bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lien entre pairs et médiation numérique dans la communauté du naevus congénital
Authors: Sedda Paola
Published: April 2024

Ce travail explore les pratiques numériques de représentation de soi et de mise en relation avec les pairs des personnes porteuses de Naevus géant congénital (NGC), une affection dermatologique rare présente dès la naissance. Il relève une segmentation des pratiques et des logiques d’action dans les différentes arènes : l’espace associatif, physique et en ligne, remplit une fonction d’accompagnement et de prise en charge des difficultés par la communauté de pairs ; l’espace de la représentation de soi sur les réseaux sociaux est au cœur des dynamiques de la reconnaissance sociale qui s’opèrent à travers des techniques de normification ou de valorisation du stigmate. Celles-ci peuvent déboucher vers une professionnalisation de la pratique de représentation de soi et de son corps en ligne qui est à l’origine de l’émergence de nouvelles figures d’influenceur dans le domaine de la santé. La perméabilité des discours autour de la résilience participe à la construction de l’injonction libérale à la maîtrise de soi.
Le travail avec les groupes de pairs et les formateurs-pairs. Entretien avec Lydie Gibey
Authors: Gibey Lydie , Ancet Pierre
Published: April 2024

À la suite de son article, dans lequel il interroge les conceptions de la pairité et plaide pour la possibilité d’une conception ouverte de la notion de pair, multiple et contextuelle, rattachée à la reconnaissance subjective d’une expérience commune, Pierre Ancet rapporte ici son entretien avec Lydie Gibey, directrice du CREAI Île-de-France. Sont abordés et font l’objet d’une élucidation progressive les enjeux sous-jacents aux notions de pair et d’auto-représentant, de groupe de pairs, de pairémulation. Ainsi l’opposition entre l’ouverture aux autres et l’entre-soi renvoie-t-elle aux limites de l’acceptation générale d’autrui dans d’autres groupes sociaux tout autant qu’au risque particulier pour une personne concernée par le handicap d’être réduit à sa spécificité objectivable au détriment de ses autres rôles. L’échange fait apparaître que l’antidote de la situation d’assignation de l’extérieur à pairité passe par la construction d’identités multiples.
Que pensent les élèves ayant un trouble du spectre de l’autisme de la pratique du yoga en milieu scolaire ?
Authors: Bélisle Annie-Claude , Poirier Nathalie , Leroux-Boudreault Ariane
Published: April 2024

La présente étude vise à témoigner de la perception des élèves présentant un Trouble du spectre de l’autisme (TSA) qui participent à un programme de yoga dans leur milieu scolaire. Les participants ( n =16) ont été questionnés sur les aspects qu’ils apprécient ou non de la pratique du yoga, sur les effets subjectivement perçus ainsi que sur leur autonomie face à la pratique. Les résultats font état d’une appréciation majoritairement positive du yoga. De plus, 87,5 % de l’échantillon affirme se sentir mieux après avoir pris part à une séance de yoga à l’école. Cependant, très peu de participants ne le pratiquent à la maison et les effets positifs perçus sont principalement circonscrits au milieu dans lequel le yoga est pratiqué.
Reproduction des ordres genrés dans les programmes de formations professionnelles des personnes réfugiées nigérianes au Cameroun
Authors: Emile Jean , Beaulieu Janyck , Pueugue Simo Axel
Published: April 2024

En croisant le thème de l’humanitaire à celui de l’éducation, cet article propose une analyse centrée sur la reproduction des ordres genrés au sein des programmes de formation professionnelle proposés par les organisations humanitaires aux personnes réfugiées nigérianes du camp de Minawao au Cameroun. Ces ordres se matérialisent tant par des assignations des jeunes gens dans les filières dites traditionnellement féminines ou masculines que par des exclusions éducatives auxquelles ils sont confrontés. On peut donc légitimement se demander comment des organisations humanitaires, qui pourtant prônent l’égalité sociale et de genre, reproduisent des ordres genrés dans les programmes qu’elles mettent en œuvre ? À la lumière du gender mainstreaming , de la théorie de l’intersectionnalité et du concept d’ autonomie , combinés à une démarche statistique et ethnographique, cette recherche tente d’explorer les contradictions d’un secteur qui tend à reproduire des problématiques qu’il cherche pourtant à adresser.
Mali : Étude etnobotanique des plantes utilisées par les tradipraticiens de santé pour le traitement des troubles mentaux au Plateau Dogon de Bandiagara, Mali
Authors: Mounkoro Pakuy Pierre , Kodio Ogobara , Coulibaly Souleymane , Traoré Joseph , Koné Mahamadou , Traoré Kadiatou , Dara Aperou , Maiga Boubacar Hamadoun , Kamaté Zoua , Diabaté Mahamadou Kodiougou , Diarra Zoumana , Kamissoko Talibé , Togola Awa , Ag Ismael Alkassane , Mouhoumed Hassan
Abdi , Diop Maïmouna , Togora Arouna , Coulibaly Bakoroba , Koumaré Baba
Published: April 2024

au Plateau Dogon de Bandiagara, les tradipraticiens de santé (TPS) assurent la presque totalité de la prise en charge des troubles mentaux par l’utilisation de plantes encore peu explorées. L’objectif de cette étude était de répertorier les plantes utilisées par ces TPS pour la prise en charge des troubles mentaux au plateau Dogon de Bandiagara. D’octobre 2007 à Mai 2008, cette étude a été réalisée auprès de 9 TPS de la ville de Bandiagara et huit villages environnants. Des interviews utilisant un questionnaire et la prise de notes ont permis le recueil des données. Des échantillons de plantes étaient prélevés chaque fois que cela était possible en compagnie du TPS, identifiés par le botaniste du Département de Médecine Traditionnelle, numérotés et ajoutés à l’herbier du département. Le cadre de l’étude était le Centre Régional de Recherche en Médecine traditionnelle (CRMT) qui collabore avec les TPS. 32 plantes appartenant à 20 familles ont été identifiées, dont les plus utilisées sont : Securidaca longipedonculata et Khaya senegalensis . Des données existantes et une étude approfondie de ces plantes pourraient aboutir à la formulation de médicaments traditionnels améliorés dans le domaine de la santé mentale au Mali.
Mali : Étude épidémioclinique des troubles psychiatriques chez les enfants du Centre d’Accueil et de Placement Familial CAPF « Pouponnière »
Authors: Traoré Kadiatou , Traoré Joseph , Ouattara A , Coulibaly Souleymane Papa , Mounkoro Pakuy Pierre , Dara Aperou Eloi , Diabaté Mahamadou , Kamaté Zoua , Kamissoko Talibé , Koné Mahamadou , Maiga Boubacar
Hamadoun , Diarra Zoumana , Togora Arouna , Coulibaly Souleymane , Coulibaly Bakoroba , Koumaré Baba
Published: April 2024

l’enfant en institution est proie de beaucoup de problème : Troubles psychoaffectifs, somatiques, psychologiques, psychiatriques etc… L’objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la prévalence des troubles psychiatriques chez les enfants du Centre d’Accueil et de Placement Familial (CAPF). Il s’agissait d’une étude prospective de Mai à juin. Les données ont été collectées sur des fiches d’enquête individuelles préétablies. Elles ont concerné tous les enfants en placement dans le Centre présents lors du passage de l’enquêteur. Durant la période de l’étude, le centre avait en son sein 246 enfants. La tranche d’âge 0 – 3 ans a représenté 93,5 % des 246 enfants. Les garçons étaient les plus représentés avec 53,3 %. Les troubles rencontrés ont été : troubles du langage 1,6 %, déficience mentale 2,4 %, la comitialité 0,8 %, syndrome autistique 0,8 %, association de ces différents troubles 10,1 %, handicap psychique 4,5 %. Les enfants sont retenus au centre dans 97,2 % des cas et abandonnés dans 73,6 % des cas. Nos données témoignent du nombre de cas élevé de troubles psychiatriques dans le CAPF « Pouponnière » au Mali.
Togo et France : Alexithymie et qualité de vie chez les personnes âgées
Authors: Balassa Paul Koudjoudra , Spitz Elisabeth , Poromna Pagnamam
Published: April 2024

une étude a été menée à Metz (France) en 2014 sur des personnes âgées pour tester les variables qui sont susceptibles d’influencer leur qualité de vie notamment l’alexithymie et l’anxiété-dépression. Elle a porté sur un échantillon de 49 personnes âgées de 70 à 101 ans. Pour vérifier cette hypothèse, certains outils ont été utilisés. Ainsi l’alexithymie a été vérifiée par une échelle canadienne, la TAS-20 ; la qualité de vie a été évaluée par le WHOQOL-OLD, une échelle de mesure de la qualité de vie, développée par l’OMS et l’échelle HAD a permis d’évaluer l’anxiété-dépression. Les résultats obtenus montrent que l’anxiété est très corrélée avec l’alexithymie. La qualité de vie par contre est fortement influencée par la dépression ; l’âge et les conditions de vie ont une influence modérée sur la qualité de vie. L’amélioration des conditions de vie constitue ainsi un facteur réducteur des affects dépressifs et un atout favorable pour une bonne qualité de vie.
Bénin : Passage à l’acte criminel et responsabilité pénale du patient souffrant de schizophrénie en contexte culturel africain
Authors: Gansou Grégoire Magloire , Klikpo Elvyre , Tabo André , Troré Joseph , Lodonou Urlermine , Fiossi-Kpadonou Émilie , Ezin-Houngbe Josiane
Published: April 2024

chez le patient souffrant de schizophrénie, le risque d’homicide demeure élevé et s’inscrit dans plusieurs contextes. Les actes criminels impulsifs rattachés à un syndrome d’influence viennent relancer le débat sur la responsabilité pénale à la lumière de la culture. Après un passage à l’acte meurtrier, S.F. est adressé en psychiatrie pour une expertise psychiatrique. L’équipe soignante explore les circonstances du passage à l’acte et procède à une analyse sémiologique de son délire. Il en ressort que l’acte a été posé dans un contexte impulsif et délirant avec un mécanisme hallucinatoire qui serait l’œuvre des « AZETO » (une appellation des sorciers au sud du Bénin) ; S.F. étant convaincu qu’il avait agi sous l’influence d’une force dont les manifestations s’appréhendent avec celui du syndrome d’influence, de la magie de la sorcellerie et d’autres formes de mysticisme en Afrique.
Home Front Lines: The Telegraphic Ballistics of Emily Dickinson’s Civil War Poetry
Authors: Fenton Jamie
Published: April 2024

Cet article replace la poésie d’Emily Dickinson dans le contexte technologique et culturel de la guerre de Sécession. Il s’inscrit pleinement dans le tournant récent consistant à prêter attention à la notion de réseau dans les études consacrées à cette période, mais il invite à s’intéresser davantage à ce qui fait fonctionner ces réseaux, à savoir les lignes le long desquelles certaines choses circulent. Une lecture attentive des poèmes de Dickinson relatifs à la guerre de Sécession permet de montrer l’intérêt particulier que celle-ci portait à deux types de lignes : celles transmettant les télégrammes et celles tracées par les balles. En s’efforçant de saisir leur mouvement fugace et véloce dans ses textes, Dickinson réaffirme la dimension privée de la mort et du deuil.
The Front Line in American War Literature
Authors: Marrs Cody
Published: April 2024

La littérature de guerre américaine a tendance à se concentrer sur l’expérience et le point de vue de soldats placés sur la ligne de front. Le présent article s’intéresse aux causes et conséquences de cette caractéristique centrale du genre. Il avance deux arguments liés : (1) La littérature de guerre américaine est centrée à la fois sur l’expérience du front et sur le défi que constitue la représentation de cette expérience ; et (2) cette caractéristique structurelle est présente depuis les toutes premières origines de ce genre, qui a émergé des bouleversements littéraires, culturels et ontologiques produits par la guerre de Sécession.
Multiscale lung nodule segmentation based on 3D coordinate attention and edge enhancement
Authors: Liu Jinjiang , Li Yuqin , Li Wentao , Li Zhenshuang , Lan Yihua
Published: April 2024

An important prerequisite for improving the reliability of lung cancer surveillance and clinical interventions is accurate lung nodule segmentation. Although deep learning is effective at performing medical image segmentation, lung CT image heterogeneity, nodule size, shape, and location variations, convolutional localized feature extraction characteristics, the receptive field limitations of continuous downsampling, lesion edge information losses, fuzzy boundary segmentation challenges, and the low segmentation accuracy achieved when segmenting lung CT images using deep learning remain. An edge-enhanced multiscale Sobel coordinate attention-atrous spatial convolutional pooling pyramid V-Net (SCA-VNet) algorithm for lung nodule segmentation was proposed to solve these problems. First, a residual edge enhancement module was designed, which was used to enhance the edges of the original data. Using an edge detection operator in combination with a residual module, this module could reduce data redundancy and alleviate the gray level similarity between the foreground and background. Then, a 3D atrous spatial convolutional pooling pyramid module set different expansion rates, which could obtain feature maps under different receptive fields and capture the multiscale information of the segmentation target. Finally, a three-dimensional coordinate attention network (3D CA-Net) module was added to the encoding and decoding paths to extract channel weights from multiple dimensions. This step propagated the spatial information in the coding layer to the subsequent layers, and it could reduce the loss of information during the forward propagation process. The proposed method achieved a Dice coefficient of 87.50% on the lung image database consortium and image database resource initiative (LIDC-IDRI). It significantly outperformed the existing lung nodule segmentation models (UGS-Net, REMU-Net, and multitask models) and compared favorably with the Med3D, CENet, and PCAM_Net segmentation models in terms of their Dice coefficients, which were 3.37%, 2.2%, and 1.43%, respectively. The experimental results showed that the proposed SCA-VNet model attained improved lung nodule segmentation accuracy and laid a good foundation for improving the early detection rate of lung cancer.
Prosopis africana exerts neuroprotective activity against quaternary metal mixture-induced memory impairment mediated by oxido-inflammatory response via Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Orisakwe Orish E. , Ikpeama Evelyn Utomoibor , Orish Chinna N. , Ezejiofor Anthonet N. , Okolo Kenneth O. , Cirovic Aleksandar , Cirovic Ana , Nwaogazie Ify L. , Onoyima Chinekwu Samson
Published: April 2024

The beneficial effects of Prosopis africana (PA) on human health have been demonstrated; however, its protective effects against heavy metals (HM) are not yet understood. This study evaluated the potential neuroprotective effects of PA in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum. To accomplish this, we divided 35 albino Sprague Dawley rats into five groups. Group I did not receive either heavy metal mixture (HMM) or PA. Group II received a HMM of PbCl2 (20 mg/kg), CdCl2 (1.61 mg/kg), HgCl2 (0.40 mg/kg), and NaAsO3 (10 mg/kg) orally for a period of two months. Groups III, IV, and V received HMM along with PA at doses of 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg, respectively. PA caused decreased levels of HM accumulation in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum and improved performance in the Barnes maze and rotarod tests. PA significantly reduced levels of IL-6 and TNF-α. PA increased concentrations of SOD, CAT, GSH, and Hmox-1 and decreased the activities of AChE and Nrf2. In addition, levels of MDA and NO decreased in groups III, IV, and V, along with an increase in the number of live neurons. In conclusion, PA demonstrates a complex neuroprotective effect with the potential to alleviate various aspects of HM-induced neurotoxicity.
Interdisciplinary Curriculum for Engineering Graduates
Authors: Gupta Swati
Published: April 2024

Interdisciplinary teaching combines multiple subjects. Business, communication, and sustainability may be part of an interdisciplinary engineering curriculum. An interdisciplinary curriculum can help engineering students learn more. Students can prepare for more careers by combining engineering with other subjects. Employers value interdisciplinary skills and competencies. Interdisciplinary coursework helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills. Effective interdisciplinary engineering curricula align. This means the curriculum should match employers' career competencies so students can succeed. Interdisciplinary education helps engineering graduates develop career-ready skills. An interdisciplinary curriculum aligns with employer needs to prepare students for engineering careers.
The Interplay Between Career Adaptability and Foreign Language Skills in an Unstable Labor Market
Authors: Maican Maria-Anca , Cocoradă Elena , Constantin Felicia
Published: April 2024

Career adaptability is a soft skill that allows people to cope with professional tasks in an unpredictable labor market. Today's global labor market also requires language skills to facilitate employees' collaboration across linguistic boundaries. The chapter is built around a quantitative study with participants from a large public university in the south-eastern part of Central Europe, and it aims to analyze the connection between career adaptability, foreign languages, and personal traits. The results show significant gender differences regarding adaptability and the perceived role of foreign languages for employability and in one's career development, all in favor of girls. Concerning students' status as employed/unemployed, the tendencies regard only unemployed students' stronger confidence in and lower concern with the future. Career adaptability is predicted by foreign language anxiety, conscientiousness, openness to experience, and self-perceived FL proficiency. Some implications for teachers are presented at the end of the chapter.
From University to the Labour Market
Authors: Richiteanu-Nastase Elena Ramona , Paduraru Monica Elisabeta
Published: April 2024

Adjusting to university life is a challenge for many students, who find it difficult to cope with academic demands and complete their studies. Preparing for a career can generate anxiety, stress, maladjustment, vulnerability. At university level, students` counselling can be a solution to help students adapt to the demands of this environment and their future career. This chapter clarifies concepts such as academic adjustment, career counselling strategy, and institutional support. Furthermore, the authors will present the Personal Career Map as a specific theory and instrument that can be used in counselling students. The structure of the career map, the career profiling questionnaire, the benefits, and limitations of this approach will be highlighted. Personal Career Map offers suggestions for student`s counselling plan, detailing concrete steps that can be taken at personal and university level to enhance students' academic and professional insertion. Discussions and recommendations on the use of this approach at university level will be addressed.
Adaptive Learning and Self-Organization in Swarm Robotics
Authors: Acharya Samik , Das Sima , Kitmo
Published: April 2024

This study explores neural architecture mapping (NAM) in human-swarm interaction (HSI), merging neuroscience, computer science, and robotics to enhance collaboration. It discusses NAM's concepts, challenges, and applications like neuroanatomy mapping, neural interface design, and algorithm development. Despite hurdles like neural complexity, NAM promises real-time monitoring, advanced brain-machine interfaces, and seamless HSI integration. The chapter offers an overview of NAM's aims, methods, and impacts on human-robot symbiosis and swarm systems. Theoretical neuroscience, human factor studies, and swarm robotics inform NAM, integrating neural networks with robotics for AI-driven swarm behavior. Adaptive learning in swarm robotics develops autonomous algorithms, enhancing collaboration. This research aims to improve swarm robotics' efficiency across various domains.
Unlocking the Value of Non-Fungible Tokens
Authors: Verma Jyoti , Sharma Anjali , Deep Gagan
Published: April 2024

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are unique, irreplaceable, distinguishable, and tradeable physical as well as digital assets. These gained real hype on the sale of digital artworks like ‘The Merge' and ‘Beeple.' In June 2022, Bill Gates expressed skepticism regarding NFTs, likening them to the 'Greater Fool Theory' and indirectly disregarding the unnecessary hype for an overvalued asset that is being sold at a price that is more than its intrinsic value. This chapter aims to analyze if NFTs are just a matter of unnecessary hype or a real opportunity for businesses. It is based on exploratory research that justifies the real aim of NFTs, like whether it is just hype, a valuable opportunity for business houses, or a combination of both. It can be concluded that NFT being an extraordinary asset is likely to gather hype, which is capable of being turned into a business opportunity. The scope of the study is wider in the sense that it is wholly based on secondary data, which can ultimately be scope for academicians, and researchers to further implement it with primary research.
PRODUTIVIDADE, LUCRATIVIDADE E RENTABILIDADE versus ORGANIZAÇÃO EMPRESARIAL. ISTO DÁ CERTO NA MICRO, PEQUENA E MÉDIA EMPRESA?
Authors: SIMIONATO Katia Regina
Published: April 2024

A importância das micro e pequenas empresas (MPEs) no Brasil é relevante. Segundo dados do IBGE – Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, no ano de 2002 o número de MPEs no setor formal urbano era de 4,88 milhões, representando 99,2% do total de 4,918 milhões de empresas. No setor informal são cerca de 9,5 milhões de empresas. Em torno de 70 milhões de brasileiros trabalham ou possuem algum vínculo com as MPEs. Contudo, apesar da importância, esse segmento de pequeno porte perece diante de altos índices de mortalidade. Algumas das principais causas seriam: dificuldades na obtenção e gerenciamento de recursos financeiros; baixa capacidade para administrar os negócios, entre outros. Diante disso, propõe-se com esse trabalho apresentar algumas vantagens da organização (estrutural e legal) empresarial como instrumento de sobrevivência e rentabilidade.
OPERAÇÕES DE FUSÕES E AQUISIÇÕES: AS VANTAGENS E DESVANTAGENS DA ADOÇÃO DESTE TIPO DE ESTRATÉGIA PARA O CASO BORDIGNON - TELHANORTE
Authors: RODRIGUES Mirian Lauriano , VERNI Marli de Lourdes
Published: April 2024

Com o advento da globalização, os processos de fusões e aquisições têm se inserido cada vez mais no cenário econômico não só no Brasil, mas no mundo. Nesta perspectiva, neste trabalho, que apresenta um caráter qualitativo e descritivo, apresenta-se como principal proposta conhecer os procedimentos e analisar as vantagens e desvantagens do processo de aquisição quando aplicado a uma empresa do setor de materiais de construção, em Londrina– PR. O Estudo de Caso apresentado fornece um conjunto de informações que esclarecem os conceitos e práticas envolvidas no processo e identifica os aspectos incentivadores e resultantes referentes à transação. Observa-se, a partir desta pesquisa, que o interesse por atuar em novos mercados, o fortalecimento da marca e a incorporação de novas tecnologias são alguns dos fatores mais relevantes quando o assunto é F&A.
Single-cell analysis revealing the metabolic landscape of prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Jing , Ding He-Kang , Xu Han-Jiang , Hu De-Kai , Hankey William , Chen Li , Xiao Jun , Liang Chao-Zhao , Zhao Bing , Xu Ling-Fan
Published: April 2024

Tumor metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer development, and targeting metabolic vulnerabilities has been proven to be an effective approach for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) treatment. Nevertheless, treatment failure inevitably occurs, largely due to cellular heterogeneity, which cannot be deciphered by traditional bulk sequencing techniques. By employing computational pipelines for single-cell RNA sequencing, we demonstrated that epithelial cells within the prostate are more metabolically active and plastic than stromal cells. Moreover, we identified that neuroendocrine (NE) cells tend to have high metabolic rates, which might explain the high demand for nutrients and energy exhibited by neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), one of the most lethal variants of prostate cancer (PCa). Additionally, we demonstrated through computational and experimental approaches that variation in mitochondrial activity is the greatest contributor to metabolic heterogeneity among both tumor cells and nontumor cells. These results establish a detailed metabolic landscape of PCa, highlight a potential mechanism of disease progression, and emphasize the importance of future studies on tumor heterogeneity and the tumor microenvironment from a metabolic perspective.
Anomalous right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery in an infant with tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Garekar Swati , Sheth Ronak , Patil Sachin , Soni Bharat , Malankar Dhananjay P.
Published: April 2024

An anomalous right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ARCAPA) is a rare congenital anomaly that does not have the typical presentation of the more common anomalous left coronary artery. We present an infant with tetralogy of Fallot with atypical findings on the preoperative echocardiogram. A cardiac computerized tomographic (CT) scan showed ARCAPA. This was confirmed intraoperatively and repaired successfully. Close attention to coronaries on echocardiography and a low threshold for additional imaging can successfully diagnose ARCAPA in the presence of additional congenital heart defects.
Recurrent mitral regurgitation and left atrial aneurysm in a pediatric patent: A complex case of infective endocarditis
Authors: Memon Muhammad Kamran Younis , Khakural Prabhat , Sivalingam Sivakumar
Published: April 2024

A 6-year-old boy with a history of infective endocarditis (IE) presented with recurrent disease manifesting as left hip arthritis and severe mitral regurgitation. He developed a rare complication – a left atrial pseudoaneurysm. Despite the absence of classic fever and systemic symptoms, imaging revealed the recurrence and guided surgical repair. This case highlights the complexities of recurrent IE in children and underscores the importance of high clinical suspicion and imaging modalities like echocardiography for diagnosis and management.
Precision medicine in catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia: Recent advances toward personalized care
Authors: Siu Anthony , Tandanu Edelyne , Ma Brian , Osas Evbayekha Endurance , Liu Haipeng , Liu Tong , Chou Oscar Hou In , Huang Helen , Tse Gary
Published: April 2024

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare inherited cardiac ion channelopathy where the initial disease presentation is during childhood or adolescent stages, leading to increased risks of sudden cardiac death. Despite advances in medical science and technology, several gaps remain in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms, risk prediction, and therapeutic management of patients with CPVT. Recent studies have identified and validated seven sets of genes responsible for various CPVT phenotypes, including RyR2, CASQ-2, TRDN, CALM1, 2, and 3, and TECRL, providing novel insights into the molecular mechanisms. However, more data on atypical CPVT genotypes are required to investigate the underlying mechanisms further. The complexities of the underlying genetics contribute to challenges in risk stratification as well as the uncertainty surrounding nongenetic modifiers. Therapeutically, although medical management involving beta-blockers and flecainide, or insertion of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator remains the mainstay of treatment, animal and stem cell studies on gene therapy for CPVT have shown promising results. However, its clinical applicability remains unclear. Current gene therapy studies have primarily focused on the RyR2 and CASQ-2 variants, which constitute 75% of all CPVT cases. Alternative approaches that target a broader population, such as CaMKII inhibition, could be more feasible for clinical implementation. Together, this review provides an update on recent research on CPVT, highlighting the need for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms, risk stratification, and therapeutic management of this potentially lethal condition.
Comparison of asynchronous and synchronous methods of online teaching for students of medical laboratory technology course
Authors: Yadav Shakti Kumar , Para Shikha , Singh Garima , Gupta Ruchika , Sarin Namrata , Singh Sompal
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

In the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, the closure of educational institutions has imposed a situation of potential gap in learning. Since training of medical and paramedical students is vital in creation of our army of these frontline health-care workers, this study was aimed at comparing the asynchronous and synchronous methods of online teaching for imparting training to students of medical laboratory technology (MLT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study included 33 students of the 1st-year batch of MLT course at a tertiary level hospital. Ten lectures each from the subject of biomedical statistics were delivered through asynchronous (lecture shared on WhatsApp group) and synchronous (online live lecture) methods followed by a brief examination for each topic. A short survey was designed to assess the students’ perception of clarity of concepts, confidence of solving the examination, and their preference for one of these methods. Appropriate statistical tests were applied to the data.

RESULTS:

Synchronous method of online teaching was preferred by majority of the students (P < 0.001). Students’ clarity in understanding of the concepts (P < 0.001) and confidence of the ability to solve examination questions (P < 0.05) was higher after synchronous teaching. The examination scores after synchronous online teaching were significantly higher (P = 0.0156) than those for topics covered through asynchronous method.

CONCLUSION:

Online teaching, especially the synchronous method, offers an opportunity of continuum of training during crisis situations such as the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic. The wide availability of internet services and the ever-changing global situation mandates readiness for this modality of teaching, both for the teachers and the students.
Designing flipped classroom using Kemp's instructional model to enhance deep learning and self-directed collaborative learning of basic science concepts
Authors: Padugupati Suhasini , Joshi Krishna Prakash , Chacko Thomas V , Jamadar Deepak
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The flipped classroom pedagogy allows students to introduce a topic and gather their own meanings outside of the classroom, then explore the topic and create their meanings or exclude their misconceptions during class. Our aim was to enhance the ability of self-directed learning (SDL) among medical undergraduates. Pedagogical benefits of the model are highlighted along with potential challenges to its use.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Kemp's Instructional model was used to design flipped classroom. Need analysis was done to assess the perceptions of the students on the current teaching practices and their expectations for adoption of innovative methods. Validation of content was done by Delphi method by subject experts across the institutions. Content included objectives; case scenarios and extended multiple choice questions. Students were divided into two groups. Group A and Group B, 50 in each. A topic was given 1 week prior and both groups were subjected to a pretest to identify their self-study performance. Group A was exposed to 4 sessions of flipped classroom. They were provided with PowerPoint slides with voice recordings. In the classroom, first 30 min was meant for quiz and next 30 min was meant to clarify the doubts. Group B were exposed to the 4 regular lecture sessions. Both the groups were subjected to the posttest and test after 4 weeks. Later with another topic, flipped classroom was conducted for all the 100 students and the feedback was taken from all the students and faculty using a validated questionnaire.

RESULTS:

Posttest scores of students who were flipped were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Most (98%) students opined that these interactive sessions evoked interest in the topic. Flipped classroom sessions were found to be effective in improving students’ learning behavior toward SDL, collaborative learning skills and critically analyzing the basic concepts.

CONCLUSIONS:

By following a systematic process (Kemp's instructional Model, it is possible to design need-based flipped classroom sessions. They are found to be effective in improving students’ learning behavior toward deep learning, self-efficacy, SDL, collaborative learning skills, critically analyzing the basic concepts. In a flipped classroom, “the learning environment transforms into a dynamic and more social space where students can participate in critiques or work through problems in teams.
Clinical instructors’ Motivational roles and perceived effect on absenteeism among student nurses in a tertiary hospital, Benin-City, Nigeria
Authors: Olorunfemi Olaolorunpo , Oduyemi Rachael Olufunmilayo , Sowunmi Christiana Olanrewaju , Okafor Vitalis , Chukwuka Lucy O. , Osunde Ngozi Rosemary , Ezinne Achi Favour
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Absenteeism is a situation whereby students absence themselves from clinical posting without good reason, this incidence among student nurses contributed a significant problem that if not addressed will adversely affect the quality of nursing care; therefore, motivation of student during clinical posting found to be an important ingredient needed in eradicating absenteeism. Consequently, this study aims to determine the reasons why student nurses absenting themselves from clinical posting, its effect and how clinical instructor can motivate student nurses since they are the first role models and have a significant impact in their skill development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A descriptive, quantitative design was used to elicit the information from a sample of 80 nurses and 80 students’ nurses. Nurses: 25 medical surgical ward, 23 surgical ward, 17 obstetrics and gynecology ward, 15 theaters, and 80 student nurses, statistically drawn through a stratified sampling technique across the wards and school of nursing. Data collected were analyzed using tables, percentages, means, and standard deviation at 0.05 level of significance through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software.

RESULTS:

The student participants reported that non conducive working environment, working in infectious ward without adequate protection, noncooperation from clinical instructor, excessive number of clinical hours, embarrassment faced in front of patients and other medical personnel, lack of prompt medical treatment and care when sick, too much workload, and other number of clinical assignments as a major reason why they absenting themselves from clinical posting. The effect of student absenteeism and how students can be motivated is identified in this study.

CONCLUSION:

Reported factors leading to absenteeism among nursing students and identified motivating care should be handled carefully by the hospital managers to produce better health-care delivery’ nurses in future.
The relationship between sexual health and personality type in women with epilepsy
Authors: Sheikhalishahi Alieh , Jahdi Fereshteh , Haghani Hamid
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Sexual health in the development of the human personality, personal, and social health and in achieving to comfort plays an important role. Women with epilepsy are at high risk of sexual dysfunction, which has a multifactorial etiology. This study is aimed to investigate the correlation between the sexual function of women with epilepsy and personality factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

this cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 women with epilepsy referred to selected centers in Tehran university of medical sciences by using continuous and availability sampling method between January and March 2014 (Iran) and evaluated with women's sexual function index questionnaire female sexual function index and NEO-five-factor of personality inventory. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16 and Pearson correlation test.

RESULTS:

The mean sexual function overall score in participations was 23.33 ± 2.82 there was a significant negative correlation between neuroticism and sexual function (P = 0.00, r = −0.03) and was significant positive correlation between personality traits as extraversion (P = 0.00, r = 0.63), agreeableness (P = 0.008, r = 0.26) and conscientiousness (P = 0.04, r = 0.20) and openness to new experiences (P = 0.03, r = 0.21) and sexual function in women with epilepsy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Results indicate that the personality traits can affect on sexual health and sexual function of women with epilepsy. Therefore, it is recommended that health-care providers with assess personality factors in women with epilepsy as a prognostic factor, take steps to prevent sexual dysfunction.
The effects of educational intervention on breast self-examination and mammography behavior
Authors: Pirzadeh Asiyeh , Ansari Sakine , Golshiri Parastoo
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and it is the second leading cause of mortality among cancers in women and a major health issue in developed countries. Although there are simple and effective screening methods, just minority of women use them. Given the high prevalence of breast cancer in Isfahan women and the low prevalence of screening behavior, the present study aimed to determine the impact of theory-based educational intervention on breast self-examination (BSE) behavior and mammography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present experimental study was conducted on 93 women referred to comprehensive health centers in Isfahan through convenience sampling, and by this way 46 women were included in the control group and 47 in the intervention group. Data collection was done by a valid and reliable questionnaire. Furthermore, educational interventions were performed for the intervention group in three sessions. Furthermore, the data were completed in the intervention group before, immediately after, and 3 months after intervention and before and 3 months after intervention in the control group. The data were analyzed by SPSS (16); and paired t-test and repeated measure test were used for analysis in the intervention group and also independent t-test and paired t-test were employed to analyze data of the control group.

RESULTS:

The results showed significant changes in perceived benefit constructs (P = 0.023), knowledge (P < 0.001), self-efficacy (P < 0.001), and behavioral intention regarding BSE (P = 0.035) in the intervention group over time, but changes were not significant in both perceived susceptibility and severity in the intervention group. As far as mammography behavior is concerned, only the perceived benefit construct in the intervention group had significant changes. In terms of the screening behavior, only BSE behavior significantly changed before and after intervention.

CONCLUSION:

The study showed that theory-based education by applying of constructs such as perceived benefits and self-efficacy and intention for BSE model could promote breast cancer screening behavior such as BSE. Therefore, it is suggested that health educators utilize educational texts based on these constructs to increase their influence on individuals via screening behavior for breast cancer.
The feasibility of simulation-based high-stakes assessment in emergency medicine settings
Authors: Alsulimani Loui K.
Published: April 2024

Using simulation in high-stakes assessments has been evolving as a method to improve the assessment process. There is a concurrent need to address challenges and establish best practices to ensure the best quality when implementing high-stakes evaluations. The aim of this study is to provide an insight for stakeholders about using multiple modalities of simulation in high-stakes evaluations by presenting challenges, best practices, and future directions described in the relevant literature. A scoping review of original studies (from the year 1994–2021) including the use of common modalities (standardized patients, high-fidelity mannequins, part-task trainers, virtual simulation, and hybrid simulation) was conducted. The search covered the common databases: PubMed, Education Resource Information Center, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and the Cochrane library. Initial screening in the databases resulted in 111,253 articles. After the application of a refining search strategy, 47 articles were included for comprehensive evaluation. Most articles were about credentialing/licensure purposes of assessment. Many articles were specialty-specific, especially focusing on anesthesia. Most challenges described were related to the validity of the assessment that should be considered in the planning phase. Best practices were mostly related to planning for measures to assure the validity of the assessment tools and process. The use of multimodality simulation for high-stakes assessment is growing despite challenges; this growth is associated with the accumulation of experience shared in literature. This growth will help to improve planning, practices, and goals achievement from such an application.
Behavioral drivers and observation of face covering use during the COVID-19 pandemic among outpatients and visitors at a tertiary hospital in Thailand
Authors: Kliangkird Nanta , Naknual Sommanas , Liabsuetrakul Tippawan , Wichaidit Wit
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Use of face covering may help prevent COVID-19 transmission. However, there is a lack of data on behavioral drivers of face covering use and compliance to mandatory face covering policy at health facilities. This study aimed to describe behavioral drivers and observed face covering use among outpatients and visitors at a tertiary hospital in Southern Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We conducted a hospital-based, cross-sectional study in June 2020. We developed, pilot-tested and finalized an interview questionnaire in Thai. We also developed a structured observation questionnaire. Two trained enumerators recruited outpatients and visitors at the hospital's internal medicine outpatient department (OPD), surgery OPD, and the pharmacy using the convenience sampling. Another enumerator conducted structured observation of face covering use among outpatients and visitors when interviews were not taking place. We analyzed the data using the descriptive statistics.

RESULTS:

A total of 206 persons that our interview enumerators approached agreed to participate (n = 206; response rate = 62.4%). Nearly all participants stated that the use of face covering was beneficial in preventing COVID-19 infection from others and preventing others from being infected (94.0% and 98.0%, respectively). Common barriers included inconvenience in breathing and speaking (19.7%) and pain at the ears (9.6%). Structured observation of 408 outpatients and visitors showed that nearly everyone (>99%) had a face covering on their person, most of whom (94.6%) covered both their nose and mouth.

CONCLUSION:

We found near-universal perceived benefits and compliance, but variations in perceived barriers, cues, and social norms for the use of face coverings. The findings of this study can inform future intervention programs on face covering use promotion.
A content analysis of social media on outbreak of infodemic amidst COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Divvi Anusha , Kengadaran Shivashankar , Katuri Lakshmi Subhashini , Kavitha M. , Sundaragopal Arunkumar , Anusha Vani , Kengadaran Sivabalakumaran , Sekar Hemachandran
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

With so much content on social media platforms about COVID-19, determining which information is reliable can be a daunting task. Hence, this study is aimed to analyze various posts with regard to COVID-19 on various social media platforms for their reliability and also examined various factors that influence information reliability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted, with 934 samples related to coronavirus pandemic published on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook using systematic random sampling. We adopted the criteria given by Paul Bradshaw and modified to assess the characteristics of the samples. Training and calibration of the investigators were carried out for 3 consecutive days before beginning the study. The data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and multinomial logistic regression to estimate the odds ratios.

RESULTS:

Out of 934 samples studied, only 570 (61%) were found to be reliable of which 243 (42.6%) were from Twitter, 117 (20.6%) from Instagram, and 210 (36.8%) from Facebook. We found that the reliability of the information on social media platforms is significantly influenced by network (odds: 1.32; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–1.52; P = 0.036), content (odds: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.69–1.92; P = 0.009), contextual update (odds: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.24–1.53) and age of the account (odds: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.64–2.09; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION:

Our study shows that the reliability of the social media posts significantly depends on the network, contextual update, and age of the account. Hence, cross verifying the information from a reliable source is the need of the hour to prevent panic and mental distress.
Organizational impact of faculty development programs on the medical teacher's competencies
Authors: Salajegheh Mahla
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Faculty development programs as useful approaches for organizational development improved competencies in faculty members which assist them to cope with workload and environment changes. Evaluating organizational development for faculty development programs provides insight into the impact of these programs on system development. The aim of present study was conducted to study the organizational development for faculty development programs at Kerman University of Medical Sciences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This analytical and cross-sectional study was conducted between October and December 2020. The organizational development for faculty development questionnaire was sent to a simple random sampling of 100 faculty members who had been participated in the “Medical Education Fellowship” program. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including independent samplet-test, one-way ANOVA, andpost hoc, using version 24.0 of SPSS.

RESULTS:

The response rate was 82%. Most of the faculty highly agreed that the “Medical Education Fellowship” program had produced organizational development. The score of the “Development and sustaining faculty development programs” domain (mean = 3.35, standard deviation [SD] =0.96) was higher than “Development and innovation in teaching and learning process” (mean = 3.31, SD = 0.74).

CONCLUSIONS:

Specific characteristics of the organizational development process for faculty development programs in health profession education were recognized. The findings emphasized on the importance of these interventions on creating developments in the broader community system.