Essential Concepts Research Articles

ESR Essentials: Image evaluation of patients with seizures and epilepsy-practice recommendations by the European Society of Neuroradiology.

Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, poses significant challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and management. Understanding the underlying causes and identifying precise anatomical locations of epileptogenic foci are critical for effective management strategies, particularly in drug-resistant patients. Neuroimaging techniques, particularly magnetic resonance (MR), play a pivotal role in the evaluation of epilepsy patients, offering insights into structural abnormalities, epileptogenic lesions, and functional alterations within the brain. Diverse clinical scenarios that warrant neuroimaging in epilepsy patients, ranging from first-onset seizures to drug-resistant epilepsy, will be presented, elucidating the considerations and recommendations for imaging modalities. The dedicated MR protocol for epilepsy patients will be discussed, justifying the rationale behind sequence selection and optimisation strategies and providing clues about how to read these magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams. Finally, MR findings associated with common epileptogenic lesions, such as hippocampal sclerosis, focal cortical dysplasia, and long-term epilepsy-associated tumours, will be described. This article reviews essential concepts, including definitions, classification, imaging indications, protocols, and neuroradiological findings, aiming to understand how neuroimaging contributes to diagnosing and managing epilepsy comprehensively. KEY POINTS: MR should be performed in adults and children with a recent diagnosis of epilepsy of unknown aetiology, a first seizure, and a negative CT. Performing a dedicated MR protocol in focal epilepsy is essential for increasing the detection of potentially epileptogenic lesions. For presurgical evaluations, MR abnormalities should correlate with the electric pattern, semiology data, or other neuroimaging examination to be considered the epileptogenic lesion.

The Impact of Training, Culture, and Leadership on Electronic Performance

This study aims to examine the impact of training, organizational culture, and managerial capability on E-Performance, as well as the subsequent influence of E-Performance on employee performance within the City Government. The research is intended to offer valuable insights for academics and practitioners focused on promoting digital transformation and improving performance in the public sector. Additionally, it enriches the theoretical discussion by incorporating essential organizational behavior concepts into the context of digital governance. Performance and its implications for Employee Performance within the City Government. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 413 employees through structured questionnaires and analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). While Training directly improves E-Performance, it does not have a significant direct impact on Employee Performance. This research contributes to the understanding of digital transformation in the public sector, particularly in Indonesia, by highlighting the critical roles of organizational culture and managerial capabilities in facilitating this transformation. The study underscores the importance of fostering a supportive culture and enhancing managerial skills to maximize the benefits of digital technologies in improving employee productivity. The findings reveal that both Managerial Capability and Organizational Culture significantly enhance E-Performance, which in turn positively affects Employee Performance

The Effect of Brand Resonance on Smartphone Brand Loyalty: The Role of Customer Satisfaction as a Mediation Variable

This research aims to investigate whether customer satisfaction mediates the influence of brand resonance towards brand loyalty on a smartphone technology company. Essential concepts from brand management, consumer behavior, and marketing theory are leveraged to explore the role of customer satisfaction as a mediator in the relationship between brand resonance and brand loyalty. This research used a non-experimental quantitative research design and has obtained a total of 160 participants aged between 18-61 years (Mage = 28.11, SDage = 7.09). Results indicated that customer satisfaction mediates the influence of brand resonance towards brand loyalty. However, it is also found that the brand resonance variable has no effect on brand loyalty. This research reinforces relationship marketing theories that emphasize emotional and cognitive bonds with customers. It proposes that improving customer satisfaction may be a crucial avenue through which brand resonance drives long-term customer loyalty. Although this research model has been widely used before, this study was specifically conducted on one of the start-up companies in South Tangerang, Indonesia. This research also provides new insights in terms of scientific implications, novelty of results, and knowledge from the side of the variables studied.

Amplifying Learning Development in Human Capability Advancement through Soft and Hard Skills

This study review evolved in tandem with experiential learning in a group of next generation leaders. It emphasizes several practices in achieving soft and hard skills through identifying three core phases: awkwardness, awareness, and familiarity in practice. Kolb's experiential learning theory supports the paradigm of skills acquisition through experience, reflection, conceptualization, and experimentation. Skills acquisition is essential for development as a necessity for enhanced employability, enhanced productivity, and overall individual growth due to constant adaptation and learning. The review methods included a literature review approach by evaluating existing published findings on critical aspects of developing soft and hard skills, and receiving group feedback on experiential application. The panorama of aspects evaluated include understanding soft and hard skills, phases of practice in the skills development process, the role of practice in skills development, levels of thinking in translating theory into practice, critical, practical and creative thinking, reflective thinking, insight, foresight, hindsight, combining levels of thinking into practice. Collectively, the findings were intended to provide a detailed understanding of amplifying learning development and advancing human capabilities through soft and hard skills. Hard skills are defined as the technical competencies required to perform tasks, and are acquired through knowledge. At the same time, soft skills are required to integrate the hard skills into practice. Notably, skills development occurs in phases, including awkwardness, consciousness, and assimilation. Practice also plays a critical role in skills development by helping the brain to translate knowledge into practical skills. Translating theory into practice also requires levels of thinking, including critical, practical, and reflective thinking. Creative thinking at the workplace involves establishing new, unique aspects by considering various perspectives of the problem to develop a solution. Reflective thinking is a critical soft skill that allows individuals to navigate an unpredictable situation, allowing for the evaluation of actions. In reflective thinking, insight involves developing a coherent and in-depth understanding of aspects that were not transparent previously. Foresight entails drawing from previous experiences to predict the future and solve problems based on the individual's understanding of the problem. Hindsight provides a comprehensive understanding of the consequences of previous experiences, emphasizing the accuracy of insight into a specific aspect of the business. In sum, skills development is an essential concept in the modern human resource and talent acquisition sector, and thereto, developing both soft and hard skills is essential as shown by the reviewed literature. Furthermore, it is vital to comprehend that skills development occurs in phases, all drawn from Kolb's experimental learning theory, including awkwardness, consciousness, and assimilation. Overall, the learning process is crucial as it ensures that an individual can eventually perform these skills autonomously.

ANALISIS KEBUTUHAN PENGEMBANGAN E-MODUL FISINBERMA BERBANTUAN PHET UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR TINGKAT TINGGI SISWA SMA

This research aimed at: 1) analysis of literature studies: essential concepts, characteristics of problem-based interactive physics (probinphys) e-modules assisted by PhET; 2) Field studies: essential concepts, facilities and infrastructure, references, learning methods, and obstacles in learning. The research subjects were class X students of SMAN Singaraja. The data collection method was by providing a checklist, making observations, and interviews. The results of the need analysis are: 1) Literature study products: (a) list of essential concepts of quantities, units, and measurements, (b) characteristics of the probinphys e-module: problem presentation, theoretical basis, example questions and exercises. 2) Field study products: (a) list of essential concepts; (b) laboratory equipment, ICT, internet access, and PhET simulations are available; (d) the methods applied by teachers are discussion, lecture, and PBL methods, not yet using probinphys teaching materials, (e) the obstacles are time problem, difficulty preparing ill-structure problems, and slow internet access. Keywords: probinphys e-module, hots

The Role of MDCT Coronary Angiography in the Detection of Benign Varieties and Anomalies of Coronary Blood Vessels-A Narrative Review.

Coronary arteries may vary in quantity, point of origin, or course. These variations fall under the category of anatomical variants/anomalies of the coronary arteries, representing congenital abnormalities of the coronary vascular system. Generally, they are benign, asymptomatic, and identified inadvertently during coronary angiography conducted for alternative indications. However, in some cases, the anomaly's characteristics or its interaction with surrounding structures may cause hemodynamic disturbances. These disturbances can lead to turbulent blood flow, which in turn poses an increased likelihood for the development of atherosclerosis and myocardial ischemia. If symptomatic, potential manifestations include chest pain, arrhythmias, syncope, myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death. Given the potential for life-threatening complications in certain cases, the early and accurate diagnosis of coronary artery anomalies is of paramount importance. The most common diagnostic procedures used for the evaluation of coronary vessels are coronary angiography and multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) coronary angiography. MDCT angiography is a non-invasive, dependable, safe, and sensitive method for the detailed visualization of coronary anatomy. It offers high-resolution imaging that enables precise assessment of congenital coronary variations, aiding in both clinical decision-making and long-term patient management. We conducted a narrative review to analyze and integrate the body of literature on coronary artery varieties and anomalies. Our objective was to provide a comprehensive, albeit non-exhaustive, overview of essential concepts and findings related to their definition, classification, and detection with MDCT angiography. By integrating current knowledge in MDCT imaging, we seek to contribute to a better understanding of the clinical implications of coronary artery variations and their role in cardiovascular health.

Exploring the Essential Use Concept for Primary Microplastics Regulation in the EU.

With the increasing prevalence of plastic pollution, including microplastics (MPs, particles <5 mm), the pursuit of safer and more sustainable alternatives gains increasing traction. While a substantial portion of MPs in the environment arises from the degradation of plastic litter and the wear of polymer-containing materials (secondary MPs), deliberate incorporation of MPs in certain products (primary MPs) also represents a considerable source, and targeted measures can be implemented to minimize human exposure and environmental releases. Improved policies for managing macroplastic waste help mitigate secondary MPs, but addressing primary MPs requires distinct strategies. Globally, various approaches, such as bans or restrictions on primary MPs, have been proposed, including the recent EU regulation under REACH, which groups intentionally added MPs together based on their diverse uses and properties. However, applying the Essential Use Concept (EUC) provides a more refined regulatory approach; balancing environmental health, technical feasibility, and innovation. This perspective explores the potential, challenges, and limitations of implementing the EUC for primary MPs. By examining four use cases─controlled-release medicines, agricultural seed coatings, personal care products, and artificial turf infill─we highlight how the EUC can prioritize essential and beneficial applications while phasing out nonessential uses.

From fluorine’s position in the periodic table to PFAS environmental issues

From fluorine’s position in the periodic table to PFAS environmental issues

Endometriosis: a journey from infertility to fertility.

Endometriosis, a chronic and multifocal inflammatory condition with a substantial estrogen-dependent component, is often linked to infertility. Some patients with endometriosis may require surgical intervention or assisted reproductive technologies to conceive. Although many patients who achieve pregnancy have relatively uncomplicated outcomes because of the progesterone-induced regression of endometriotic lesions, complications can still arise during pregnancy and the peripartum period. Complications include the decidualization of endometriosis implants, with site-specific implications (e.g., decidualized endometrioma mimicking ovarian cancer, decidualized deep endometriosis infiltrating the myometrium leading to uterine rupture, spontaneous hemoperitoneum), placenta previa, preterm labor and premature rupture of membranes, postpartum hemorrhage, or systemic conditions such as hypertensive or coagulation disorders. Herein, we review the background of these conditions and the expected radiologic findings. Additionally, we review essential clinical concepts about the treatment available and the information needed to make health care decisions. This review aims to equip radiologists with essential insights into the challenges faced by patients with endometriosis, from infertility diagnosis through postpartum care. By enhancing radiologists' understanding of these aspects and relevant imaging findings, we aspire to improve maternal and fetal outcomes affected by this complex condition.

Language Processing in the Human Brain: The Role of the Left and Right Sides

This academic paper elucidates that cognitive functioning in any domain — memory, attention, abstract reasoning, language, etc. — cannot be uniquely correlated to either the left or right cerebral hemispheres. These complex actions stem from both hemispheres of the brain working together and in coordination with one another as a team, emphasizing their relationship. The localization of language has been the subject of decades of research, and the aim of this extensive article is to identify not only the different distribution of language across the two hemispheres but also their respective anatomical locales. More on this integrative view of connectionism will be discussed here, as it provides a very different and opposes the classical localizationist paradigm, wherein it has further divided many brain regions into their respective and exclusive functions and was thus supported by this convincing and comprehensive study. This study seeks to shed light on essential concepts related to a host of language features associated with several interconnected brain regions. We hope that this article will provide a significant contribution to the ongoing discussions within the field of cognitive neuroscience and provide insight into our understanding of language processing and its brain bases.

Conceptions of Rain and Rainfall Patterns: A Sehananwa Philosophical Perspective

Like all other African nations, Bahananwa harbour a strong aversion to deviant behaviour that results in societal ills such as moral decay and environmental disturbances. To mitigate the impact of such occurrences, practices that disrupt the delicate balance between people, land, and rainfall are governed with great reverence through philosophical tools such as taboos, rituals, and totems. Rainfall serves as a critical barometer for assessing the well-being of the equilibrium of natural forces. Accordingly, this article investigates these essential concepts in relation to rainfall patterns. A combination of exploratory qualitative research methodologies was employed to elicit insights and ideas from prominent members of the Bahananwa polity. Ultimately, the thematic analysis yielded a deeper understanding of how Bahananwa perceive the connection between morality and natural phenomena, with a particular emphasis on rainfall. By highlighting Sehananwa conceptions of rainfall and morality, this article aims to contribute to the discourse on climate change from a distinctly African perspective and to elevate awareness of African knowledge systems. Most urgently, the article advocates for a behavioural change towards indigenous forms of knowledge and environmental issues.

Building a resilient economy: green initiatives and green entrepreneurship for women’s empowerment

Purpose Women empowerment (WEN) and green entrepreneurship (GEP) are two essential concepts for societal development. This paper aims to examine the effect of green entrepreneurial skills (GESS), green opportunities (GOS) and green incentives (GIS) on WEN and GEP in a developing economy. Design/methodology/approach The study was based on quantitative cross-sectional data collected from women green entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia. It used 314 valid cases to obtain results. Findings Using the structural equation model, the results demonstrate that GESS has a positive effect on WEN but a negative effect on GEP. GOS has a positive effect on both WEN and GEP. GIS’s impact on WEN is negative and positive on GEP. Moreover, GEP has a positive effect on WEN. Finally, GEP does not support the development of an association between GESS, GOSS and WEN, but it contributes to creating a positive connection between GIS and WEN. Practical implications The study’s outcomes assist policymakers and planners in designing strategies for equipping women with GEP skills to bring their empowerment. Moreover, policymakers grasp the need for interventions that address women-specific barriers, promote equitable access to GOS and identify how incentive structures support rather than hinder women’s participation in the green economy. Originality/value The study offers an integrated framework that integrates GESS, GOS, GIS, GEP and WEN in a single framework, along with direct and indirect paths in the Saudi Arabian women entrepreneurs’ context.

Developing comprehensive hypertension ontology: Addressing data integration gaps to improve healthcare results.

Objective: Therefore, the objective of this study was to design hypertension ontology with the aim of improving integration of data, representation of knowledge and better decision making in hypertension management. Methods: First, we performed a systematic literature review (SLR) across ten different databases aiming at capturing the essential concepts. Using this extracted data a Hypertension Ontology (HPO) was created in Protégé which was loaded and published on BioPortal for availability. Results: HPO contains 114 classes and five properties that structure the risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. It improves knowledge discovery, data sharing capabilities, and surpasses existing hypertension-related ontologies in functionality. Conclusion: HPO facilitates standardized hypertension management in a research context and clinical practices. Next Steps will be integration of Real-world data and Interoperability to HER.

동화책을 활용한 시스템사고 교육 방안에 관한 시론적 탐색

In an era where discussions on sustainability have become increasingly urgent, education also demands fundamental change that can no longer be postponed. This study explores practical educational approaches incorporating systems thinking, which can drive significant transformation in education. Recognizing the necessity for future generations to analyze problems comprehensively and pursue long-term solutions, this research emphasizes using storybooks to teach systems thinking to elementary school students. Through literature review, this study analyzed the concepts and characteristics of systems thinking and examined its educational effectiveness. It also explored the significance of teaching systems thinking during childhood, based on domestic studies proving the educational value of storybooks. Storybooks are familiar to elementary students and naturally suited to integrating the principles of systems thinking, thus presenting an effective educational medium. Based on prior research, this study identified six criteria for selecting appropriate storybooks for systems thinking education. Essential concepts selected for instructional strategies included connections, causality, causal loop diagrams, BOTg, stock-flow diagrams, the iceberg model, ‘what if’scenarios, feedback loops, and delays. Combining these elements, three instructional models tailored to different grade levels (lower, middle, upper) were outlined. The proposed storybook-based systems thinking education plan is expected to effectively guide the integration and implementation of systems thinking within elementary education.

Enhancing Student Performance Through the Revamp of the Research-Related Unit and Dissertation Processes: A Case Study

This case study explores the impact of redesigning the Research Processes and Techniques unit and dissertation processes on student performance. Traditionally taught during the final three months of the second year, the unit was restructured as a year-long course to provide students ample time to develop their research ideas and understand essential concepts. The study involves analysing qualitative data from lecture notes and student feedback and assessing dissertation performance across three academic years (2021/22, 2022/23, and 2023/24).Students were initially encouraged to explore research themes and ideas, with subsequent sessions focused on refining and expanding these ideas. Data from individual student discussions were collected and compared with performance metrics, including assignment grades and viva outcomes. Additionally, the study includes an in-depth analysis of dissertations, with a focus on common challenges, supervisor-student communication, and research skill development. Second examiners assessed a sample of dissertations to ensure consistency and identify issues. The feedback acquired from external examiners was also incorporated.The findings indicate that students with early clarity on their research ideas demonstrated improved performance in assignments and their dissertations. The year-long structure facilitated better idea development and concept grasp. This case study underscores the crucial role of early and continuous engagement in research processes for enhancing student performance, shedding light on a critical factor that can significantly influence student outcomes.

Families of Disjoint Sets Colouring, Partitioning, Technique and Standard of Partition for Edge Colouring

Families of disjoint sets coloring (partitioning) technique is trial to unify and generalize all types of coloring such as edge coloring, vertex coloring, and face coloring. The concept of standard of partitioning edges into color classes is essential concept to follow and understand families of disjoint sets coloring (partitioning) technique. In this paper, we introduce some examples of standard of partitioning, and introduce some results of partitioning edges. Some of these results explain importance of standard of partitioning related to subgraphs, and some results related to maximum number of edges belongs to each color class. Also, we introduce results of partitioning edges related to quasi non common edges. Here we list some properties related to standard of partitioning edges into color classes.

Essential characteristics of the concept of "research thinking of a teacher" and approaches to its study in domestic and foreign science

Introduction. Human cognitive abilities are currently in the epicenter of attention of many specialists. It happens because of strengthening of their role in improving the efficiency of life activity of both a particular person and society as a whole in conditions of its increasing complexity. The problem of teacher's research thinking development is considered as one of the most important cognitive abilities. Its solution can contribute to improving the efficiency of education and, consequently, the quality of society's intellectual potential. This article focuses on exploring the concept of teachers' research thinking and its development as discussed by both domestic and foreign scholars. The goal was achieved through the use of theoretical research methods such as conceptual analysis, synthesis, and comparative-historical analysis. The article emphasizes the importance of studying the essence and content of “research thinking” for teachers and its role in enhancing their professional effectiveness.Materials and methods. To achieve the goal, authors created a theoretical basis for the study, including different literary sources (both domestic and foreign). On its basis authors performed such methodological functions as critical (it allowed to identify differences and peculiarities of the essence of the concept under consideration in the approaches of different scientists, to reveal cause-and-effect relationships in different approaches to analyzing the essence of the key concept of this study), explanatory (contributed to deepening the understanding of the nature of research thinking) and synthesizing (led to the emergence of a new definition of the concept of “research thinking of a teacher?”). To realize these functions, such methods of theoretical research as analysis and synthesis, as well as comparative-historical analysis were used.Results. Through careful analysis, the article identifies the most significant features of research thinking and provides the author's own definition of the concept.Discussion and conclusions. By examining different methodologies utilized in both Russian and international research, a chronological order was established to showcase the progressive contributions made by scientists in shaping the fundamental nature of research thinking. This analysis unveiled the evolutionary trajectory of its essential attributes. Through meticulous analytical endeavors, the most significant defining features were identified, culminating in the author's precise formulation of the concept. The authors' definition can influence the research methodology, helping to clarify the understanding of its essence in the academic and scientific environment, as well as influence educational programs, methods and technologies for research thinking development.

Demystifying Cell and Gene Therapy Orchestration in Supply Chain Technical Operations

Cell and gene therapies (CGTs) represent a paradigm shift in modern medicine, utilizing living cells or genetic material as therapeutic agents rather than traditional pharmaceuticals. This revolutionary approach introduces extraordinary complexity to supply chain and technical operations management. The inherent variability of biological materials, coupled with the patient-specific nature of many CGTs, creates unprecedented challenges across the entire therapy journey. This article examines the unique characteristics of CGT supply chains, focusing on the critical differences between autologous (patient-derived) and allogeneic (universal) therapies and their distinct operational requirements. We explore the essential concepts of Chain of Custody and Chain of Identity that underpin safe and effective CGT delivery, analyzing how failures in these systems can lead to serious consequences. It provides a comprehensive overview of the end-to-end orchestration process, from patient identification through manufacturing to administration and follow-up monitoring. Additionally, It investigate the technological enablers that are transforming CGT supply chain management, including digital platforms, IoT monitoring systems, secure documentation technologies, and advanced analytics. The article also addresses the evolving regulatory landscape that governs these advanced therapies and examines emerging trends such as decentralized manufacturing, automation, standardized platforms, and artificial intelligence applications that promise to enhance the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of these potentially life-changing treatments.

The Future of Healthcare-Simulation-Based Learning Curricula and Preparing Future Midwives for Effective Rapport-Building in Telehealth Settings.

To understand student and clinical educator experiences and practices in simulation-based learning curricula linked to rapport-building in midwifery telehealth care interactions. A qualitative descriptive exploratory design with reflexive thematic analysis. A purposeful sample of three educators and seven midwifery graduates who participated in a simulation-based curriculum in telehealth at a South Australian university participated in semi-structured interviews between January and February of 2024. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using woman-centred care as the core conceptual framework and qualitative social sciences research methodology to explore the values, opinions and behaviours of participants. Four overarching themes impacting graduate preparedness to practise telehealth were identified: understandings of essential concepts, clinical educator training and perspectives, learner experiences and translation into clinical contexts. Analysis showed the impact of disparate definitions of telehealth, inconsistency in the quality and scope of scenarios, ineffective use of simulation-based learning affordances and lack of opportunities to practise telehealth skills in student placements and subsequent clinical roles. There is scope to improve telehealth education through standardised definitions of telehealth in midwifery care, specific training for clinical educators, focussed scenario development, specific skills training in rapport-building in digital environments and practise in clinical placements. This study shows that effective telehealth education requires specific communicative and technical skills to ensure midwifery students and graduates are equipped to engage positively with technology to build consistent rapport in telehealth consultations. Once fundamental skills are acquired, this can be extended to interprofessional learning and teaching cultural safety. As telehealth is now part of standard healthcare practice, this timely study offers strategies, which have the potential to be transferable to curricula across all health profession education to ensure rapport building with clients. No patient or public contribution.

‘Be inclined to peace!’ An ethics of peacemaking and non-violent conflict resolution in the Islamic milieu

Peace ( salm/silm/salam ) and peacemaking ( sulh ) are essential concepts within the foundational texts of Islam. In these texts, peace is idealized as the state that governs the life of the faithful and defines their relationship with the Creator and His creation. Particularly within the worldview of the Qur’an (the central scripture of Islam, which Muslims believe to be directly revealed by God), peace is the ultimate desideratum, the achievement of which is the noblest and loftiest objective of human striving and existence on earth. This article provides an overview of the contents of these foundational texts and discusses two significant concepts – human stewardship of the earth and justice tempered by mercy – the adoption of which leads to positive peace that addresses the root causes of structural violence and conflict.