bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Leadership in Creating and Supporting an Effective Mentoring System in Social Sector Organizations
Authors: Kakadiy I. , Nurdinkyzy M.
Published: July 2024

This work is devoted to the role of leadership in creating and supporting an effective mentoring system in social institutions, since in Russia there is now a great emphasis on the transformation and improvement of social institutions through the development of the system of providing social services. The development of all these systems expands the range of tasks for employees of social institutions, and as a result, actualizes the research of the mentoring system and related components. The article examines the key theoretical aspects of leadership in the context of the topic under study, as well as the specifics of the development of a mentoring system through the introduction of leadership technologies into it. The paper also presented the results of an empirical study on the topic “Formation of leadership qualities among mentors in social institutions”, within which recommendations were proposed for the development of leadership qualities among mentors in the process of adaptation or professional development of employees, as well as the entire mentoring system in social institutions to further maximize human potential in them.
The Impact of Separate and Blended Learning on the Quality of Education in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Torokulova S.
Published: July 2024

The article deals with the question of how much the previous school or learning experience influences the quality of higher education. School education can be carried out by different teaching methods, and each of them is characterized by its own peculiarities. Separate (gender-segregated) and blended (gender-mixed) learning are two widespread methods that shape the educational process and influence the social interaction between students. Importantly, the quality of pre-university education can have a significant impact on students' willingness to study challenging subjects at university. Students with a solid knowledge base and good academic skills often find it easier to cope with more challenging academic material in higher education. Initial successes can significantly boost students' self-confidence, which in turn has a positive effect on their motivation and overall performance at university. When students enter higher education, they are exposed to a new educational environment, are exposed to new teaching methods and develop as individuals. However, it is also important to recognize that each stage of learning presents students with its own unique challenges and opportunities that require students to be flexible and adaptable to overcome successfully.
PERANCANGAN REDESAIN USER INTERFACE WEBSITE KAMPUNG WISATA KREATIF CIGADUNG BANDUNG MENGGUNAKAN METODE USER CENTERED DESIGN
Authors: Amanda Zuhreini , Koesoemadinata Moh. Isa Pramana , Rurianto Joko , Ronggowarsito Bimahadi Ilmawan , Rais Fatwa Amin
Published: July 2024

Abstrak
Industri kreatif menjadi salah satu pilar utama pertumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia, khususnya di Kota Bandung. Oleh karena itu, Kampung Wisata Kreatif telah dihadirkan oleh Pemerintah Kota Bandung sebagai upaya pengembangan pariwisata dengan konsep Community Based Tourism (CBT), salah satunya adalah KWKC (Kampung Wisata Kreatif Cigadung). KWKC merupakan kawasan wisata kreatif dan seni budaya dengan konsep CBT yang berlokasi di Kelurahan Cigadung, Bandung. Meskipun KWKC telah memiliki website resmi, hasil survei menunjukkan bahwa website tersebut masih memiliki kekurangan pada tiga aspek desain user interface, yaitu tema website yang kurang menarik, tampilan informasi yang kurang informatif, serta fitur yang belum memenuhi kebutuhan pengguna. Maka dari itu, perancangan ulang user interface website KWKC dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode user-centered design (UCD) agar manfaat website dapat lebih optimal. Aspek yang diperbaiki meliputi redesain tema website, tampilan informasi yang lebih baik, dan penambahan fitur baru. Berdasarkan hasil perancangan ulang user interface dan survei akhir kepada pengguna, 96% responden menyetujui bahwa desain visual yang baru secara keseluruhan lebih menarik, serta 93% responden menyetujui bahwa desain baru lebih menarik dan informatif dibandingkan desain sebelumnya.
 
Kata Kunci: community based tourism, metode UCD, web design, UI UX
 
Abstract
The creative industry is one of the main pillars of Indonesia's economic growth, especially in the city of Bandung. Therefore, the Bandung City Government has introduced the Creative Tourism Village as an effort to develop tourism with the Community Based Tourism (CBT) concept, one of which is KWKC (Cigadung Creative Tourism Village). KWKC is a creative and cultural tourism area with a CBT concept located in Cigadung Village, Bandung. Even though KWKC has an official website, survey results show that the website still has shortcomings in three aspects of user interface design: a less attractive website theme, less informative information displays, and features that do not meet user needs. Therefore, the user interface of the KWKC website was redesigned using the user-centered design (UCD) method to optimize the website's benefits. The improvements included a redesign of the website theme, a better display of information, and the addition of new features. Based on the results of the user interface redesign and a final user survey, 96% of respondents agreed that the new visual design was overall more attractive, and 93% of respondents agreed that the improved design was more informative and engaging than the previous design.
 
Keywords:  community based tourism, UCD method, web design, UI UX
DAYA TARIK VISUAL BAND VIRTUAL GORILLAZ: MEMBANGUN IDENTITAS DAN FANTASI
Authors: Rasendriya Athiyya Apsarini , Ramli Ishak , Utomo Drajatno Widi , Respati Yosua Reydo , Murwonugroho Wegig
Published: July 2024

Abstrak
Gorillaz adalah band virtual yang dibentuk musisi Damon Albarn dan seniman Jamie Hewlett (1998). Band ini mencampurkan genre musik seperti rock, hip-hop, dub, reggae, electronic, dan pop. Gorillaz terdiri dari empat anggota virtual yaitu Stuart Pot sebagai vokalis dan pemain keyboard, Murdoc Niccals sebagai pemain bass dengan gaya kontroversial, Noodle sebagai gitaris digambarkan sebagai gadis Jepang muda yang kini telah dewasa, dan Russel Hobbs sebagai drummer yang memiliki latar belakang cerita dirasuki oleh roh teman-temannya yang telah meninggal. Anggota band direpresentasikan sebagai karakter kartun dengan alur cerita. Band animasi virtual yang bermain fiksi, bukan manusia sesungguhnya. Band virtual yang menggabungkan teknologi untuk merangsang indera manusia untuk memberikan pengalaman yang berbeda. Sebagai band yang menjajakan visual tokoh animasi yang fiktif, memunculkan keingintahuan penulis atas kekuatan daya tarik virtual, persepsi, dan apresiasi pendengar. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif melalui metode Semiotika Charles Sanders Peirce. Dalam penelitian ini ditemukan bahwa inovasi band Gorillaz memadukan seni visual dan musik dengan cara pemanfaatan teknologi animasi holografik tampil live dengan musisi sesungguhnya. Kekuatan narasi fantasi menjadi aksentuasi dimunculkan dalam animasi tiap tokoh virtual. 
 
Kata Kunci: animasi hologram, band virtual, daya tarik, fantasi visual, Gorillaz
 
 
Abstract
Gorillaz is a virtual band formed by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett in 1998. The band blends music genres such as rock, hip-hop, dub, reggae, electronic, and pop. Gorillaz consists of four virtual members namely Stuart Pot as vocalist and keyboard player, Murdoc Niccals as controversial bassist, Noodle as guitarist portrayed as a young Japanese girl who has matured; and Russel Hobbs as drummer with a backstory of being haunted by the spirits of deceased friends. Band members are represented as cartoon characters with narrative arcs. Gorillaz is an animated virtual band playing fictional characters rather than real humans, integrating technology to stimulate human senses for a unique experience. As a band showcasing fictional animated characters, it piques curiosity about the virtual appeal, perception, and listener appreciation. This qualitative descriptive research employs Charles Sanders Peirce's Semiotics method. The study concludes that Gorillaz's innovation combines visual art and music through holographic animation technology in live performances with real musicians, accentuating the narrative power of fantasy in each virtual character's animation.
 
Keywords: appeal, Gorillaz, holographic animation, virtual band, visual fantasy
“PARENTING IBU BISA!” : PENYUTRADARAAN MAGAZINE SHOW TV
Authors: Resmiyati Apriani Dwi , Sugihartono Ranang Agung
Published: July 2024

Abstrak
Fenomena ibu-ibu muda yang membutuhkan panduan dalam mengasuh anak menjadi tema penting untuk diangkat dalam program televisi. Penelitian artistik ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan bagaimana program magazine show dirancang dan disutradarai dengan topik parenting. Penciptaan program ini dengan konsep penyutradaraan what people want and need to see dan dikreasi menggunakan SOP produksi televisi yaitu praproduksi, produksi, dan pascaproduksi. Penelitian artistik ini menghasilkan sebuah program acara magazine show berjudul Ibu Bisa! episode Sabtu Bersama Ibu dengan topik parenting yang terdiri atas enam rubrik dan disajikan dalam empat segmen. Program Ibu Bisa! berhasil diproduksi melalui pemilihan topik yang tepat, penentuan narasumber berkompenten, dan penerapan konsep visual (warna, animasi, supers text) yang dikemas sebagai kesatuan bentuk (form) dan isi (content). Sehingga, program ini dapat menjadi tayangan menarik dan memberikan nilai tambah bagi penonton ibu-ibu muda dalam memahami dan mengaplikasikan parenting.
 
Kata Kunci: Penyutradaraan, televisi, magazine show, parenting , penelitian artistik
 
Abstract
The phenomenon of young mothers preparing to raise children becomes an interesting theme to be presented in television programs. This artistic research aims to describe how magazine show programs are designed and directed with the topic of parenting. The creation of this program uses the concept of directing “what people want and need to see” and is created using television production SOPs, namely pre-production, production and post-production. This artistic research resulted in a magazine show program titled Ibu Bisa! the ‘Saturday with Mother’ (Sabtu Bersama Ibu) episode with the topic of parenting which consists of six rubrics and is presented in four segments. Ibu Bisa! program successfully produced through selecting the right topic, determining competent sources, and applying visual concepts (colors, animations, supers text) which is packaged as a unified form and content. So, that this program can become an interesting show and provide added value for viewers of young mothers in understanding and applying parenting.
 
Keywords: directing, television, magazine show, parenting
Kajian literatur: Penerapan kemampuan komunikasi matematis siswa pada materi himpunan di sekolah menengah pertama
Authors: Capriati Zhesi , Maryati Iyam , Sumartini Tina Sri , Puspitasari Nitta
Published: July 2024

Pentingnya komunikasi matematis untuk siswa yaitu tidak hanya menjadi alat berpikir yang membantu siswa tetapi untuk mengembangkan pemahaman konsep siswa. Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh adanya fakta bahwa kemampuan komunikasi matematis siswa di Indonesia tergolong rendah. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis kemampuan komunikasi matematis di SMP dengan pembelajaran matematika materi himpuan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah SLR (Systematic Literature Review). Penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa kemampuan dalam pemahaman, menerapkan prinsip dan kesulitan dalam keterampilan berada pada kualifikasi yang rendah. Hal ini karena siswa mengalami kesulitan memahami maksud yang terdapat pada soal, membuat model matematis, menyelesaikan masalah matematis, dan menerapkan strategi yang tepat untuk menyelesaikan masalah matematika dalam pembelajaran himpunan. Pengumpulan data diperoleh 11 artikel terpilih dari jurnal yang terindeks Google Scholar. Semua topik dari artikel terpilih sangat relevan dalam penelitian ini. Hasil penelitian ini mengungkapkan bahwa penerapan kemampuan komunikasi matematis pada materi himpunan disekolah menengah pertama mengalami peningkatan dalam pembelajaran matematika.
Exploring the Gendered Dynamics of Work and Family Life. A Secondary Descriptive Analysis in the Romanian Context
Authors: Simionescu Vlăsceanu Maria
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on work and family life in Romania, with particular emphasis on gender, seen as a social structure. The methodology employs the secondary descriptive analysis of data drawn from NIS, Eurostat, and the European Value Survey/World Value Survey datasets. The findings show a Romanian work landscape with slow progress in embracing work flexibility, with considerably lower percentages of remote work and part-time employment compared to EU averages. A notable gender disparity exists in the professional sector. Women exhibit a 18.8% lower participation in economic activities compared to men, a gap that increases with the number of children. Moreover, 36.5% of women, in contrast to 2.7% of men, are professionally inactive due to familial responsibilities. These results align with Nancy Fraser’s (2013) viewpoint on how the intersection between capitalism and patriarchy shapes women experiences. The lack of family-friendly work structures disproportionately impacts women, leaving them vulnerable professionally and financially. Family continues to be the most important institution for Romanians, with trends regarding age of marriage and child births mirroring previous years. While there's a gradual decrease in unpaid household and childcare activities, it is mostly due to technological progress (Popescu, 2009) while women still work “double shifts” (Hochschild, 2012). The paper’s findings highlight that cultural norms and societal pressure compels women to prioritize family responsibilities. Creating “brave new families” (Stacy, 1990) or fostering “confluent love” (Giddens, 1992) requires post-modern cooperation between partners, backed by multi-level actions (Walby, 1989) at individual, organizational and societal levels.
Adecvarea politicilor publice la tendințele demografice actuale
Authors: Arpinte Daniel
Published: July 2024

About most of types of crises we have got very few details about how they are starting, how they are developing or about their impact on immediate or long term. Either is the COVID-19 pandemic (nobody was able to anticipate the start of the pandemic, although such risk was known as probable, as well as the predictions about its evolution were extremely diverse), about the Ukrainian war or about the economic crisis which already is made visible by an increasing inflation and employment, but particularly about the cumulative effect of these crises, we are confronted with a high degree of uncertainty and with the difficulty to plan and implement a response. The article brings into discussion another type of crises, the family and child policy crisis, of which beginning was known (or rather ignored) but of which effects on long term are clearly identifiable. An important consequence, the demographic crisis, strongly tied to the child and family deficit protection, has built during a three decade period, the National Institute of Statistics (2021) showing that in 2060 the Romanian population will fall to 14.54 million people, because of significant fertility decline and because of an increasing emigration. Basically, the population of Romania was in 2021 slightly below to the population registered in 1966, although during the last over three decades of the communist regime was implemented an aggressive pro-natalist policies. The article aims to identify the main features of the family policies and those targeting the elderlies into the context of a sharp demographic decline.
Încadrarea mediatică a inteligenței artificiale: o analiză a framingului din publicațiile online din România
Authors: Artene Lucian
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly at the center of public discourse. Considering the current importance of AI technologies, but also the influence that the mass media has on users' adoption of new technologies and their regulation, the article aims to analyze the attitudes of online publications in Romania towards AI. By using content analysis, the attitudes and themes of 100 articles selected from the most visited Romanian news websites were examined. The results reveal a relatively balanced distribution of attitudes, with 37% of articles expressing negative sentiments, 35% positive and 28% neutral. The most frequently addressed topics include the impact on jobs, especially the negative one, regulations in the field and new functionalities. Compared to the publications in English, as can be seen from the specialized literature, the Romanian articles present a more balanced attitude towards technology, with less emphasis on the dangers. However, the analysis shows that current events can strongly influence public discourse, and approaches vary by publication. These findings suggest a diverse debate, subject to rapid changes, with important implications for AI communication, education and policy in the Romanian space.
The pressure field model: a challenge to the conventional Starling and Guyton model of hemodynamic management
Authors: Woodford Stephen F. , Weinberg Laurence , Miles Lachlan F. , Marshall Ruth C. , Riedel Bernhard , Peyton Philip J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Ensuring hemodynamic stability with adequate perfusion to vital organs is critical to the safe conduct of anesthesia. Recent advances in hemodynamic monitoring technologies allow pressure, flow, and resistance to be measured continuously; however, there is limited evidence to suggest that these technologies alter clinical management or improve patient outcomes significantly. This may be because the fundamental hemodynamic model, established by Starling and Guyton, fails to offer the granular level of insight needed to guide clinical management.

Methods

We collected hemodynamic data from 950 patients who underwent major surgery with advanced hemodynamic monitoring (AHM) that provided continuously derived cardiac output and vascular resistance measurements. These measurements were based on the hemodynamic model of Starling and Guyton. Additionally, investigational monitoring software was developed to visualize a different hemodynamic model, termed the “pressure field” model. This model expresses the pulsatile, beat-to-beat relationship between ventricular performance (measured by stroke volume) and vascular tone (indicated by systemic elastance).

Results

Within this dataset were several patients who experienced major hemorrhage. Case studies of these patients demonstrate that abnormal pressure and flow regulation patterns are observed through the lens of the pressure field model, but these patterns are typically not visible through the lens of the traditional Starling and Guyton model (cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance, which involve averaging hemodynamic performance over successive cardiac cycles). Furthermore, “before and after” case studies using our investigational pressure field monitoring software suggest that the traditional Starling and Guyton hemodynamic model has limited utility in managing hemorrhage.

Discussion

We propose that the pressure field model may allow hemorrhage to be managed more effectively via improved monitoring granularity [the beat-by-beat visualization of the stroke volume-systemic elastance relationship, rather than the use of the composite metrics of cardiac output (heart rate × stroke volume) and systemic vascular resistance]. Further research into the utility of the pressure field model is warranted.
Cost and time risk factors in construction projects in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Fernández-Valderrama Pedro , Ureña-Estrella Crismal , Moyano Juan , Bienvenido-Huertas David
Published: July 2024

The building sector is very dynamic and complex, so construction works are surrounded by uncertainties. The deficiencies of this sector are mainly related to poor project planning and management, resulting in losses because of missed deadlines, cost overruns, reworks, and unsatisfied clients. For a project to be successful, all the parties involved should work together to effectively manage the risks that could emerge in the project life cycle. This research defines and establishes a classification of the factors causing cost and time deviations in construction projects in the Dominican Republic. For this purpose, the most common factors are compiled, and their risk levels are determined by using the data obtained in a survey in which professionals from the building sector participated. The indexes marked by the participants show that the serious risk factors are design variations and the variations made by clients, a tight project schedule and the preparation of bid offers, deficiencies in the work planning and schedule, the lack of skilled labour, and work performance errors.
The multifaceted role of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7
Authors: Chen Li , Hui Linhu , Li Jun
Published: July 2024

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) serves as a crucial extracellular matrix protein, exerting pivotal roles in both physiological and pathological processes. This comprehensive review meticulously delineates the structural attributes of IGFBP7, juxtaposing them with other members within the IGFBP families, and delves into the expression patterns across various tissues. Furthermore, the review thoroughly examines the multifaceted functions of IGFBP7, encompassing its regulatory effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration, elucidating the underlying mechanistic pathways. Moreover, it underscores the compelling roles in tumor progression, acute kidney injury, and reproductive processes. By rigorously elucidating the diverse functionalities and regulatory networks of IGFBP7 across various physiological and pathological contexts, this review aims to furnish a robust theoretical framework and delineate future research trajectories for leveraging IGFBP7 in disease diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and pharmaceutical innovations.
Screening factors to affect ultrasound-assisted extraction of (poly)phenols from date palm seeds
Authors: Lucas-González Raquel , Viuda-Martos Manuel , Pérez-Álvarez José Ángel , Fernández-López Juana
Published: July 2024

The aim of the current work was to compare the (poly)phenol profile (free, soluble-conjugate, and insoluble-bound) and antioxidant activity of date palm seed flour using different extraction methods (conventional vs. ultrasound-assisted extraction [UAE]) and to determine the most critical variables in the extraction of (poly)phenols through UAE using the Plackett–Burman design experiment. Using the Plackett–Burman design, seven factors, namely, ethanol concentration, liquid:solid ratio (mL/g), sonotrode, amplitude (%), extraction time, extractant pH, and extraction cycle, were studied. After the factors were studied using conventional extraction methods, 23 compounds were quantified, with protocatechuic acid and catechin being the predominant (poly)phenols. Furthermore, the distribution of (poly)phenols within the cell varied, with glycosylated quercetins and caffeoyl shikimic acids predominantly found in free forms. Ultrasound-assisted extraction demonstrated efficiency in extracting free and soluble-conjugate (poly)phenols. However, it showed limitations in extracting insoluble-bound (poly)phenols. Nevertheless, similar amounts of total (poly)phenols were shown after conventional extraction and UAE, that is, 259.69 ± 43.54 and 189.00 ± 3.08 mg/100 g date seed flour, respectively. The Plackett–Burman design revealed the liquid–solid ratio as a crucial factor affecting (poly)phenol extraction, with higher ratios yielding better results. The sonotrode choice also influenced the extraction efficiency, highlighting that the sonotrode with a smaller diameter but higher displacement amplitude showed the best polyphenol recovery and antioxidant activity values. The nature of (poly)phenols influenced the studied extraction variables differently, emphasizing the complexity of the extraction process. In this line, pure water was sufficient to extract flavan-3-ols after UAE, whereas ethanol was a crucial factor in extracting quercetin. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing extraction methods for maximizing (poly)phenol recovery from date palm seed flour for various applications in food and pharmacology industries.
Concordance of left ventricular volumes and function measurements between two human readers, a fully automated AI algorithm, and the 3D heart model
Authors: Myhre Peder L. , Gaibazzi Nicola , Tuttolomondo Domenico , Sartorio Daniele , Ugolotti Pietro Tito , Covani Marco , Bettella Alberto , Suma Sergio
Published: July 2024

Background

Echocardiography is essential in cardiovascular medicine for screening, diagnosis, and monitoring. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve echocardiography by reducing variability and analysis time. While 3D echocardiography is becoming more accurate, 2D imaging still dominates clinical care. We aimed to evaluate agreement in measures of left ventricular (LV) volumes and function between human readers, a fully automated AI 2D algorithm, and the 3D Heart Model.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 109 patients who underwent 2D and 3D transthoracic echocardiography. LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (LVEDV, LVESV) and ejection fraction (LVEF) were measured by two operators, a commercially available AI algorithm (US2ai), and the 3D Heart Model. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) was measured by the integrated semi-automated software and the AI algorithm. Outcomes included measures of agreement [bias, limit of agreement and Pearson's correlation (R)]

Results

For LV volume measurements, the AI algorithm was strongly correlated with the average of the human operators (r = 0.89 for LVEDV and r = 0.92 for LVESV), which was higher than between the operators (r = 0.74 and r = 0.84, respectively, p < 0.01). The same trend was seen for measures of reliability with respect to LVEDV, but not LVESV. AI demonstrated comparable performance to human operators in measuring LVEF, while the 3D Heart Model had a weaker correlation and reliability compared with human operators and AI measurements. The correlation between human operators and AI for GLS was only moderate.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates AI-based echocardiography as a promising tool for accurately assessing LV volumes and LVEF in clinical practice. AI-based measures demonstrated a significantly lower inter-operator variability, thereby improving the consistency and reliability of these assessments. Moreover, AI may prove particularly effective for conducting retrospective bulk analyses, offering a valuable tool for comprehensive evaluations of past data.
Building and maintaining a volunteer community: experiences of an image archive
Authors: Graf Nicole
Published: July 2024

The ETH-Library’s Image Archive has been using the knowledge of volunteers for over 15 years to identify photographs (aerial images, documentary and scientific photographs, press photography, etc.) correct and improve image metadata or georeference images. The first big challenge in starting so-called crowdsourcing projects is how to find people who might be enthusiastic about such a project. The second big challenge is how to maintain a community and keep it going over a longer period. A variety of experiences, tips as well as do’s and don’ts are discussed in the article.
Identifying factors influencing program selection in health sciences by underrepresented minority students—a scoping review
Authors: Mohammed Sami Al Sufi , Roduta Roberts Mary
Published: July 2024

There is a critical need to diversify health professionals to better serve the growing minority population in North America. Unfortunately, minority groups remain underrepresented in health professions. Despite recruitment efforts by government and academic institutions, fewer underrepresented minority (URM) students choose careers in healthcare. Identifying the key factors influencing URM students’ decisions to pursue health sciences programs could enhance diversity in these programs through targeted admissions strategies, ultimately leading to a more diverse future healthcare workforce. This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. Five electronic databases and gray literature were searched to identify North American papers published between 1942 and 2022. Identified studies focused on URM students’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to matriculate into a health science degree. Twenty-one articles were analyzed. Following content analysis, the facilitators and barriers identified comprised personal, socio-cultural, institutional, and financial. The most frequent facilitators reported were scholarships, family support, and the presence of role models. Common barriers included high tuition fees, pre-admission criteria, lack of awareness about the health profession, availability of financial aid, and the admission process. The findings of this review will facilitate the development and implementation of customized, comprehensive strategies to recruit more URM students to health science programs in the future, thereby improving efforts toward creating a diverse healthcare workforce.
The impact of primary schools’ inclusiveness on the inclusion of students with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Šilc Mateja , Lavrič Miran , Schmidt Majda
Published: July 2024

The inclusion of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex issue for schools. This study investigates the impact of the inclusivity of Slovenian primary schools on the inclusion of their students with ASD. We postulated that each pedagogical dimension of inclusion (i.e., academic, social, and emotional inclusion) of students with ASD would demonstrate a positive correlation with each dimension of inclusiveness of primary schools (i.e., inclusive culture, policy, and practice). Forty regular Slovenian elementary schools participated in the research. The Perceptions of Inclusion Questionnaire was completed by 200 respondents (40 students with ASD, 40 parents, 120 teachers), and the Index for inclusion by 240 respondents (40 parents, 200 school professionals). The analysis revealed one significant correlation, a weak positive correlation between inclusive practice and academic inclusion. Multiple regression analyses also identified one conditionally substantial pair. When we excluded the inclusive culture and policy and only considered the control of demographic variables, the results showed that the increase in inclusive practices corresponds to the increase in academic inclusion. The absence of correlations between the dimensions of school inclusivity and the pedagogical dimensions of including students with ASD can be attributed to the lack of systemic solutions for accommodating a diverse student population and the failure to conduct a thorough analysis of the inclusion and implementation of whole-school approaches. However, the Slovenian adaptation of the Index for Inclusion, a promising tool, offers hope in addressing these challenges.
Metabolic syndrome and associated factors among H. pylori-infected and negative controls in Northeast Ethiopia: a comparative cross-sectional study
Authors: Asmelash Daniel , Nigatie Marye , Melak Tadele , Alemayehu Ermiyas , Ashagre Agenagnew , Worede Abebaw
Published: July 2024

Background

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in patients infected with Helicobacter pylori, and the factors associated with it are not well understood. This study evaluates MetS and its associated factors among both H pylori-positive and H pylori-negative individuals in Northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between 1 March 2022 to 30 May 2022. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical variables. A total of 228 subjects were randomly selected. Blood and stool samples were collected from each subject to measure fasting blood glucose and lipid profiles, and to identify H. pylori infection. Data were entered into Epi. Data 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Logistic regression analysis and the Mann–Whitney U-test were performed to determine associated factors and compare median and interquartile ranges.

Results

Of the 228 participants, 114 were H. pylori positive, and 114 were H. pylori negative. Participants (50.9% female) ranged in age from 18 years to 63 years, with a median age of 31 (IQR, 22, 40) years. The overall prevalence of MetS among the participants was 23.2%. We found a statistically significant association between MetS and fasting blood glucose level (AOR, 15.965; 95% CI, 7.605–33.515, p<0.001). Furthermore, there was a statistically significant difference in the median serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p<0.001), triglycerides (p=0.036), systolic blood pressure (<0.001), and total cholesterol (p<0.001) between H. pylori-positive and H. pylori-negative participants.

Conclusion

MetS was prevalent among study participants. There was also a statistically significant association between fasting blood sugar and MetS. In addition, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein levels were significantly different between H. pylori-positive and H. pylori-negative individuals.
Association between triglyceride glucose body mass index and cardiovascular disease in adults: evidence from NHANES 2011- 2020
Authors: Wang Run , Cheng Xiaobing , Tao Weijun
Published: July 2024

Background

The association between insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is of significant interest. However, there is limited published research on the relationship between CVD and the triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI). This study aims to examine the association between TyG-BMI and CVD in US adults.

Method

We analyzed data from 11016 adults collected through the 2011-2020 NHANES. Employing weighted generalized linear models, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curves, we examined the association between the TyG-BMI index and CVD. Nonlinear associations were investigated using restricted cubic splines.

Results

Higher TyG-BMI values were significantly associated with an increased prevalence of CVD (P<0.001). Weighted generalized linear models consistently demonstrated a positive association across all models. Specifically, individuals in the highest tertile of TyG-BMI had a 38% higher CVD prevalence than those in the lowest quartile (OR=1.380; 95% CI=1.080, 1.763). Unweighted logistic regression models further confirmed these findings. Sex, race, education, family income to poverty ratio, smoking, hypertension, and diabetes did not modify this positive association (P for interaction >0.05). Incorporating the TyG-BMI index into traditional risk factor models marginally improved the prediction of CVD prevalence (P for comparison <0.05).

Conclusions

The TyG-BMI index, an indicator of insulin resistance, is significantly positive associated with a higher prevalence of CVD. These findings underscore the importance of managing insulin resistance to prevent CVD and highlight the need for further research into the underlying mechanisms of this association.
COVID-19 vaccination hesitance and adverse effects among US adults: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Abdelmasseh M. , Cuaranta A. , Iqbal A. , Kadiyala V. , Willis J. , Gorka A. , Thompson E. , Finley R. , Payne B. , Sanabria J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Although Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is critical to control its spread, vaccine hesitancy varies significantly among the United States population; moreover, some vaccine recipients experienced various adverse effects. We aim to assess the impact of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in a university-affiliated community, the factors affecting participants’ decisions, and their adverse effects.

Methods

A pre-vaccination online Institutional Review Board IRB-approved survey was emailed in Nov/Dec 2020, 2 months before the implementation of state-policy protocols for COVID-19 vaccination. A post-vaccination survey was emailed in May/June 2021, two months after protocol execution. A third follow-up survey was sent in Nov/Dec 2021, and a fourth was sent in June/July 2022. The study population included three groups of adult participants: university students, faculty, and staff-(MS), university health system patients-(MP), and Cancer Center patients-(MCP). The study was designed as a longitudinal cohort study. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS.

Results

With a combined response rate of 26% (40,578/157,292) among the four surveys, 15,361 participants completed the first survey (MS = 4,983, MP = 9,551, and MCP = 827). 2/3 of participants (63.5%) were willing to get vaccinated, with a significant difference in acceptance among groups, MS:56.6%, MP:66.2%, and MCP:71.6% (p < 0.05). Vaccine acceptance rates reached 89% in the second survey after the vaccine's approval, with a lower acceptance rate of MS:84.6% than with MP:90.74% and MCP:92.47% participants (p < 0.05). Safety and effectiveness concerns were the main factors affecting participants’ decisions in all the first three surveys; however, participants reported these concerns decreased between pre-vaccination, post-vaccination, and follow-up surveys with 87%, 56%, and 46%, respectively(p < 0.05). More than two-thirds of the participants (70%) reported having either minor/moderate symptoms (61.6%) or major symptoms (8.6%) after getting some of the vaccine doses (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The hesitance of COVID-19 vaccination was associated with concerns regarding its safety and efficacy. Vaccine acceptance rose higher than expected after protocol execution, likely due to continuous education, whereas safety and efficacy remain factors hindering vaccine acceptance. Continuous education focusing on safety and efficacy of the vaccine can reduce vaccine hesitancy and raise the rates of vaccination.
Assessing genomics confidence and learning needs in Australian nurses and midwives: an educational program evaluation
Authors: Alexander Kim E. , Rolfe Melanie , Gabbett Michael T.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The mainstreaming of genomics across healthcare specialties necessitates that all nurses and midwives have a high literacy in genomics.

Methods: We aimed to design, develop, implement and evaluate a genomics education workshop for nurses and midwives using action research principles.

Results: Registered nurses and midwives completed an online survey regarding genomics confidence and learning needs (n = 274). The results of this survey were used to develop the genomics education workshop. The workshop was run three times (n = 105) with evaluation data being collected both before and after each workshop. Significant improvements in confidence across all learning domains was found following the workshops (p < 0.001). A desire for more education across all learning domains except for genetics knowledge was also identified (p < 0.001).

Discussion: Genomics education workshops were found to increase the confidence of nurses and midwives across a range of specialties. Nurses and midwives also expressed a desire for further education in genomics.
Level of optimal antenatal care utilization and its associated factors among pregnant women in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia: new WHO-recommended ANC 8+ model
Authors: Deresa Dinagde Dagne , Feyisa Gizu Tola , Afework Hana Tadesse , Chewaka Menen Tilahun , Wada Habtamu Wana
Published: July 2024

Background

To fully realize the life-saving and health-promoting benefits of antenatal care (ANC), the latest World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations call for pregnant women to have at least eight contacts with skilled healthcare providers. This increased number of recommended ANC visits represents a shift toward a more comprehensive, individualized approach to prenatal care. The focus is on health promotion, disease prevention, and the early detection and management of complications during pregnancy. However, in sub-Saharan African countries, including Ethiopia, the coverage rate for this level of recommended antenatal care is only 58%. Given this relatively low utilization, identifying the key risk factors that prevent adequate antenatal care would have significant implications for increasing overall ANC uptake in these regions.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to assess the level of optimal antenatal care utilization and its associated factors among pregnant women in Arba Minch town, southern Ethiopia in 2023 using the new WHO-recommended ANC 8+ model.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 416 mothers who were enrolled between 1 December 2022 and 30 January 2023. The total sample size was allocated proportionately to the number of women who delivered at each public health facility. Thus, systematic sampling was applied. Kobo Toolbox was used for data collection and cleaning, which was then analyzed using SPSS Version 26. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value <0.05.

Results

In this study, the level of optimal antenatal care was 41% [95% confidence interval (CI): 37–45.3]. The associated factors with optimal antenatal care were the presence of pregnancy danger signs [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 4.1, 95% CI: 1.87–8.82], having bad obstetric history (AOR = 3.90, 95% CI: 1.94–7.83), antenatal contact at hospital (AOR = 5.11, 95% CI: 2.28–11.21), having good knowledge about antenatal care (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.15–4.44), women's high decision-making power (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI: 1.2–7.63), and male partner involvement (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.04–3.78) were positively associated with optimal antenatal care utilization.

Conclusion

The level of optimal antenatal follow-up is still low. Therefore, it is crucial to provide more information during the antenatal contacts to lower the rate of women discontinued from antenatal care.
The seroconversion history to SARS-CoV-2 in Indigenous people from Brazil – the interplay between exposure, vaccination, and tuberculosis
Authors: Nagai Alice , Lemes Renan Barbosa , Mill José Geraldo , Pereira Alexandre Costa , Marques Rafael Elias , Hünemeier Tábita
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant loss of human lives and a worldwide decline in quality of life. Although our understanding of the pandemic has improved significantly since the beginning, the natural history of COVID-19 and its impacts on under-represented populations, such as Indigenous people from America, remain largely unknown. We performed a retrospective serological survey with two Brazilian Indigenous populations (n=624), Tupiniquim and Guarani-Mbyá. Samples were collected between September 2020 and July 2021: a period comprising the dissemination of SARS-CoV-2 variants and the beginning of COVID-19 vaccination in Brazil. Seroconversions against S and N antigens were assessed using three different commercially available ELISA kits. Samples were also used to assess the prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) in the same population (n=529). Seroconversion against SARS-CoV-2 antigens was considered positive if at least one of the three ELISA kits detected levels of specific antibodies above the threshold specified by the manufacturer. In this sense, we report 56.0% (n=349/623) of seroconverted individuals. Relative seroconversion peaked after introduction of the Coronavac vaccine in February 2021. Vaccination increased the production of anti-S IgG from 3.9% to 48.6%. Our results also indicated that 11.0% (n=46/417) of all individuals were positive for TB. Seroconversion to SARS-CoV-2 was similar between individuals with positive tuberculosis test results to those with negative test results. Most vaccinated individuals seroconverted to SARS-CoV-2, indicating that Coronavac may be as protective in individuals from these indigenous groups as observed in the general Brazilian population. COVID-19 severity was minimal regardless of incomplete vaccine coverage, suggesting that vaccination may not be the only factor protecting individuals from severe COVID-19. Tuberculosis is highly prevalent and not associated with increased seroconversion to SARS-CoV-2.
Case report: Three cases of systemic lupus erythematosus presenting primarily with massive ascites and significantly elevated CA-125 levels and a review of pseudo-pseudo Meigs’ syndrome in literature
Authors: Li Qiyu , Tian Bailing
Published: July 2024

This article presents three detailed case reports and a brief review of the literature on a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) known as Pseudo-Pseudo Meigs' Syndrome (PPMS). The patients' condition was characterized by elevated CA-125 levels, massive ascites andpleural effusion which is typically associated with ovarian malignancies but can also present in various non-malignant conditions, including SLE. A thorough literature review was conducted, summarizing similar cases and their clinical outcomes to provide a broader understanding of this uncommon syndrome. The findings emphasize the need for heightened awareness and consideration of pseudo-pseudo Meigs' syndrome in patients with SLE presenting with unexplained ascites and pleural effusion.
Trained immunity inducers in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Sui Yongjun , Berzofsky Jay A.
Published: July 2024

While most of the cancer immunotherapy strategies engage adaptive immunity, especially tumor-associated T cells, the small fraction of responding patients and types of cancers amenable, and the possibility of severe adverse effects limit its usage. More effective and general interventions are urgently needed. Recently, a de facto innate immune memory, termed ‘trained immunity’, has become a new research focal point, and promises to be a powerful tool for achieving long-term therapeutic benefits against cancers. Trained immunity-inducing agents such as BCG and fungal glucan have been shown to be able to avert the suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), enhance T cell responses, and eventually lead to tumor regression. Here, we review the current understating of trained immunity induction and highlight the critical roles of emergency granulopoiesis, interferon γ and tissue-specific induction. Preclinical and clinical studies that have exploited trained immunity inducers for cancer immunotherapy are summarized, and repurposed trained immunity inducers from other fields are proposed. We also outline the challenges and opportunities for trained immunity in future cancer immunotherapies. We envisage that more effective cancer vaccines will combine the induction of trained immunity with T cell therapies.