Search Results (203)

This integrative review on patterns of elder caregiving in Nigeria synthesizes evolving dynamics and determinants of caregiving practices amid demographic and household change. The objective of this review was to identify prevalent patterns of elder caregiving, explore the roles and responsibilities of caregivers, and examine the challenges and support needs within the Nigerian context. Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Medline were searched in November 2024. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed journal articles published in English focusing on elder caregiving among Nigerians; non-peer-reviewed sources (e.g., dissertations, conference papers, and books) were excluded. Data extraction was performed using a structured matrix, and findings were synthesized thematically. Risk of bias was appraised using SANRA (for narrative reviews) and MMAT (for empirical studies). Twenty studies published between 1991 and December 2022 were included. Analyses were guided by an intersectional conceptual framework spanning five domains: cultural, familial, economic, psychosocial, and policy. The interconnected dimensions illustrate how cultural expectations shape family caregiving roles, which in turn influence economic strain, emotional well-being, and access to institutional support. By emphasizing the interaction among gender, class, and social location within these domains, the framework demonstrates how caregiving operates as a multidimensional and relational process. Thematic synthesis identified six overarching themes: cultural influences, gender differences, family dynamics, economic factors, challenges faced by Nigerian caregivers, and government policies and support. Limitations include reliance on single-reviewer screening and extraction, exclusion of unpublished and non-peer-reviewed sources, restriction to English-language studies, and a focus on the Nigerian context, which may limit generalizability. Findings underscore that elder caregiving in Nigeria is multifaceted and shaped by intersecting gendered, cultural, and economic forces. Policy and practice should prioritize caregiver supports, accessible geriatric services, and gender-sensitive interventions, while future research applies the framework to address gaps in transnational and multilingual evidence. Full article

This study examines whether an integrated human-talent system—incorporating recruitment/selection, development, appraisal/feedback, recognition, supportive leadership, and role utilization—is associated with job performance in a public technical organization. Using a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional design, we surveyed 101 employees and constructed composite Likert indices for talent management and job performance. Reliability was acceptable (α = 0.850; α = 0.814). Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests indicated non-normal distributions (p < 0.001); thus, non-parametric procedures were used. Spearman’s correlation showed a moderate, positive association between overall talent management and job performance (ρ = 0.523, p < 0.001), with the “incorporate” process (competency-aligned recruitment/selection) displaying the strongest process-level link (ρ = 0.569, p < 0.001). Segment profiles (contract type, tenure, functional area, and gender) suggest unequal exposure to talent-supportive conditions within the workforce, which may help explain distributional differences in perceived performance. We discuss managerial implications for reducing intra-organizational disparities by ensuring fair access to development, feedback, and recognition systems. While the study does not directly measure well-being, the findings align with theoretical accounts that connect equitable access to talent resources with healthier work environments and better performance. Full article

Objective: Body awareness is the conscious, subjective multimodal integration of body-related sensitivity from bodily signals—detecting states and subtle reactions to internal and environmental conditions—modifiable by attention, interpretation, appraisal, beliefs, memories, conditioning, attitudes, and affect. The aim of our study is to identify patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of BA and evaluate their psychometric properties and cross-cultural adaptation processes. Literature Survey: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO; the last search was conducted on 1 July 2025. Methodology: We included studies that psychometrically evaluated PROMs regarding BA in the general adult population and their translations into other languages, with no time-range restrictions. Study selection was performed independently by two reviewers in a blind manner. Evaluation followed COSMIN guidance for systematic reviews of PROMs: (1) risk of bias assessment, (2) application of quality criteria for measurement properties, and (3) GRADE rating of the certainty of evidence. Synthesis: We identified 12 BA questionnaires and more than 30 cross-cultural adaptations, from a total of 50 studies. In summary, the Revised Body Awareness Rating Questionnaire and the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA 1 and 2) showed good results for structural validity and internal consistency, which were the most frequently assessed psychometric properties. In contrast, construct validity was highly variable, and the findings on reliability were far from optimal. MAIA-2 was one of the most studied and showed stronger evidence and better pooled results (4 out of 5 properties) than other instruments. Conclusions: The psychometric quality of BA PROMs varies widely, reflecting challenges in operationalizing the construct of body awareness and related domains. While MAIA-2 currently presents the most acceptable—though still imperfect—evidence, further high-quality studies are needed to strengthen their measurement properties and clarify construct coverage. Full article

In the continuous demand for high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), thermal management control is, these days, crucial with respect to safety, performance, and longevity. As a promising passive solution, Phase Change Materials (PCMs) have been implemented to overcome the conventional battery thermal management (BTM) approaches, including air cooling, liquid cooling, or refrigerant-based systems. Their ability to transfer the heat during phase change processes makes them ideal candidates for further thermal buffers, thus allowing compact and energy-efficient temperature control without extra power consumption. This work encompasses the recent progress in PCM-based battery thermal management systems, with a particular focus on material selection, structural design, and experimental validation. Current advances in composite PCMs, including the use of high-conductivity additives, porous supports, and encapsulation methods, are here appraised in terms of their thermal conductivity, cycling stability, leakage prevention, and overall safety. Comparisons between organic, inorganic, and hybrid PCM types demonstrate the benefits and drawbacks of each class. Ongoing discussion is also directed towards challenges that include low thermal conductivity, limited heat storage capacity, scalability, cost, and flammability. Future development opportunities are also identified in the areas of multifunctional PCMs, hybrid passive–active cooling approaches, scalable processing, and life-cycle considerations. Full article

Background and Objectives: Cancer cachexia is a debilitating metabolic syndrome highly prevalent in colorectal cancer (CRC), characterized by progressive skeletal muscle wasting. The myostatin–FOXO signaling pathway contributes to this process by activating the E3 ubiquitin ligases MuRF-1 and Atrogin-1. Exercise is a promising non-pharmacological strategy, but its effects on this pathway in CRC cachexia remain unclear. This review aimed to synthesize preclinical evidence on the impact of exercise on the myostatin–FOXO axis. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct from inception through August 2025. Eligible studies included murine CRC models (C26 or Apc^Min/+) exposed to aerobic, resistance, or combined exercise interventions, with outcomes assessing myostatin, FOXO, MuRF-1, or Atrogin-1. Study quality was appraised using the CAMARADES 10-item checklist. Results: eleven studies met the criteria, with quality scores ranging from 6 to 8. Aerobic exercise, particularly voluntary wheel running, most consistently reduced MuRF-1 expression and systemic inflammation, whereas resistance and eccentric training exerted stronger inhibitory effects on FOXO and Atrogin-1. Myostatin was directly measured in two studies, yielding inconsistent results. Resistance and eccentric training promoted anabolic signaling (e.g., mTORC1), whereas aerobic protocols improved oxidative capacity. Variability in exercise type, intensity, and duration contributed to heterogeneity across findings. Conclusions: Exercise attenuates skeletal muscle catabolism in CRC-induced cachexia, mainly through modulation of the myostatin–FOXO pathway and downstream ligases. However, limited direct data on myostatin and methodological heterogeneity underscore the need for standardized protocols and translational studies. This review provides the first focused synthesis of exercise-mediated regulation of this pathway in CRC cachexia. Full article

Background: Apathy is a neuropsychiatric symptom that is frequently present in nursing-home residents, including residents with Korsakoff’s syndrome (KS). Although apathy is common in KS, treatment guidelines are lacking. The Shared Action for Breaking through Apathy (SABA) program, developed for people with dementia, was previously shown to be feasible in that group. The applicability of this program for the KS population seems promising, yet it was expected that the program would need to be adapted. This study aims to 1) explore what is important in identifying and managing apathy in individuals with KS, and 2) investigate the appropriate adjustments to the SABA program. Methods: This qualitative study consisted of semi-structured interviews with people with KS (n = 3), family caregivers (one spouse and one sibling) and professional caregivers (two nurses), and a multidisciplinary focus group meeting with professional caregivers (n = 12) experienced in care for people with KS. The focus group meeting was performed to deepen the understanding of the interview findings and further explore recommendations for adjustments to the SABA program. Thematic analysis was used to process the data. Results: Addressing aim 1, two themes were identified: (1) the challenge to appraise signals of apathy, and (2) the challenge to assess the needs of people with KS. Based on these themes, specific adjustments were formulated to respond to aim 2. Conclusions: The themes that were identified in this study gave direction to a KS tailored SABA program, the feasibility of which needs to be studied next. Full article

Practicing medical research based on the best evidence is gaining increased value and popularity among most medical societies in the current era. Good clinical practice (GCP) is internationally recognized as the scientific and ethical standard for the design, conduct, performance, auditing, recording, analysis, and reporting of clinical trials involving human subjects. GCP ensures the accuracy and credibility of trial while safeguarding the rights, integrity, and confidentiality of participants. Adherence to GCP facilitates the generation of high-quality studies that can be incorporated in Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM). The clinical practice of EBM seeks to integrate robust medical literature into daily medical practice. This process involves systematically searching for high-quality evidence, critically appraising the retrieved literature, applying sound clinical principles and finally evaluating the efficacy of the chosen approach. Although EBM has been evaluated in many resource settings, it has not been addressed sufficiently in the field of Pediatrics and more specifically in indigenous populations. In this review, we briefly explain the EBM approach and its applications in Pediatrics, in order to help physicians care for young subjects more efficiently by integrating the best available information into their routine clinical practice. Also, the basic good practice principles for conducting clinical trials in children and adolescents are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of applying high ethical principles in this vulnerable population. Full article

Background/Objectives: In today’s society, the use of new technologies in education has become increasingly relevant. In the subject of Physical Education, these tools offer resources to increase motivation and allow for a better academic monitoring of students. However, their use has also generated academic debate. This systematic review aims to analyse the educational impact of the use of new technologies and their effect on mental health and academic performance in Physical Education students. Methods: The PRISMA Statement was used. A literature search was conducted from January 2020 to April 2025 in the databases Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and Dialnet. To refine the search process, the following research question was posed, following the PICO model: in Physical Education students, what is the educational effect of the use of digital technology on mental health and academic performance in teaching practice? The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess the quality of the studies analysed. Results: From a total of 897 articles, 27 relevant papers were selected and classified according to: authors, manuscript title, year of publication, population, main objective, type of design, digital tool, results and conclusions. Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review underline the importance of adopting a constructivist approach to the use of technological resources in Physical Education classes, without losing sight of the motor component, competence learning and the mental well-being of students. 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

As traffic load continuously rises and climatic conditions increasingly vary, the performance of conventional base asphalt can no longer satisfy the needs of modern road engineering in low-temperature cracking resistance, high-temperature stability, and long-term durability. Therefore, the development of novel and efficient asphalt modifiers holds significant engineering value and practical importance. In this study, modified asphalt was prepared using varying dosages of ZM modifier (direct-injection asphalt mixture modified polymer additive). A series of experiments was executed to assess its influence on asphalt properties. First, fundamental property tests were implemented to determine the regulating effect of the ZM modifier on basic physical performances, like the softening point and penetration of the base asphalt. Penetration tests at different temperatures were performed to calculate the penetration index, thereby assessing the material’s temperature sensitivity. Subsequently, focusing on temperature as a key factor, tests on temperature sweep, and multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR) were implemented to delve into the deformation resistance and creep recovery behavior of the modified asphalt under high-temperature conditions. In addition, bending beam rheometer (BBR) experiments were introduced to attain stiffness modulus and creep rate indices, which were applied to appraise the low-temperature rheological performance. Aside from Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was utilized to explore the mechanism by which the ZM modifier influences the asphalt’s functional group composition and microstructure. Our findings reveal that the ZM modifier significantly increases the asphalt’s softening point and penetration index, reduces penetration and temperature sensitivity, and enhances high-temperature stability. Under high-temperature conditions, the ZM modifier adjusts the viscoelastic balance of asphalt, hence enhancing its resistance to flow deformation and its capacity for creep recovery. In low-temperature environments, the modifier increases the stiffness modulus of asphalt and improves its crack resistance. FTIR analyses reveal that the ZM modifier does not introduce new functional groups, indicating a physical modification process. However, by enhancing the cross-linked structure and increasing the hydrocarbon content within the asphalt, it strengthens the adhesion between the asphalt and aggregates. Overall, the asphalt’s performance improvement positively relates to the dosage of the ZM modifier, providing both theoretical basis and experimental support for its application in road engineering. Full article

SMK XYZ is a private school under Yayasan Pembina Pendidikan Doa Bangsa (YPPDB) which was established in 2011. The school has several expertise programs, including Software Engineering, Institutional Accounting and Finance, and Motorcycle Business Engineering. Assessing the success of a school is an important thing that greatly affects the development of students in the learning process to achieve their goals. Assessment of teachers’ work should be performed using appropriate and efficient methods. To improve teacher performance, the development of an agenda monitoring and assessment system based on the Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) method can be an effective alternative. This system is designed to assist school management in monitoring teacher activities objectively and measurably, as well as providing clear assessments based on certain criteria such as attendance, tardiness, student evaluation results, and innovation in learning. The SAW method is used to calculate the final score of teacher performance by summing up the weighted values of each normalized criterion. In this case study, the system helps decision makers to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each teacher, so that related recommendations for competency development can be given. The implementation of this system demonstrates increased responsibility in appraisal and motivates teachers to improve their performance according to set standards. Full article

Background and Objectives: Early ambulation and timely detection of postoperative complications are cornerstones of colorectal Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programmes, yet the traditional bedside checks performed every 4–8 h may miss clinically relevant deterioration. The consumer wearables boom has spawned a new generation of wrist- or waistband-mounted sensors that stream step count, heart-rate and temperature data continuously, creating an opportunity for data-driven early-warning strategies. No previous systematic review has focused exclusively on colorectal surgery. Methods: Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Scopus) were searched (inception—1 May 2025) for prospective or retrospective studies that used a consumer-grade or medical-grade wearable to collect objective physical-activity or vital-sign data during the peri-operative period of elective colorectal resection. Primary outcomes were postoperative complication rates, length-of-stay (LOS) and 30-day readmission. Two reviewers screened records, extracted data and performed risk-of-bias appraisals with ROBINS-I or RoB 2. Narrative synthesis was adopted because of the heterogeneity in devices, recording windows and outcome definitions. Results: Nine studies (n = 778 patients) met eligibility: one randomised controlled trial (RCT), seven prospective cohort studies and one retrospective analysis. Five studies relied on step-count metrics alone; four combined step-count with heart-rate or skin-temperature streams. Median wear time was 6 d (range 2–30). Higher day-1 step count (≥1000 steps) was associated with shorter LOS (odds ratio 0.63; 95% CI 0.45–0.84). Smart-band–augmented ERAS pathways shortened protocol-defined LOS by 1.1 d. Pre-operative inactivity (<5000 steps·day⁻¹) and low “return-to-baseline” activity on the day before discharge independently predicted any complication (OR 0.39) and 30-day readmission (OR 0.60 per 10% increment). A prospective 101-patient study that paired pedometer-recorded ambulation with daily lung-ultrasound scores found fewer pulmonary complications when patients walked further (Spearman r = –0.36, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Continuous, patient-worn sensors are feasible and yield clinically meaningful data after colorectal surgery. Early postoperative step-count trajectories and activity-derived recovery indices correlate with LOS, complications and readmission, supporting their incorporation into digital ERAS dashboards. Standardised outcome definitions, open algorithms for signal processing and multicentre validation are now required. Full article

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have a significant impact on healthcare professionals. The aim of this study was to conduct an umbrella review and meta-analysis to examine the overall body area prevalence of WMSDs by continents, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Mendeley, PubMed/Medline, Science.gov, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were screened without date limitation to identify relevant meta-analyses. The selection, quality appraisal, and data extraction process were performed independently by two reviewers. Ten meta-analyses were included from the 3853 unique records, for a total of 100,211 participants, including dentists, nurses, surgeons, and mixed healthcare professionals. High heterogeneity (Cochran’s Q test and I² statistic) was observed. The largest number of meta-analyses was performed among nurses. Subgroup analysis by continent revealed an imbalance in the number of works, with Asia being the most documented. The analysis of prevalence rates was complete in Asia (overall and nine body areas), and partial in Europe (neck, shoulder, wrist) and Africa (lower back only). A ranking of the most exposed areas by continent was proposed. The lower back was the most exposed area (Africa: 54.5%; Asia: 56.6%). It would be relevant in future work to consider the numerous cross-sectional studies in order to improve subgroup analyses by continent and, thus, complete and strengthen the initial results presented in this first umbrella review. Full article

Palatability is a critical determinant of pet food performance, directly influencing voluntary intake, nutrient utilization, and therapeutic efficacy. In this systematic review, we examine peer-reviewed research publications, patent filings, and commercial product data pertaining to palatant technologies in dry and wet pet food from 2014 to 2024. Major palatant classes—including fats, proteins, yeast extracts, and novel plant-derived or insect-based hydrolysates—are evaluated for their physicochemical properties, flavor-release mechanisms, and stability during processing. We analyze formulation techniques such as microencapsulation, Maillard-reaction enhancement, and multilayer coating systems, focusing on their impact on aromatic compound retention and palatability consistency. Patent landscape assessment identifies over 15 key innovations in delivery systems, life-stage-specific palatant modulation, and dual-phase release architectures. Dual-phase release architectures are defined as systems that deliver active compounds in two sequential phases, such as immediate and sustained release. Sensory evaluation methodologies—ranging from multivariate preference mapping to descriptive analysis—are critically appraised to correlate human-panel metrics with canine and feline feeding behavior. We also discuss strategic integration of palatants at different processing stages (pre-conditioning, extrusion, and post-extrusion) and the challenges of balancing taste masking with nutritional requirements, particularly in formulations containing alternative proteins for sustainability. Despite rapid market growth in functional palatant-infused products, peer-reviewed literature remains relatively limited, suggesting opportunities for further research on species-specific flavor drivers, synbiotic flavor–nutrient interactions, and novel delivery platforms. This comprehensive overview of palatant science, patent innovations, and market evolution provides evidence-based guidance for researchers, formulators, and veterinarians seeking to optimize organoleptic properties and consumer acceptance of next-generation pet foods. Full article

Emotional labor, particularly in frontline service roles, has traditionally been examined through the lens of performance strategies, such as surface or deep acting. However, emerging research suggests that employees’ subjective interpretations of emotionally demanding situations—especially attributions of responsibility and perceived fairness—play a critical role in shaping their well-being. This study adopts a qualitative phenomenological approach to explore how frontline employees engage in meaning-making regarding the emotional labor demands during customer interaction. Drawing on six group semi-structured interviews, we conducted a thematic analysis to investigate ho<w workers attribute responsibility for emotion regulation demands and how these attributions relate to perceptions of distributive justice and emotional exhaustion. Results indicate that employees differentiate between emotional labor demands based on who they perceive as responsible for the triggering event—whether the client or themselves. Attributions of responsibility for these demands, especially when placed on clients, were associated with a stronger sense of distributive injustice and heightened emotional exhaustion. The evidence extend current emotional labor models by highlighting the centrality of meaning-making processes in employee experience and suggest that responsibility attribution and fairness appraisals are critical mechanisms through which emotional labor impacts occupational well-being. Implications for theory and workplace practices in service contexts are discussed. Full article