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“No one ever comes back and asks us how could we do it better”: findings from First Nations community panels about ways to keep First Nations peoples safe from COVID-19
No full textEquity in pandemic planning and response for First Nations peoples in Australia requires a deeper understanding of sociocultural realities to determine appropriate public health actions. First Nations community panels were held in three locations across Australia between September 2020 to December 2020 to make decisions on how government authorities should help First Nations peoples keep safe from COVID-19. Twenty-two First Nations peoples participated in online panels. Panels heard from public health experts, examined the evidence and deliberated on the issues. All panels highlighted that embedding First Nations worldviews into health policy was important. First Nations peoples must be supported and resourced to enable self-determination in preparation for future infectious disease emergencies, otherwise their health could be negatively impacted if they are not intentionally considered or actively engaged.</p
The Mediating Role of Travel destination Engagement in the Effects of Country Images on Consumer-based Brand Equity of Dairy Products: Evidence from China
No full textFood and agricultural products shape tourism by linking communities and regions to
leisure travel. Consumers’ perceptions of a country and its food products can shape their
attitudes and behaviors toward it as a travel destination. This study compares the effects
of general country image (GCI), product–country image (PCI), and product image (PI) on
Chinese dairy consumers’ engagement with the country of origin as a travel destination
(TDE). It also tests whether TDE mediates the effects of country images on consumerbased
brand equity (BEQ) for dairy products. We analyzed 573 valid online responses
from mainland China, a major market for dairy products and outbound tourism, using
covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) in AMOS 31. The results identify
TDE as a key factor that fully mediates the effect of GCI on BEQ. PCI and PI show both direct
effects on BEQ and indirect effects through TDE. The proposed framework links country
evaluations to destination engagement and brand outcomes, highlighting opportunities for
integrated cross-sector promotion. This research is among the first to examine co-marketing
between the tourism sector and the dairy industry through a country-image perspective. It
provides practical guidance for cross-sector strategy and contributes to ongoing debates in
both fields.</p
Quantifying the effect of afternoon moderate-intensity exercise on sleep quality and quantity in healthy adult males using polysomnography
No full textObjectives: To investigate the effect of afternoon moderate-intensity cycling exercise on objective and subjective sleep in healthy adult males. Design: Repeated-measures, counter-balanced, crossover study design. Methods: To assess the effect of moderate-intensity afternoon exercise on sleep quality and quantity, 12 healthy adult males who were identified as good sleepers (Results: There were no statistically significant changes in objective or subjective sleep quality or quantity between conditions. The inter-quartile range for total sleep time (exercise: 51.5 min vs no exercise: 13.4 min) and sleep efficiency (exercise: 9.5 % vs no exercise: 2.5 %) suggests that there was more individual variability in subsequent sleep after afternoon exercise compared to no exercise. Exercise appeared to have a moderate effect on reducing total sleep time (mean ± SD; control 493.7 ± 12.6 min vs exercise: 471.5 ± 55.2 min; Cohen's d: − 0.56), sleep efficiency (control 91.4 ± 2.3 % vs exercise: 87.3 ± 10.2 %; Cohen's d: − 0.56), and delaying REM onset latency (control: 76.1 ± 45.1 min vs exercise: 102.8 ± 46.9 min; r: 0.33), although the results did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Healthy adult males can complete moderate-intensity exercise in the afternoon without compromising subsequent sleep. Individual responses in objective sleep outcomes may vary after exercise.</p
Understanding Biesta's three purposes of education: A framework proposal
No full textThe purpose of ‘doing’ education is often unconsidered or assumed in educational thinking and practice, despite the diversity of understandings. Gert Biesta's perspective that education has a threefold purpose of qualification, socialisation and subjectification is among the most known. However, the interpretation of Biesta's thinking is challenging, namely, due to intrinsic complexity and contradiction between the domains of purpose and a loose use of the author's theory that tends to conflate and overlook core elements of each purpose. The current work proposes an innovative framework to support the understanding and application of Biesta's three purposes of education and is a contribution in overcoming the theoretical and empirical constraints faced. The framework proposed is composed of two levels: a theoretical level, resulting from the deductive interpretation of Biesta's thinking on purpose, where the core domains and subdomains of education are depicted; and an empirical level, resulting from the application of the framework to research data, in which a potential expansion of the three purposes is presented. Overall, this original work demonstrated the framework's adequacy as an analytical tool for education research on the issue of purpose and the adaptability of Biesta's theory and the framework developed to future studies.</p
Sonographic anatomy and imaging of the extracranial component of the hypoglossal nerve (CNXII)
No full textThe hypoglossal nerve (HN) provides motor innervation to tongue muscles responsible for tongue movement, speech, mastication, swallowing, respiratory functions and management of oral secretions. Injury, compression, entrapment or lesions of the HN at any point along its path can result in HN palsy and subsequent dysphagia, dysarthria and tongue muscular atrophy. A combined imaging approach is required to investigate the HN and causes of HN palsy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) imaging are used to investigate the intracranial HN and where it emerges in the upper neck. The extracranial HN can be assessed by sonographic imaging along with the muscles directly and indirectly innervated by the HN. Ultrasound imaging can be challenging without an appropriate understanding of the detailed relative anatomy of the HN and the muscles it innervates, the associated sonographic technique and sonographic appearances, all of which are outlined in this paper.</p
A sonographer career framework: Potential positive and negative impacts on the sonographer and other stakeholders
No full textIntroduction: A sonographer career framework describes sonographer career pathways while incorporating career goals. A career framework may have consequences for stakeholders such as the profession and patient. The aim of this work was to investigate the positive and negative impacts a career framework may have on Australasian stakeholders to predict potential outcomes. Method: Literature search limited to the years 2013–2024 was performed, including peer-reviewed and grey literature. Investigator collaborative and reflexive triangulation of mined data with thematic analysis was performed. Results: Three key stakeholders impacted by a career framework were identified as 1. the individual sonographer, 2. the sonography profession and 3. the patient. Sonographer career paths were organised into four main medical and cardiac sonography groups: 1. general, 2. specialist, 3. non-clinical, with sub-categories for researcher, educator and management and leadership and 4. advanced sonographer practitioner (ASP). Discussion: Positive themes were improving patient care through increased sonographer diversity of roles, education, research and retention with a template for increased role extension/clinical responsibility. Negative themes were limitations in diversity of roles due to increased cost of further education and insurance, sonographers not wanting greater responsibility and the requirement for framework currency. Conclusion: Development of an Australasian career framework should consider the positive and negative impacts on sonographers and stakeholders. There should be scope to plan for future progression and diversity of practice in a sonography workforce, which should ultimately reduce costs to the healthcare system through increased productivity, patient care and benefit to the community.</p
Navigating High-Stakes Interviews: Strategies for Mental Health Nurses in Competitive Job Markets
No full textIn contemporary mental health nursing, education, and research settings, including health services, vocational and higher education providers, professional bodies, government and non-government organisations, and private providers,
attending job interviews is a routine part of employing staff. As senior nurse academics who have held or hold gover nance roles, we are frequently asked to sit on selection panels within our own and external institutions or, alterna tively, mentor colleagues applying for positions. For some
positions, particularly the more mid-level and senior roles, candidate selection is a highly competitive process through which applicants must showcase their capabilities to demon strate they are the best person for the role. There may be more than one interview, with applicants asked to provide
detailed presentations outlining their vision, portfolios com prising complex case studies, or solutions to problems encountered or anticipated by the employing organisation. Such requests increase the effort expended and workload of the candidates preparing for the interview, and the members of selection panels who must assess the quality of the
submission.</p
Child laborers’ exposure to physical maltreatment in rural Bangladesh: Prevalence and risk factors
No full textChild maltreatment is a global public health concern. A high percentage of children working in rural informal sectors in Bangladesh experiences physical maltreatment. This area of study, however, remains understudied. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of physical maltreatment of child laborers in rural Bangladesh. A total of 200 child laborers and parents were recruited in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, including the ICAST-CH and ICAST-P survey tools. Multivariable linear regression was performed using SPSS and STATA software to analyze data. Above 66% of child laborers experienced being hit, beaten, or spanked with a bare hand, followed by 53% being pushed, grabbed, or kicked sometimes in the past year. In addition, 35% of parents reported that their children had been hit on the head with a knuckle, and 30% reported their child had been hit on the buttock with an object once/twice in the past year. This study identified that the parents’ employment in service sectors (β = –0.87, p = 0.04), an increase in individual (β = –1.92, p = 0.02), and household income (β = –0.98, p = 0.02) significantly reduced the child laborers’ risk of experiencing physical maltreatment. Conversely, the rate of physical maltreatment increased with the extension of working hours (β = 0.52, p </p
Associated data for a theory of coexistence: healthcare educators assuming simulated patient roles
No full textEducators don hospital gowns, steady their breathing, and assume the roles of simulated patients. Their voices quiver with carefully cultivated anxiety as students enter simulation suites. As the scenario unfolds, educators wonder: will the students learn? Will their learning objectives be met? Simultaneously, they juggle emotional labour, professional responsibility, and the ongoing tension between authenticity and pedagogy. This constructivist grounded theory study explored educators’ experiences, perceptions, and the consequences of assuming simulated patient roles, filling a critical gap in simulation-based education. While student learning is often prioritised, little attention has been given to the emotional, physiological, psychological and professional tolls on educators. This thesis introduces a theory of coexistence, which conceptualises the tension educators experience as they navigate their dual roles of altruistic facilitators of student learning and self-preserving individuals grappling with their own emotional and professional needs. The theory positions these competing motivations, altruism and egoism within the broader context of the educator's role, highlighting the inherent conflicts and coexistence of these forces. It provides a framework for understanding the emotional and psychological impact of simulation-based education, while also offering a lens through which to explore institutional support and the need for policies that protect educators' well-being and professional recognition. The findings reveal that educators were constantly torn between their altruistic dedication to student learning and egoistic concerns for professional recognition, emotional well-being and personal fulfilment. They also grappled with a strong sense of professional responsibility, balancing realism and authenticity while questioning whether their work was recognised as education rather than mere performance. As their immersion deepened, some found the experience rewarding, while others experienced internal conflict as they struggled to reconcile their commitment to student learning with their own emotional needs. These challenges were compounded by institutional gaps, as simulated patient roles were integrated into healthcare education without sufficient policies, standards or regulatory frameworks. Participants reported a lack of formal recognition, structured debriefing, and professional safeguards to mitigate the personal toll of these roles. The absence of clear institutional frameworks not only shifted responsibility onto individual educators but raised ethical concerns, threatened workforce sustainability, and exposed significant gaps in regulatory oversight and accountability in simulation-based education. The consequences of assuming simulated patient roles extended beyond individual experiences. The deep emotional engagement required in these roles often led to exhaustion, emotional strain, and difficulties in role detachment. Without formal debriefing structures, educators were left to manage these consequences on their own. Many felt their work remained undervalued, and advocated for greater institutional recognition, professional supervision, and peer support networks. These findings underscore the urgent need for policies, education and institutional safeguards to support educators, improve workforce sustainability, and strengthen simulation-based education. By centring educators in these discussions, this research expands the conversation on workforce retention and emphasises the need for regulatory frameworks that formally recognised and supported their contributions. It also contributes to the theoretical understanding of educator identity and role immersion in simulation-based education. Ultimately, this research highlights that behind each transformative simulation there is an educator carrying the silent weight of performance, care, and personal sacrifice. Their efforts deserve our recognition and our protection.</p
Biodiesel Combustion Modifications to Reduce Harmful Engine Emissions using Advanced Approaches
No full textThe global transportation sector is heavily dependent on fossil fuels, and the utilisation of these energy sources contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, thereby accelerating global warming. To minimise these environmental impacts, biodiesel has emerged as a promising alternative that can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower overall carbon footprints. Although biodiesel can reduce significant emissions, it has higher nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions compared to diesel. To address this issue, the study conducted a review of state-of-the-art literature on NOx reduction technologies and considered advanced strategies such as fuel modifications and combustion chamber geometry modifications to mitigate NOx emissions. A detailed methodological approach from fuel selection to conversion and modifications has been presented in this study, focussing on NOx reduction. In this study, two new feedstocks, Tucuma and Ungurahui, were selected for the biodiesel conversion. A response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimise the biodiesel conversion process, where 27 conversion tests were performed for each bio-oil, achieving a greater yield of over 99.4% for both oils. The physiochemical properties of the produced biodiesel have met ASTM D6751 biodiesel standards, and the gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, conducted in accordance with the AOCS Ce 1a-13 standard, revealed a 100% methyl ester composition. In addition, a comprehensive process simulation was performed in this study, and it was observed that the production parameters methanol-to-oil ratio, catalyst, time, and temperature had impacted the biodiesel’s density, calorific value, and viscosity. The produced biodiesel and their blends were deployed in an internal combustion engine to investigate their suitability as an alternative fuel. In the next stage of this study, the performance, combustion, and emission characteristics of the biodiesel blends were investigated experimentally according to the SAE J1995 engine test standard. The test results revealed that TB10 (Tucuma 10% + Diesel 90%) exhibited better performance and combustion characteristics compared to the other tested fuel blends. However, TB10 showed increased NOx at all speed conditions compared to diesel. Hence, fuel modifications were performed on the TB10 blend to reduce the NOx formation. An exergy-energy analysis was performed on TB10 blended with ethanol, nanoparticles, and essential oil to investigate the impact of these modifications on NOx reduction. The results revealed that at 25% load, ethanol-blended fuels such as DE10 (Ethanol 10%+diesel 90%) and TB10E10 (Tucuma 10%+diesel 90%) showed reduced NOx emissions by 51.37% and 9%, iv respectively, compared to diesel. In addition, TB10E10 showed reduced NOx by 40%, 19%,10% and 7% compared to TB10 at loads of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, respectively. This is due to the higher latent heat of vaporisation of ethanol, which has caused reduced in-cylinder temperatures. Although the nanoparticle blend TB10E10CNT20 (Tucuma 10%+Ethanol 10%+diesel 80%+CNT 20ppm) showed increased NOx emissions compared to diesel, the same blend showed reduced NOx by 4.1%, 4.56%, 7.2%, and 3.1% at loads of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, respectively, compared to TB10. Additionally, TB10E10Eu10 (Tucuma 10%+Ethanol 10%+Eucalyptus oil 10%+diesel 70%) showed a 2.9% and 3.4% reduction in NOx compared to diesel at 75% and 100% load conditions. Furthermore, the effect of oxygenated additives was investigated by blending Diethyl Ether (DEE), Diethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether (DME), and Tri-Propylene-Glycol Monomethyl Ether (TME) with TB10 to explore their influence on NOx emissions. These three ethers were added at 10% volume to the Tucuma B10 blend, and the results were compared with diesel, TB10, and TB20 (Tucuma 20%+diesel 80%). At full load, TB10DME10 showed reduced CO emissions by 22.3%, 45%, and 38%, compared to diesel, TB10, and TB20, respectively. Also, TB10TME10 revealed reduced NOx by 8.5%, 5.2%, 6.62%, and 0.12% compared to TB10 at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% loads, respectively. This is due to the lower calorific value and lower viscosity of the ethers, which have reduced the combustion temperatures. Hence, the peak pressure values for ether blends were lower than those of diesel but higher than those of TB10 and TB20. Besides fuel modifications, the study numerically investigated the effect of combustion chamber modifications to reduce further NOₓ emissions. The study concludes that Tucuma biodiesel demonstrated better performance and blending it with ethanol and nanoparticles will lead to improved performance and reduced NOₓ emissions. The study recommends conducting both numerical and experimental work on the modified chambers with TB10 to explore the impact of chamber modifications on biodiesel applications. Additionally, the study recommends exploring the tribological behaviour of Tucuma biodiesel before its commercial applications.</p