Professional Interests Research Articles

Gaps in biomedical research in frontotemporal dementia: A call for diversity and disparities focused research.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is one of the leading causes of young-onset dementia before age 65, typically manifesting as abnormal behavior (in behavioral variant FTD) or language impairment (in primary progressive aphasia). Although FTD affects all populations across the globe, knowledge regarding the pathophysiology and genetics derives primarily from studies conducted in North America and Western Europe. Globally, biomedical research for FTD is hindered by variable access to diagnosis, discussed in this group's earlier article, and by reduced access to expertise, funding, and infrastructure. This perspective paper was produced by two professional interest areas of the Alzheimer's Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment (ISTAART) and discusses the field's current status on the cross-cultural aspects of basic and translational research in FTD (including that focused on epidemiology, genetics, biomarkers, and treatment). It subsequently provides a summary of gaps and needs to address the disparities and advance global FTD biomedical research.

SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF FORMING AN EFFECTIVE INNOVATIVE TEAM

This article highlights issues related to the social and psychological foundations of the formation of a team capable of working effectively and responding to modern challenges of the market environment. It was determined that such bases are the individual motives of the members of the labor team, namely their personal beliefs regarding the expediency of performing professional tasks. It is established that they are formed at the early stages of the socialization of the individual under the influence of education, upbringing, norms of social morality and are corrected during his subsequent working life. It has been found that motives can be more stable than incentives, which can cause an undesirable final result of the enterprise's activity. With this in mind, the task of institutional management should be the creation of an effective motivational system aimed at strengthening the role of incentives in the structure of employee motivation for professional development, professional development, creativity, creativity and initiative. The article provides recommendations on directions for adjusting the national management system in order to create an effective innovative team. In particular, to improve the work of the team and the final efficiency of the enterprise, it is recommended to create an effective system of labor incentives through the introduction of elements of foreign management models. The proposed elements make it possible to create an effective model of personnel motivation management, as they are aimed at strengthening the personal motives of employees to protect their own professional interests and dignity, use the opportunity for self-development and self-realization, involvement in the process of enterprise management and decision-making, evaluation of one's own labor contribution and recognition of the obtained results, adjustment constructive business relations in the team. It was determined that these innovations should become the basis for further improvement of the motivation of employees in the domestic management system, since each branch and field of activity has its own characteristics, taking into account the possibility of their further adjustment.

Comparison of the Selection Systems for Elite Art Talents in China and the UK: A Case Study on Art Entrance Examinations

Abstract: This paper compares the selection systems for elite art talents in China and the UK, using art entrance examinations as a case study. The study explores the differences, underlying reasons, problems, and reflections on the two countries selection systems, and proposes relatively detailed reform plans. The research concludes that while Chinas unified examination system is rigorous, it is overly rigid and fails to fully consider students professional interests, potentially leading to the loss of promising talents. On the other hand, the UKs selection criteria, though flexible, are highly subjective and tend to overlook the training of basic skills, potentially favoring innovation at the expense of technical ability. It is suggested that both countries should learn from each others strengths to further reform their systems. China could adopt the UKs A-Level system, gradually reform the unified examination into an elective system, and establish a national-level art recommendation letter system with endorsements from artists as core evaluators. Meanwhile, the UK could learn from Chinas nine-year compulsory education system by popularizing art education and emphasizing the cultivation of technical skills, with the reform of one technical skill subject into a compulsory examination subject.

Advances in Emerging Non-Destructive Technologies for Detecting Raw Egg Freshness: A Comprehensive Review

Eggs are a rich food source of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. However, the egg industry faces some challenges such as microbial invasion due to environmental factors, leading to damage and reduced usability. Therefore, detecting the freshness of raw eggs using various technologies, including traditional and non-destructive methods, can overcome these challenges. As the traditional methods of assessing egg freshness are often subjective and time-consuming, modern non-destructive technologies, including near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, computer vision (color imaging), hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and nuclear magnetic resonance, have offered objective and rapid results to address these limitations. The current review summarizes and discusses the recent advances and developments in applying non-destructive technologies for detecting raw egg freshness. Some of these technologies such as NIR spectroscopy, computer vision, and hyperspectral imaging have achieved an accuracy of more than 96% in detecting egg freshness. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the current trends in the state-of-the-art non-destructive technologies recently utilized in detecting the freshness of raw eggs. This review can contribute significantly to the field of emerging technologies in this research track and pique the interests of both food scientists and industry professionals.

THE CURRENT STATE OF STUDENT PREPARATION FOR PROJECT ACTIVITIES

This article explores the current state of student preparation for project activities within educational institutions, emphasizing its critical role in fostering effective learning and skill development. By examining traditional and modern approaches to student preparation, we identify key challenges that hinder student engagement and success in project-based learning environments. Ultimately, this article aims to encourage educational stakeholders to prioritize effective preparation strategies, ensuring that students are adequately equipped to tackle complex projects and thrive in their academic and professional pursuits.

Using generative neural networks when training digital engineers to improve the quality of their training

The problem and the aim of the study. Modernized higher education provides great prospects for artificial intelligence technologies to be introduced when training engineers for knowledge-intensive and high-tech industries. Applying generative neural networks makes it possible to meet the requirements both for programs to train relevant specialists and for the level of developed skills key to Industry 4.0 and for further Industry 5.0. The purpose of the study is to identify the possibilities of using generative neural networks when training digital engineers to improve the quality of their professional training. Research methods. The authors consider the generative neural network as an open resource with which it is possible to design, individualize and fill educational content in accordance with the professional interests of the participants in the interaction. The choice of service is justified by the type of information being processed and the engineer's work function being implemented. 68 bachelors of Vyatka State University are involved (Russian Federation). Training program: 08.03.01 – Construction. Focus: hydraulic engineering, industrial and civil engineering, Digital technologies for the examination of construction sites and real estate management. The assessment of the quality (level) of training is carried out with the help of materials from the fund of complex qualification tasks. For statistical processing of data, Pearson's chi-squared test is used. Results. The directions of work of students of the experimental group studying the discipline "Information Technology", including interactive communication supported by neural networks: generation of images and 3D-models, search for original titles, selection of a list of references, construction of diagrams and algorithms, etc. Statistically significant differences were revealed in the changes that occurred in the pedagogical system (χ2 = 9.095; p < 0.05). Conclusion. The summary are formulated that neural network services contribute to improving the quality of training due to the following didactic capabilities: presentation of information in various forms, automation of calculations, analysis of large amounts of data, decision support, etc. Difficulties are also highlighted: constantly updated features of services, the English-language interface, compliance with copyright and ethics of interaction on the network

The Legacy of Lithuanian Architect Stasys Kudokas in the United States of America: Sacred Architecture Based on Hope and Expectations

Abstract Many Lithuanian intellectuals fled from the occupied Lithuania during the Second World War and after it, including the most famous architects who created the architectural language of interwar Kaunas Modernism. After escaping from the war-torn country to the United States of America, they resumed their professional pursuits while living in exile. Stasys Kudokas – one of the most prominent and productive architects in the interwar Lithuania – also pursued his carreer while living in exile. Yet his architectural heritage in the United States of America is still an under-researched topic. The Lithuanian diaspora press remains one of the most comprehensive sources exploring Kudokas’ professional path in the United States of America. By using descriptive and comparative methods, this study aims to examine the most important projects by Kudokas for the Lithuanian diaspora and the related expectations of Lithuanian communities, reflected in the diaspora press. This study will reveal that the reflection of Lithuanianness in the architecture designed for the Lithuanian community was the most important criterion for evaluating Kudokas’ legacy in the exile press.

Thermal indices for evaluating the impact of thermal conditions on human health: a systematic review

Abstract Background Thermal indices assess individuals’ perception of their ambient thermal surroundings (thermal comfort and heat/cold stress) considering several meteorological factors, such as temperature, humidity, wind, and radiation. As climate change progresses, there is an increased demand for accurately monitoring the association between thermal environment and human health. This study summarizes the available evidence on the association between thermal indices and health outcomes. Methods We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until December 31st, 2023, to identify all relevant studies examining the association between thermal indices and health outcomes in outdoor environments. Results A total of 5,034 electronic records were screened. Of these, 310 were considered eligible, examining 1,143 associations. Seventeen indices were identified, with 32 (10.3%) articles using more than one index. The most commonly employed index was Apparent Temperature (articles: n = 141, 38.2%; associations: n = 634, 55.5%). The specific-cause health outcomes examined spanned 18 categories of the International Classification of Diseases. Most associations (n = 304, 26.6%) pertained to mortality/morbidity related to diseases of the circulatory system, followed by all-cause morbidity/mortality (n = 288, 25.2%). The 48.6% (n = 556) of the associations suggested an increased risk of adverse health outcomes when indices increased while 32.5% (n = 372) of the associations were non-significant. The 14.2% (n = 162) of the associations suggested an increased risk of adverse outcomes when indices decreased while 16% (n = 183) of the associations were non-significant. Conclusions The relevant literature revealed associations between thermal indices and health outcomes. Therefore, thermal indices, considering several meteorological variables, could be a useful tool for public health planning. However, there is diversity in their methodologies and reporting. Key messages • Summarizing the published evidence regarding thermal indices is expected to attract the interest of public health professionals and policy makers, and enhance their use. • Implementing integrated methods to monitor the association between thermal conditions and health, including using thermal indices, could be valuable for developing and evaluating policies.

Protocolizing social prescribing in mental health and addiction services: barriers and opportunities

Abstract Issue Social Prescribing (SP) is a structured approach where health professionals recommend community activities to enhance well-being. Starting in Catalonia in 2012, it expanded to the entire primary care network by 2016. By 2023, 23,338 patients received SP, showing a 2.3-fold increase from 2022. Two-thirds experienced improvement in mental well-being. Now, efforts focus on applying SP to mental health and addiction services (MHAS), where SP can be used for restoring health and well-being. Description A literature review was conducted and a working group was initiated with MHAS professionals was initiated to exchange experiences and identify needs and best practices. This was done in preparation for designing a pilot experience, which will include a qualitative study through focus groups to validate the action plan and determine barriers and facilitators in MHAS. The groups will be segmented into MHAS users and frontline professionals. Results The results of the review process and the working group sessions demonstrated that SP can be useful and beneficial for the health MHAS users. However, barriers and opportunities were identified. The main barriers detected include: the need for strong support during referrals to community activities; increased awareness of addiction among activity providers to reduce stigmatization; define inclusion and exclusion criteria; determining monitoring and evaluation tools; and mapping and updating community assets. Regarding opportunities, the following were highligthed: the interest of MHAS professionals in promoting and implementing a SP program in this area; the existence of organizations already conducting community activities focused MHAS users; and political prioritization of this issue. Lessons The implementation of a SP program protocol in MHAS is considered beneficial. It is necessary to analyse barriers to effectively address them and to identify opportunities to leverage them. Key messages • Social Prescribing has significantly enhanced mental health outcomes in Primary Care, which can imply a potential improvement in well-being of mental health and addiction services users. • Implementing Social Prescribing in mental health and addiction services offers promising integrated care opportunities, requiring barriers resolution and maximizing existing prospects.

Drug-resistant epilepsy cases in chromosomal pathology

Two cases of epilepsy in patients with a rare hereditary pathology associated with a chromosomal mutation caused deletion of chromosome 14 are presented. In the first case, this pathology was manifested in the child by generalized tonic-clonic seizures, delayed psycho-verbal development, and facial skull microanomaly. In the second case, it was expressed in tonic epileptic seizures, delayed psycho-verbal development, developmental microanomalies, pyramidal atactic syndrome and hand joint hypermobility. Such clinical observations are of professional and scientific interest, as they relate to a rare neurological pathology, with drug-resistant epilepsy as a leading sign.

U.S. students learning Czech in study abroad: motivational dynamics

Abstract While study-abroad students generally prefer destinations where the local language relates to their personal, academic, or professional pursuits, the Czech Republic ranks as the 25th most popular destination for U.S. study abroad, signalling an interest in exploring beyond traditional language choices. This study addresses the gap in the literature on learning a less commonly taught language in the study abroad setting, which is unrelated to the student’s major fields of study (Czech). Over thirteen weeks, data were gathered through a qualitative methodology involving initial questionnaires, learner diaries, and semi-structured interviews with a sample of five students. Drawing on the L2 Motivational Self System (L2MSS), the research underscores the impact of the L2 learning experience and the construct of the ideal L2 self on motivation. Findings revealed a general increase in motivation for learning Czech throughout the semester, accompanied by a decline in the ideal Czech self by the end and an indicative enhancement in the ideal multilingual self-concept. This study additionally emphasizes the vital role of mandatory language courses in augmenting motivation, particularly when aligned with learners’ objectives. These insights broaden the understanding of motivational dynamics in acquiring languages other than English (LOTEs), highlighting the necessity for continued exploration of the multilingual motivational self-system within study-abroad contexts.

MyMS: An Interface for Patient-Reported Outcomes for Finnish Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis.

Patient-generated data are a cornerstone of individualized multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment. MyMS, an interface for patient-reported outcomes (PROs) was developed by the Finnish MS Register to enable systematic collection of PROs. MyMS collects data on demographics, lifestyle factors, disease-related factors, and validated questionnaires, including the Quality of Life Questionnaire (15D), the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). At the end of 2020, the patient-reported Expanded Disability Status Scale (PREDSS), the EuroQOL-5 Dimension (EQ-5D), the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC), and the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Questionnaire (MSNQ) were added. As of January 1, 2023, 1201 individuals with MS (79% female) have added data to MyMS. Of the validated PRO measures (PROMs), the 15D, MSIS-29, and FSS are the most used. The mean PREDSS score is 3.0 and median disease duration is 6.4 years. According to the existing PROMs, patients report mildly compromised quality of life and problems with fatigue and cognition. The patient interface of the Finnish MS Register consists of data from 17 of 21 counties with well-being services. The interface is used by 10% of Finnish individuals with MS. The addition of the PREDSS, EQ-5D, FSMC, and MSNQ to the interface has increased health care professional and patient interest in the use of PROMs. We suggest that PROs should be integrated into electronic health records to improve shared decision-making and diminish documentation burden.

Effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening strategies: a review of current scientific evidence

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies in the world. Its incidence and mortality could be reduce through primary prevention activities, which include healthy lifestyle behavior and avoidance of risk factors, and through screening (secondary prevention). Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different colorectal cancer screening strategies is within the scope of interest of different health professionals. Therefore, the aim of this review is to synthesis the current scientific evidence that addresses the issues of effectiveness of population-based colorectal cancer screening programs and new methods for its early diagnosis.

Long COVID in Children: A Call for Paying More Attention

Long COVID in pediatric patients has lately attracted the interest of healthcare professionals and researchers around. Children, although typically less susceptible to severe sickness caused by the virus, can still have enduring symptoms such as weariness, impaired concentration, and respiratory problems long after their first infection. Acknowledging and dealing with these persistent consequences is essential to guaranteeing the general health and welfare of pediatric patients. Healthcare practitioners need to dedicate more focus to the phenomena of Long COVID in children, undertaking additional research to comprehend its frequency, risk factors, and best therapies. By enhancing knowledge and executing customized interventions for those impacted, we can more effectively facilitate the process of recovery and enhance results for this susceptible group.

Assessment of the Relationship Between Music Students' Self‐Efficacy, Academic Performance and Their Artificial Intelligence Readiness

ABSTRACTIn recent years, the intersection of self‐efficacy and technological readiness has become increasingly relevant in educational research, particularly within specialised fields like music education. Understanding how these factors interplay can offer valuable insights into enhancing educational practices and fostering academic achievement among music students. This study investigates the relationship between music students' self‐efficacy, academic performance and artificial intelligence (AI) readiness within the context of Chinese Music education. Adopting a random sampling method, the researchers distributed questionnaires to 1082 Chinese music students to assess their self‐efficacy, academic performance and AI readiness. Utilising SPSS (version 27) and AMOS (version 24) for data analysis, the researchers explored the statistical relationships among these variables. The findings indicate that a significant 63% of variations in students' academic performance can be explained by the combined influence of self‐efficacy and AI readiness. This highlights a strong relationship between these factors and students' overall success in their professional pursuits. Specifically, students' self‐efficacy uniquely predicts 52% of changes in academic performance, emphasising the importance of self‐belief in academic achievement, whereas their AI readiness uniquely predicts 60% of changes in academic performance, showcasing the critical role of technological fluency in driving academic success. These results provide valuable insights into the interconnected dynamics of self‐efficacy, academic performance and AI readiness among Chinese music students. The study underscores the significance of confidence, technological proficiency and their impact on students' educational trajectories, offering implications for enhancing educational practices and fostering student success in the context of music education.

Associations between eating habits and mental health among adolescents in five nordic countries: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundThe role of eating habits in adolescent mental health has become a growing area of interest for researchers and health professionals. Recent studies suggest that healthy eating habits may play a role in the development and management of mental health. However, existing literature is largely based on clinical populations, and comparisons are challenged by sociocultural differences and methodological issues. The aim of the present study was to use nationally representative data based on standardized procedures, to explore associations between adolescents eating habits and mental health, considering the importance of age, gender, socioeconomic factors, and country.MethodsThe study was based on data from Nordic adolescents (age 11, 13 and 15 years) who participated in the 2017/2018 Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) study (n = 22384). General linear modelling and multigroup regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between food habits (intake of fruit, vegetables, sweets, soft drinks), meal habits (intake of breakfast and having family meals together), and mental health (life satisfaction and subjective health complaints). The analyses were weighted and adjusted for age, gender, socio-economic status, and country.ResultsOverall, healthier eating habits were associated with better mental health. The strongest associations were found between meal habits (breakfast consumption and having family meals together) and mental health. Gender and country differences were seen, with weaker associations found among Danish boys.ConclusionEating habits should be considered when promoting mental health in the adolescent population. While gender differences and cross-country variations exist, even minor enhancements in eating behaviors could yield meaningful benefits.

History of Educational Migration in Georgia: From Ancient Times to the Soviet Period

Aim. The problem of “brain drain” is currently very relevant for Georgia. It is a fact that, despite the country’s low economic development, the number of people wishing to obtain higher education abroad has grown rapidly. This process often leads to permanent migration thus reducing the intellectual and labour potential of the country. Our goal was to find out whether this event also took place in Georgia in the historical past and how our ancestors managed it. Methods. The present work is based on historical documents, some of which were found by the author in the personal archives of Georgian scientists. Results. The research has revealed that educational migration is not new to Georgia. For thousands of years it has been both organised and unorganised in nature. It has been established that still in early 1900s, educational migration was studied in Georgia under the leadership of Prof. Ivane Javakhishvili. This allowed us to identify the geographical area and professional interests of those who went to study abroad. Conclusion. It was also established that against the backdrop of incessant wars that continued for hundreds of years, educational migration has contributed to the preservation of a more or less stable regime of social and cultural development of the country.

Crossing the disciplines - a starter toolkit for researchers who wish to explore early Irish literature

The inspiration behind this paper came from both authors’ long-term collaboration with our friend and colleague, Professor Ralph Kenna. This connection emerged initially through his interest in Rathcroghan and in our paper, ‘Exploring the Nature of the Fráoch Saga’, which we concluded with the statement that we believed it ‘presents a case that will hopefully ignite conversation between disciplines’. This led us to consider the potential value for researchers of compiling a template list of useful and reliable sources and resources to consult, in other words a type of starter toolkit or guide for any individual from an alternative discipline or background, who might possess, or, in time, develop a personal or professional interest in Early Ireland and Early Irish literature. In doing this, we decided for ease of illustration, to take the example of the location name Rathcroghan/Cruachan Aí, (the prehistoric Royal Site of Connacht in the west of Ireland and the place that we both work in and interact with on a daily basis), as a case study in order to demonstrate an initial methodological approach to not only the types of resources and information available, but also to highlight some potential pitfalls that may arise in the course of an investigation.

Transforming Educator Growth: Professional Development at Tribhuvan University

Professional development is an inevitable facet of our life. The study aimed to explore the teachers’ professional development at Tribhuvan University. To achieve the objective, I used explanatory sequential design under mixed-methods research. The data were collected from 30 teachers of a constituent campus of TU using a set of questionnaires as a research tool. The findings reveal that more than 55% teachers strongly agreed with the importance of academic degrees for better classroom performance. Less than half of them were satisfied with their reading, and writing position. Similarly, many teachers (93%) were not satisfied with their research position. More than 90% teachers have published general articles, but only 10% teachers published their academic books. Many teachers come to the classroom with full preparation; they talk to their colleagues about their issues and professional pursuits, support one another in taking professional actions, and insist on taking professional actions with the campus administration. Different strategies such as reading and writing, achieving a higher degree, doing action and mini-research, writing articles and books, attending workshops and seminars, networking, and self-monitoring are the key strategies for their professional development. The present study can be equally beneficial not only to university teachers but also for to the teachers who wish to develop their teaching career in one hand and writers, researchers and trainers on the other.

Exploring the impact of stuttering simulation-based learning and personality traits on clinical self-efficacy and professional interest among speech-language pathology students.

Research suggests that participating in a stuttering simulation-based learning (SBL) program could help speech-language pathology (SLP) students feel more at ease, less nervous and more capable while interacting with people who stutter. Personality traits may influence SLP students' self-efficacy beliefs as well as their level of interest in working with clients who stutter. In particular, we suggest that the combination of low neuroticism and high extraversion, previously linked with a more outgoing, emotionally stable and social personality, may enhance self-efficacy. To examine the impact of participating in a stuttering SBL program on clinical self-efficacy (CSE) in managing stuttering therapy among SLP students, as well as its influence on their interest in working with fluency disorders and their associations with personality dimensions. The study also evaluated satisfaction with the SBL experience. SLP students (n = 49) underwent a fluency disorders academic course, self-reported on CSE, and had an interest in working in the field of stuttering and NEO-Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Post-stuttering SBL program participation, CSE and level of interest in practice of stuttering were reassessed. Satisfaction with the simulation was also gauged. Students interested in working with fluency disorders scored lower in neuroticism and higher in extraversion than their uninterested counterparts. Before the SBL activity, interest ratings were negatively correlated with neuroticism and positively correlated with extraversion. Pre-SBL neuroticism was negatively correlated with CSE. Following the SBL activity, increased CSE and interest in working with fluency disorders were evident, indicating robust and medium effects of the simulation on those indices, respectively. Post-SBL neuroticism was also negatively correlated with CSE. Overall, participants reported high satisfaction with the SBL experience. The study suggests SBL is an effective tool for enhancing motivation to work with fluency disorders. Consideration of personality traits and professional interests in designing educational interventions for SLP students, along with tailoring approaches to individual differences, may enhance learning outcomes. The study also highlights the need to differentiate between CSE and objectively assessed clinical competence and the fact that professional development is influenced by various factors. Nonetheless, the positive correlations between personality traits, CSE and satisfaction emphasize the potential of SBL programs in shaping not only clinical skills but also the attitudes and preferences of future SLPs. What is already known on this subject SLPs in the field of stuttering therapy reportedly experience low levels of comfort and professional confidence, possibly due to insufficient clinical experience. According to earlier research, taking part in SBL programs may elevate the CSE of SLP students and help them feel more confident about treating people with stuttering. What this study adds to the existing knowledge In addition to showing the beneficial effects of an SBL activity on SLP students' self-efficacy and interest in working in stuttering therapy, our research shows a significant relationship between personality traits and CSE. Specifically, the combination of high extraversion and low neuroticism was found to be associated with higher CSE and higher levels of satisfaction from the SBL. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? The study shows that SBL is an effective tool for enhancing motivation to work with fluency disorders. Overall, students who exhibit high extraversion and low neuroticism show higher levels of CSE, greater motivation in stuttering treatment, and higher levels of SBL stratification. Development of future SBL activities and other educational interventions should take into consideration such personality traits, to enhance learning outcomes.