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There are many types of support for young autistic children and their families, but service use in this population is not well understood. In this study, primary caregivers of autistic preschoolers were surveyed (n = 95) and a selection were then interviewed (n = 19) to understand how early, therapeutic supports were accessed by families in Australia following the establishment of a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This article presents the quantitative data from surveys and interviews. Families usually accessed at least two types of support. The most accessed supports were occupational therapy, speech pathology and psychology, with 43% of the sample accessing some other form of support. Multiple linear regression indicated that children's higher level of support need, living in less remote or less socio‐economically disadvantaged areas, and high household income were associated with higher numbers of supports accessed. Services tended to follow an individual, clinic‐based model and little use of alternative service delivery was reported. The findings indicate that Australian families are accessing a wider range of support types than before the NDIS and children with more substantial autism‐related support needs are likely to access a greater number of types of supports. Socio‐economic inequities continue to exist and should be addressed. Lay Summary: In Australia, there are various types of support available for young autistic children and their families, but we know surprisingly little about how they are used. The public health and education sectors offer support, and recently the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was introduced to give people with disabilities, including eligible autistic people, more choice and control over their supports. In this study, we surveyed 95 primary caregivers of autistic preschoolers, and 19 of them were also interviewed, to understand how they use early, therapeutic supports in Australia. Most families used at least two types of support, like occupational therapy, speech pathology or psychology. Some families used other services like play therapy, diet therapy, or early intensive behavioral interventions. Overall, children with lower levels of autistic traits, families with lower incomes, and/or families in more remote or disadvantaged areas received fewer supports. Most services were provided individually in clinics, with little use of telehealth, therapy groups or flexible service delivery. This study's findings indicate that Australian families are accessing a wider range of support types since the introduction of the NDIS. Children with higher support needs tend to access more different supports, but socio‐economic disparities still exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohols are common alkylating agents and starting materials alternative to harmful alkyl halides. In this study, a simple, benign and efficient pathway was developed to synthesize 1,3‐diphenylpropan‐1‐ols via the β‐alkylation of 1‐phenylethanol with benzyl alcohols. Unlike conventional borrowing hydrogen processes in which alcohols were activated by transition‐metal catalyzed dehydrogenation, in this work, t‐BuONa was suggested to be a dual‐role reagent, namely, both base and radical initiator, for the radical coupling of aromatic alcohols. The cross‐coupling reaction readily proceeded under transition metal‐free conditions and an inert atmosphere, affording 1,3‐diphenylpropan‐1‐ol with an excellent yield. A good functional group tolerance in benzyl alcohols was observed, leading to the production of various phenyl‐substituted propan‐1‐ol derivatives in moderate‐to‐good yields. The mechanistic studies proposed that the reaction could involve the formation of reactive radical anions by base‐mediated deprotonation and single electron transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this paper, a design of a substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW) triplexer with improved low‐loss performance, passband ratio, and compactness based on the complementary split ring resonator (CSRR) structure is presented. The proposed triplexer operates at three passbands of 6, 8, and 10 GHz that correspond to the passband ratios of 1.33 and 1.67. By appropriately designing square CSRRs on the surface of the SIW structure, the low‐loss and compact resonator filters below the cut‐off frequency of the SIW at each operation frequency can be realized. The wide passband ratio is obtainable by adjusting the dimensions of the T‐junction. The measured results show the minimum insertion losses of 1.5, 1.4, and 1.9 dB at 6, 8, and 10 GHz, respectively. In addition, the minimum measured return losses are −9.33, −11.3, and −12.4 dB at the corresponding three passbands. The measured isolation between output ports is better than −17 dB in the frequency range from 5 to 11 GHz. The measured results agree well with simulations which are conducted by the CST Microwave Studio simulator. The proposed triplexer is designed on a cost‐effective RO4003C substrate with a compact size of 35 × 25 mm2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragaria × ananassa is one of the fruit crops with high economic value, but due to its thin and long stem structure, it is easily affected by various stresses when being transferred from in vitro to ex vitro conditions. Therefore, it is very important to enhance the relative growth rate (RGR) right from the in vitro stage which is in proportion to the vigorousness of the plant. Nanoparticles are usually known as stimulants in agriculture that promote plant growth and development. In this study, in vitro Fragaria × ananassa shoots transferred on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0.02 mg/L α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) were used as control. Silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2NPs) and cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) at different concentrations (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mg/L) were separately added to the similar MS medium in the plantlet formation stage to evaluate their effects on RGR of in vitro Fragaria × ananassa plantlets through their impacts on minerals absorption (K, Ca, Mg) and antioxidant enzymes activity. The results showed that the medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L SiO2NPs gave the highest minerals absorption while the medium with 1.0–1.5 mg/L CeO2NPs created the most favorable conditions for antioxidant enzymes activity (SOD, CAT, APX) compared to treatments supplemented with SiO2NPs or CeO2NPs at other concentrations and the control. Specifically, plant height and leaf canopy area were recorded highest in the medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L SiO2NPs, and the medium supplemented with 1.5 mg/L CeO2NPs gave the highest values of leaf petiole diameter, number of roots, root length. Then, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the combination of SiO2NPs and CeO2NPs at appropriate concentrations with the aim of finding the most optimal concentrations for the RGR of plantlet. Accordingly, the most optimal concentrations are 1.172 mg/L SiO2NPs and 1.654 mg/L CeO2NPs. The combination of these optimal concentrations in the plantlet formation stage gave plantlet’s RGR (0.596 mg/mg/week) superior to the highest RGR obtained from the supplementation with 1.0 mg/L SiO2NPs or 1.5 mg/L CeO2NPs (0.53 or 0.56 mg/mg/week, respectively). As a result, shoots-derived-plantlets in the combined treatment were taller and had more vigorous growth. This study can be useful in commercial strawberry production, increasing plant growth, vigorousness and resistance right from the in vitro stage, thereby improving crop yield.Key message: SiO2NPs improved minerals absorption. CeO2NPs enhanced antioxidant enzymes activity. Optimizing the combination of SiO2NPs and CeO2NPs by response surface methodology gave positive effect in hardening Fragaria × ananassa plantlets cultured in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is a U.S.-based job-training program that serves unemployed workers aged 55 and older with incomes at or below 125% of the federal poverty level. While federal funds are set aside to serve Asian workers in SCSEP, little is known about their characteristics and experiences. In response, this pilot study aimed to document the health, well-being, and experiences of older Asian SCSEP participants in Massachusetts through the completion of a survey. Respondents (N = 39) ranged in age from 58 to 73 and identified as either Chinese (72%) or Vietnamese (28%). All were immigrants, and almost all spoke a language other than English at home. Most reported "good" health as well as financial difficulties. They also stated that their supervisors in their placements were supportive. On average, respondents noted moderate interest in searching for a paid job after exiting SCSEP, although more reported interest in searching for a volunteer role. Key to the success of this study was a robust collaboration with a local human services organization with strong ties to the Chinese and Vietnamese communities. The findings highlight the importance of this growing group of older workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we present an efficient, one‐pot reaction for accessing 3‐benzylated indoles via the coupling of benzyl alcohols with indoles under heterogeneous catalysis by manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) nanoparticles. Notably, this reaction, for the first time, employs MnFe2O4 nanoparticles prepared using a simple grinding method. The high compatibility of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles enables a broad substrate scope and high regioselectivity. Moreover, this approach offers several attractive highlights including the use of a recyclable oxide catalyst and green and cost‐effective alkylating reagents under solvent‐free conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limonia acidissima L. (LA) is a fruit-bearing tree from the Rutaceae family that thrives in Tra Vinh province, Vietnam. It has been found that chemical compounds contained in LA leaves have antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and larvicidal properties. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of leaf power ethanol-extracted using an ultrasound-assisted extraction technique. The input parameters of the process were optimized by the response surface methodology (RSM) including ethanol content (50 - 70 %), temperature (40 - 60 °C), and time (30 - 50 min). The model response included total polyphenol content (TPC, Y1), and radical scavenging capacity by DPPH (Y2). The results show that the effect of the input parameters on the response of the extraction process was expressed by the quadratic equation with the high R2 values of Y1 (0.9827), and Y2 (0.9644). The optimal conditions for the extraction process were achieved at X1 = 59.7 %, X2 = 49.4 °C, and X3 = 39.4 min. At this condition, the experimental value of TPC (85.79 ± 0.23 mg GAE/g dry weight, d.w) and DPPH (235.01 ± 0.79 µmol TEAC/g d. w) was not the significant difference compared to the predicted value. Furthermore, bioactive components from the leaf extract were quantified using modern GC-MS chromatography with the content of Stigmasterol (228.36 ± 4.95 ppm), Sitosterol (95.44 ± 3.3 ppm), Alpha-Pinene (60.40 ± 1.29 ppm). Antibacterial activity was tested against Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, bacterial cellulose was derived from coconut water via fermentative production of nata de coco, a common food in Southeast Asia. Bacterial cellulose offers distinct advantages over plant cellulose resources, including three-dimensional structure, high porosity, high cellulose purity, and the absence of required polluting treatments, making it an ideal candidate for the facile preparation of various functional aerogel materials. Surface modification of nata de coco -derived cellulose fibers was obtained by incorporating Cu species (approximately 15 wt%) through an aqueous reaction of Cu(CH3COO)2 with N2H4 at room temperature. The Cu-coated bacterial cellulose aerogels were fabricated via supercritical carbon dioxide drying to maintain the natural three-dimensional matrix and subsequently characterized by various techniques confirming high porosity and crystallinity and successful Cu coating onto the cellulose fiber surface. The Cu-containing aerogel showed a significantly improved adsorption uptake for n- hexane (12.6 g g−1) in comparison with pure bacterial cellulose–based aerogel (3.2 g g−1). Furthermore, notable adsorption performances of 13.6–19.9 g g−1 were found for cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, and soybean oil, indicating the high efficiency of the supercritical carbon dioxide–activated bacterial cellulose aerogel containing Cu species in the adsorption of water-insoluble liquids. Notably, applying supercritical carbon dioxide drying afforded the stable aerogel structure for reusing over several cycles with almost unchanged trapping capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we analyzed student participation and success in a college-level Calculus I course that utilized standards-based grading. By measuring the level to which students participate in this class structure, we were able to use a clustering algorithm that revealed multiple groupings of students that were distinct based on activity throughout the semester. Additionally, we analyzed student progress, defined as the number of graded activities successfully completed each week. We found that students who progressed steadily throughout the semester, and thus had lower variability in the number of completed activities per week, tended to receive a higher overall grade. Students whose progress was less consistent, and thus exhibited higher variability in weekly activities completed, tended to receive a lower grade. Overall, this shows a relationship between understanding the expectations in standards-based grading and succeeding in a course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to evaluate the impact of capital structure on the credit risk of Vietnamese commercial banks in 2012–2020. The variables representing the capital structure of banks are the ratio of customer deposits to total assets (CDEP) and non-deposit liabilities to total assets (NDEP). The study uses the non-performing loan ratio on total outstanding loans (NPL) as a proxy variable for credit risk. By using Pooled OLS, FEM, REM, FGLS, and SysGMM methods, the research results show that the CDEP positively impacts credit risk. Meanwhile, the NDEP has a negative impact on the credit risk of Vietnamese commercial banks. On that basis, the study proposes measures to reduce credit risk for Vietnamese commercial banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of phase-change-material mattress (PCM) during transportation of newborns with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Study design: Randomized controlled trial of newborns with HIE from June 2016 to December 2019. Patients were randomized to transport with PCM or without PCM (control) when transferred to a cooling center in northern Vietnam. Primary outcome measure was mortality rate, secondary outcomes including temperature control and adverse effects. Result: Fifty-Two patients in PCM-group and 61 in control group. Median rectal temperature upon arrival was 34.5 °C (IQR 33.5–34.8) in PCM-group and 35.1 °C (IQR 34.5–35.9) in control group (p = 0.023). Median time from birth to reach target temperature was 5.0 ± 1.4 h and 5.5 ± 1.2 h in the respective groups (p = 0.065). 81% of those transported with PCM versus 62% of infants transported without (p = 0.049) had reached target temperature within the 6-h timeframe. There was no record of overcooling (< 32 °C) in any of the groups. The was no difference in mortality rate between the two groups (33% and 34% respectively (p > 0.05)). Conclusion: Phase-change-material can be used as a safe and effective cooling method during transportation of newborns with HIE in low-resource settings. Trial registration: The study was retro-prospectively registered in Clinical Trials (04/05/2022, NCT05361473). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every year, Hanoi suffers from several episodes (periods with daily concentration of PM2.5 higher than 50 µg m−3 during at least two consecutive days). These episodes are of health concern because of the high concentration of PM2.5 and/or PM0.1 and the presence of PM-bound toxic components, such as, PAHs. In this study, the concentrations of PAHs bound to PM2.5 and PM0.1 in night-time and day-time samples during episode and non-episode periods in December 2021 were determined. The concentrations of PAHs bound to PM2.5 were found to increase significantly from day-time samples of 3.24 ± 0.83 ng m−3 to night-time samples of 10.8 ± 4.45 ng m−3 in episode periods. However, PAHs bound to PM0.1 increased slightly from day-time samples of 0.58 ± 0.12 ng m−3 to night-time samples of 0.89 ± 0.30 ng m−3 in episode periods. Diagnostic ratios of PAHs indicate that biomass/coal combustion and vehicular emission are the primary sources of PAHs. The incremental lifetime cancer risk was estimated to vary from 8.7E-09 to 2.5E-08 for children and 6.7E-08 to 2.2E-07 for adults, respectively. Accordingly, loss of life expectancy was estimated at 0.11 min and 0.82 min for children and adults, respectively. These findings imply that the carcinogenic impact induced by PAHs via inhalation is negligible during the episode period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem: Visual racism refers to both the underrepresentation and inappropriate representation of darker skin types in medical education. By not teaching medical students and resident physicians to recognize common conditions in darker skin, it perpetuates biases that contribute to healthcare disparities for racial and ethnic minoritized groups. In this paper we describe our efforts to engage in institutional anti-racism work by addressing imbalances in representation of darker skin types in visual teaching images within our institution's curriculum. Intervention: We initially surveyed preclinical medical students regarding their perceptions of skin color representation in two courses. Researchers recorded the skin types of all teaching photographs in these courses in 2020. We then provided feedback and education to faculty, proposing that they increase brown and black skin color representation in educational content. During 2021, we reviewed the same courses and surveyed students again to ascertain the implementation and impact of our proposal. Context: We applied our intervention to two courses, Host & Defense (H&D) and Skin, Muscle, Bone, and Joint (SMBJ) since both courses utilize a large number of teaching images. Impact: From 2020 to 2021, both H&D and SMBJ significantly increased the proportion of visual teaching images that included darker skin types, with an increase from 28% to 42% in H&D and 20% to 30% in SMBJ. Significantly more students in the courses' 2021 iterations (73% in H&D, 93% in SMBJ) felt that lectures had appropriate representations of darker skin types when compared to students who took the course in 2020 (8% in H&D, 51% in SMBJ). Students in 2021 felt more confident in recognizing dermatological signs and symptoms in patients with darker skin than students in 2020. The majority of students in both 2020 and 2021 reported wanting to see a gradient of skin types for every dermatological condition discussed. Lessons learned: Our work suggests that addressing visual racism can be achieved partly by setting expectations for increased visual representation, collaborating across educational departments, and establishing clear metrics for assessing implementation. Future interventions will require a continual feedback loop of monitoring learning material, assessing faculty and student perception, refining resources, and recommending revisions to improve visual representation across the entire curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study substituted sodium molybdate dehydrate (Na2MoO4.2H2O) in MS medium (Murashige and Skoog 1962) with molybdenum trioxide nanoparticles (MoO3NPs) to evaluate their impact on the morphogenesis, growth, absorption of metal-mineral elements and the activity of antioxidant enzymes of chrysanthemum. The results indicated that 100% callus formation was observed when 1-month-old leaf explants were cultured on medium supplemented with MoO3NPs and Na2MoO4.2H2O in basic MS medium, while leaf explants cultured on MS medium without Na2MoO4.2H2O did not induce callus induction. In addition, the treatment with 223.5 µL/L MoO3NPs resulted in the highest shoot regeneration (33.33%), with 1 shoot per explant, and shoot height (1.14 cm), and fresh weight (1.21 g) compared to those in others and control treatments. Meanwhile, 1-month-old stem node (1 cm) explants cultured on medium supplemented with 149 µL/L MoO3NPs recorded 100% shoot regeneration and the highest number of shoots larger than 2 cm (5 shoots/stem node), shoot height (3.23 cm) and fresh weight (1.87 g) of the shoot cluster after 30 days of culture. During the regeneration stage, the activity of antioxidant enzymes in 149 µg/L MoO3NPs treatment was better than the control (+) treatment (except for SOD) and all the other treatments. Similar results were also observed during the shoot multiplication phase, where either the lack or surplus of Mo in the culture medium also caused the decline of SOD, CAT, and APX enzymes activity. Besides, at the concentration of 6.4 µg/L MoO3NPs in the culture media, nutrients are absorbed more efficiently and rapidly by explants. These findings suggest that substituting ion salt in the culture medium with MoO3NPs led to enhanced absorption, providing a micro-mineral source for plants to support biosynthesis and essential functions. The chrysanthemum plantlets exhibited enhanced rooting and growth when treated with 149 µg/L MoO3NPs, particularly during the rooting stage after 15 days of culture.Key message: Molybdenum trioxide nanoparticles effected on the morphogenesis, growth, absorption of metal-mineral elements and the activity of antioxidant enzymes of chrysanthemum [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem-solving therapy (PST) is a potential psychological intervention aimed at preventing and treating psychological issues in stroke patients, although its efficacy is not clearly established. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of PST in improving mental health, functioning, quality of life, and mortality in this population. Six databases were searched for literature indexed through March 2024, including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, NeuroBITE, and OTseeker. This review (CRD42023483757) followed the PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Library Handbook, utilizing the RoB 2 tool and GRADE system to assess the quality of the evidence. It included eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1249 patients with stroke. Among them, five RCTs showed that PST might improve depression. Additionally, individual RCTs demonstrated the efficacy of PST in addressing patient anxiety, apathy, and coping. With respect to mental health, PST might affect patient quality of life and mortality. However, the results of four RCTs demonstrated no effect of PST on patient functioning. The quality of evidence for the outcomes ranged from very low to high. PST may improve mental health, quality of life, and mortality in patients with stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental changes and human impact can alter biodiversity in negative manners that affect mankind's sustainable development. Particularly, such effects on inland waters are even more concerning, as those ecosystems play essential roles in sustaining human life as well as relevant wildlife. Thus, in this study, we investigated such effects on microbial diversity in inland waters in Vietnam using bacterial communities in sediment as indicators. To do this, we collected sediment samples from various locations in three respective regions (Red river in the north, Ba river in the central area, and Mekong delta flood zone in the south) using standard methods, extracted their total DNA, sequenced their V3-V4 16S rRNA gene fragments using an Illumina Miseq platform and analyzed the sequences to infer the diversity of the bacterial communities in the samples. These communities were compared in terms of richness (alpha diversity) and composition (beta diversity), and the correlations between their diversity levels and environmental factors, as well as human activities, were analyzed by using standard statistical tools. Our results showed that the communities were different from each other solely by region, in richness and critically in composition, although there were some communities distinctively different from all the others. Among environmental factors, only water salinity (and conductivity) had negative correlations with alpha-diversity indices of the bacterial communities, and phosphate concentration and turbidity had positive correlations, while the other factors had almost no correlations, which partially explains the region-specific diversity. These results also suggest that climate change incidences, especially sea intrusion, can have significant effects on microbial diversity in inland waters. The impact of human activities did not appear severe, solely affecting bacterial community richness, but not significantly affecting bacterial community composition. However, apparently reduced bacterial diversity in several sites with intense human impacts and distinct environmental conditions should be noted and deserve further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this paper, δ -dual codes over finite commutative semi-simple rings are defined as a generalization of dual codes over finite commutative semi-simple rings. Some properties of δ -dual codes are given. We present necessary and sufficient conditions for a λ -constacyclic code of length n to be δ -self-dual, δ -self-orthogonal, δ -dual-containing, δ -LCD over finite commutative semi-simple rings. We also study the δ -dual of skew Θ - λ -constacyclic codes over finite commutative semi-simple rings. Among others, we also give necessary and sufficient conditions for a skew Θ - λ -constacyclic code of any length n to be δ -self-dual, δ -self-orthogonal, δ -dual-containing, δ -LCD over finite commutative semi-simple rings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new heterotrophic dinoflagellate, Protoperidinium vietnamicum sp. nov. is described from the coastal waters of Vietnam. It is characterized by an elongated, pentagonal to pyriform body in ventral and dorsal view, with moderate dorsoventral compression. Epitheca is tapering into a robust apical horn, which is shorter than the antapical horns. Cingulum is equatorial, descending by about 0.50–0.75 of its width. Sulcus is wide, shallow, and slightly oblique. Plate 1′ is ortho‐type, and intercalary 2a and 3a plates are pentagonal. Plate 1a is quadrangular, having approximately one third the area of plate 3a. Additionally, the new combination Protoperidinium curvicorne (Böhm) comb. nov. is proposed. It is a large cell‐sized species with a round, broad body, and strong dorsoventral compression. Its epitheca narrows abruptly into a slender apical horn strongly tilted towards the ventral side. The cingulum is narrow, shallow, descending by about 1.5–2.0 cingular widths, and strongly inclined relative to the equatorial plane of the cell. The plate 1′ is ortho‐type, and 2a and 3a are pentagonal. Specimens from the type locality of the taxon were examined. Both species are provided with detailed descriptions and are illustrated with line drawings, as well as with light microscopy images and SEM micrographs. An in‐depth discussion and comparison with similar species are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scabies is a neglected tropical disease and represents a considerable global burden. Although consensus diagnostic criteria for scabies have been recently published, diagnosing scabies infestation remains challenging in clinical practice. We investigated the diagnostic utility of complete blood cell count (CBC) and CBC-derived ratios obtained at diagnosis in a set of 167 patients who are Vietnamese with confirmed scabies. These parameters were compared with those of patients with dermatophytosis (N = 800) and urticaria (N = 2023), two diseases frequent in Vietnam, which can present with similar skin manifestations to scabies and tend to pose a diagnostic challenge in vulnerable populations. Our analysis revealed that white blood cell, monocyte, and eosinophil counts were significantly higher among patients with scabies than the other two diseases. Similarly, the monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (ELR) were significantly higher among patients with scabies. The optimal cut-off values to distinguish scabies from dermatophytosis and urticaria were 0.094 for ELR (sensitivity: 74.85%, specificity: 70.7%) and 0.295 for MLR (sensitivity: 52.69%, specificity: 73.54%). CBC, ELR, and MLR are low-cost and easily calculated parameters that may be helpful for the diagnosis of scabies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the effect of CEO characteristics on bank stability of commercial banks in Vietnam. The study used regression models Pooled OLS, Fixed effects Model (FEM), random effects model (REM), and Feasible Generalized Least Square (FGLS) to evaluate the relationship between CEO characteristics and bank stability of 26 commercial banks in Vietnam. To deal with the limitations of traditional regression methods, we propose Bayesian regression method. The data collection period in the study is from 2013 to 2022. In these regression models, CEO power, female CEO, CEO tenure, and CEO age are independent variables. The dependent variable representing bank stability is the Z‐score. The research results show that the factors CEO power, female CEO, CEO tenure, CEO age have a positive impact on bank stability in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study explored the relationship between unhealthy weight control behaviors (UWCBs) and their associated economic costs among adolescents using the 2014–2018 Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC). Methods: LSAC data in Wave 6 (n = 3538 adolescents aged 14–15 years), Wave 7 n = 3089 adolescents aged 16–17 years), and Wave 8 (n = 3037 adolescents aged 18–19 years) were derived from a representative sample of Australian adolescents. UWCBs were measured using the self‐reported Branched Eating Disorder Test questionnaire. UWCBs were sub‐classified into having fasting behaviors, using weight loss supplements or purging behaviors. Economic costs include healthcare and productivity costs to caregivers. Healthcare costs were measured using data from the Medicare and Pharmaceutical Benefits, which includes both medical and pharmaceutical costs. Productivity losses were measured using caregivers' lost leisure time due to UWCBs among adolescents. Results: The mixed effect model identified statistically significant higher economic costs (mean difference = $453, 95% CIs $154, $752), higher health care costs (mean difference = $399, 95% CIs $102, $695), and higher productivity costs (mean difference = $59, 95% CIs $29, $90) for adolescents with UWCBs compared to their peers with no UWCBs. Subgroup analysis revealed that higher costs were associated with fasting and purging behaviors. Discussion: UWCBs were associated with increased economic costs during adolescence. Our finding suggests there should be a policy focus on tackling UWCBs to reduce the economic burden on the healthcare system and society. Public Significance: The study contributes to existing knowledge by investigating the direct healthcare costs and productivity losses associated with unhealthy weight control behaviors in Australian adolescents (14–18 years old) using a dataset that follows Australian adolescents over time. We found that engaging in unhealthy weight control behaviors such as fasting, using weight loss supplements, and purging was linked to higher costs among adolescents, suggesting policies should focus on addressing these behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To update a systematic review of the literature on the barriers and enablers of service access and utilization for children and adolescents with a diagnosis, or symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), from the perspective of caregivers, clinicians, and teachers. Methods: Five databases were searched for peer-reviewed literature published from May 2012 to March 2023. Two independent reviewers completed a two-stage screening process and quality assessment. Results: Of 4,523 search results, 30 studies were included. Five main themes were generated: 1) Awareness of ADHD, 2) Stigma, 3) Parental choice and partnerships, 4) Education services as an integral component, 5) Referrals, waiting times, and logistics. More than half of the studies reported poor acknowledgement, expertise of ADHD, and stigma. Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for ongoing ADHD education for all involved and policy changes to service delivery systems to increase the availability of health providers with specialist ADHD expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose:Staphylococcus aureus is a commensal bacteria species that can cause various illnesses, from mild skin infections to severe diseases, such as bacteremia. The distribution and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) pattern of S. aureus varies by population, time, geographic location, and hospital wards. In this study, we elucidated the epidemiology and AMR patterns of S. aureus isolated from a general hospital in Vietnam.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data on all S. aureus infections from 2014 to 2021 were collected from the Microbiology department of Military Hospital 103, Vietnam. Only the first isolation from each kind of specimen from a particular patient was analyzed using the Cochran–Armitage and chi-square tests.Results: A total of 1130 individuals were diagnosed as S. aureus infection. Among them, 1087 strains were tested for AMR features. Most patients with S. aureus infection were in the age group of 41– 65 years (39.82%). S. aureus isolates were predominant in the surgery wards, and pus specimens were the most common source of isolates (50.62%). S. aureus was most resistant to azithromycin (82.28%), erythromycin (82.82%), and clindamycin (82.32%) and least resistant to teicoplanin (0.0%), tigecycline (0.16%), quinupristin-dalfopristin (0.43%), linezolid (0.62%), and vancomycin (2.92%). Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) S. aureus were prevalent, accounting for 73.02% and 60.90% of the total strains respectively, and the strains isolated from the intensive care unit (ICU) had the highest percentage of multidrug resistance (77.78%) among the wards.Conclusion: These findings highlight the urgent need for continuous AMR surveillance and updated treatment guidelines, particularly considering high resistance in MRSA, MDR strains, and ICU isolates. Future research focusing on specific resistant populations and potential intervention strategies is crucial to combat this rising threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oyster shells are one of the most abundant seafood wastes in Vietnam which have not been deposed efficiently, causing many negative effects on the ecosystem and the quality of human life. In this study, the recycling of waste oyster shells was investigated to provide a calcium carbonate-rich material for improving and stabilizing the pH value of acidified water. Characterization of the recycled shells using various techniques proved that the thermal treatments at temperatures from 120 to 220 °C led to no significant changes in the chemical composition and calcite-based layer structure of oyster shells. Testing the performance of the recycled oyster shells in the adjustment of the aqueous pH value was conducted in a solution containing NH4Cl (0.5 g/L) as a simulation of the acidified aquaculture phase. As expected, using 1 g of the 220 °C -calcinated oyster shell for 2 L of the simulated solution, the solution pH rapidly increased from 6.3 to 7.7 in the first 2 h, reached the extreme value (~ 7.8) after 24 h and slowly decreased to the stabilized pH range of ~ 7.2 after 5-6 d. It was proved out that the oyster shell amount significantly affected the solution pH value. Importantly, the elemental analysis showed that the content of toxic transition metals including Cd, Pb, As, and Cr in the oyster shell was below the detection limit of each other, implying great potential for the application in the real aquaculture environment in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares the critical reading proficiency of engineering students from two private institutions in Malaysia and Vietnam. It examines the degree to which PISAbased critical reading test scores of first- and final-year students vary. 182 engineering students, including 86 Malaysian and 96 Vietnamese undergraduates, were involved in this project. Descriptive and quantitative analyses were performed on the data. According to the findings, most students at two universities exhibited moderate critical reading skills. Moreover, the study's outcomes revealed no substantial disparities between the critical reading levels of the final year Malaysian and Vietnamese students. By contrast, the performance of first-year students at two universities varied significantly on some test items. Some considerations regarding the selection of Western-based texts and the use of open-ended questions in the PISA reading test that might cause difficulties for Eastern students are also demonstrated in this study. This study compares the critical reading proficiency of engineering students from two private institutions in Malaysia and Vietnam. It examines the degree to which PISAbased critical reading test scores of first- and final-year students vary. 182 engineering students, including 86 Malaysian and 96 Vietnamese undergraduates, were involved in this project. Descriptive and quantitative analyses were performed on the data. According to the findings, most students at two universities exhibited moderate critical reading skills. Moreover, the study's outcomes revealed no substantial disparities between the critical reading levels of the final year Malaysian and Vietnamese students. By contrast, the performance of first-year students at two universities varied significantly on some test items. Some considerations regarding the selection of Western-based texts and the use of open-ended questions in the PISA reading test that might cause difficulties for Eastern students are also demonstrated in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting isolation measures created an increase in the usage of smart devices and internet among adolescents. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of internet addiction, the prevalence of high level of anxiety as well as to examine factors associated with the high level of anxiety among adolescents in Hanoi, Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Data was collected using respondent-driven sampling and Google online survey forms from a sample of 5,325 school students aged 11–17 in Hanoi between October and December 2021. A short scale consisting of 5 items was used to measure internet addiction and the GAD-7 was used to measure adolescent anxiety level. Results: The findings revealed that 22.8% and 7.32% of adolescents experienced moderate and severe anxiety. About 32.7% of the study sample exhibited at least three internet addiction indicators. Logistic regression analysis identified significant predictors for high levels of adolescent anxiety. Being female, family experiencing economic difficulties, and exposure to domestic violence were associated with higher risk of anxiety disorder (OR 1.78, 1.45, and 2.89, respectively). Both average daily online time and internet addiction demonstrated gradient association with high level of anxiety. Conclusion: The prevalence of internet addiction and high level of anxiety were high among adolescents in Hanoi, Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study highlights the importance of implementing measures at the family and school levels to promote a balanced and healthy approach to smart device use among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the knowledge economy, intangible assets and intellectual property rights are increasingly recognized as a substance of competencies. As an emerging market of the world, Asian developing countries experience various issues related to intellectual property rights protection. Meanwhile, the current literature on intellectual property rights with an emphasis placed on Asia is quite scarce. Therefore, this study explores the determinants of the strength of intellectual property rights in 25 Asian developing countries during the 11-year period from 2006 to 2016. Using the fixed effects model (FEM) and random effects model (REM) with the Hausman test, the paper discovers the positive impacts of economic growth, trade openness, and WTO participation on the protection level of intellectual property rights. Unexpectedly, education is a negative determinant of intellectual property rights protection. This study aims to demonstrate the overall status quos of intellectual property rights regimes across Asian developing countries, so provide an important theoretical background for innovators, governments, and policymakers to design optimal intellectual property rights strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nata de coco produced via coconut water fermentation using Acetobacter xylinum was directly applied to remove metal cations in aqueous solutions without any further chemical modification. Bacterial cellulose, contributing just 0.8 wt % to nata de coco, were randomly distributed and interconnected, yielding a three‐dimensional framework with high crystallinity and porosity. Due to these characteristics and the abundant presence of electron‐rich hydroxyl groups, unmodified bacterial cellulose in nata de coco exhibited a strong affinity to metal cations in water. The adsorption efficiency of nata de coco can be significantly improved to ∼30 and ∼45 mg g−1 for Pb2+ and Fe3+, respectively, by decreasing its size by grinding to decrease its size. Notably, nata de coco can adsorb multiple cations and the uptakes were almost similar for a 100‐fold scaled‐up adsorption volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In practical applications of passive sonar principles for extracting characteristic frequencies of acoustic signals, scientists typically employ traditional time-frequency domain transformation methods such as Mel-frequency, Short time Fourier transform (STFT), and Wavelet transform (WT). However, these solutions still face limitations in resolution and information loss when transforming data collected over extended periods. In this paper, we present a study using a two-stage approach that combines pre-processing by Cubic-splines interpolation (CSI) with a probability distribution in the hidden space with Siamese triple loss network model for classifying marine mammal (MM) communication signals. The Cubic-splines interpolation technique is tested with the STFT transformation to generate STFT-CSI spectrograms, which enforce stronger relationships between characteristic frequencies, enhancing the connectivity of spectrograms and highlighting frequency-based features. Additionally, stacking spectrograms generated by three consecutive methods, Mel, STFT-CSI, and Wavelet, into a feature spectrogram optimizes the advantages of each method across different frequency bands, resulting in a more effective classification process. The proposed solution using an Siamese Neural Network-Variational Auto Encoder (SNN-VAE) model also overcomes the drawbacks of the Auto-Encoder (AE) structure, including loss of discontinuity and loss of completeness during decoding. The classification accuracy of marine mammal signals using the SNN-VAE model increases by 11% and 20% compared to using the AE model (2013), and by 6% compared to using the Resnet model (2022) on the same actual dataset NOAA from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - United State of America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Grand efforts have been recently devoted to the development of catalysts based on the excellent performance of Cu‐ and Fe‐dependent enzymes in methanotrophic bacteria for the partial oxidation of methane to methanol under ambient conditions. As a continuation of the study on the stepwise manner for this conversion over zeolite‐based catalysts, in this work, the effects of zeolite topology and activation temperature on the catalytic performance of Cu‐ and Fe‐containing zeolites were investigated. RESULTS: Cu species exchanged in the medium‐pore zeolites (mordenite, ZSM‐5, and ferrierite) afforded better methanol production, while large‐pore zeolites (zeolite β and zeolite γ) were inappropriate to accommodate active Cu sites. Notably, Cu/silicalite‐1 containing CuO species was also reactive to methane after the activation in O2, yielding a minor methanol amount. Furthermore, the activity of Fe/mordenite towards the methanol in the O2‐assisted procedure was reported for the first time but with a much lower yield as compared to that of Cu/mordenite. The methanol yield over Cu/mordenite increased with the activation temperature because increasing the activation temperature favored the Cu‐exchange degree with a higher priority at the side pockets as compared to the main channels of mordenite, as evidenced from infrared analysis. CONCLUSION: The selective oxidation of methane to methanol by O2 via a stepwise manner can be obtained over both ion‐exchanged Cu species and well‐dispersed CuO nanoparticles with better activity being recorded for the former. The activity of Cu‐exchanged zeolites was considerably dependent on the zeolite topology and the charge‐balancing position of the Cu2+ cations. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Government policy guidance in Victoria, Australia, encourages schools to provide affordable, healthy foods in canteens. This study analysed the healthiness and price of items available in canteens in Victorian primary schools and associations with school characteristics. Design: Dietitians classified menu items (main, snack and beverage) using the red, amber and green traffic light system defined in the Victorian government's School Canteens and Other School Food Services Policy. This system also included a black category for confectionary and high sugar content soft drinks which should not be supplied. Descriptive statistics and regressions were used to analyse differences in the healthiness and price of main meals, snacks and beverages offered, according to school remoteness, sector (government and Catholic/independent) size, and socio-economic position. Setting: State of Victoria, Australia Participants: A convenience sample of canteen menus drawn from three previous obesity prevention studies in forty-eight primary schools between 2016 and 2019. Results: On average, school canteen menus were 21 % 'green' (most healthy – everyday), 53 % 'amber' (select carefully), 25 % 'red' (occasional) and 2 % 'black' (banned) items, demonstrating low adherence with government guidelines. 'Black' items were more common in schools in regional population centres. 'Red' main meal items were cheaper than 'green'% (mean difference –$0·48 (95 % CI –0·85, –0·10)) and 'amber' –$0·91 (–1·27, –0·57)) main meal items. In about 50 % of schools, the mean price of 'red' main meal, beverages and snack items were cheaper than 'green' items, or no 'green' alternative items were offered. Conclusion: In this sample of Victorian canteen menus, there was no evidence of associations of healthiness and pricing by school characteristics except for regional centres having the highest proportion of 'black' (banned) items compared with all other remoteness categories examined. There was low adherence with state canteen menu guidelines. Many schools offered a high proportion of 'red' food options and 'black' (banned) options, particularly in regional centres. Unhealthier options were cheaper than healthy options. More needs to be done to bring Victorian primary school canteen menus in line with guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper examined the impact of perceived service quality (PSQ) and patient complaint (PC) on patient satisfaction (PS). The study was carried out at the highest-level hospital, Vietnam. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed to inpatients who were used in health service in April 2018. The SPSS (version 25.0) statistical software was used for the data analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis was performed for the structural equation modeling, using the Amos 25.0 program. Findings suggest PSQ direct influence on PC and PS; PC influences PS. Complaints handling should consider when improving service quality to increase satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology integration in second language acquisition (SLA) has become prevalent and prominent in the modern age. Quizlet has emerged as a vocabulary learning tool integrated not only into computers (CALL) but also into mobile phones (MALL), over the years; its effectiveness has already been proved via several quasi-experimental studies. However, such research is still limited; some did not even include a control group. Further, whether learners' individual differences may have any impact on Quizlet effectiveness in promoting lexical gains remains unknown. To address these gaps, this study was conducted with the participation of 68 Vietnamese undergraduates, following a pretest-posttest design together with semi-structured interviews. While the control group (N = 35) reviewed lexical items in a conventional way, the experimental group (N = 33) used Quizlet for vocabulary revision. Prior to the five-week treatment, all participants took the pretest, receptive and productive vocabulary knowledge tests, and three working memory tests. When all revision sessions were completed, all participants took the posttest. Then, five random learners in the experimental group were invited to join the semi-structured interviews. Results showed that while revision on Quizlet led to greater lexical gains, working memory and prior vocabulary knowledge did not play any significant role in predicting such improvements. Pedagogical implications for teachers and recommendations for future research were also provided to address vocabulary retention, individual differences, and the use of Quizlet more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: ADHD (attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder) affects 5% of children on average. Despite the high need to access services for ADHD treatment, not all children with ADHD utilise healthcare services equally. This study aims to systematically synthesise evidence of equity and equality in health service use/costs and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL)/wellbeing of children with ADHD across socioeconomic (SES) classes. Methods: The literature search was conducted across seven databases (Academic Search complete, MEDLINE Complete, PsycINFO, ERIC, Global Health, CINAHL and EconLit). The search was limited to peer‐reviewed articles published to 23rd January 2023 in English and focused on children. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP), Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) checklists. Results: 25 out of 1207 articles were eligible for inclusion. The results showed that SES was associated with different types of healthcare utilisation. Only three studies were found on HRQoL/well‐being. Children with ADHD from low SES families had lower HRQoL than children from high SES families. Conclusion: This study found that a social gradient exists in both healthcare service use and children's HRQoL among those with ADHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early and inappropriate messages regarding sexuality and marriage taught during adolescent initiation rituals teachings in Mozambique are considered a determinant of high rates of early marriage, adolescent pregnancy, and maternal mortality. The Alert Community for a Prepared Hospital implementation research project in Natikiri, Nampula, Mozambique (2016-2020) identified adolescent initiation rituals counsellors and traditional authorities as pertinent agents to provide sexual and reproductive health education to adolescents during the initiation rituals. Objective: Develop, apply, evaluate, and disseminate a modern, transformative education tool, about sexual and reproductive health and rights, for counselors to use with adolescents during initiation rituals in Northern Mozambique. Methods: This is an exploratory descriptive and intervention study, using mixed method approaches. Findings: Results suggest, the education tool was well accepted by rituals counsellors, community leaders and the adolescents who attended the initiation rituals. It was shown to improve adolescent's knowledge and lead to a positive behaviour change in sexual and reproductive health and rights. Conclusions: This intervention may be replicated at a national level with a low cost and significantly contribute to reducing adolescent pregnancy and early marriages and improving maternal and child health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presented a simple and eco-friendly method to load copper nanoparticles on the surface of bacterial cellulose from nata de coco produced via the fermentation of coconut water by Acetobacter xylinum. The Cu modification of BC surface was based on the reduction of copper (II) acetate by hydrazine under ambient conditions in a dispersion system of Nata de coco in water, which was followed by freeze-drying, affording lightweight Cu-containing cellulose aerogels. The structural features of the obtained aerogels were investigated by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM/EDX), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and nitrogen physisorption, indicating the high cellulose crystallinity, three-dimensional matrix and homogenous dispersion of Cu species on the cellulose bundles. The Cu-modified aerogel exhibited a significantly improved adsorption capacity of cyclohexane (66.4 g/g) as compared to that of pure cellulose (45 g/g). The excellent performances of 65.1–109.6 g/g were also observed for other water-insoluble liquids including n-hexane, toluene, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, chlorobenzene, 1,2-dichlorobenzene, dichloromethane, and chloroform depending their density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, chitosan–magnetite composites (CS-MNPs) were successfully synthesized using a rapid and easy technique. The materials were characterized by FTIR, XRD, EDX, TEM, VSM, and BET methods. The removal of the antibiotics ciprofloxacin (CFX) and levofloxacin (LFX) from aqueous solutions by CS-MNPs adsorbent was investigated. The influencing factors in a single adsorption system were studied, including pH (1–11), initial concentration (2.5–15.0 mg/L), contact time (0–120 min), and adsorbent dosage (5–50 mg/L). The experiment data were analyzed by pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The adsorption isotherms were studied by fitting the experimental data to the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin models. The results indicated that the adsorption of CFX and LFX antibiotics was consistent with the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, the Langmuir isotherm model. Binary adsorption systems (CFX: LFX) with concentration ratios of 1:0, 1:0.5, 1:1.0, 1:1.5, and 1:2.0 were also studied. The antibiotics CFX and LFX were absorbed by CS-MNPs simultaneously in the aqueous solution. The presence of the second component in the solution reduced the first component's ability to adsorb. The adsorption process in the binary system followed the Langmuir competition model. After four regenerations, CS-MNPS exhibited stability and was well reusable. Studies on actual samples showed that CS-MNPs could effectively remove FQs from those samples, with a treatment efficiency of above 98%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, I bring to the center of inquiry the role of emotion in scholarship, knowledge production, and scholarly endeavors. I discuss the ways in which emotion, in varied forms and intensities, shapes how one may respond to particular bodies of knowledge and academic initiatives. In a complex manner, I engage with Kuan-Hsing Chen's "Asia as Method" (Chen in Asia as Method: towards deimperialization, Duke University Press, Durham, 2010). I take it as an inspiration as well as a source of critique and expansion of ideas to advance scholarly arguments and to shed light on the process through which certain knowledge can be produced and/or restricted by particular emotions. At the same time, I critique varied uncritical endorsements of Asia, Asia as Method, and of ungrounded accusations of Western theory and hegemony. I lean into emotion/affect as a possible means of complicated knowing, productive scholarly writing, and knowledge production. I also emphasize the importance of engaging (with) rigorous and diverse historical knowledge as scholars produce education research. An important part of this article is what I refer to as an Asia scar incident and my reopening of that scar. To put this scar conversation in perspective, via narrative research, I present my recollection of the context leading to the scar as well as my reflection on the incident and how my scholarship has come along. I also request that scholars be open to multiple voices and multiple forms of scholarly participation to enable a more democratic recognition of nuanced knowledge production in transnationalized higher education. I argue that realizing and embracing such a democratic recognition can nurture and enable what I would call justice of voice and justice of participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]