bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the pathogenesis of infertility in endometriosis - literature review
Authors: Szymańska Wiktoria Maria , Wójcik Julia , Kantor Karolina Kinga , Plewniok Julia , Partyka Maria , Pamuła Kacper Wojciech , Janeczek Maksymilian , Cholewa Marcin , Jaglarz Karolina , Kuca Maciej
Published: October 2024

Introduction and objective
Endometriosis is a complex systemic condition characterized by the growth of functional endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, affecting 10-15% of women of reproductive age. Up to 50% of these women face infertility challenges. Although there is a scientifically established connection between endometriosis and infertility, the underlying mechanisms remain not fully understood.
Review methods
The PubMed database was searched using phrases related to the topic of endometriosis-associated infertility. The search included original research articles, review papers, and guidelines, including the Polish guideline on managing women with endometriosis. Ultimately, 25 relevant sources presenting the latest knowledge were selected.
Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge
The pathogenesis of infertility associated with endometriosis is complex and involves multiple factors. The most frequently cited contributors in the scientific literature include pain and dyspareunia, mechanical factors, reduced ovarian reserve, oxidative stress, changes in embryo and oocyte quality, impaired ovulation, and compromised endometrial receptivity.
Summary
Endometriosis affects a growing number of women worldwide, with nearly half experiencing infertility. The complexity and involvement of multiple organ systems make it difficult to pinpoint a single cause, posing a challenge for clinicians. Addressing these diverse factors is essential for improving fertility management in women with endometriosis.
On Discrete Subproblems in Integer Optimal Control with Total Variation Regularization in Two Dimensions
Authors: Manns Paul , Severitt Marvin
Published: October 2024

We analyze integer linear programs that we obtain after discretizing two-dimensional subproblems arising from a trust-region algorithm for mixed integer optimal control problems with total variation regularization. We discuss NP-hardness of the discretized problems and the connection to graph-based problems. We show that the underlying polyhedron exhibits structural restrictions in its vertices with regard to which variables can attain fractional values at the same time. Based on this property, we derive cutting planes by employing a relation to shortest-path and minimum bisection problems. We propose a branching rule and a primal heuristic which improves previously found feasible points. We validate the proposed tools with a numerical benchmark in a standard integer programming solver. We observe a significant speedup for medium-sized problems. Our results give hints for scaling toward larger instances in the future.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms–Discrete.

Funding: This work was supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft [Grant MA 10080/2-1].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2024.0680 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2024.0680 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
A local evaluation of the non-surgical oncology advanced practice curriculum framework
Authors: Clarkson Melanie , McDonald Fiona , Khine Ricardo
Published: October 2024

Background:

In the non-surgical oncology specialism, there are a number of healthcare professionals with unique knowledge, skills and attributes that have the potential to build on this foundation and have a positive impact on patient care and outcomes. The use of the wider healthcare workforce to support clinical services has been identified as a partial solution to the UK's projected shortfall of clinical and medical oncologists, and also provides opportunities for development of experienced healthcare professionals. In order to standardise education and training, promoting patient and practitioner safety, a speciality training framework is required.

Aims:

This article aims to assess the relevance of the curriculum framework for advanced practitioners in non-surgical oncology and to examine its associated implementation issues in Northern England.

Methods:

A qualitative study examined the perspectives of professionals currently working with, training, or working as advanced practitioners (APs) around the non-surgical oncology advanced practice (NSOAP) curriculum framework. Data were gathered via semi-structured interviews with 14 participants. Data were then analysed and themes were extracted.

Results and discussion:

Four overarching themes emerged: AP role description; the curriculum framework; barriers to the AP role; and enablers to the AP role.

Conclusion:

Overall, the NSOAP curriculum framework was welcomed by the participants as a required structured programme of education and training. The data highlighted some areas for further development around systemic anti-cancer therapies and onco-geriatrics. The wider implementation considerations also informed future dissemination plans for the NSOAP curriculum framework.
What are advanced clinical practitioners' expectations of the benefits of pursuing the role, and are these being realised?
Authors: Scott Vikki-Jo
Published: October 2024

Background:

Advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) have been used worldwide to reform health services to address population needs. However, previous research identifies barriers that prevent the effective implementation of ACPs.

Aims:

To better understand the expectations ACPs have in relation to their roles, and to evaluate whether they are being met so that focused educational and policy initiatives can be developed to reduce gaps between expectation and reality.

Methods:

This online cross-sectional study uses a sequential, mixed-methods, exploratory design, in which themes identified from focus groups were used to construct a follow-up questionnaire. Some 291 UK participants were recruited via social media and ACP educational and policy networks. Exploratory data and reflexive thematic analysis were employed to probe and visualise results, drawing findings together into narrative synthesis.

Findings:

This research provides insight from a diverse group of ACPs of their lived experiences, aspirations and driving forces to either enter or remain working in the profession. Five themes were identified during focus group discussions: 1) clinical/non-clinical balance; 2) full use of knowledge, skills and experience; 3) leadership in quality improvement; 4) career progression; and 5) policy, vision and organisation. Gaps between ACPs' expectations and their lived experience of the role were identified.

Conclusion:

To achieve the expected growth of the ACP role, attention is needed to narrow the gaps between expectations and reality. This includes ringfencing non-clinical activity; enhancing opportunities for professional development, supervision and leadership; providing greater clarity in career planning; and embedding and evaluating efforts to standardise advanced clinical practice.
Developing the clinical nurse specialist role in Indonesia: increasing high-quality nursing care
Authors: Rukmi Dwi Kartika , Sumiyarini Retno , Hidayati Rizqi Wahyu
Published: October 2024

This article explores the development of advanced practice specialist nursing in Indonesia, with specific focus placed on the clinical nurse specialist role, its evolution, associated educational programmes and place in the healthcare landscape.
The Relationship Between Grit, Resilience, and Career Identity in Nursing Students
Authors: Chae Yeojoo
Published: October 2024

purpose: An attempt was made to understand the grit, resilience, and career identity of nursing students in an urban area and to identify the factors that influence their career identity. Methods: The data collected was analyzed using the IBM SPSS 29.0 program. The general characteristics, grit, resilience, and career identity were calculated using descriptive statistics. Grit, resilience, and career identity according to general characteristics were analyzed using independent t-test and ANOVA, correlations between grit, resilience, and career identity were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and factors affecting career identity were analyzed using hierarchical regression analysis. Results: The results of this study showed that the degree of major satisfaction (β=0.46, p=.003) in model 1 and resilience (β=0.63, p<.001) in model 2 were found to be significant factors affecting career identity. The explanatory power increased to 25.7% in Model 1 and 61.4% in Model 2. Conclusion: We recommend further research to develop and test the effectiveness of a resilience promotion program to improve career identity among nursing students.
Determination of the qualitative composition of gingival microflora in patients with cementum caries, and periodontopathogens
Authors: Aliyev G. Kh. , Abiev H. A. , Babayev H. G. , Azizov I. V.
Published: October 2024

The qualitative composition of the microflora of periodontal pockets and gingival fluid, the composition of periodontopathogens determined by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, the main associations of microorganisms, parocementum caries, dental index were comparatively studiedin patients with external pathological resorption and patients from the comparison group.40 patients were selected for the study, 14 of them with cementum caries, 12 with external pathological root resorption, and 14 without damage to the root of the tooth were in the comparison group. According to the study, all patients with cementum caries and external pathological resorption had pathological processes in the periodontium. According to the results of the microbiological examination in different clinical conditions of the oral cavity, especially with different forms of damage to the periodontum and hard tissues of the teeth, the predominant microbial samples were studied.The study of the qualitative composition of the microflora revealed that the most common pathogens in patients with cementum caries were: Prevotellaintermedia, Tannerella forsythia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Candida albicans, Treponemadenticola. In patients with external resorption, P. intermedia, Tr. denticola, C. albicans, T. forsythia, P. gingivalis Epstein-Barr viruses were found. These are periodontopathogenic microorganisms and have wide pathogenic properties.
A study of oral health and quality of life in patients with dyslipidemia
Authors: Lee Sung-Lim
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study analyzed factors influencing oral health and quality of life in patients with dyslipidemia using raw data from the first year (2019) and third year (2021), where the quality of life was assessed using the HINT-8 tool from the 8th National Health and Nutrition Survey data. Methods: Frequency analysis, descriptive statistics, general linear model analysis, and linear regression analysis were performed on the collected data using SPSS program 26.0, and the data of 1,926 participants were analyzed. Results: The mean quality of life (HINT-8) score was 0.78 out of 1.00. Quality of life according to general characteristics, showed significant differences according to gender, age, household income, education level, lifetime smoking status, and lifetime alcohol consumption. In terms of oral health, it significantly differed according to chewing discomfort, speaking discomfort, oral examination history, toothbrushing frequency, toothache history, untreated dental care needs, subjective oral health status and use of oral care products. The predictors of quality of life were gender, household income, education level, lifetime alcohol consumption, chewing discomfort, speaking discomfort, toothache history, and untreated dental care needs. Conclusions: These results confirm that oral health influences the quality of life of patients with dyslipidemia and are expected to provide basic data for research on improving oral health and quality of life in these patients.
Evaluation of beverage consumption patterns and oral health in Korean adolescents and young adults
Authors: Jung Eun-Ju , Youn Hye-Jeong
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the beverage consumption patterns and analyze the relationship between the frequency of beverage consumption and oral health in Korean adolescents and young adults who consumed large amounts of sugar from beverages. Methods: Data from the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2019–2021) were analyzed, and 2,787 individuals aged 12-29 years were selected as the study subjects. A complex sample general linear model was used to assess the associations of subject general characteristics and oral health with the frequency of beverage consumption. Results: Both adolescents and young adults frequently consumed carbonated beverages 2.04 and 2.12 times per week, respectively. The most commonly consumed volume per drink was 200 cc. In both groups, the lower the average number of times teeth were brushed daily, the higher was the frequency of fizzy drink consumption. When teeth were brushed less than once daily, the frequency of carbonated drink consumption was 2.63 in adolescents and 2.22 in young adults. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for oral health education of adolescents and young adults on diet and beverage intake. Additionally, information should be provided on oral diseases associated with beverage consumption, such as dental caries and erosion.
Cost estimation of preventive dental hygiene care using Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing (TDABC)
Authors: Jung Yun-Sook , Oh Bo-Kyoung , Jang Yun-Jung , Hwang Sun-Hee , Yoon Seo-Young , Baek Seong-Eun , Kim Min-Young
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study used Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing (TDABC) to measure the value of preventive dental hygiene care and offering a more practical and adaptable cost management method than compared to traditional cost accounting approaches.. Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted using 164 questionnaires collected from dental hygienists actively involved in preventive dental care. The cost data related to labor, materials, and overheads, were anlyzed using detailed classifications of procedures such as scaling, fluoride application, and sealant application. Results: The total allocated cost of 10,163,355 South Korean Won (KRW) was divided by the total working time of the dental clinic (23,520 min), providing a unit cost of 432 KRW/min. Among the three preventive dental care procedures, scaling had the highest total activity cost of 5,867,243 KRW. Conclusions: This study provides valuable evidence for the implementation of an appropriate fee system for preventive dental care performed by dental hygienists. Therefore, this study contributes to the establishment of a fair and rational reimbursement structure.
Impact on dental hygiene students’ adaptation of clinical clerkship
Authors: You Eun-Ji , Min Hee-Hong
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the degree and relationship between dental hygiene students’ Interpersonal skills, adaptation of university life, and adaptation of clinical clerkship. Methods: Data were collected from December 15, 2023 to 30, and the final analysis subjects were 180 people. Results: Factors affecting clinical clerkship adaptation of dental hygiene students were department satisfaction and university life adaptation, and the explanatory power was 25.7%. Conclusions: It is believed that a program to improve adaptation to college life with professors and seniors is necessary to help students become interested in and adapt to college life, and that clinical training is necessary for students preparing for practicum.
Henry James and the “Laboratory Brain”: The Neuroscience of Cognitive Time-Travel
Authors: Armstrong Paul B.
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Henry James’s skepticism about the “laboratory brain” is shared by much contemporary neuroscience. Both reject the notion that a brain detached from its embodied engagement with the social world could duplicate the experience of what it is like to be conscious. James’s understanding of how consciousness can cross temporal horizons and support collaborative interactions is consistent with and can be elucidated through scientific theories of embodied cognition. These theories help to explain how works of art and literature can cross historical distance and enable the past to speak to the present and the future.
Poisonous Workplaces: What Workers Faced in British Chemical Weapons Factories
Authors: Thorsheim Peter
Published: October 2024

abstract: Soldiers were not the only victims of chemical warfare in the twentieth century; the workers who produced these weapons also risked injury and death. Focusing on British chemical weapons factories during both world wars, this article advances our understanding of the human costs not only of war but also of the preparation for war. Technologies such as physical barriers, ventilation systems, protective equipment, and detection systems mitigated some hazards to workers, but financial constraints, wartime pressures, and limited knowledge of the damage caused by prolonged exposure to low levels of chemical weapons resulted in serious damage to workers' bodies.
Automating Power: Cybernetics and Sovereignty in Cold War North Korea
Authors: Berthelier Benoit
Published: October 2024

abstract: This study challenges the conventional Cold War narrative that portrays cybernetics as inherently opposed to communist authoritarianism and the perception of cybernetic control as a mechanism of liberal governmentality. It analyzes the introduction of cybernetics into the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) during the Cold War. Previous studies about cybernetics in the socialist world have described how the discipline's emphasis on objectivity and decentralization clashed with orthodox political economists and Stalinist science and led to liberal reforms. Yet in the DPRK, the introduction of cybernetics was followed by an increase in authoritarianism.
Public History: Infrastructure, Climate Change, and Radical Action
Authors: Hansen Jan
Published: October 2024

abstract: This essay reviews the 2022 American film How to Blow Up a Pipeline , examining its significance for historians of technology. The film highlights do-it-yourself technologies, the experiences of marginalized technology users, and the environmental consequences of infrastructures. Central to the discussion is the film's dystopian portrayal of infrastructure, which drives the characters to take extreme measures, such as the bombing of an oil pipeline, to raise awareness about climate change. While the film might seem to advocate for radical action, this review suggests that it offers historians an opportunity to engage with broader social issues and reflect on the methodological challenges within the history of technology.
The Status of Women in the New Moroccan Legal Framework
Authors: Fumagalli Mattia
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT: This paper explores the significant legal and social advancements of women’s rights in Morocco, particularly following the implementation of the 2003 Family Code, known as Mudawwana , and the constitutional reform of 2011. The study highlights how these reforms have addressed key issues such as gender equality, marital rights, and the role of women in both private and public spheres. By examining the historical context of women’s roles, from early Islamic institutions to post-independence democratic reforms under the Alawite monarchy, the analysis shows how the Moroccan state has sought to balance tradition with modernity. It also addresses the influence of feminist movements since the 1970s, which have played a crucial role in advancing women’s political participation and legal status. Morocco’s reforms are compared to other Maghreb countries, offering insights into how Islamic legal principles can interact with international human rights standards to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment within an Islamic framework.
Impact of U-shaped waveguide structures on optical comb generation in microresonator systems
Authors: Chen Kairong , Chen Shaowu , Li Wei , Feng Liangsen , Li Yudong
Published: October 2024

In the research of soliton microcombs, the pump energy conversion efficiency (ECE) of
the microcomb is an important parameter. However, in traditional
microresonator systems, the ECE is only a few percent. Researchers
have enhanced it by introducing additional feedback coupling
structures or composite cavity structures into the microresonator
system to suppress the output of pump light in the soliton generation
region. The additional structures may affect the output comb
characteristics of the system, but most articles do not delve into
this issue, which hinders the practical application of high-efficiency
soliton microcombs. In this paper, we establish rate equations
describing the nonlinear dynamics of a microresonator with a U-shaped
waveguide feedback coupling structure (coupled-cavity system, CCS),
and numerically simulate and conduct steady-state analysis of the
simulation results to obtain the influence of the U-shaped waveguide
on the CCS’s output comb characteristics. Then we optimize the
structural parameters of the CCS reducing the parametric oscillation
threshold of the pump by more than 50%, while increasing the ECE to
over 25% when the optical field in the microresonator propagates in
the form of a single soliton.
Amp-Holo-Net enables speckle-free and high-quality coaxial amplitude-only holographic display
Authors: Wu Heliang , Wei Jiahao , Wei Chenxiao , Ma Haowen , Ye Xiaohui , Wu Jiaxing , Liu Juan
Published: October 2024

At present, amplitude-only holograms (AOH) are widely applied because of the high response speed and small pitch of amplitude spatial light modulators. However, AOHs are generally generated by traditional diffraction theories, and there are no effective deep learning algorithms to generate high-quality coaxial AOHs, which makes it difficult to achieve speckle-free, high-quality holographic displays using amplitude spatial light modulators. Thereby, we propose two cascaded deep neural networks, embedding physical models of the coaxial AOH to generate speckle-free and high-quality coaxial AOHs within an acceptable time, named Amp-Holo-Net, which is the first work that introduces deep learning to generate coaxial AOHs. We demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method through simulation, achieving an 81% reduction in speckle contrast of two-dimensional (2D) monochrome reconstruction and a 60% improvement in peak signal-to-noise ratio of 2D color reconstruction compared with point source method, and optical experiments are conducted to verify the validity of the proposed method. We believe our method fills the blank of AOH algorithms and paves the way for holographic displays based on amplitude spatial light modulators.
Liquid crystal-based polarization-dependent, electrically tunable beam deflectors formed via single-step photopolymerization-induced phase separation
Authors: Cai Wenfeng , Yuan Silin , Cheng Ming , Kong Delai , Zhao Ting , Ma Zongjun , Bai Ziyan , Cen Mengjia , Luo Dan , Liu Yan Jun
Published: October 2024

Compared to mechanical ones, liquid crystal (LC) beam deflectors present several advantages, such as non-mechanical control, compactness, and low power consumption, making them a viable alternative. In this work, we demonstrate an LC-based polarization-dependent, electrically tunable beam deflector, which is a composite blazed grating fabricated using a single-step photopolymerization-induced phase separation (PIPS) technique. We investigated the effect of different factors on the performance of the deflector, including the thickness of the upper substrate, the grating period, and the cell gap. The prepared sample demonstrated a diffraction angle of 2°6’, and a diffraction efficiency of 40.0%. Unlike previous ones, our proposed fabrication technique for the LC beam deflector provides many benefits, such as simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and large-area production.
Probabilistic shaping probability distribution scrambling based on a chaotic system for integrating secure transmission and adaptive key updating
Authors: Wei Shuang , Liu Sheng , Wang Dong , Zhang Mingrui , Li Yuang , Wang Wei , Li Yajie , Zhang Dechao , Zhao Yongli , Zhang Jie
Published: October 2024

A probabilistic shaping probability distribution scramble (PSPDS) scheme based on chaotic systems is proposed to fulfill both secure transmission and adaptive key updating. The chaotic Chen and logistic systems are adopted to generate a chaotic random sequence. The probabilistic shaping is achieved by constant composition distribution matching (CCDM) and probabilistic amplitude shaping architecture. The chaotic, random sequences are used to scramble the probability distribution of CCDM, improving security. The session key is embedded into a probability distribution. The legal receiver extracts the error-free session key when OSNR is higher than the requirement of the forward error correction threshold. We employ a coherent OFDM 16QAM transmission experiment on 120 km fiber, confirming our proposed scheme with a net rate of 9.95 Gbit/s. The results show that the PSPDS scheme has no encryption penalty compared with the baseline without encryption. The key updating rate has the ability to vary adaptively and reaches 224.2 Mbit/s by adjusting the block length of CCDM in our experiment. The key space reaches 10136. Even if an illegal party obtains a ciphertext signal, the plaintext and session key can hardly be inferred due to a probability distribution scramble.
Information in correlation detection for plenoptic imaging purposes
Authors: Stoklasa Bohumil , Hradil Zdenek , Paur Martin , Peterek Michal , Massaro Gianlorenzo , D'Angelo Milena , Pepe Francesco Vincenzo , Rehacek Jaroslav
Published: October 2024

In the present work, we quantify the information content of intensity correlation measurements as compared to conventional intensity detection. In particular, we focus on the problem of estimating the separation between two point-like emitters and evaluate Fisher information for the two types of measurements. We consider two different scenarios: intensity correlations are measured, in the first case, in the image plane, and, in the second case, between the image and the Fourier plane of the object. Both detection schemes are shown to benefit from measuring correlations between the detected intensities, a result that indicates the advantages offered by both quantum and quantum-inspired (i.e., correlation-based) imaging protocols over conventional, intensity based, approaches.
Two-cavity-mediated photon-pair emission by one atom
Authors: Chiarella Gianvito , Frank Tobias , Farrera Pau , Rempe Gerhard
Published: October 2024

Photon-pair sources are widely used in quantum optics and quantum information experiments. Despite their broad deployment, there has not yet been an on-demand implementation with efficient into-fiber photon generation and high single-photon purity. Here we report on such a source based on a single atom with three energy levels in ladder configuration and coupled to two optical fiber cavities. We efficiently generate photon pairs with an in-fiber emission efficiency of ηpair=16(1)% and study their temporal correlation properties. We simulate theoretically a regime with strong atom–cavity coupling and find that photons are directly emitted from the ground state, i.e., without atomic population in any intermediate state. We propose a scenario to observe such a double-vacuum-stimulated effect experimentally.
High prevalence of porcine cysticercosis in slaughtered pigs in Rwanda: An abattoir survey
Authors: Shyaka Anselme , Rujeni Nadine , Kanyamibwa Eric I. , Kagabo Geofrey , Fèvre Eric M. , Quinnell Rupert J.
Published: October 2024

Porcine cysticercosis (PC) is an important public health problem, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, but limited information is available on the prevalence of infection in pigs entering the food chain. Existing diagnostic methods vary in accuracy and efficiency; whole carcass dissection is the most reliable method but is labour-intensive and destroys the carcass so can only be used in a research setting. Serological tests offer lower specificity, while meat inspection and lingual examination lack sensitivity, hampering accurate estimates and the removal of infected pigs from the food chain. Here, we provide the first estimates of PC prevalence in abattoirs in Rwanda. We use whole carcass dissection to determine the diagnostic accuracy of a commercial antigen-ELISA to estimate the true prevalence of infection across Rwanda and identify Taenia species affecting local pigs. We carried out a cross-sectional survey in 6 abattoirs across Rwanda (n = 744 pigs), with whole carcass dissection of a subset of 67 pigs. Cysts were detected in 20/67 (30%) of carcasses, with >1000 cysts in 9/20 (45%) of infected pigs. All cysts were identified as Taenia solium by PCR-RFLP, with no cysts of Taenia hydatigena found. The antigen-ELISA showed a sensitivity of 90% (95% CI: 68–99) and specificity of 85% (95% CI: 72–94), when compared to dissection. Using these estimates, the true prevalence was calculated as 25–43% in two abattoirs in south-west Rwanda, and 2–3% in the rest of the country. Fewer than half of infected pigs were detected by tongue palpation and post-mortem veterinary inspection. Our data indicate a high prevalence of PC in Rwandan abattoirs. Tongue palpation and veterinary inspections, as currently carried out, have little impact in removing cyst-infested pigs from the food chain. Additional interventions are needed, such as proper pig husbandry, treatment and vaccination against cysticercosis, health education, improved sanitation and hygiene, and improved processing and cooking of meat.
Internal evaluation of medical programs is more than housework: A scoping review
Authors: Kodagoda Gamage Sujani , Jowsey Tanisha , Bishop Jo , Forbes Melanie , Grant Lucy-Jane , Green Patricia , Houghton Helen , Links Matthew , Morgan Mark , Roehl Joan , Stokes-Parish Jessica
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The aim of this scoping review was to explore current program evaluation practices across various medical schools.

Methods

We conducted searches in MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier) and ERIC (ed.gov) for original research and review articles related to medical education evaluation with key words evaluation, program, medical education, pre-registration, framework, curriculum, outcomes, evaluation, quality. We followed Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) process for scoping reviews.

Results

Thirty-two articles were included. Studies were primarily concerned with either proving (n = 21) or improving efficacy of their programs (n = 11). No studies aimed at comparing programs. Nine were literature reviews. Others aimed to develop a new evaluation model (n = 7) or apply (n = 12) or validate (n = 4) an existing model (or part thereof). Twenty-two studies explicitly identified an evaluation model they had used or would recommend. Most frequently used models for evaluation were: Context-Input-Process-Product, Kirkpatrick, World Federation Medical Education, and the Standards by Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation. Overall, evaluations were learner-focused and accreditation driven with a minority considering the broader influences of program success.

Conclusion

Program evaluation is fundamental to driving the quality of education delivered to produce workforce-ready healthcare professionals. The focus of current evaluations is on student experience and content delivery with a significant gap in the existing literature on evaluation related to staff, learner/staff well-being, equity, diversity, and meta evaluation.
Biodiversity measures of a grassland plant-pollinator community are resilient to the introduction of honey bees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Worthy Sydney H. , Acorn John H. , Frost Carol M.
Published: October 2024

The prairies of Canada support a diversity of insect pollinators that contribute pollination services to flowering crops and wild plants. Habitat loss and use of managed pollinators has increased conservation concerns for wild pollinators, as mounting evidence suggests that honey bees (Apis mellifera) may reduce their diversity and abundance. Plant-pollinator community analyses often omit non-bee pollinators, which can be valuable contributors to pollination services. Here, we experimentally introduced honey bees to examine how their abundance affects the species richness, diversity, abundance, species composition, interaction richness, and interaction diversity of all wild pollinators, and of four higher taxa separately. We identified all insect pollinators and analyzed how honey bee abundance affected the above biodiversity metrics, controlling for flower abundance and flower species richness. Even with high honey bee densities, there was no change to any of these variables, except that beetle species diversity increased. All other taxa had no significant relationship to honey bee abundance. Considering the widespread use of managed honey bees, the effect they have on wild pollinators should be firmly established. Our results suggest that honey bees have little to no short-term impact on the wild pollinator community or its interactions with plants in this native grassland.
Navigating urban congestion: A Comprehensive strategy based on an efficient smart IoT wireless communication for PV powered smart traffic management system
Authors: Ahmed Rana , Osman Radwa Ahmed , Amer Motaz
Published: October 2024

Egypt faces extreme traffic congestion in its cities, which results in long travel times, large lines of parked cars, and increased safety hazards. Our study suggests a multi-modal approach that combines critical infrastructure improvements with cutting-edge technologies to address the ubiquitous problem of traffic congestion. Assuring vehicles owners of their timely arrival, cutting down on fuel usage, and improving communication using deep learning approach and optimization algorithm within the potential of IoT enabled 5G framework are the main goals. The traffic management system incorporates detection cameras, Raspberry Pi 3 microcontroller, an Android application, cloud connectivity, and traditional traffic lights that are powered using PV modules and batteries to secure the traffic controllers operation in case of grid outage and assure service continuity. The model examines the difficulties associated with Internet of Things (IoT) communication, highlighting possible interference from device-to-device (D2D) devices and cellular user equipment. This all-encompassing strategy aims to reduce fuel consumption, increase road safety and improve traffic efficiency. The model predicts a significant increase in Egypt’s urban mobility by utilizing the possibilities of IoT and 5G technologies, which would improve Egypt’s towns’ livability and efficiency. The goal of this paper is to modernize Egypt’s traffic management system and bring it into compliance with global guidelines for intelligent transportation networks.
Dietary calcium intake among Iranian adults: Iranian Multicenter Osteoporosis Study (IMOS-2021)
Authors: Ghazbani Arash , Namazi Nazli , Mansourzadeh Mohammad Javad , Khalagi Kazem , Ostovar Navid , Sanjari Mahnaz , Panahi Nekoo , Razi Farideh , Hajivalizadeh Fatemeh , Hajivalizadeh Sepideh , Hesari Elahe , Aghakhani Amirhossein , Farzadfar Farshad , Raiesi Alireza , Fahimfar Noushin , Ostovar Afshin
Published: October 2024

Background

Adequate dietary consumption of calcium is crucial in the preservation of bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis. This study investigated the prevalence of insufficient dietary calcium intake among individuals aged ≥50 years in Iran.

Methods

We analyzed data from the Iranian Multicenter Osteoporosis Study (IMOS-2021). Participants aged 50 years and older completed a 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Insufficient dietary calcium intake was characterized as a daily calcium intake of <1000 mg for men aged 50–70 years, and <1200 mg for men over 70 years and women over 50 years and older. Stata v17 statistical software facilitated a survey set analysis to estimate the population’s mean and median dietary calcium intake and the prevalence of insufficient dietary calcium intake.

Results

The study included 1450 participants with a mean age of 60.7±7.9 years. The estimated mean dietary calcium intake in Iran was 1062.7 mg/day (95% CI: 1029.6–1095.8), with a median intake of 943.5 mg/d (95% CI: 910.5–976.4). The prevalence of insufficient dietary calcium intake in Iran was estimated to be 62.9% (95% CI: 60.0%-65.7%). Notably, the prevalence was higher among women at 75.5% (95% CI: 71.9%-78.8%), compared to men at 47.8% (95% CI: 43.4%-52.3%) with a significant difference (P<0.001). In age-related findings, individuals aged 65 years and older had a higher prevalence of insufficient intake, at 69.0% (95% CI: 63.9%-74.0%), versus those under 65 years, at 60.3% (95% CI: 56.9%-63.8%), with this difference being statistically significant (P = 0.007). Furthermore, a significant inverse relationship was identified between both educational years and socioeconomic status and the prevalence of insufficient dietary calcium intake (Ps for trends<0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings revealed a significant prevalence of insufficient dietary calcium intake in women and those aged 65 and older. We advocate for targeted public health strategies to ensure sufficient dietary calcium intake across these populations.
Cross-modal representation of chewing food in posterior parietal and visual cortex
Authors: Ishii Tomohiro , Narita Noriyuki , Iwaki Sunao , Kamiya Kazunobu , Shimosaka Michiharu , Yamaguchi Hidenori , Uchida Takeshi , Kantake Ikuo , Shibutani Koh
Published: October 2024

Even though the oral cavity is not visible, food chewing can be performed without damaging the tongue, oral mucosa, or other intraoral parts, with cross-modal perception of chewing possibly critical for appropriate recognition of its performance. This study was conducted to clarify the relationship of chewing food cross-modal perception with cortex activities based on examinations of the posterior parietal cortex (PPC) and visual cortex during chewing in comparison with sham chewing without food, imaginary chewing, and rest using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, the effects of a deafferent tongue dorsum on PPC/visual cortex activities during chewing performance were examined. The results showed that chewing food increased activity in the PPC/visual cortex as compared with imaginary chewing, sham chewing without food, and rest. Nevertheless, those activities were not significantly different during imaginary chewing or sham chewing without food as compared with rest. Moreover, subjects with a deafferent tongue dorsum showed reduced PPC/visual cortex activities during chewing food performance. These findings suggest that chewing of food involves cross-modal recognition, while an oral somatosensory deficit may modulate such cross-modal activities.
Perceptions of primary health care professionals from Brazil about the food and nutrition monitoring system
Authors: Barbosa Brena Barreto , Pinto Maria Soraia , Coelho Souza de Vasconcelos Claudia Machado , Ramalho Alanderson Alves , Gorgulho Bartira Mendes , Lobato Jackeline Christiane Pinto , Vieira Luiza Jane Eyre de Souza , Nogueira Patrícia Simone , Rodrigues Paulo Rogério Melo , Pontes Ricardo José Soares , Horta Rogério Lessa , Baltar Valéria Troncoso , Carioca Antônio Augusto Ferreira
Published: October 2024

The main factors related to the lack of coverage in Health Information Systems are concentrated in the scarce and incipient training of health professionals regarding the collection and typing of data, as well as the importance of using information. The aim of this study was to analyze the perceptions of primary health care professionals from Brazil about the functioning of the Food and Nutritional Monitoring System (SISVAN). Multicentric qualitative study, carried out with 38 health professionals in Basic Health Units (BHU) in five regions around the country. Data collection took place through interviews, which were submitted to content analysis, using the thematic modality. The treatment of the results and interpretation of the themes were carried out using the theoretical framework of the philosopher Michel Foucault. Four themes emerged: (Lack of) knowledge of SISVAN; SISVAN and the conditional income transfer program; Difficulties in the execution and use of SISVAN information; and Strengths. Some of the interviewees recognized the purpose of SISVAN’s functioning. The collection of anthropometric data was related to the conditions of the Bolsa Família Program. Ignorance of the system and/or limited perception emerged as obstacles in the operability, use and quality of the data. The participants recognize that professional training is necessary to optimize the strengths of the system.
Risky decision-making and nonsuicidal self-injury among university students: Examining the role of criticism feedback
Authors: Nancekivell Brooke H. , Martin Lily W. , Jacobson Jill A. , Allen J. D. , Stewart Jeremy G.
Published: October 2024

Risky decision-making putatively contributes to nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) yet empirical support for this association is inconsistent. Studies have not simulated socioemotional contexts most closely linked to NSSI, which may partially explain mixed findings. Accordingly, we examined the association between NSSI and risky decision-making following the receipt of criticism from a close other, a key interpersonal context. The study included 286 university students (Mage = 21.11) oversampled for a lifetime history of NSSI. Participants completed a modified Iowa Gambling Task, in which they chose to play or pass on “good” and “bad” decks associated with monetary gains and losses. Participants also completed the Criticism Gambling Task, which was identical to the Iowa Gambling Task except critical audio comments preceded each block of trials. Based on results of multilevel growth curve analyses, decreases in risky decision-making were steeper on the Iowa Gambling Task compared to the Criticism Gambling Task, suggesting poorer learning in the context of criticism. Further, how past-month NSSI was related to changes in risky decision-making across blocks differed between the two tasks, b = -0.004, t(3140.00) = 2.48, p = .013. On the Iowa Gambling Task, all participants decreased their risky decision-making, whereas on the Criticism Gambling Task, higher past-month NSSI frequencies were associated with riskier decision-making. Our findings support associations between risky decision-making and NSSI in negative socioemotional contexts, consistent with functional models of NSSI.
The protective effect and immunomodulatory ability of orally administrated Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG against Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in BALB/c mice
Authors: Long Huanbing , He Guiting , He Jiarong , Du Ting feng , Feng Pengxiao , Zhu Cuiming
Published: October 2024

Mycoplasma pneumoniae represents one of the significant etiologies of community-acquired pneumonia in pediatric patients. However, clinical treatment of M. pneumoniae infection in children has encountered challenges due to the escalating resistance to quinolones. Numerous studies have highlighted the potential of probiotic lactobacillus administration in boosting immune responses to bacterial and viral respiratory infections. In this study, the protective efficacy of pre-oral administration of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), Limosilactobacillus reuteri F275, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NCIMB 8826, L. plantarum S1 or L. plantarum S2 was evaluated in the BALB/c mice model; it was observed that among these five strains of lactobacillus, the supplementation of LGG exhibited the most significant protective effect against M. pneumoniae infection. Moreover, when administered orally, both live LGG and heat-inactivated LGG have demonstrated efficacy in reducing the burden of M. pneumoniae in the lungs and alleviating pulmonary inflammation. Oral supplementation with LGG resulted in the inhibition of neutrophil recruitment into the lungs and increased recruitment of alveolar macrophages in M. pneumoniae-infected mice. Additionally, LGG supplementation led to increased production of IL-10 and secretory IgA (sIgA), while suppressing the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and TNF-α in the lungs of mice infected with M. pneumoniae. The data suggests that supplementation with LGG can modulate immune responses, decrease pathogen load, and alleviate inflammatory injury in the lungs of M. pneumoniae-infected mice.
The full transcription map of cottontail rabbit papillomavirus in tumor tissues
Authors: Jiang Pengfei , Majerciak Vladimir , Hu Jiafen , Balogh Karla , Meyer Thomas J. , Cam Maggie , Shearer Debra , Lanza Matthew , Christensen Neil D. , Zheng Zhi-Ming
Published: October 2024

Cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV), the first papillomavirus associated with tumor development, has been used as a powerful model to study papillomavirus pathogenesis for more than 90 years. However, lack of a comprehensive analysis of the CRPV transcriptome has impeded the understanding of CRPV biology and molecular pathogenesis. Here, we report the construction of a complete CRPV transcription map from Hershey CRPV-induced skin tumor tissues. By using RNA-seq in combination with long-reads PacBio Iso-seq, 5′ and 3′ RACE, primer-walking RT-PCR, Northern blot, and RNA in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that the CRPV genome transcribes its early and late RNA transcripts unidirectionally from at least five distinct major promoters (P) and polyadenylates its transcripts at two major polyadenylation (pA) sites. The viral early transcripts are primarily transcribed from three “early” promoters, P90, P156, and P907 and polyadenylated at nt 4368 by using an early polyadenylation signal (PAS) at nt 4351. Like other low-risk human papillomaviruses and animal papillomaviruses, CRPV E6 and E7 transcripts are transcribed from three separate early promoters. Transcripts from two “late” promoters, P7525, and P1225, utilize either an early PAS for E1^E4 or a late PAS at 7399 for L2 and L1 RNA polyadenylation at nt 7415 to express capsid L2 and L1 proteins respectively. By using the mapped four 5′ splice sites and three 3′ splice sites, CRPV RNA transcripts undergo extensive alternative splicing to produce more than 33 viral RNA isoforms for production of at least 12 viral proteins, some of which without codon optimization are expressible in rabbit RK13 and human HEK293T cells. The constructed full CRPV transcription map in this study for the first time will enhance our understanding of the structures and expressions of CRPV genes and their contribution to molecular pathogenesis and tumorigenesis.
POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTY: FOUNDATIONS AND CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES
Authors: Enekwe Franklin Sochima
Published: October 2024

This abstract examines the relationship between the political right and liberties, highlighting the tension and interplay between governance, individual freedoms, and collective rights. It explores how political ideologies on the right, and tradition, which can lead to policies that prioritize these values over personal liberties. Conversely, it also considers the ways in which advocates for civil liberties within right-leaning movements seek to uphold individual rights against state overreach. By analyzing historical and contemporary examples, this study aims to provide a balanced perspective on how the political right navigates the complexities of civil liberties, ultimately contributing to a broader understanding of the dynamics at play in modern governance and political discourse.