Current Level Of Knowledge Research Articles

To evaluate the effect of a structured training program about polycystic ovarian syndrome on the knowledge and perception of nursing students of a government nursing teaching institute in Northern India

ABSTRACT Background: The education levels of females have been found to aid in the early detection of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in mitigating the long-term consequences of PCOS. Nursing students are poised to become the next generation of healthcare professionals, equipped with valuable knowledge that can be utilized to increase awareness among their peers and patients, particularly about this critical subject matter. Objective: We conducted this study to assess the current level of knowledge and perception regarding PCOS among nursing students and to evaluate the impact of structured training interventions on their baseline knowledge and perception level. Methods: It was a single-group pre-post interventional study done on the nursing students of Govt. Nursing College. A pre-tested questionnaire was used as a study tool. Intervention in the form of a structured training program was imparted to the participants. Results: The pre-test group exhibited a lower mean knowledge score (M = 22.5758, SD = 11.02290) than the post-test group (M = 31.3889, SD = 14.50417). A significant difference was observed in the mean knowledge scores (t = −8.107070, P = 0.00001). The pre-test group exhibited a lower mean perception score (M = 35.3535, SD = 3.79637) than the post-test group (M = 36.6616, SD = 3.79576). There was a significant difference in the mean perception score (t = −5.883333, P = 0.00001). Conclusions: This study has shown the positive impact of relevant training on the knowledge and perception of nursing students about PCOS.

ESPRIT study, analysis of the results of the pre-intervention survey in upper secondary schools

Abstract Background Sexually transmitted infections are a major public health problem, and their number is increasing in Italy. However, affective sexuality education is not yet part of the curricula. Therefore, a project entitled ESPRIT was launched, involving 3 regions (Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lazio and Sicily), the IRCSS ‘Burlo Garofolo’ and the Istituto Superiore di Sanità, and implemented with the technical and financial support of the Ministry of Health - CCM. Methods A multicenter prospective intervention study was designed involving public upper secondary school students (grade 10-11). All target groups completed a KAP (knowledge, attitude, practice) questionnaire before and after participation in the educational intervention to measure its effectiveness. The questionnaires from the first phase were collected between January and April 2024, and the results were analyzed using R statistical software. Results The analysis of the overall results (463 students in total; female 58%, male 39%, other 2%; FVG 49%, Lazio 25%, Sicily 26%) showed that the group of upper secondary school students, targeted by peer education answered the knowledge part correctly by 56.6±13.8% on average. Applying the Kruskal-Wallis test showed that the percentage was significantly higher for females than males (p-value=0.005) and for licei students compared to technical and vocational schools (p-value=0.000). In terms of to attitudes, only 17% of students talked at length about sexually transmitted infections, and in 86.6% of cases, the interlocutors were friends or peers. Conclusions The results of the first phase show differences between the sexes and between the different types of educational institutions. The current level of knowledge still leaves much room for intervention and improvement. Analyzing the results of the follow-up phase will allow us to understand the effectiveness of the peer education intervention. Key messages • Adolescents’ knowledge of sexually transmitted infections needs to be improved. • Gender and the type of school attended affect the level of knowledge.

The problem of ammonoid substantiation of the Artinskian–Kungurian boundary in Western Verkhoyanie

Kungurian ammonoids had high taxonomic diversity, but were distinguished by an extremely high level of endemism and sharp geographic differentiation. Therefore, outside the regions containing the most important conodont taxa, the Artinskian-Kungurian boundary based on ammonoids must be established through indirect evidence due to the lack of common species with potential global stratotypes of the lower boundary of the Kungurian. A long-term study of the reference sections of the Echian and Tumarian regional stages and their ammonoids made it possible to change the understanding of the bio- and lithostratigraphy of the Artinskian-Kungurian boundary deposits of the Kuranakh structural-facies zone of Western Verkhoyanie. Clarification of the upper boundary of the Khabakh Formation in the stratotype section led to the fact that the ammonoids previously belonging to this formation began to be considered in the lower part of the Orol formation. They characterize the Paratumaroceras? sp. nov. biostratigraphic beds of the lower part of the Tumarian Regional Stage. At the current level of knowledge, the ammonoid substantiation of the Artinskian–Kungurian boundary in Verkhoyanie is difficult due to the existing hiatus corresponding to the Khabakh formation and its age analogues. However, the appearance at the base of the Tumarian Regional Stage of the first paragastrioceratids with a ventral sinus in transverse sculpture (Paratumaroceras? sp. nov.) suggests that the boundary in question is located near the base of the indicated regional stage or even combined with it. For further clearer identification of the Kungurian lower boundary in Verkhoyanie, new studies of the Echian–Tumarian boundary deposits in typical sections, independent of paleontology, are necessary. Such research should primarily include isotope-stratigraphic subdivision and high-precision U-Pb dating.

Level of Knowledge of Staff Nurses on Breastfeeding Practices: A Descriptive Correlational Study

Background: Breastfeeding is recognized as the optimal approach to provide essential nutrients and promote the health of infants. Aim: This study aims to assess the nurses’ knowledge in the obstetric unit regarding breastfeeding practices in KFGH. Methods: A descriptive research approach, utilizing a questionnaire to evaluate nurses’ knowledge of breastfeeding best practices was used in this study among nurses who are working at KFGH. Results: Of the total 64 nurses, and majority (39.5%) of them are aged from 26 to 30 years. Most of them (98.4%) were female and 45.3% worked in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department, also, the majority (73.4%) held a Bachelor of Nursing degree. The results showed the attitude among nurses toward the breastfeeding management level was moderate with a mean score of 1.72 while the practice among nurses toward the breastfeeding management level was high with a mean score of 2.66, also, the knowledge among nurses toward the breastfeeding management level was high with mean score 2.36. The results showed there was a significant difference in the attitude level according to nationality (P-value = 0.007), but there was no significant difference according to the other demographic characteristics (age, marital status, department, education, experience, position, Course in obstetrics and Gynecology, and self-experience about breastfeeding). Conclusion: This study's findings gave insights into the current knowledge level of nurses in the obstetric unit regarding breastfeeding practices in KFGH and may contribute to the development of targeted interventions and educational programs to improve breastfeeding support and promotion in the hospital setting.

The new biologic drugs: Which children with asthma should get what?

Novel biologics (targeted antibody therapies) have revolutionized the management of severe childhood asthma. However, it is important that the right biologic is selected for the right patient, and understanding the evidence base for each biologic is crucial. Currently, four biologics (all monoclonal antibodies) are licensed in the UK for the treatment of children with severe asthma - omalizumab (Xolair), mepolizumab (Nucala), and dupilumab (Dupixent) in children aged 6 years and over; and tezepelumab (Tezspire), only in children aged 12 years and over. Tezepelumab is the only licensed biological that may be beneficial in severe asthma without evidence of Type 2 inflammation. All have a good safety profile but varying degrees of clinical efficacy in children, with wide variation in treatment responsiveness between individual patients. When selecting biologics for severe asthma, it is essential to remember the limitations of the current pediatric evidence. At present, there are no results from randomized, head-to-head trials of biologics in severe asthma. TREAT is an ongoing trial comparing omalizumab to mepolizumab and will be one of the first to provide such evidence. We must be especially aware of the dangers of extrapolating data from adults to children, because the pathophysiology and role of biomarkers may differ significantly from adult asthma. Given the current level of knowledge, even after treatment has been initiated, children should be regularly reviewed to determine the efficacy of treatment, side-effect profile and consideration of when treatment with the biologic should be discontinued.

Enhancing Student Success: Exploring Teacher Knowledge in Managing Behavior During Learning Challenges

In education, the role of teachers is one of the determining factors for student success in school. The relationship between teacher knowledge and student management with learning difficulties cannot be separated. There are still many students who do not understand the lessons given the low level of student knowledge has an impact on student independence, so research is needed to assess the current level of teacher knowledge and identify areas that need to be improved in managing the behavior of students with learning difficulties. The method used in this research is quantitative with an individual surveillance approach. The respondents were 160 people who were randomly selected at the elementary school teacher level in West Jakarta. The data collection technique uses a questionnaire containing items related to demographics and the level of knowledge of teachers as educators in managing the behavior of students with learning disabilities. All items are assessed on a Likert scale from point 1 to point 5—data analysis techniques using descriptive statistics assisted by SPSS Version 25.0. The results showed that teachers' knowledge was divided into three, namely how to manage practical behavior, positive reinforcement, and negative reinforcement, and it was found that the level of teachers' knowledge in managing practical behavior was in the high category. In conclusion, teachers' skills in managing the class can be improved by improving the management of practical behavior in the learning process to help students. The implication is that teachers who handle problematic students provide service courses and workshops related to management and provide special attention.

Knowledge and Awareness About Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Mothers in a Private Medical College

Background: Breastfeeding is essential in any infant’s nutrition and growth. There are various misconceptions and cultural beliefs regarding breastfeeding which can hinder breastfeeding and its continuation by the mothers. Objective: To describe the current level of knowledge and awareness about breastfeeding among postnatal mothers in private medical college. Methods: A Clinic based cross-sectional review was completed in the post-pregnancy ward of Obstetric division of the Saveetha clinical school and medical clinic between June 2021 toAugust 2021. Information were gathered through interview utilizing a semi-organized poll. Datawere went into Microsoft succeed and engaging examination was finished. Results: A very small percentage of postpartum mothers are aware of the significance of avoiding prelacteal feeding, early breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, burping, and breastfeeding on demand. However, more than half of postpartum mothers are aware of the health benefits of breastfeeding, the benefits of colostrum, and the bonding benefits of breastfeeding. Additionally, they are informed about whether mothers with HIV or tuberculosis can breastfeed.

Assessment Of Awareness And Knowledge Of Maxillofacial Prosthesis Among Dental Practitioners And Postgraduates: A Questionnaire Study

Maxillofacial prosthetics is a specialized branch of prosthodontics that involves the rehabilitation of patients with defects or disabilities due to disease, trauma, or congenital conditions affecting the head and neck region. The primary goal is to restore the form and function of affected areas, improving the patient's quality of life. Aim: To assess the knowledge and awareness of maxillofacial prosthesis among dental practitioners and dental postgraduate students. Materials and Methods: cross-sectional questionnaire based online survey was undertaken at C.S.M.S.S. Dental College and Hospital, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India between March 2024 and September 2024 amongst dental postgraduate students and dental practitioners across India. The questionnaire consisted of 14 questions which evaluated their awareness towards maxillofacial prosthetic dentistry. The Chisquare test was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total 102 responses were obtained in this study, out of which 64 (62.7%) were dental postgraduates students, 9(8.8%) dental practictioners and 20 (19.6%) were dental practitioners and teaching faculty 12% were undergraduate student.92(91.1%) participants were know about maxillofacial prosthesis. 92(91.1%) were aware about maxillofacial prosthesis. 9(8.9%) were unaware about maxillofacial prosthesis. (Fig.2) 85(83.3%) responded both (extraoral and intraoral prosthesis ) are there. 4(3.9%) responded only intraoral prosthesis are there.11(10.8%) responded only extraoral prosthesis are there. While 6(5.9%) are not aware about the maxillofacial prosthesis. (Fig.3) 73%(73.7) responded silicone is commonly used for maxillofacial prosthesis. 27% responded acrylic resin is commonly used while 6% responded polyurethane is used. 8% responded other materials are used.(Fig. 4).92% responded they vare using the new technologies(CAD CAM ) while remaining 8% responded they are not using any recent technology. Conclusion: The majority of the participants were aware of digital technology, which yields good results.Overall, while the current level of awareness and knowledge among dental postgraduate students is commendable, there is a clear need for enhancements in training, resources, and curriculum to fully prepare future dental professionals in the field of maxillofacial prosthetics

Global assessment of aquatic Isoëtes species ecology

Abstract Isoëtes are iconic but understudied wetland plants, despite having suffered severe losses globally mainly because of alterations in their habitats. We therefore provide the first global ecological assessment of aquatic Isoëtes to identify their environmental requirements and to evaluate if taxonomically related species differ in their ecology. The assessment resulted in an extensive new database on aquatic Isoëtes, ecological niche analyses, and descriptive species accounts. We compiled a global database that includes all known environmental data collected from 1935 to 2023 regarding aquatic Isoëtes. We then evaluated the environmental drivers of 16 species using 2,179 global records. Additionally, we used hypervolume analysis to quantify the ecological niches of the two species with the greatest number of records, finding significant differences and evidence that Isoëtes echinospora occupies a wider ecological niche than Isoëtes lacustris. Fifty‐nine species (30% of the c. 200 Isoëtes species known today) were categorised as aquatic and were mainly reported in the Americas and northern Europe. About 38% of the aquatic species are threatened with extinction or are endemic to a small region, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List in 2023. Many species were determined to be sensitive to certain water physical and chemical factors, generally preferring oligotrophic conditions such as low total phosphorus, moderate total nitrogen, moderate to low pH, and low conductivity. This analysis includes ecological data in the assessment of rare/threatened aquatic plants globally. This new database and the ecological analyses completed defined the ecological requirements of several species and identified knowledge gaps, which can aid management actions and future research. This paper highlights ecological significance and environmental sensitivities of aquatic Isoëtes. The current level of knowledge is inadequate for a large proportion of known taxa. We affirm the extreme need to support global, collaborative initiatives on which to build future conservation strategies.

Can heart failure phenotypes be predicted by cardiac remodelling peripartum or postpartum?

Hypertension during pregnancy affects up to 10% of pregnancies and is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In the short-term it can result in pre-eclampsia, haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome, or even hypertension associated acute heart failure, all of which may necessitate pre-term delivery to prevent maternal or neonatal death. In the long term, a history of gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia significantly increases the risk of future cardiovascular disease including chronic hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke. This review explores our current level of knowledge of the phenotypes of heart failure, paying particular attention to those specific to women, and the role of pregnancy and non-pregnancy related risk factors in the development of this condition. We discuss why women with hypertensive pregnancy may be disproportionately affected by heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and whether a unique phenotype of heart failure unique to hypertensive pregnancy exists. Finally, we explore how future cardiovascular risk may be predicted based on cardiac remodelling during or after pregnancy and suggest potential areas of further research in the field.

Monitoring the Sustainable Development Goals based on the relationship between Citizen Science and Information Science

Citizen Science has the potential to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by promoting the active participation of citizens in scientific projects. In the same context, Information Science provides a theoretical framework for Citizen Science, with a view to dealing with the management and access to scientific information generated by public participation projects. To this end, the aim of this article is to highlight the contributions and influences of Information Science in relation to the potential of Citizen Science for monitoring the SDGs of the 2030 Agenda. Methodologically, the research described has basic characteristics, through a bibliographic survey, since it seeks to identify the current level of knowledge, points of view and new discoveries around the topic addressed, using the data triangulation technique to treat the results. The results show the potential of Citizen Science and the contributions of Information Science, according to researchers and institutions in the field, in relation to the guidelines for implementing the 2030 Agenda. The conclusion is that the potential of Citizen Science, in the light of the contributions and alignment with Information Science, for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, can more effectively guarantee the broad diversity of projects and actions aimed at citizen participation both in scientific research and in achieving global goals.

Hospital environment microbiome

The aim of the review is to give a brief description of the biodiversity and structure of the hospital environment microbiome based on molecular genetic research methods. Until a certain time, studies of the hospital environment microbiota for the purposes of epidemiological surveillance and control of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) were based on routine microbiological identification of clinically relevant bacterial taxa. Discovery of DNA, the development of sequencing technologies, PCR and cloning techniques enabled the investigation of microbial communities using cultivation-independent, DNA and RNA-based approaches. At the current level of knowledge, the hospital environment can be considered as a superorganism with its own microbiome. Multiomic technologies, including meta-transcriptomic, meta-proteomic and metabolomic approaches, provide detailed information about microbial activity in the environment. Now it has been established that there is a stable core of the hospital microbiome where the vast majority of microorganisms are necessary for the functioning of the hospital ecosystem and are not classified as human pathogens. The hospital microbiome has a homogeneous structure composed by a massive dominance of a few taxa and microbial network with low connectivity forming a clustered topology. A keystone species is a taxon whose importance for maintaining community structure is relatively higher than others and its identification is of paramount importance. Due to the lack of knowledge of the hospital environment microbiome by molecular genetic technologies, there is no single shared point of view on the microbial diversity in different healthcare facilities. But there is no doubt that molecular genetic technologies will shed light on the evolution of hospital strains and determine which indicators are the most informative for monitoring and prognosis of HAIs.

ChecKAP: A Checklist for Reporting a Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Study.

The Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) model is a foundational tool in public health research. KAP surveys play a vital role in this process by gauging a population's current level of knowledge about a specific health issue. Rigorous evaluation is essential for ensuring the validity and reliability of KAP studies. Therefore, in this study, a comprehensive checklist for reporting Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) Studies was developed. This study was conducted using a systematic six-step roadmap. A comprehensive review of available relevant quality assessment tools led to the development of specific new items. An expert panel reviewed the initial draft, and after corrections were made, the second draft was finalized and subjected to psychometric analysis by experts. The development of ChecKAP (Checklist for Reporting Items for Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice) represents a significant contribution to KAP studies. The final tool consists of 46 items across 8 fields: title (1 item), abstract (6 items), keywords (1 item), introduction (6 items), method (11 items), findings (7 items), discussion (15 items), and conclusion (1 item). ChecKAP assesses the inherent complexity of KAP research methods and ensures consistent reporting. It fills an important gap in the KAP research literature and serves a dual purpose. First, it acts as a quality assessment tool for reviewers, enabling them to evaluate the methodological rigor and clarity of submitted manuscripts. Second, it serves as a guideline for authors, promoting a more systematic and transparent approach to reporting.

School-based tobacco prevention and cessation program using psycho-education and counselling: a mixed method

Introduction. In Malaysia, tobacco-related causes of death have claimed an estimated 27,400 lives annually, and that number is anticipated to climb in the coming years. Despite laws in Malaysia banning smoking in public areas, restrictions on tobacco sponsorship, promotion, and advertising in all media, as well as Graphic Warning Labels (GWLs) on cigarette packets and restricting the legal smoking age to 18 years, it is well-known that children and teenagers are involved and youth tobacco usage is rising. As there is a rise in the prevalence of tobacco use so is the call for effective school-based tobacco prevention and cessation program for children and teenagers. The study set out to understand the current level of knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of children and teenagers towards tobacco use and possible change through psycho-education and counselling towards prevention and cessation. Study participants and methods. This study adopted a pre and post Mixed Method Triangulation Design: Convergence Model. There was an independent and concurrent collection of quantitative and qualitative data from school children ages 11 to 18 years and 7 to 10 years respectively. A one-day four-module school-based prevention and cessation program was developed and carried out in five approved schools and data were collected before and after the program. The mean age for the quantitative study was 13 years, 66% were males and 34% were females. For the qualitative study, the mean age was 9 years, 54% were male and 46% were female A grand total of 131 students participated in the study. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired samples t-test thematic analysis. Results. The quantitative analysis showed a significant difference between knowledge test scores before psychoeducation intervention (M=.803; SD=.1793) and Knowledge test scores after the psycho-education intervention (M=.895; SD=.1193); [t (108) = -4.596, p = .000], attitude and behavior were insignificant Results from the thematic analysis on the qualitative results showed that the psychoeducation and counselling intervention had a significant impact only on knowledge. The children report on attitude and behaviour towards tobacco did not significantly change from before to after the program. The timing between the program and postdata may be a contributing factor but irrespective of the data collection method the outcome was similar for both children and teenagers. Practical Significance. Through psycho-education and counselling towards prevention and cessation the study set out to understand the current level of knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of children and teenagers towards tobacco use and possible change through psycho-education and counselling towards prevention and cessation. Therefore, intervention programme should include psychoeducation and counselling to improve the knowledge of students in school-based interventions.

Analysis and Criticism of Mind Transfer

In this article, I examine a futuristic but not unimaginable optional opportunity of immortality – mind transfer – which has a strong connection with neuroscience, computer science, cognitive research, artificial intelligence and finally philosophy. I analyse this promising procedure from different points of view, such as regarding the potential difficulties of human transformation and the confusing issue of consciousness. The methodologies of mapping and scanning the human brain demonstrate contemporary technologies’ capabilities, but their limitations are apparent, too. I find that using mind transfer to ensureor give humans the opportunity to extend their lifespan is not possible with the current level of knowledge and technology. I prove this through an analysis of a thought experiment and examine the differences between the person and the uploaded copy of it, making clear why mind transfer seems to be an impossible challenge right now. Although the use of AI provides great opportunities to support and improve humanity, we can conclude that its usage within present methodologies and technologies is neither sufficient to achieve eternal life nor remove the limitations of time. With the mind transfer procedure, we can preserve information only about humanity and not the essence that makes it unique.

Midwives's Procedure of Counselling in Giving Postpartum Contraceptive Counselling to Rural Women in Pakistan

This research study is designed to examine the procedure of counseling faced by midwives in providing postpartum contraceptive counseling services to women in rural areas. A qualitative, inductive study was conducted with 20 midwives working in rural areas. The interviews had semi-structured questions. Thematic analysis was used for the analysis. The study \was conducted in a rural area of Lahore, Pakistan. This study showed that the current level of knowledge of midwives about contraception is adequate as they do not face any problem in giving counseling on contraception in rural areas. There is a great need for policymakers and field workers to better encourage spacing methods and couple incentives to embrace rural women.

Attitudes and Likelihood of Outpatient Cervical Ripening via Single Balloon Foley Catheter Among OB/GYN Providers, Nurse Practitioners, and Obstetric Labor & Delivery Nurses

Introduction/Objectives: In certain parts of the United States and other developed nations, cervical ripening using the Foley catheter has already been introduced into the outpatient setting. An approved protocol exists at Loyola University Medical Center (LUMC), however usage is nonexistent. The primary aim of this study was to determine the current level of knowledge and familiarity regarding outpatient cervical ripening among OBGYN physicians and labor and advanced practice nurses at LUMC. The secondary aim of the study was to elucidate willingness to offer outpatient cervical ripening and potential reasons for support and hesitancy of this practice. Methods: We created an 8-question anonymous survey to elucidate the current level of knowledge regarding outpatient cervical ripening and potential reasons that a provider may have in support of and against outpatient cervical ripening. The survey was distributed among General OBGYN attendings, fellows, residents, labor and delivery (LD) and advanced practice (APN) nurses at LUMC. Descriptive statistics and Fisher’s exact test was performed on categorical data. An ordinal logistic regression model was used to compare the odds of being more likely to offer outpatient cervical ripening between attendings and resident physicians and the odds of being familiar with outpatient cervical ripening. Results: 45 obstetric care providers completed the survey (comprising 20 OB/GYN residents, 10 General OB/GYN attendings, 13 LD, and 2 APN nurses). The response rate was 72%. 73% of all respondents had some degree of familiarity with outpatient cervical ripening, while 84% were familiar with the current body of research on this practice. Overall, the willingness to offer outpatient cervical ripening was 55% for the group, with only 11% unwilling. There was no difference in the willingness to offer outpatient cervical ripening between attendings and resident physicians (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 0.32 – 4.88; p = .75) (Table 1). Major factors that drove willingness to offer were decreased induction to delivery time (77%) and patient convenience (85%). Major factors that drove unwillingness to offer OP cervical ripening were lack of fetal monitoring (66%), increased communication from patients (66%), and additional utilization of clinic resources/time for protocol implementation (66%). Resident physicians were significantly more likely to report familiarity with the current research on outpatient cervical ripening than nurses (OR=5.04; 95% CI: 1.24-20.45; p=.02) and attending physicians (OR=4.13; 95% CI: 1.05-17.78; p=.04). There was no difference in familiarity with research behind the practice between physicians and nurses respondents (p=.85). There was no association between those who reported the level of familiarity with the concept of outpatient cervical ripening and their willingness to offer (OR = 1.52, 95% CI: 0.40 – 5.78; p = .54) (Table 2). Conclusions: Moving preinduction cervical ripening to an outpatient setting is equally efficacious and safe when compared to inpatient cervical ripening. However, despite having an existing protocol for cervical ripening using a Foley Balloon, this practice is not currently utilized at LUMC. Our survey suggests that though physicians and nurses are familiar with the concept and the research behind the practice, there are limiting factors for use. Further education regarding outpatient cervical ripening are essential for increasing practice adoption.

Computational fluid dynamics simulation of passive downstream fish passage over a weir with OpenFOAM®

Many fish species are dependent on migration through river systems. Weirs are an obstacle to downstream migration, which can lead to obstruction as well as injury and mortality. The current level of knowledge about downstream migration over weirs is limited, and the current assessment of this is uncertain. This study uses a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method for assessing the damage potential of the downstream migration over the weir, evaluating the effectiveness of the current recommendations. Two test cases were simulated using OpenFOAM® and an interFoam-based solver, extended with Lagrangian particles to represent passively transported fish. The results of the simulations show that adherence to the recommendation for a necessary tailwater level has no significant impact on the relevant hydraulic stressors, shear stress, pressure changes and collisions in certain situations. A thick nappe, however, leads to a significant reduction in collisions, especially of particles initialized near the surface. The CFD method used in this study proves to be suitable for evaluating downstream fish passage with certain limitations. This means that qualitative comparisons of different situations are possible, but not the determination of the damage potential of a specific situation. Further investigations are necessary to identify factors for safe downstream fish passage.

Localization of the questionnaire about sharps disposal at home among diabetes based on knowledge, attitude, and practice theory, and a cross-sectional survey of current conditions.

Diabetes Mellitus is a long duration disease, and if a person with diabetes is infected with a blood-borne infectious disease and proper syringe disposal practices are not followed, they run the danger of transmitting the infection to others for a very long period. Whereas fewer research has been done in China on the handing of sharp objects at home. Therefore, there is a need to translate and localize the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal for diabetic patients to assess the current level of patient knowledge, attitudes, and practices and to improve the basis for promoting safe sharps handling practices. This investigation was a cross-sectional study. The Knowledge-Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal was localized and debugged and tested for reliability and validity, and then 334 patients were investigated by General Characteristics Questionnaire, Knowledge- Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal, and the influencing factors of practice level regarding sharp disposal of patients were analyzed. The Cronbach's α value of the attitude section was 0.864 and the content validity index was 0.923. The knowledge and practice sections are in line with continental language conventions and are easy to understand without any ambiguity. The majority (52%) of the participants had poor knowledge and a neutral attitude toward disposing of sharp objects. Sharps disposal practices among diabetes mellitus patients were poor since about 90% of patients dispose of their used sharps directly into the household waste. Furthermore, we found that level of education, knowledge and attitude were the major predictors of practices regarding sharps disposal among diabetic patients (R 2 = 0.573, p < 0.001). The Chinese version of the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice Questionnaire regarding sharp disposal has applicability in China. In China, current practice of disposing used sharps is improper. Additionally, the majority of the subjects had low levels of knowledge and attitudes. To raise awareness and encourage diabetic patients to follow appropriate sharps disposal practices, there needs to be ongoing education and a locally tailored safe sharp disposal alternative accessible.

Cardiac substructure delineation in radiation therapy - A state-of-the-art review.

Delineation of cardiac substructures is crucial for a better understanding of radiation-related cardiotoxicities and to facilitate accurate and precise cardiac dose calculation for developing and applying risk models. This review examines recent advancements in cardiac substructure delineation in the radiation therapy (RT) context, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the current level of knowledge, challenges and future directions in this evolving field. Imaging used for RT planning presents challenges in reliably visualising cardiac anatomy. Although cardiac atlases and contouring guidelines aid in standardisation and reduction of variability, significant uncertainties remain in defining cardiac anatomy. Coupled with the inherent complexity of the heart, this necessitates auto-contouring for consistent large-scale data analysis and improved efficiency in prospective applications. Auto-contouring models, developed primarily for breast and lung cancer RT, have demonstrated performance comparable to manual contouring, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of cardiac delineation practices. Nevertheless, several key concerns require further investigation. There is an unmet need for expanding cardiac auto-contouring models to encompass a broader range of cancer sites. A shift in focus is needed from ensuring accuracy to enhancing the robustness and accessibility of auto-contouring models. Addressing these challenges is paramount for the integration of cardiac substructure delineation and associated risk models into routine clinical practice, thereby improving the safety of RT for future cancer patients.