driving the Subtype Selectivity of Phytohormone Receptors Is Beneficial for Crop Productivity.

Chemicals that modulate phytohormones serve as a research tool in plant science and as products to improve crop productivity. Subtype selectivity refers to a ligand to selectively bind to specific subtypes of a receptor rather than binding to all possible subtypes indiscriminately. It allows for precise and specific control of cellular functions and is widely used in medicine. However, subtype selectivity is rarely mentioned in the realm of plant science, and it requires integrated knowledge from chemistry and biology, including structural features of small molecules as ligands, the redundancy of target proteins, and the response of signaling factors. Here, we present a comprehensive review and evaluation of phytohormone receptor subtype selectivity, leveraging the chemical characteristics of phytohormones and their analogues as clues. This work endeavors to provide a valuable research strategy that integrates knowledge from chemistry and biology to advance research efforts geared toward enhancing crop productivity.

Academic Supervision and Managerial Skills of School Heads for Teachers’ Quality and Work Effectiveness

This study focused on the of academic supervision and managerial skills of school heads for the teacher’s quality and work effectiveness among schools in Sariaya West District, Division of Quezon. The descriptive-correlational research strategy was used after analyzing the study's goals and objectives and reviewing existing research on the subject. There were 160 respondents. These are the school teachers, including master teachers, of Sariaya West District in the Division of Quezon. The result of the study shows that: the school heads in the district were observed to practiced well the academic supervision particularly on adaptability to change, time management, written and verbal communication and cooperation It implies that they employ appropriately to lead the school by practicing to show their teachers that they are competent to supervise school operations and being recognized for their proficiency in these key areas of academic supervision, which are crucial for effective school leadership and management. The managerial skills of the school heads are observed particularly on interpersonal skills, organization and delegation, problem solving and decision making and mentoring. They effectively provide assistance to their teachers in school by explicitly implying the role of interpersonal skills, delegation of task, decisional making and mentoring. The teacher’s quality and teachers work effectiveness in the school increased when leaders practiced academic supervision and observed managerial skills and were able to realize substantially observable measures to a positive degree.