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Scientific Reports Jun 2024Sustainability in cotton production is inevitable because producing more cotton means more employment, economic acceleration, and industrial expansion. India, China, the...
Sustainability in cotton production is inevitable because producing more cotton means more employment, economic acceleration, and industrial expansion. India, China, the United States, Brazil, and Pakistan contribute 74% of worldwide cotton production. Pakistan is contributing only 5%, despite the high potential of cotton. The average yield of cotton in Pakistan is stagnant at 570.99 kg hm, whereas it entails the highest cost of production among all other crops. The yield obtained in Pakistan is less than the potential, profitability is drastically lessening, and farmers are abandoning cotton for alternative kharif crops. Some traditional quantitative studies have unveiled different factors that affect cotton production. However, an in-depth qualitative study has never been conducted in Pakistan to explore the root causes of growing cotton crop failure. Following Moustakas's traditional phenomenological guidelines, this phenomenological study was conducted in the district of Rahim Yar Khan in the core cotton zone of Punjab province. A total of 10 interviews were conducted with purposively selected cotton growers based on a criterion: (i) having more than 10 years of cotton growing experience, (ii) being a cotton grower, and (iii) having at least 10 years of formal schooling. Interviews were conducted face to face on an interview guide. One interview lasted 45-50 min, and responses were recorded and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. A total of 6 themes emerged from the collected data, including (i) climate change, (ii) varietal problems, (iii) pesticide usage, (iv) sense of institutional services, (v) attitude of farmers and (vi) soil health and environment. These six merging themes contributed to cotton crop failure and yield decline. The deep exploration further summarized that researchers, extensionists, and farmers need to seriously consider variety, sowing time, and the environment to revive cotton crops. The detailed recommendations and policy guidelines are presented in this paper, highlighting the cotton sector's research, development and investment areas.
Topics: Pakistan; Gossypium; Farmers; Humans; Crops, Agricultural; Agriculture; Crop Production
PubMed: 38879618
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62950-y -
Scientific Reports Jun 2024Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes and is endemic in many regions of the world and Iran, and annually imposes a large burden on the...
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes and is endemic in many regions of the world and Iran, and annually imposes a large burden on the health system. This study was conducted to identify the effective factors in the preventive behaviors of CL based on the BASNEF model in endemic areas in the northwest of Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Bileh-Savar, 'endemic areas of Ardabil Province, Iran', from June 2022 to October 2022. 200 non-patients were included in the study by a multi-stage sampling method. A standard questionnaire based on the BASNEF model was applied for data collection. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Means and standard deviations were calculated to describe the continuous variables, and multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine the prediction of intention and behavior by the model structures. The BASNEF constructs predict 27% of behavioral intention changes. Among the constructs, attitude has a greater contribution in predicting changes (R = 0.27, p < 0.01). Also, the results showed that the BASNEF constructs predict 23% of behavior changes. Among the constructs, enabling factors have a greater contribution to predicting changes (R = 0.23, p < 0.01). This finding shows that behavior is more influenced by environmental factors, and educational interventions based on behavior change models, along with providing environmental conditions, can facilitate behavior change.
Topics: Humans; Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous; Iran; Female; Male; Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Endemic Diseases; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Health Behavior; Young Adult; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Adolescent
PubMed: 38879574
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64600-9 -
Scientific Reports Jun 2024Artificial intelligence (AI) broadly influences different aspects of human life, especially human communication. One of the main concerns of the broad use of AI in daily...
Artificial intelligence (AI) broadly influences different aspects of human life, especially human communication. One of the main concerns of the broad use of AI in daily interactions among different people could be whether it helps them interact easily or complicates their interactions. To answer the mentioned question, this study assessed the impacts of AI on intercultural communication among postgraduate students in a multicultural university environment. A newly developed survey instrument was used to conduct this study. The participants of this study were 115 postgraduate students from nine different countries. The descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and Bivariate correlation tests of the 29th version of IBM-SPSS software were used to analyze the quantitative data, and inductive coding and conceptual content analysis were used to code and analyze the qualitative data. Based on descriptive results, the vast majority (93%) of the participants already used and experienced AI in their daily lives, and the majority of them believed that AI and AI technologies connect different cultures, reduce language and cultural barriers, and help people of different cultures to interact and be connected. Based on the results from the correlation test, there were strong positive correlations between AI attitudes and AI benefits, and also between AI regulation and AI benefits.
Topics: Humans; Artificial Intelligence; Male; Female; Universities; Cultural Diversity; Students; Communication; Adult; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult
PubMed: 38879546
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63276-5 -
Reproductive Health Jun 2024Sexually transmitted infection is a common public health issue of youths and is characteristically transmitted through sexual intercourse. Even though early treatment...
Proportion of early treatment seeking for sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among patients attending youth friendly service in Bahir Dar City health centers, Northwest, Ethiopia.
BACKGROUND
Sexually transmitted infection is a common public health issue of youths and is characteristically transmitted through sexual intercourse. Even though early treatment for sexually transmitted infection is very important to reduce further complications and economic burden, studies to identify the proportion and the possible factor of early treatment seeking is rare in Ethiopia.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the proportion of early treatment seeking for sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among patients attending youth friendly service in Bahir Dar city health centers, northwest, Ethiopia 2023.
METHOD
Institutional based Cross-sectional study was used among 407 participants from April 25 to May 24 /2023. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the participants. An interview-administered questionnaire was used for data collection, whereas Epi-data version 4.6.0.2 and the statistical package for statistical science version 23 were used for data entry and analysis respectively. A frequency table and bar chart were used for descriptive analysis. Multiple binary logistic regression was employed to identify the factors at p-value of <0.05. The necessary assumption of the model was also checked by the Hosmer and Lemishow test.
RESULTS
The response rate of this study was 391 (96.1%) and the proportion of early treatment for sexually transmitted infection was 108 (27.6%, 95%CI; 23-32). Good knowledge about sexually transmitted infection (AOR=1.98, 95CI%; 1.13-3.47) know about their HIV status (AOR=1.95, 95%CI; 1.13-3.36), perceive severity of sexually transmitted infection (AOR=11.23, 95%CI; 6.15-20.45), and not fear the stigma about being infected with sexually transmitted infection (AOR=2.29, 95%CI; 1.32-3.96) were the significantly associated factors for early treatment of sexually transmitted infection. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: The proportion of early treatment for sexually transmitted infection in Bahir Dar city was low. Knowledge about STIs, testing/ knowing HIV status, perception of the severity about sexually transmitted infection, and fear of stigma about sexually transmitted infection were the statistically significant factors for early treatment of sexually transmitted infection. So the government better give attention to health education and other health promotion activities to increase the knowledge of youths about sexually transmitted infection and to change their perception of sexually transmitted infection.
Topics: Humans; Ethiopia; Female; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Male; Adolescent; Cross-Sectional Studies; Young Adult; Patient Acceptance of Health Care; Adult; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Surveys and Questionnaires; Sexual Behavior
PubMed: 38879531
DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01794-1 -
BMC Psychology Jun 2024The literature for assessing online and offline shopping behaviours that are linked to intelligent robotic goods and services is inadequate. In this study, we applied...
BACKGROUND
The literature for assessing online and offline shopping behaviours that are linked to intelligent robotic goods and services is inadequate. In this study, we applied the Theory of Planned Behaviour model for guidance regarding how consumer behaviour affects their purchase intentions for intelligent robotic goods and services.
METHODS
Data from 408 respondents were gathered through an online questionnaire binned into Online and Overall Shoppers, and analysed using SPSS, AMOS, and Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modelling software to evaluate the appropriateness of the measurements and to confirm data reliability, convergence, divergence, and validity. These tools were also used to track and test hypothesized relationships between the variables and model constructs used in this study.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS
The overarching outcomes from the data analyses indicated the Ease of Usage, Brand Perception, and Product Pricing variables causally impacted the TPB model constructs, namely Attitude, Subjective Norms, and Perceived Behaviour Control for the two populations tested with respect to their intention to purchase intelligent robotic goods and services. The reliability measurements for Ease of Usage, Brand Perception, and Product Pricing are discussed. The results are important for companies and future investors because opportunities to study the complex relationships that ultimately drive consumer behaviour and their intention to purchase intelligent robotic goods and services are provided.
Topics: Humans; Consumer Behavior; Intention; Male; Female; Adult; Taiwan; Robotics; Psychological Theory; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult; Theory of Planned Behavior
PubMed: 38879510
DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01683-z -
BMC Palliative Care Jun 2024Only four centers in Egypt provide Palliative Care (PC) for adult cancer patients and one provides care for pediatric cancer patients. While PC is not widely utilized in...
BACKGROUND
Only four centers in Egypt provide Palliative Care (PC) for adult cancer patients and one provides care for pediatric cancer patients. While PC is not widely utilized in Egypt, this study aims to assess patients' need for PC from the providers' perspective. The primary objectives were to assess providers' knowledge about PC, understand patients' needs, and compare children's and adults' needs for PC.
METHODS
A descriptive exploratory design was utilized. Patients were recruited from a cancer center in Qena Governorate, Egypt. All 108 nurses and physicians in the cancer center were interviewed to assess their perspectives about PC and patients' need for it.
RESULTS
Of the 108 care providers, more than 60% of the providers were not familiar with the concept of PC and did not participate in related activities, and more than 77% did not receive any training on the topic. All the providers reported there is no specific policy for end-of-life care. More than 60% of the providers responded that their patients do not need PC as the providers believe that PC provided only for end-stage patients. 50% of the providers see that PC has benefits such as pain relief and symptom management. No major differences were noted between pediatric and adult PC needs.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study provide foundational evidence of providers' lack of experience with and understanding of palliative care. This deficit is creating a barrier to providing palliative care in Egypt.
Topics: Humans; Egypt; Palliative Care; Male; Adult; Female; Health Personnel; Middle Aged; Child; Attitude of Health Personnel; Surveys and Questionnaires; Needs Assessment
PubMed: 38879483
DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01469-5 -
BMC Medical Education Jun 2024Transcultural nursing recognises the significance of cultural backgrounds in providing patients with quality care. This study investigates the opinions of master's...
BACKGROUND
Transcultural nursing recognises the significance of cultural backgrounds in providing patients with quality care. This study investigates the opinions of master's students in nursing and midwifery regarding the attitudes of Jehovah's Witnesses towards refusing blood transfusions.
METHODS
349 master's students in nursing and midwifery participated in a quantitative study and were surveyed via the Web to evaluate their awareness of the stance of Jehovah's Witnesses on blood transfusions and the ethical and legal dilemmas associated with caring for Jehovah's Witness (JW) patients.
RESULTS
The study yielded three significant findings. It unequivocally demonstrates that nursing and midwifery students possess inadequate knowledge regarding Jehovah's Witnesses' stance on blood transfusions and their acceptance of specific blood products and medical procedures. Despite being cognisant of the ethical and legal dilemmas of caring for JW patients, students lack an understanding of patients' autonomy to reject blood transfusions and their need for bloodless medicine. Students also articulated educational needs regarding cultural competencies regarding the Jehovah's Witnesses' beliefs on blood transfusions and non-blood management techniques.
CONCLUSIONS
Healthcare professionals need the knowledge and skills necessary to provide holistic, patient-centred and culturally sensitive care. This study emphasises the urgent need for university curricula and nursing postgraduate training to include modules on transcultural nursing and strategies for minimising blood loss.
Topics: Humans; Jehovah's Witnesses; Blood Transfusion; Cultural Competency; Female; Students, Nursing; Attitude of Health Personnel; Male; Midwifery; Adult; Treatment Refusal
PubMed: 38879475
DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05646-1 -
Physiotherapy Mar 2024To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in clients presenting for primary care physiotherapy within private practice settings, and the factors that may be...
OBJECTIVES
To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in clients presenting for primary care physiotherapy within private practice settings, and the factors that may be associated with metabolic syndrome. The secondary aim was to determine client's attitudes towards lifestyle change.
DESIGN
A cross-sectional study in which self-report and biometric data were collected. The study was conducted in physiotherapy private practices across metropolitan and regional areas, Australia.
PARTICIPANTS
230 clients (mean age 54 (SD18) years, 64% women) presenting for physiotherapy participated.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Participant socio-demographic and lifestyle characteristics were collected. Metabolic syndrome presence was determined by the existence of three or more risk factors on physical examination and capillary blood sample: abdominal obesity, hypertension, elevated random blood glucose, elevated triglycerides and/or reduced HDL cholesterol.
RESULTS
Thirty-seven percent of participants had metabolic syndrome, but none knew they had it. Metabolic syndrome was associated with older age and poorer socio-economic status and may have been associated with lower levels of physical activity but not diet. Of those identified as having hypertension and elevated triglycerides, many were undiagnosed (56% and 29% respectively).
CONCLUSION
Metabolic syndrome is prevalent and undiagnosed in clients attending private practice physiotherapy. Clients felt lifestyle change was important and they were willing to make changes. This study highlights the need for greater screening of metabolic risk factors in primary care and presents an opportunity for physiotherapists in private practice to identify risk and intervene to improve the overall health of their clients and contribute to chronic disease prevention. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.
PubMed: 38878590
DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2024.03.003 -
Acta Psychologica Jun 2024The proliferation of unverified or false information by irresponsible users can significantly amplify the spread of misinformation or fake news. Despite growing research...
The proliferation of unverified or false information by irresponsible users can significantly amplify the spread of misinformation or fake news. Despite growing research on unverified information sharing, a comprehensive understanding of the varying influences of different factors and strategies to mitigate this issue remains under investigation. To address this research gap, this study, rooted in the theory of herd behavior, develops, and tests a model theorizing the reasons behind social media users' unverified information sharing. Data was collected from 510 respondents across six regions of China using a convenience sampling method. The collected data was analyzed using Mplus. The results from this study indicated that perceived severity, state uncertainty, and herding have a significant positive influence on unverified information sharing. These results enrich the understanding of unverified information-sharing behavior among Chinese social media users. Drawing from these results, we suggest platform administrators and policymakers mitigate herd behavior tendencies and stem the spread of misinformation by disseminating timely, accurate, and authoritative information. Since this action will reduce users' perceptions of severity and uncertainty. Social media users are also advised to stay vigilant over the implications of herd behavior and foster a more critical attitude towards information sharing.
PubMed: 38878471
DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104345 -
Health Expectations : An International... Jun 2024Public and patient involvement can provide crucial insights to optimise research by enhancing relevance and appropriateness of studies. The World Health Organization...
INTRODUCTION
Public and patient involvement can provide crucial insights to optimise research by enhancing relevance and appropriateness of studies. The World Health Organization (WHO) engaged in an inclusive process to ensure that both technical experts and women had a voice in defining the research gaps and needs to increase or reintroduce the use of assisted vaginal birth (AVB) in settings where this intervention is needed but unavailable or underused.
METHODS
We describe the methods and outcomes of online workshops led by WHO to obtain women representatives' perspectives about AVB research gaps and needs.
RESULTS
After technical experts created a list of research questions based on various evidence syntheses, WHO organised four online workshops with 31 women's representatives from 27 mostly low- and middle-income (LMIC) countries. Women rated the importance and priority of the research questions proposed by the technical experts, improving and broadening some of them, added new questions, and voiced their main concerns and views about AVB. Women helped to put the research questions into context in their communities, highlighted neglected factors/dimensions that influence practices and affect women's experience during labour and childbirth, underscored less salient consequences of AVB, and highlighted the main concerns of women about research on AVB. The consolidated vision of technical experts and women's representatives resulted in a technical brief published by WHO. The technical brief is expected to stimulate global research and action closely aligned with women's priorities.
CONCLUSIONS
We describe a successful experience of engaging women, mostly from LMICs, in the identification of research gaps and needs to reintroduce AVB use. This process contributed to better aligning research questions with women's views, concerns, and priorities. Given the scarcity of reports about engaging women from LMICs to optimise research, this successful experience can serve as an inspiration for future work.
PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION
Women representatives were involved at every stage of the workshops described in full in this manuscript.
Topics: Humans; Female; World Health Organization; Pregnancy; Developing Countries; Adult; Patient Participation
PubMed: 38877659
DOI: 10.1111/hex.14054