Search Results (347)

Binary metallic nickel–copper nanocatalysts were anchored onto a polyvinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene membrane [NiCu/PVdF–HFP] using the electrospinning technique, followed by the chemical reduction of the relevant precursor salts by introducing sodium borohydride to the synthesis mixture. A series of varied Ni:Cu weight % proportions was developed in order to optimize the electroactivity of this binary nanocomposite towards the investigated oxidation process. A number of physicochemical tools were used to ascertain the morphology and chemical structure of the formed metallic species on polymeric films. Cyclic voltammetric studies revealed a satisfactory performance of altered NiCu/PVdF–HFP membranes in alkaline solution. Ethylene glycol molecules were successfully electro-oxidized at their surfaces, showing the highest current intensity [564.88 μA cm⁻²] at the one with Ni:Cu weight ratios of 5:5. The dependence of these metallic membranes’ behavior on the added alcohol concentration to the reaction electrolyte and the adjusted scan rate during the electrochemical measurement was carefully investigated. One hundred repeated scans did not significantly deteriorate the NiCu/PVdF–HFP nanostructures’ durability. Decay percentages of 76.90–87.95% were monitored at their surfaces, supporting the stabilized performance for prolonged periods. A much-decreased R_ct value was estimated at Ni₅Cu₅/PVdF–HFP [392.6 Ohm cm²] as a consequence of the feasibility of the electron transfer step for the electro-catalyzing oxidation process of alcohol molecules. These enhanced study results will hopefully motivate the interested workers to explore the behavior of many binary and ternary combinations of metallic nanomaterials after their deposition onto convenient polymeric films for vital electrochemical reactions. Full article

Obstruction differential diagnosis involves tumors, “acute abdomen”, and chronic pseudo-obstruction (CIPO). Pediatric CIPO cases have different backgrounds than adults’ and impairs development. The cases are rare; diagnosis and treatment are still not well established. Diagnosis is complex; clinical, radiological, molecular, and manometric pathologic data are essential. The performance of broad radiological investigations and manometry is cumbersome in a small intestine. Herein, we present cases of a 14-year-old girl and 11-year-old boy with visceral myopathies (VMs). Presented cases show unique hardship in the analysis of standing and contrast bedside X-ray images—the colon distension alone speaks to Hirschsprung, and the clinicians could not confirm suspected short-segment disease for a long time. VMs are usually diagnosed up to 12 months of life and accompanied by other organ dysfunctions, which are herein absent. The key features here were also the involvement of the small intestine, lack of distant colon contraction, and for the long-lasting case in the boy, loss of haustration. The initial diagnosis relied on clinical data (vomiting, malabsorption, >6-month obstruction, and uncharacteristic biochemical tests), radiology (lack of tumor, enlargement of diameter, and fluid in small and large intestines), and manometry (presence of propagation wave and of anal inhibitory reflex in recto–anal manometry). Examination of intestinal muscle biopsies involved hematoxylin-eosin, trichrome-Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry. The characteristics were fibrosis, small vacuoles, muscle layer thinning, and decreased expression of smooth muscle actin and desmin. The localization of biopsies was chosen after X-ray examination, due to interruption and with various degree changes. The final diagnosis was put forward after the analysis of all accessible data. The diagnosis of VM underlines the importance of interdisciplinary co-work. An earlier intestine muscle biopsy and well-designed molecular panel might fasten the process of diagnosis. Deeper exploration of phenotype–genotype correlation of various VM presentations in the future is crucial for personalized treatment. Full article

Primary Care Pharmacy (PCP) plays a vital role in healthcare systems. This study evaluated the competencies of pharmacy graduates from a community-focused curriculum, emphasizing their skills and personal traits. A structured questionnaire assessed four domains: general characteristics (11 items), PCP skills (16 items: 13 home visit and 3 community engagement skills), PCP personal traits (7 items), and readiness for PCP practice. Two sets of questionnaires were distributed in 2018 to recent pharmacy graduates: one for self-assessment and the other for evaluation by supervisors or co-workers. A 5-point scale (1 = least competent, 5 = most competent) was used. Co-workers gave higher scores than the graduates themselves. In home visit skills, “providing medicine advice” scored highest (4.4 ± 0.6 by graduates; 4.5 ± 0.2 by co-workers), while “performing essential physical exams” scored the lowest (3.5 ± 0.7). For co-workers, the lowest score was “working with a multidisciplinary team” (3.9 ± 0.9). Among community engagement skills, “solving health-related problems” rated highest (3.4 ± 0.7), and “identifying community health needs” rated lowest (3.2 ± 0.7). “Being friendly” and “responsibility” were top-rated personal traits by graduates and co-workers, respectively. The lowest was “coordinating with local organizations.” Graduates showed strong PCP traits and home visit skills but moderate community engagement. Community-based exposure is recommended to enhance these competencies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Retail workers may have been at an increased risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic. To better understand this group, we set up a longitudinal cohort to document the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccination uptake and to study immune response. Methods: Participants were enrolled between 20 April and 22 October 2021 and attended up to 5 visits over 48 weeks. Information collected was: participant characteristics, SARS-CoV-2 detection tests performed, COVID-19 symptoms, and vaccination (influenza and SARS-CoV-2). Findings: We included 304 participants aged 18 to 75; of those, 117 had a first positive SARS-CoV-2 test, mostly (85.5%) during Omicron wave. Forty-two (13.8%) participants got seasonal influenza vaccine within the year (2020–2021) prior to the first visit, and 95.9% had received the primary series of 2 doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine by the beginning of Omicron wave. Participants vaccinated for influenza (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.54–3.98) and older patients (aHR 2.39; 95% CI: 1.40–4.10), were more likely to get a first booster of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine compared to those who did not receive influenza vaccine. In contrast, participants who traveled (aHR 0,62; 95% CI: 0.43–0.91) or participated in frequent gatherings (aHR 0.58; 95% CI: 0.39–0.85) were less likely to be boosted. Conclusions: Variations in vaccine uptake that are usually observed within populations had little effect on completion of the primary SARS-CoV-2 vaccine series. However, these differences became apparent for booster doses, at a period during which most infections in this cohort were recorded. Full article

Occupational environments often expose workers to physical and psychological stressors that compromise well-being and productivity. While biophilic design has gained attention, there remains limited systematic integration of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) within workplace management frameworks. This review aims to map the empirical impacts of NbSs on occupational health, productivity, and environmental quality, and to identify key barriers and facilitators for their integration into comprehensive Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety (QEHS) management systems. A scoping literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in the Scopus and Web of Science databases for studies published between 2019 and 2024. A total of 2452 records were initially retrieved, with 39 studies retained for synthesis following screening, eligibility assessment, and critical appraisal using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Findings indicate that NbSs can reduce stress, improve physical and cognitive health, and enhance workplace productivity. Reported benefits include reduced absenteeism, improved indoor air quality, and measurable financial returns. However, significant challenges persist, including high upfront costs, ongoing maintenance demands, a shortage of specialized labor, and methodological heterogeneity across studies. In particular, hybrid approaches combining physical natural elements and immersive technologies such as virtual reality emerged as promising alternatives for spatially constrained environments. Participatory co-design and stakeholder engagement were also identified as critical success factors for effective implementation. Integrating NbSs into QEHS frameworks has the potential to foster healthier, more resilient, and sustainable workplaces. Alignment with recognized certifications can further support systematic adoption and monitoring. Future research should prioritize longitudinal designs, standardized outcome metrics, and physiological markers, while addressing geographical gaps through studies in underrepresented regions. Embedding participatory processes and certification alignment can enhance stakeholder buy-in and practical scalability, advancing the integration of NbSs into holistic workplace management strategies. Full article

The growing prevalence of digital labor platforms has fundamentally transformed business models by creating interconnected value systems that redefine how work is organized, delivered, and monetized in today’s digital economy. This study examines platform-based business model innovation through the lens of value co-creation processes, analyzing user-generated content from digital work platforms including Reddit, FlexJobs, Toptal, and Deel. Using Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modeling on 342 semantically filtered reviews from platform workers, we identified six key themes characterizing stakeholder experiences: User Experience and Platform Evaluation (23.77%), Financial Concerns and Time Management (18.49%), Platform Satisfaction and Recommendation System (16.60%), Paid Services and Investment Strategies (15.09%), Job Search Processes and Remote Work Alternatives (13.96%), and Overall Platform Performance and Account Management (12.08%). These findings reveal how digital platforms create value through complex interactions between technology infrastructure, governance mechanisms, and stakeholder experiences within interconnected ecosystems. The dominance of user experience concerns over purely economic considerations challenges traditional labor economics frameworks and highlights the critical role of platform design in worker satisfaction. Our analysis demonstrates that successful plsatform business models depend on balancing technological capabilities with human-centered value propositions, requiring innovative approaches to ecosystem orchestration, stakeholder engagement, and value distribution. The study contributes to understanding how digital business models can leverage interconnected value systems to drive sustainable innovation, offering strategic insights for platform design, ecosystem governance, and business model optimization in the digital era. Full article

Cement production significantly contributes to global CO₂ emissions. Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC³)—a mixture of limestone, calcined clay, cement clinker, and gypsum—offers a promising alternative by significantly reducing clinker contents without compromising mechanical performance. This study assesses the environmental and social hotspots of various LC³ mortars produced in Germany, a context not yet explored in previous research. While prior studies have mostly focused on LC³ in concrete applications and in low- to middle-income countries, this is the first to evaluate LC³-based mortar in a high-income, highly industrialized context using both Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Social Risk Assessment (SRA) to determine the main environmental and social drivers of this material. The LCA revealed that LC³ mixtures achieve substantial reductions in key impact categories compared to conventional Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) mixes, including Climate Change (up to 42.6% reduction) and Particulate Matter (up to 15.8% reduction). The SRA highlights significant social risks related to corruption, fair competition, and workers’ rights, including fair wages, discrimination, and safe working conditions. This study underscores LC³ as a promising sustainable solution in cement applications while emphasizing the importance of region-specific assessments to address unique environmental and social considerations. Full article

Background and Objectives: SARS-CoV-2 infection initiates at mucosal surfaces, and mucosal immunity may influence the nature and severity of infection. Little is known about the induction of mucosal immunity by vaccination in COVID-19 convalescents. Methods: Sera from 205 healthcare workers were collected one month after the first Covishield vaccination and 1/3/6 months after the second vaccination, while paired sera and stimulated whole-mouth fluid (SWMF) was collected 1/3/6 months after the third vaccination (N = 10) and at 0/30/90 days after a COVID-19 episode (N = 8). Anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike antibody detection by ECLIA/ELISA and cytokine detection by ELISA/CBA were performed. Results: One month post-second vaccination, serum antibodies had increased significantly (6-fold) in the COVID-19-naïve group (CNG) but declined (1.5-fold) in the previously COVID-19-exposed group (CEG), who already had high antibody titres. The serum regulatory cytokine IL-10 levels were higher after three antigen exposures (p = 0.0002). New infections (breakthrough infections—BTIs) or reinfections (RIs) with asymptomatic/mild disease occurred in 44% of the CNG and 27% of the CEG (p < 0.01). The mucosal cytokine IL-17 levels were significantly higher in the CEG. Salivary IgG/IgA and secretory IgA antibodies were detectable both after vaccination and COVID-19. Innate cytokines (MIG, MCP-1, IL-8, IL-1β) were higher and sustained in SWMF in contrast to serum. Conclusions: Two vaccinations in the CNG resulted in an antibody boost, but the second vaccination in the CEG induced antibody anergy. Serum/mucosal antibodies declined by six months after vaccination, but the rapid increase at subsequent exposures were indicative of a good T cell/B cell memory response to SARS-CoV-2. A higher percentage of BTI among the CNG than RI among the CEG may indicate better protection due to higher antibody responses in the latter group. Full article

The final phase of the manufacturing process for any artefact involves their surface finishing operations. This phase entails the precise removal of small volumes of material to achieve a specific surface roughness, which is essential for ensuring the artefact’s post-production performance and endurance. For certain tooling, such as molds and dies, the finishing operation can be particularly significant, often equating to fifty percent of the total production time and a fifth of the overall manufacturing cost. In recent years, collaborative robotics has come to the fore. These advanced systems allow manufacturers to harness the positive attributes of robots, such as their repeatability, endurance, and strength, while simultaneously leveraging the unique benefits of human workers, including their process knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability. This co-operation between human and robotic capabilities has opened new avenues for efficiency and precision in the finishing process. This paper investigates the current advancements in collaborative robotic finishing, providing a comprehensive overview of the latest technologies and methodologies. It also highlights existing research gaps that need to be addressed to further enhance the effectiveness of these systems. Additionally, the paper suggests potential areas for future investigation, aiming to drive continued innovation and improvement in the field of collaborative robotic finishing operations. Full article

Trust in robots is often analyzed with scales built for either humans or automation, making cross-species comparisons imprecise. Addressing that gap, this paper distils decades of trust scholarship, from clinical vs. actuarial judgement to modern human–robot teaming, into a lean two-factor framework: Mortal vs. Machine (MvM). We first surveyed classic technology-acceptance and automation-reliance research and then integrated empirical findings in human–robot interaction to identify diagnostic cues that can be instantiated by both human and machine agents. The model includes (i) ability—perceived task competence and reliability—and (ii) value congruence—alignment of decision weights and trade-off priorities. Benevolence, oft-included in trust studies, was excluded because current robots cannot manifest genuine goodwill and existing items elicit high dropout. The resulting scale travels across contexts, allowing for researchers to benchmark a robot against a human co-worker on identical terms and enabling practitioners to pinpoint whether performance deficits or priority clashes drive acceptance. By reconciling anthropocentric and technocentric trust literature in a deployable diagnostic, MvM offers a field-ready tool and a conceptual bridge for future studies of AI-empowered robotics. Full article

This study analyzes the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity using a bibliometric approach through a general analysis and one that includes inclusion criteria such as English language, open access, and primary research publications to identify only those articles that explicitly address the relationship between ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors and labor productivity. It is recognized that both physical and psychosocial conditions of the work environment directly influence workers’ health and organizational performance. For this purpose, a bibliometric review was conducted in academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Taylor & Francis, resulting in the selection of 4794 relevant articles for general analysis. Additionally, 116 relevant articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Tools and methodologies, such as Rayyan, Excel, VOSviewer 1.6.20, and PRISMA, were used to classify the studies and identify trends, collaboration networks, and geographical distribution. The results reveal a sustained growth in scientific production, with clusters on occupational safety and health, work environment factors, and the characteristics of the population, approach, and methodologies used in the studies. Likewise, Procedia Manufacturing, International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, and Ergonomics stand out as the main sources of publication, while countries such as Sweden, Poland, and the United States lead the scientific production in this field. In addition, the network of co-occurrence of keywords evidences a comprehensive approach that articulates physical or ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors with organizational performance, while the network of authors shows consolidated collaborations and studies focused on analyzing the relationship between physical demands and musculoskeletal disorders from advanced ergonomic approaches. Full article

Background/Objectives: This retrospective multicenter study, conducted within the ORCHESTRA Project, investigated SARS-CoV-2 reinfections among 5777 healthcare workers (HCWs) from four University Hospitals (Modena, Verona, Padova and Trieste) in northern Italy, aiming to assess the risk of reinfection and its determinants, comparing the clinical characteristics of reinfections with those of first infections, and examining the impact of preventive measures and vaccination strategies. Methods: HCWs completed an online questionnaire between June and August 2022. The survey collected demographic, occupational, and clinical data, including information on first infections and reinfections. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 28.0, through bivariate and multivariate approaches. Results: Response rates were 41.8% for Modena, 39.5% for Verona, 17.9% for Padova, and 17.4% for Trieste. Among the respondents, 4.8% (n = 276) experienced 2 infections and 0.5% (n = 27) reported 3 infections, out of a total of 330 reinfection cases. Additionally, 43.0% (n = 2787) reported only one infection, while 51.5% were never infected. Reinfection rates increased across five study phases (based on the epidemiological context), likely due to the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants. A booster vaccine dose significantly reduced reinfection risk. Higher reinfection risk was found among HCWs aged ≤30 years, those with chronic respiratory diseases, and those working in COVID-19 wards, particularly nurses and allied health professionals. Reinfections were associated with a lower frequency of symptoms both during the period of swab positivity and after a negative swab, as well as with a shorter duration of swab positivity. No significant differences in symptom duration were found between first infections and reinfections. Conclusions: Despite its limitations, the online questionnaire proved a useful tool. Natural infection and vaccination reduced both reinfection risk and symptom severity. Prior infections should be considered in planning vaccination schedules and prioritizing HCWs. Full article

Background/Objectives: In late 2019, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a pandemic called the ‘coronavirus disease 2019’ (COVID-19). After the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, many individuals (up to 33%) complained of unexplained symptoms involving multiple organ systems and were diagnosed as having Long COVID-19 (LC-19). Currently, LC-19 is inadequately defined, requiring the formation of consistent diagnostic parameters to provide a foundation for ongoing and future studies of epidemiology, risk factors, clinical characteristics, and therapy. LC-19 represents a significant burden on multiple levels. The reduced ability of workers to return to work or compromised work efficiency has led to consequences at national, economic, and societal levels by increasing dependence on community services. On a personal scale, the isolation and helplessness caused by the disease and its subsequent impact on the patient’s mental health and quality of life are incalculable. Methods: In this paper, we used Walker and Avants’ eight-step approach to perform a concept analysis of the term “Long COVID-19” and define its impact across these parameters. Results: Using this methodology, we provide an improved definition of LC-19 by connecting the clinical symptomology with previously under-addressed factors, such as mental, psychological, economic, and social effects. This definition of LC-19 features can help improve diagnostic procedures and help plan relevant healthcare services. Conclusions: LC-19 represents a complex and pressing public health challenge with diverse symptomology, an unpredictable timeline, and complex pathophysiology. This concept analysis serves as a tool for improving LC-19 definition, but it remains a dynamic disease with evolving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, requiring deeper investigation and understanding of its long-term effects. Full article

Background: This study examined risk factors for syndrome novel coronavirus 2 virus (SARS-CoV-2) infection and self-reported adherence to infection prevention and control (IPC) measures among healthcare workers (HCWs) at a hospital in Thailand near the Myanmar border. Methods: From March to July 2022, HCWs aged ≥ 18 with COVID-19 exposure at Mae Sot General Hospital completed a questionnaire on IPC adherence, training, and COVID-19 knowledge. Nasopharyngeal samples were collected bi-weekly for SARS-CoV-2 testing. A mobile application was used for real-time monitoring of daily symptoms and exposure risks. Chi-square, Fisher’s exact tests, and log-binomial regression were performed to investigate association. Results: Out of 289 (96.3%) participants, 27 (9.9%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, with cough reported by 85.2% of cases. Nurse assistants (NAs) had a higher risk of infection (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 3.87; 95% CI: 0.96–15.6). Working in inpatient departments (aRR 2.37; 95% CI: 1.09–5.15) and COVID-19 wards (aRR 5.97; 95% CI: 1.32–26.9) was also associated with increased risk. While 81.7% reported consistent hand hygiene, 37% indicated inadequate IPC knowledge. Conclusions: HCWs, especially NAs and those in high-risk departments, should receive enhanced IPC training. Real-time digital monitoring tools can enhance data collection and HCW safety and are likely to be useful tools for supporting surveillance and data collection efforts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial colonization poses a significant risk for subsequent infections, especially within hospital environments. Healthcare workers can inadvertently transmit these MDR bacteria to vulnerable patients, exacerbating the problem. This study aimed to determine the colonization rates of MDR bacteria among patients and healthcare workers in a rural Ethiopian hospital with limited resources. Methods: Between 26 May and 6 June 2024, nasal, rectal, vagino-rectal exudate, and stool samples were collected from patients (n = 78) and healthcare workers (n = 11) at Gambo General Hospital (Oromia Region, Ethiopia). Samples were cultured on chromogenic media selective for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus spp. (VRE), and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE). Bacterial identification was performed using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (Bruker), antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the MicroScan WalkAway system (Beckman Coulter), and genotypic characterization with the MDR Direct Flow Chip kit (Vitro). Results: MRSA nasal colonization was detected in 43.3% of patients (13/30; 95% CI: 27.4–60.8%) and 27.3% of healthcare workers (3/11; 95% CI: 6.0–61.0%) (p = 0.73). Rectal (or stool) colonization by MDR bacteria was significantly higher in pediatric patients (85.0%, 17/20; 95% CI: 62.1–96.8%) than in adults (14.3%, 4/28; 95% CI: 5.7–31.5%) (p < 0.001). Notably, a high proportion of pediatric patients harbored Escherichia coli strains co-producing NDM carbapenemase and CTX-M ESBL, and VRE strains were also predominantly isolated in this group. Conclusions: This study reveals a concerningly high prevalence of MRSA and MDR Enterobacteriaceae, especially among children at Gambo Hospital. The VRE prevalence was also substantially elevated compared to other studies. These findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship programs within the hospital setting. Full article