bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Professional Values and Related Factors Among Nurses Employed in South Wollo Zone Public Hospitals
Authors: Tegegne Belachew , Shumye Mekuriaw Wuhib , Zeru Leul Mekonnen , Yalew Zemen Mengesha
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Nurses require good knowledge about professional values to provide quality nursing care. Implementing professional values in clinical areas improves the quality of patients care. Even though applying professional values had significant impact on the continuity and quality of nursing care, there is scarcity of study on professional values in Ethiopia.

Objective

The study was aimed to identify the level of nurses’ professional values and related factors among nurses employed in South Wollo Zone public hospitals.

Methods

A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 nurses working in South Wollo Zone public hospitals from May to June 2023. Participants were selected by using simple random sampling technique. Nursing Professional Values Scale-Revised was used to measure the professional values. Data entry was performed using Epidata version 4.6.1 and then exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0 for analysis. To identify the strength of association between outcome and independent variables, binary logistic regression was applied. From the final model, those variables having p < .05 and adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were reported as statistically significant.

Results

The mean (±standard deviation) age was 32.29 (±7.01), with 63% of nurses being males. Less than half, 47.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 43.2, 53.4), of nurses had good professional values. Monthly income (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]  = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.72), position (AOR  = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.38), training (AOR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.92), promotion (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.84, 5.1), and respect from one’s profession (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.78) were statistically associated with professional values.

Conclusion

The majority of nurses demonstrated poor professional values. Professional values were substantially correlated with monthly income, position, training, promotion, and professional esteem. In order to ensure the quality and continuity of patient care, we advised nurses to be aware of nursing professional values and apply them in clinical settings.
Moving Past the Status Quo: Redefining the Feedback Landscape for Junior Clinician-Educator Career Development
Authors: Geringer Jamie L. , Lindholm David A. , Neubauer Brian E. , Ratcliffe Temple A.
Published: December 2024

This perspective piece addresses the challenges junior clinician-educators face as they navigate career development within academic medical centers. In addition to understanding local promotion and tenure processes and seeking mentorship, we argue that faculty feedback is an often neglected, but essential, component in clinician-educator development. We repurpose and use the MISCA model—Message, Implementation, Student, Context, and Agents—as a framework to better understand and improve feedback for faculty. Crafting effective feedback messages, nurturing holistic growth, understanding contextual dynamics, acknowledging diverse feedback agents, and recognizing learner characteristics are key components of this model. Within each element of MISCA, we interpret how this model applies to clinician-educators and provide practical examples. We propose that combining insights around feedback derived from MISCA, with mentorship and frameworks for faculty competence, offers individuals and institutions opportunities to transform how they grow and develop faculty.
Enhancing synthesized engine oil thermal performance through the use of tri-hybrid nanofluids over a bi-directed sheet with Coriolis force
Authors: Akolade Mojeed T , Tijani Yusuf O , Adeosun Adeshina T , Farotimi Oluwaseun P , Otegbeye Olumuyiwa
Published: December 2024

Synthetic engine oil offers excellent protection against wear, withstands high temperatures, and maintains its viscosity under various operating conditions. It also enhances oxidative stability and reduces sludge buildup, leading to longer engine life and improved performance. To optimize these benefits, incorporating specific nanoparticles into the synthetic oil may be advantageous. This study investigates the emulsification of three types of nanoparticles-aluminum oxide [Formula: see text], gold [Formula: see text], and graphene oxide [Formula: see text]-suspended in synthetic oil. The physical insights gained are translated into mathematical equations that describe fluid motion and thermal sensitivity. This dynamical system is simplified into a set of single-variable differential equations, making the analysis more manageable. The dynamical equations are solved numerically using an efficient Spectral Chebyshev Collocation Method (SCCM). The findings indicate that the presence of nanoparticles significantly increases the rate of heat transfer. The shape of the nanoparticles influences thermal performance; platelet-shaped nanoparticles demonstrate superior thermal properties compared to spherical and cylindrical shapes. For a specific Eckman number [Formula: see text], skin friction increases by 141.6% from mono to hybrid nanofluids, and by 83.9% from hybrid to tri-hybrid nanofluids. Within a thermal Biot number range of [Formula: see text], the Nusselt number is enhanced by 97.6%, 97.0%, and 96.2%, respectively. Furthermore, the Darcy effect shows opposing behavior at primary and secondary velocities, while thermal convection is improved near the wall as the Biot number increases.
Quotidian Language Practices as Silent Enforcers of Caste Discrimination in India
Authors: Gibu Sabu M.  , Singh Ruchi , Santhosh J.
Published: December 2024

In Indian society, the caste system profoundly influences cultural norms and social interactions, manifesting through various facets of life including language. This article explores the intersection of caste and language, focusing on how linguistic practices both reflect and perpetuate caste identities and inequalities. Caste, though a social construct rather than an inherent attribute, continues to shape social dynamics through established norms and behaviours. As visual markers of caste such as skin colour and attire have become less prominent, language has emerged as a crucial tool for identifying and sustaining caste distinctions. By analysing the structure, content and usage of language in different contexts, this study reveals how linguistic discourse reinforces caste hierarchies. It examines how certain languages or dialects are valorized or stigmatized based on caste and how language reproduces social hierarchies through caste-related vocabulary, expressions and other elements. The research draws on various theories to demonstrate how language not only reflects but actively sustains power dynamics intrinsic to the caste system. The findings emphasize the need for linguistic reforms as part of broader anti-caste initiatives, advocating for a lexicon free from discriminatory connotations to combat entrenched biases. This study contributes to the understanding of how language intersects with caste stratification and calls for integrating linguistic justice into efforts aimed at achieving social equity.
Examining the Influence of Psychiatric Comorbidities on Postoperative Outcomes in Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: McDonald Weston E. , Guareshi Alexander S. , Allen John R. , Morningstar Joshua L. , Friedman Richard J. , Scott Daniel J. , Gross Christopher E.
Published: December 2024

Category:

Ankle; Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Historically, a robust association between psychiatric conditions and perioperative complications following orthopaedic surgeries has been established. Within the past decade, the prevalence of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has risen by 136.1%. In a similar time frame, the United States has seen the prevalence of mental health disorders rise, a trend that was accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to evaluate the effect of mental health disorders on the postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing primary TAA.

Methods:

The Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) was queried to identify 29,705 patients undergoing primary TAA from 2015 to 2020. Patients were then divided into cohorts based on concurrent mental health diagnosis (MHD) (MHD=6,041, no MHD=23,664). Further analysis was performed for common mental health diagnoses, including depression (n=3,553), anxiety (n=3,510), psychosis (n=592), bipolar disorder (BPD) (n=411), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (n=235). A multivariate regression analysis was performed to control for confounding variables.

Results:

Patients with any MHD were significantly younger (p <.001), more likely to be female (p <.001), lower income (p <.001), and had a higher Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity Index (p <.001). These patients were also significantly more likely to have Medicaid insurance (p <.001) and be treated at an urban teaching hospital (p=.027). Patients with anxiety, depression, or psychosis experienced statistically significantly higher rates of complications. Similarly, patients with anxiety, psychosis, or PTSD experienced statistically significantly higher rates of postoperative deep infections. Multivariate regression analysis found any MHD to be predictive of increased risk of complication by 16% (OR=1.158; 95%CI=1.048-1.278; p=.004), adverse discharge by 70% (OR=1.678; 95%CI=1.57-1.793; p<.001), extended stay by 50% (OR=1.497; 95%CI=1.351-1.658; p<.001), and infection by 65% (OR=1.654; 95%CI=1.231-12.223; p<.001).

Conclusion:

Patients with MHD are at a statically significantly higher risk of complications, infections, protracted hospital stays, and adverse discharge outcomes following primary TAA. Careful appraisal and counseling are necessary in this patient demographic when considering patients selection for TAA.
Experiences and Predictors of First Sex Initiation among Early Adolescents in Koforidua Municipality, Ghana: A Convergent Parallel Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Ofori Richard , Boampong Mary Sefa , Sekyi Dorcas , Arthur Andrew Nketsia , Yeboah Eric Henry , Appiah Seth Christopher Yaw
Published: December 2024

Background:

Early sexual initiation among adolescents increases the risk of STDs, unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and despair.

Aims:

This study explored first sexual initiation experiences among early adolescents (11–15years) in Koforidua Municipality, Ghana.

Methods:

The study adopted a convergent parallel mixed method anchored on a cross-sectional and phenomenological design. A custom-designed questionnaire and interview guide, developed through a comprehensive review of literature were used for the data collection. The questionnaire constituted 20 items: 14 measured sexual debut experience and 6 assessed delayed sexual debuts at the categorical level. A total of 373 early adolescents responded to the questionnaire while 10 participants were interviewed. The quantitative data was analyzed using binary logistic regression with p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant and fitted into the model. The qualitative data was analyzed using thematic approach.

Results:

The prevalence of sexual debut among early adolescents was 23.9%, with the mean age of sexual debut being 11.7 years. Almost 34 (38.2%) of the sexual debutants felt good, while 47(52.9%) had no regret after initiating first sex. Nearly 30 (30.7%) of the sexual debutants have had sex with multiple partners. In a multilevel analysis, the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) revealed that early adolescents who were dating [(AOR = 5.564 (95.0% CI: 2.512–12.324), P = .000] are five times more likely to initiate first sex compared to those who were not dating. Early adolescents who are residing in Srodae [(AOR = 5.144 (95.0% CI: 1.052–5.098), p = .037] are significantly more likely to initiate first sex compared to those residing in Betom and Zongo community.

Conclusion:

Providing culturally relevant age-appropriate and comprehensive sexuality education programs in schools and out-of-school early adolescents remains an effective strategy for addressing the sexual needs of early adolescents.
A Case Series Study of Solitary Mucosal Neuroma-Rare Cases of Benign Peripheral Neurogenic Tumours
Authors: Takayama Yu , Yokoo Satoshi , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Suzuki Keisuke , Shimizu Takahiro , Ogawa Masaru , Gomi Akinori , Seki Mai , Makiguchi Takaya
Published: December 2024

Aim/objective:

Mucosal neuroma (MN) is a benign peripheral nerve tumour that usually occurs as a symptom of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B (MEN2B) (MEN2B-associated MN). MN that is not associated with MEN2B is termed solitary mucosal neuroma (SMN). We present a case of SMN in the upper gingiva and examine previously reported cases.

Methods:

The study included nine patients (eight from seven articles and one from this study) with SMN. Age of onset, sex, disease duration, tumour site, clinical findings including subjective symptoms, diagnostic method, treatment, prognosis and relationship with MEN2B were investigated in these nine patients.

Results and conclusion:

SMN is thought to be caused by the overproduction of nerve growth factors due to trauma or chronic continuous stimulation, whereas MEN2B-associated MN is caused by GNDF-induced hyperplasia. Considering the pathogenesis of their development, both diseases exhibit hyperplasia of the nerve fibre bundles and have the same histological type of hypertrophy. MNs (SMN and MEN2B-induced MN) must be differentiated from benign peripheral neurogenic tumours. Morphological recognition and immunohistopathological analyses make this differentiation possible.
Neurodivergent affirming practice in occupational therapy: Scoping review and qualitative content analysis of the literature
Authors: (Bex) Twinley Rebecca
Published: December 2024

Background

Issues pertaining to neurodiversity and neurodivergence have only begun to be commented on in the occupational therapy discourse in recent years. A seminal piece made a notable proposal for the occupational therapy profession to shift its service paradigm to develop inclusive support for neurodivergent populations; the extent and success of this were yet to be measured.

Aim

To examine and describe the current qualitative, conceptual/theoretical, or opinion-based literature to identify key factors related to neurodivergent-affirming (or neurodivergent-inclusive) occupational therapy practice.

Methods

A combination of methodological guidance were utilised: (1) Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage methodological framework, (2) Levac et al., and (3) Pollock et al. Findings were reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Qualitative content analysis according to Elo and Kyngäs was conducted.

Findings

Eight resources met the criteria for inclusion. Four key categories were identified: (1) paradigm shift and therapeutic practice approaches; (2) advocacy and empowerment; (3) understanding and embracing neurodiversity as part of ethical and collaborative practice, and (4) systemic barriers, external challenges, and social context.

Conclusions/Significance

Findings suggest future directions include developing holistic approaches and building evidence through further research. This study serves as a knowledge synthesis to inform future research.
Causal reasoning in social versus non-social domains and its relation to autistic traits
Authors: Bastan Elif , Beck Sarah R. , Surtees Andrew D. R.
Published: December 2024

Causation is a fundamental way to make sense of both social and non-social domains. High levels of autistic traits have been linked to enhanced rationality, suggesting a more normative way of reasoning. We aimed to systematically compare causal reasoning tendencies across social and non-social domains and evaluate their relation to self-reported autistic traits and thinking styles. We used a causal reasoning task with three binary (present/absent) variables forming common cause networks (X←Z→Y) representing social and non-social domains. Causal mechanisms in the social domain represented social relationships, while causal mechanisms in the non-social domain represented economics and meteorology. We recruited 76 participants from the general population and measured their levels of autistic traits and thinking styles on self-reports. We found that participants consistently violated the normative rules of causal reasoning. We also identified systematic differences across domains. However, we did not identify meaningful differences between clusters of reasoners in their levels of self-reported autistic traits and thinking styles. We conclude with that people violate the normative rules of causal reasoning differently across domains. However, we cannot conclude that this relates to levels of autistic traits or thinking styles.

Lay Abstract

We regularly think about cause-and-effect relationships in the world around us. Previously, researchers reported that people with higher levels of autistic traits reason more consistently and rule-based. However, they have not compared social, involving living things, and non-social, involving non-living things, worlds in relation to people's levels of autistic traits. We used a causal reasoning task to test this. In this task, there were causal scenarios with binary variables, meaning a variable can be either present or absent. The scenarios either reflected a non-social mechanism, for example, economics, or a social mechanism, for example, an interpersonal relationship. Our participants, who did not necessarily have a clinical diagnosis, completed this task and two self-report questionnaires. We found that people did not follow the rules of causal reasoning. We also found that people's responses differed between social and non-social scenarios. We found that this was unrelated to people's self-reported autistic traits and thinking styles. We are confident that people differ in their use of reasoning rules in their causal reasoning, and this happens differently between social and non-social scenarios.

Highlights

People consistently violate the normative rules of causal reasoning. This happens differently across social and non-social domains. Neither the levels of self-reported autistic traits nor thinking styles differ between the clusters of decisive and indecisive reasoners, yet further exploration is suggested.
A Hospital-Based Intervention to Improve Access to Buprenorphine for Patients with Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Fine Matthew , Hirt Wilner Leeza , Ormiston Cameron K. , Wang Linda , Lee Trevor G. , Herscher Michael
Published: December 2024

Background:

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is often under-addressed in hospitalized patients. In the absence of formal addiction consult services, volunteer physician-led models can increase access to inpatient OUD treatment. This paper describes a novel, volunteer physician-led interprofessional approach to identifying patients with OUD, initiating buprenorphine, and linking to office-based opioid treatment.

Methods:

The intervention took place from April 2018 to August 2020 at a large, urban, tertiary care center and teaching hospital in New York, NY that does not have an addiction consult service. Hospitalized patients with OUD were identified by provider-driven referrals or an automated daily patient list generated by a bioinformatics search algorithm. Eligible patients with OUD were started on buprenorphine during their hospitalization and linked to primary care-based buprenorphine treatment. Patients were followed longitudinally via chart review to assess follow-up clinic rates at >30 days, >60 days, >90 days, >6 months, >12 months, and >24 months after discharge.

Results:

Over a 2-year period, 178 patients were evaluated, 88 were eligible for inpatient buprenorphine, and 47 were started on buprenorphine while hospitalized. Sixty-seven patients were referred to a post-discharge visit at a primary care practice, 29 (43%) of whom attended an appointment at least 30 days after discharge. Of these, 22 (76%) returned at >60 days and 20 (69%) at 6 months. At the 1-year time point, 16 of a possible 17 patients (94%) and 15 of a possible 16 patients (94%) were still engaged in care at 2 years.

Conclusion:

This intervention represents a proof of principle, adaptable model for identifying patients with OUD and engaging patients in primary care-based buprenorphine treatment. Limitations to consider include the sustainability of a volunteer-based initiative and that retention rates for 1 to 2 years post-discharge may be more indicative of the strengths of office-based opioid treatment itself as opposed to in-hospital engagement and the intervention.
Examining the Impact of Eliminating the X Waiver on Buprenorphine Dispensation in 63 Counties in Pennsylvania
Authors: Bilden Rebecca C. , Roberts Mark S. , Stein Bradley D. , Jones Daniel B.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Opioid overdose rates continue to rise in the United States while access to treatment options remains limited. The X waiver, which allowed clinicians to prescribe buprenorphine, a medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), in an outpatient setting, was eliminated in December 2022 with hopes of increasing buprenorphine access. We used a quasi-experimental approach to evaluate how eliminating the X waiver affected buprenorphine prescribing in Pennsylvania.

Methods:

Drawing on Pennsylvania Prescription Drug Monitoring Program data from July 1, 2016, to December 31, 2023, we used a difference-in-differences (DD) approach to assess changes in buprenorphine prescribing between Pennsylvania counties with the proportion of X-waivered providers per county population above the median versus counties with the proportion below the median, before and after the elimination of the X waiver. We also tested whether areas most affected by the opioid epidemic with the highest rates of opioid overdose were more impacted by the X-waiver elimination, using opioid overdose death rates from a pretreatment baseline period (2016-2018) for each county.

Results:

Thirty-one counties were categorized as above the median and 32 as below the median. We did not observe a significant difference in the effects of eliminating the X waiver on buprenorphine dispensation (DD estimate: −0.6%, 95% CI: −7.5%-6.2%) between above versus below-the-median counties in Pennsylvania. We also did not find a significant effect of the X-waiver elimination on buprenorphine dispensation in counties most affected by the opioid epidemic (difference-in-difference-in-differences estimate 1.6%, 95% CI: −10.2%-13.4%).

Conclusions:

We found no evidence that eliminating the X waiver had a significant impact on buprenorphine dispensing in Pennsylvania in counties with fewer waivered prescribers or higher fatal overdose rates. Additional efforts to increase buprenorphine use will likely need to address systemic barriers and stigma limiting MOUD access.
Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy With Properly Placed Intrauterine Device: A Case Report
Authors: McGuirk Julie
Published: December 2024

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a popular contraception choice for women worldwide, due to a low failure rate. Although it is highly effective, it does not eliminate the risk for an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a previously fertilized ovum implants outside of the uterus that can become life-threatening. In this case study, a female patient presented to a freestanding emergency department with abdominal pain, without bleeding. A sonogram showed a normal uterus with an IUD in the correct location, normal ovaries, as well as significant fluid in the pelvis and abdomen. A pregnancy test was ordered after imaging, which came back as a positive result. The patient’s blood pressure as well as her complete blood count continued to decrease, and she underwent surgery that revealed a ruptured ectopic pregnancy in the right fallopian tube and hemoperitoneum. This case highlights the importance that a properly placed IUD, without issue, does not exclude the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy.
The Impact of a Structured Onboarding and Education Program on the Professional Advancement of a Pediatric Sonographer
Authors: Dennee Alexandra , Vacher Candice , Doucet Allyson , Hoag Kathleen , Becker Judith , Sheth Shreya , Lilje Christian , Parthiban Anitha
Published: December 2024

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the quality and effectiveness of a structured, competency milestone-based pediatric sonographer onboarding program and continuing educational curriculum and to ascertain if these experiences influence their professional development, job satisfaction, and retention.

Materials and Methods:

A survey was distributed to the sonographers in a single echocardiography laboratory. The anonymized data were collected and analyzed to generate descriptive statistics.

Results:

There were 36 sonographers who responded (80%) and 15 (42%) training with the new onboarding curriculum. The majority reported a positive feeling of preparedness for independent practices (80%) with hands-on teaching, timely feedback, and case-based learning rated as the most effective teaching methods. Physician feedback was preferred over sonographer trainer feedback. Most sonographers perceived the advancement of their knowledge as important for professional growth, job satisfaction, and retention.

Conclusion:

A structured onboarding program for new hires based on competency milestones was effective in preparing pediatric cardiac sonographers for independent practice. Hands-on bedside training, timely constructive feedback, and case-based learning should be included in the curriculum to ensure high-quality teaching. Physician engagement is highly valued and should be incorporated into the workflow. This study may suggest that continuing education helps positively influence the sonographer’s attitudes toward professional development, job satisfaction, and retention.
Feasibility Study on Magnetorheological Finishing of Thin Copper Substrate
Authors: Pan Bo , Kang Renke , Zhang Yunfei , Li Kailong , Du Dongxing , Guo Xiaoguang , Wang Chao , Guo Jiang , Zhu Xianglong , Huang Wen
Published: December 2024

Thin copper substrates with high accuracy are highly required in precision physical experiments. However, even using double-sided lapping, the flatness is still limited due to the accuracy of lapping plate, process vibration and so on. Hence, as a subsequent process, this paper employs magnetorheological finishing (MRF) to further improve the flatness. Nevertheless, thin copper substrates, which are sensitive to the stress, deformed easily with uneven material removal on the surface. Therefore, MRF is adopted on machining thin copper substrate for the first time considering deformation induced by stress. A finite element model is established to evaluate the deformation by residual stress, and the results show that the deformation tends to be more serious with the increase of the material removal. According to the simulation results, the material removal is optimized considering both deformation and efficiency, and a series of experiments are conducted on a Φ100×2.8 mm workpiece to verify the simulation results. The experimental results show that the flatness is further improved from peak to valley (PV) 6.6 μm to PV 2.3 μm with optimized processing parameters. Hence, the feasibility of magnetorheological finishing on thin copper substrate is demonstrated.
Citizen science in eDNA monitoring for Mediterranean monk seal conservation
Authors: Bonicalza Sofia , Valsecchi Elena , Coppola Emanuele , Catapano Valeria , Thatcher Harriet
Published: December 2024

Background

Citizen Science (CS) offers a promising approach to enhance data collection and engage communities in conservation efforts. This study evaluates the use of CS in environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring for Mediterranean monk seal conservation. We validated CS by assessing the effectiveness of a newly developed CS-friendly filtration system called “WET” (Water eDNA Trap) in eDNA detection, addressing technical challenges, and analysing volunteer faults. The WET is a 4-litre, manual pump-based filtering system using positive pressure to force water through the filter. We also assessed the use of a retrospective questionnaire as a tool to measure CS’s social impact on participants’ perceived knowledge, attitudes, and conservation behaviours.

Results

Results suggest the WET performs comparably to traditional methods, with minor technical issues. Despite some faults such as not folding or forgetting to change the filter, volunteers were generally reliable in sample processing. Moreover, CS involvement increased participants’ perceived knowledge, affective attitudes, and conservation behaviours towards seal conservation. Volunteers reported a greater understanding of eDNA monitoring, increased interest in monk seal conservation, and more frequent conservation behaviours, including spreading awareness within their community. While these findings are exploratory due to the small sample size (19 participants) and potential ceiling effects in attitude assessment, they provide an initial validation of the questionnaire as a tool for measuring CS’s social outcomes. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these results and investigate their applicability across broader stakeholder groups. Continuous improvement in volunteer training and equipment design is also recommended.

Conclusions

This study highlights CS’s potential to improve public engagement and knowledge in conservation. By involving diverse participants, CS can play a critical role in long-term conservation efforts and promote sustainable coexistence between humans and monk seals. Furthermore, the validation of the questionnaire offers a valuable framework for evaluating the social impact of CS initiatives in conservation contexts.
Context counts: a qualitative study on how adolescents activate social resources to develop and practice health literacy
Authors: Hoeks Rebekah A. , Deml Michael J. , Favre Olivier , Senn Oliver , De Gani Saskia Maria , Rachamin Yael
Published: December 2024

Background

Recently, the importance of social networks and other contextual factors in shaping health literacy of adolescents has gained recognition. However, research often simply refers to context without explicitly describing it. In this qualitative study, we aimed to explore how adolescents activate their (social) resources to develop and practice health literacy within a Swiss cantonal school health service program and in their everyday lives.

Methods

This study is based on a secondary analysis of interviews from an evaluation of the school health service in the canton of Zug, focusing on the final health screening in the 7th grade (corresponding to an average age of 14 years). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 students. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis and constructivist grounded theory to identify and refine key themes.

Results

Our analysis revealed that adolescents’ interactions with their social networks, including family members, teachers, healthcare providers, and peers, were significant resources in their health literacy practices. Other resources included school health services, regular curricula and the internet. The activation of these resources was moderated by several factors that functioned as activators or deactivators, which we divided into three categories: relationships, health system, and pre-existing health literacy. Prominent activators in the category relationships involved good rapport and trust, whereas fear of judgment deactivated resources. In the category health system, access to resources as well as opportunities for participation in dealing with health information, challenges and services were important activators (or when missing, deactivators). Finally, participants demonstrated that pre-existing health literacy in the form of pre-existing knowledge and motivation and attitudes served as an activator of their resources to develop and practice health literacy in a ‘virtuous circle’. Thus, although health literacy development and practice were dependent upon their social networks, adolescents played key roles as active agents while navigating health.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight potential (de)activators of adolescents’ resources, primarily those available within their social networks, in the development and practice of health literacy. Results contribute to the literature on adolescent health literacy by shedding light on the often under-described concept of context. Explicit consideration of context provides actionable insights for educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to support adolescents in the development and practice of health literacy.
Understanding the contribution of primary and community services to health system resilience during the COVID19 Pandemic in Aotearoa, New Zealand: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Burholt Vanessa , Wiles Janine , Schneller Alison
Published: December 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical gaps in health system preparedness. This study, guided by a critical ecological model, examines the experiences of primary health and community services in Aotearoa New Zealand during the pandemic, focusing on their response to older people and their unpaid caregivers. The study aims to identify effective strategies for health system resilience. It addresses the question, what can we learn from the experiences of organisations supporting older people and caregivers during COVID-19, to prepare for other similar (emergency health) situations?

Methods

A multidisciplinary research team conducted cross-sectional qualitative research through semi-structured telephone interviews with service providers (SPs) delivering primary or community home-based services to older people and caregivers across Aotearoa New Zealand. SPs included national organisations, Māori, Pacific, or rural providers and dementia services. Data were collected between July and October 2020. Notes were taken during interviews using a Rapid Appraisal Procedure grid, which were later revised and validated by participants. Data were analysed using a hybrid deductive-inductive thematic analysis, following COREQ guidelines.

Results

Twenty staff (Chief Executive Officers and representatives) from national organisations (N = 4), Māori (N = 3), Pacific (N = 5), rural (N = 4), and regional dementia (N = 4) SPs were interviewed. SPs demonstrated resilience through collaboration, adapting delivery models, and upskilling staff. Key challenges involved inconsistent identification of vulnerable clients, limited access to aged residential care, and barriers relating to digital access which disproportionately affected older adults and staff, and clients in rural areas. Workforce shortages, and unclear public policy concerning travel across regions further complicated service delivery, highlighting the interaction between policy, community, interpersonal, and individual factors.

Conclusions

Aotearoa New Zealand managed COVID-19 effectively, but the pandemic exposed areas for improvement in health system resilience. The government demonstrated absorptive resilience through swift actions, including lockdowns and clear communication, while SPs exhibited adaptive resilience by modifying service protocols. Knowledge gained from this study can contribute to transformative resilience. Long-term strategic changes are necessary to improve emergency planning, such as developing a unified framework to inform a ‘Priority List’, enhancing workforce capacity, and addressing digital exclusion. These steps can strengthen health system robustness and preparedness for future crises.
Impact of rotational shiftwork related sleep deprivation on quality of life and job satisfaction among healthcare professionals in Southern India from the SNORE study findings
Authors: Nirupama A. Y. , Chellaiyan Vinoth Gnana , Qadeer Amatullah Sana , Paulson Winnie , Pandey Sarva Priya , Ravivarman G.
Published: December 2024

Background

Sleep is essential for cognitive function and overall well-being, yet healthcare providers often experience sleep deprivation due to long hours and night shifts. This study evaluates how sleep deprivation affects Quality of Life (QoL) and job satisfaction among these workers.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study at a tertiary healthcare facility in Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India, including 293 healthcare providers working rotational night shifts. Participants were selected through stratified random sampling. QoL was assessed using the Short Form-12 QoL Questionnaire (SF-12). Sleepiness was assessed using Epworth Sleepiness Scale (EPSS). Statistical analyses included Pearson chi-square tests for associations, independent samples t-tests for comparing QoL scores between sleep-deprived and non-sleep-deprived participants, and binary logistic regression to evaluate the impact of sociodemographic factors and shift work patterns on SF-12 scores.

Results

Significant associations were observed between sociodemographic factors, shift work patterns, and SF-12 QoL scores. Married participants had nearly four times higher odds (OR = 3.97, 95%CI 1.87–8.43) of scoring < 40. Diploma holders had nearly three times higher odds (OR = 2.94, 95%CI 1.48–5.83) compared to graduates. Paramedical professionals had over three times higher odds (OR = 3.48, 95%CI 1.55–7.82) compared to doctors. Sleep deprivation was associated with lower PCS (aOR = 2.45, 95%CI 1.40–4.27) and MCS scores (aOR = 3.80, 95%CI 1.56–9.23). Increased night work hours correlated with higher odds of poor work satisfaction (OR = 1.39, 95%CI 1.18–1.63).

Conclusion

Sleep deprivation significantly impacts physical and mental QoL scores among healthcare providers working rotational night shifts. Current shift work patterns also affect QoL, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve sleep and manage shift work.
Endosomal traffic disorders: a driving force behind neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Dong Jianru , Tong Weiwei , Liu Mingyan , Liu Mengyu , Liu Jinyue , Jin Xin , Chen Ju , Jia Huachao , Gao Menglin , Wei Minjie , Duan Ying , Zhong Xin
Published: December 2024

Endosomes are crucial sites for intracellular material sorting and transportation. Endosomal transport is a critical process involved in the selective uptake, processing, and intracellular transport of substances. The equilibrium between endocytosis and circulation mediated by the endosome-centered transport pathway plays a significant role in cell homeostasis, signal transduction, and immune response. In recent years, there have been hints linking endosomal transport abnormalities to neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Nonetheless, the related mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we provide an overview of endosomal-centered transport pathways and highlight potential physiological processes regulated by these pathways, with a particular focus on the correlation of endosomal trafficking disorders with common pathological features of neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we summarize potential therapeutic agents targeting endosomal trafficking for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Graphical abstract
Massively parallel phase field fracture simulations on supercomputers: towards multi-billion degree-of-freedom computations
Authors: Chafia Zakaria , Yvonnet Julien , Bleyer Jérémy , Vincent Stéphane , El Ouafa Simon
Published: December 2024

An efficient parallel implementation of the phase field method for quasi-brittle crack simulations able to run on supercomputers with a large number of processes is proposed. This framework uses the finite-element method on 3D structured meshes, and was developed for distributed memory machines using the Message Passing Interface (MPI) for workload distribution and data communication between processes. Parallel assembly is carried out to build the matrices associated with the linear systems of equations. In the proposed context, linear systems derived from displacement and damage discretizations are solved using parallel solvers and preconditioners from the PETSc (Portable, Extensible Toolkit for Scientific Computation) library. All additional operations in this implementation are also efficiently parallelized. Performance analysis shows linear acceleration with an efficiency of $$97\%$$

97
%

for a computation on 6400 processes and over $$80\%$$

80
%

for a computation on 10240 processes. The linear systems involved in the simulations with up to $$10^{10}$$

10
10

degrees of freedom can be solved in a few seconds. The methodology is applied to quasi-brittle simulations, involving alternate solving of large linear systems and incremental evolution. The applications presented to illustrate the parallel framework involve crack initiation and propagation in strongly heterogeneous materials with a detailed description of the microstructure. Large three-dimensional periodic structures and a realistic geometrical model directly obtained by micro-CT imagery are used.
New estimates and synthesis of chromosome numbers, ploidy levels and genome size variation in Allium sect. Codonoprasum: advancing our understanding of the unresolved diversification and evolution of this section
Authors: Kobrlová Lucie , Jandová Michaela , Vojtěchová Kateřina , Šafářová Lenka , Duchoslav Martin
Published: December 2024

Background

The genus Allium is known for its high chromosomal variability, but most chromosome counts are based on a few individuals and genome size (GS) reports are limited in certain taxonomic groups. This is evident in the Allium sect. Codonoprasum, a species-rich (> 150 species) and taxonomically complex section with weak morphological differences between taxa, the presence of polyploidy and frequent misidentification of taxa. Consequently, a significant proportion of older karyological reports may be unreliable and GS data are lacking for the majority of species within the section. This study, using chromosome counting and flow cytometry (FCM), provides the first comprehensive and detailed insight into variation in chromosome number, polyploid frequency and distribution, and GS in section members, marking a step towards understanding the unresolved diversification and evolution of this group.

Results

We analysed 1578 individuals from 316 populations of 25 taxa and reported DNA ploidy levels and their GS, with calibration from chromosome counts in 22 taxa. Five taxa had multiple ploidy levels. First estimates of GS were obtained for 16 taxa. A comprehensive review of chromosome number and DNA-ploidy levels in 129 taxa of the section revealed that all taxa have x = 8, except A. rupestre with two polyploid series (x = 8, descending dysploidy x = 7), unique for this section. Diploid taxa dominated (72.1%), while di- & polyploid (12.4%) and exclusively polyploid (15.5%) taxa were less common. Ploidy diversity showed that diploid taxa dominated in the eastern Mediterranean and decreased towards the west and north, whereas only polyploid cytotypes of di- & polyploid taxa or exclusively polyploid taxa dominated in northern and northwestern Europe. A 4.1-fold variation in GS was observed across 33 taxa analysed so far (2C = 22.3–92.1 pg), mainly due to polyploidy, with GS downsizing observed in taxa with multiple ploidy levels. Intra-sectional GS variation suggests evolutionary relationships, and intraspecific GS variation within some taxa may indicate taxonomic heterogeneity and/or historical migration patterns.

Conclusions

Our study showed advantages of FCM as an effective tool for detecting ploidy levels and determining GS within the section. GS could be an additional character in understanding evolution and phylogenetic relationships within the section.
Gameful education: a study of Gamifiter application's role in promoting physical activity and active lifestyle
Authors: Vorlíček Michal , Prycl David , Heidler Josef , Herrador-Colmenero Manuel , Nábělková Jitka , Mitáš Josef , Hinckson Erica , Mandic Sandra , Frömel Karel
Published: December 2024

This study addresses the issue of insufficient physical activity (PA) among youths. The emergence of gamified interventions, such as Gamifiter web portal, offers a novel approach to promoting healthy habits and increasing intrinsic motivation for PA. Gamifiter engages users in virtual challenges linked to daily step counts and progress on a digital map, aiming to enhance PA and physical literacy. Involving 107 pupils (12–13 years old), the intervention utilized Garmin VívoFit trackers, with the Gamifiter portal providing individual PA reports, challenges, and interactive educational applications. Results showed a significant increase in daily step counts indicating the positive impact of Gamifiter on PA levels. Attitudes Towards Educational Reality questionnaire and incomplete sentence test results revealed pupils' positive perceptions, high motivation, and satisfaction with Gamifiter. Teachers also praised Gamifiter for promoting PA and literacy, although some desired more customization options. The study emphasizes the potential of gamified interventions to effectively promote a healthy lifestyle. Positive attitudes and increased PA suggest that gamification can be a valuable tool in motivating and engaging pupils in physical activities, fostering a foundation for a healthier lifestyle. In conclusion, Gamifiter's success in motivating pupils to engage in higher levels of PA highlights its potential as a useful tool for promoting a healthy lifestyle. Future studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are recommended to better understand the sustained impact of gamified interventions on health among youths.
Unintended effects of herbicide exposure on non-target beetle Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister, 1953, a bio-control agent of Parthenium hysterophorus weed
Authors: Singh Neha , Maheshwari Nikhil , Qamar Ayesha
Published: December 2024

Background

Herbicides are commonly used to safeguard crops against weed damage, but their effects on non-target organisms like Zygogramma bicolorata, a natural bio-control agent feeding on Parthenium hysterophorus, an invasive weed, have raised concerns. This study investigates the impact of pendimethalin, a widely used herbicide, on Z. bicolorata.

Results

The results of the present study reveal adverse effects induced by pendimethalin on various life parameters of Z. bicolorata. Fecundity decreased by approximately 20.98%, while egg viability reduced by about 18.36%. Female lifespan decreased by approximately 11.18%, and male lifespan decreased by about 13.80%, with an associated increase in developmental time period. Oviposition days after pendimethalin treatment showed only a minor 9.18% decrease compared to the control group. Pendimethalin also negatively impacted the gut antioxidants of Z. bicolorata, resulting in oxidative stress that can harm gut health and disrupt biological processes. At the molecular level, it has also been observed the DNA damage in the midgut tissue of Z. bicolorata.

Conclusion

This study underscores the unintended consequences of herbicide use on non-target organisms, emphasizing the potential threats to biodiversity. Evaluating chemical impacts on non-target organisms is crucial for ensuring responsible and sustainable chemical use in agriculture and other sectors.