Successful Program Research Articles

Virus, weapon, litter, industry: Generative metaphors that shape policy around emerging threats

This article examines the use of generative metaphors in the context of interference operations, particularly focusing on trolling and disinformation. It begins by emphasising the crucial role of metaphors in shaping perceptions of cybersecurity issues and subsequent government policies. To demonstrate this, the study delves into two case studies – the Philippines and Australia – analysing how their historical and political contexts have shaped the metaphors they employ to address trolling and disinformation. The article evaluates the effectiveness of these metaphors in both cases, considering their impact on policy formulation. It employs Allan McConnell's methodology to assess process and program success, ultimately concluding that, while the virus metaphor conveys urgency, it falls short in addressing the root causes of trolling. Conversely, the industry metaphor, as exemplified in the Philippines, promotes accountability and regulation.

Predicting noise-induced hearing loss with machine learning: the influence of tinnitus as a predictive factor.

This study aimed to determine which machine learning model is most suitable for predicting noise-induced hearing loss and the effect of tinnitus on the models' accuracy. Two hundred workers employed in a metal industry were selected for this study and tested using pure tone audiometry. Their occupational exposure histories were collected, analysed and used to create a dataset. Eighty per cent of the data collected was used to train six machine learning models and the remaining 20 per cent was used to test the models. Eight workers (40.5 per cent) had bilaterally normal hearing and 119 (59.5 per cent) had hearing loss. Tinnitus was the second most important indicator after age for noise-induced hearing loss. The support vector machine was the best-performing algorithm, with 90 per cent accuracy, 91 per cent F1 score, 95 per cent precision and 88 per cent recall. The use of tinnitus as a risk factor in the support vector machine model may increase the success of occupational health and safety programmes.

Delays in Newborn Screening for Phenylketonuria from Birth to Diagnosis and Factors Affecting This.

This study aims to evaluate the process of neonatal phenylketonuria (PKU) screening from birth to admission to the pediatric metabolism polyclinic, determining delays in the screening program and the factors influencing them. This study was conducted during 2021-2023. Blood collection dates, results, and probable parameters causing delays in the screening program were recorded. This study included 118 infants. Admission time to the polyclinic was (mean ± SD) 25.2 ± 12.6 days (min-max: 3.4-78.9 days). Admission time was significantly high for refugees, those whose parents were consanguineous, and those who had more heel-prick blood samples taken (p < 0.001, p = 0.005, and p < 0.001, respectively). The first heel-prick blood phenylalanine (phe) level was significantly negatively correlated with the admission time (p < 0.001). Patients' admission time whose first blood phe level < 240 μmol/L was statistically significantly higher than in those with ≥240 μmol/L (p < 0.001). We determined that there were delays in PKU screening from birth to admission to the polyclinic. Being a refugee, the presence of consanguineous marriages, the increase in the number of heel-prick tests, and blood phe levels at a range of 120-240 μmol/L were the factors that played a role in this delay. Taking steps to reduce the impact of these parameters can prevent delays in newborn PKU screening and increase the success of the screening program.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults in India: A primary study based on health behavior theories and 5C psychological antecedents model.

Despite the significant success of India's COVID-19 vaccination program, a sizeable proportion of the adult population remains unvaccinated or has received a single dose of the vaccine. Despite the recommendations of the Government of India for the two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and the precautionary booster dose, many people were still hesitant towards the COVID-19 full vaccination. Hence, this study aimed to identify the primary behavioral and psychological factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. Cross-sectional data was collected via a multi-stage sampling design by using a scheduled sample survey in the Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh, India, between 15 July 2022 to 30 September 2022. This study has utilized three health behavior models-the Health Belief Model (HBM), the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), and the 5C Psychological Antecedents of vaccination, and employed bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression model to assess the level of vaccine hesitancy and predictive health behavior of the respondents. Results indicate that among the constructs of the HBM and 5C Antecedents models, "perceived benefits", "confidence" and "collective responsibility" showed a lesser likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. However, in the TPB model constructs, a 'negative attitude towards the vaccine' showed a four times higher likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. From the future policy perspective, this study suggested that addressing the issue of 'negative attitudes towards the vaccine' and increasing the trust or confidence for the vaccine through increasing awareness about the benefits of the vaccination in India may reduce vaccine hesitancy.

Development of "Explore Plastic Surgery": An Educational Program for Medical Students Without Home Residency Programs.

Medical students who attend institutions without plastic surgery residency programs are at a disadvantage in the plastic surgery match. We developed an educational program for medical students without home programs called Explore Plastic Surgery to provide an overview of the steps toward a career in plastic surgery. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact, utility, and success of the novel program. Pre- and postevent surveys were distributed to participants. Survey data were analyzed including participant demographics, perceptions of barriers unique to those without home programs, and the overall event utility. Two hundred seventeen students registered for the program. Ninety-five participants completed the pre-event survey (44%), and of those, 57 participants completed the post-event survey (60%). There was an increase in understanding of the steps toward a career in plastic surgery ( P < 0.001), confidence in overcoming barriers ( P = 0.005), and level of comfort in reaching out to faculty for opportunities ( P = 0.01). There was a decrease in the perceived negative impact that attending medical schools without a home program will have on their abilities to pursue careers in plastic surgery ( P = 0.006). After the event, participants demonstrated an increase in their confidence in overcoming barriers and a decrease in their perceptions that attending an institution without a home program would negatively impact their ability to pursue plastic surgery. Initiatives focused on early exposure and recruitment of medical students may be important to promote accessibility and diversity within plastic surgery.

Comparative Responses of Two Major Cucurbit Pests, Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Zeugodacus tau to Phenylbutanoid Male Lures.

Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Z. tau are two major fruit fly pests of cucurbitaceous plants in the tropical and subtropical regions. The former species has a broader host range and wider world distribution than the latter. With global climate change, Z. tau shows great potential for geographical expansion with several invasion records in recent years. Males of both species are attracted to cue lure (CL) (and raspberry ketone (RK), a deacetyl derivative of CL), a common male lure used in fruit fly population detection, monitoring and control programs. Males of both species are also known to respond to zingerone (ZN), which are produced by some rainforest orchids. Previous studies have shown that fruit fly-male lure interactions are unique to species and lure types, and significantly impact the success of a lure-based fruit fly control program. We seek to compare the attraction of Z. cucurbitae and Z. tau males to CL, RK and ZN via Probit behavioral assays. Our results showed that CL is more attractive to Z. cucurbitae and Z. tau males than RK, while ZN is a poor lure for both species. Attraction Z. tau to CL is slightly lower than Z. cucurbitae, but the former is at least 1.71 times less attractive to RK than the latter. Together with published information on species' sexual development, our current study indicates a lure-based control program via male annihilation technique for Z. tau will be more challenging than Z. cucurbitae and should incorporate other integrated pest management strategies for a desirable outcome.

Health workers' perspectives on school-based mass drug administration control programs for soil-transmitted helminthiasis and schistosomiasis in Ogun State, Nigeria.

Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and schistosomiasis (SCH) are among the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), affecting 1.5 billion globally, with a significant burden in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria. These diseases impair health and contribute to socio-economic challenges, especially in children, undermining educational and future economic prospects. The 2030 NTD Roadmap highlights Mass Drug Administration (MDA) as a critical strategy for controlling these NTDs, targeting vulnerable populations like school-age children. Despite some successes, challenges persist, indicating the need for deeper insights into program implementation. This study focuses on the perspectives of health workers implementing MDA in selected local government areas (LGAs) of Ogun State, Nigeria, aiming to identify challenges and enablers that align with the broader NTD 2030 goals. The study used a qualitative research approach involving focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with health workers engaged in neglected tropical disease control programs in Ogun State, Nigeria, between July and September 2022. A semi-structured questionnaire guided the exploration of ideas, and the data were analyzed using the QRS Nvivo 12 software package. The study found that the school-based MDA control program's efficacy largely relies on strong collaborations and partnerships, particularly with educators, community heads, and other stakeholders. These alliances and strategic communication methods, like town announcements and media campaigns, have been pivotal in reaching communities. However, the program does grapple with hurdles such as parental misconceptions, limited funds, insufficient staffing, and misalignment with the Ministry of Education. It is recommended to boost funding, foster early stakeholder involvement, enhance mobilization techniques, and consider introducing a monitoring card system similar to immunization. The MDA Integrated Control Programs for STH and SCH in Ogun State schools demonstrate a holistic approach, integrating knowledge, collaboration, communication, and feedback. Health workers have shown commitment and adeptness in their roles. However, achieving maximum efficacy requires addressing critical barriers, such as parental misconceptions and funding challenges. Adopting the recommended strategies, including proactive communication, increased remuneration, and introducing a tracking system, can significantly enhance the program's reach and impact. The involvement of all stakeholders, from health workers to community leaders and parents, is essential for the program's sustainability and success.

Higher Education Student Support Program Expansion: A Decade of Progress and Success for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and International Students

One method to support English as an additional language (EAL) students in higher education is through the development of an extracurricular support program catered to the specific academic and psychosocial needs of post-secondary EAL students within an individual faculty. In 2009, the Mount Royal University (MRU) EAL Nursing Student Support Program (NSSP) was created to support the EAL student population within MRU's Bachelor of Nursing (BN) faculty. Following over a decade of support program success documented in a series of scholarly publications, this study aims to capture the longitudinal impact of EAL NSSP on the continued success of its alumni within the academic, professional, and personal domains. A hermeneutic approach to phenomenology was used to measure the perceived impact of the student support measures on their professional and personal development. Participant interviews revealed six themes: (a) skills and knowledge obtained from membership in the support program, (b) continued engagement in professional development and leadership opportunities following support program involvement, (c) accomplishments attained following support program membership, (d) future goals, (e) eagerness to help future generations of EAL students, and (f) the need for continued EAL student support. The findings from this study demonstrate the importance of EAL student support in higher education, showcasing the profound, long-term impact that an effective and intentional EAL student support program design can have.

Creating pragmatic, rapid‐cycle, evidence‐based innovation: The Kaiser Permanente Northern California Delivery Science and Applied Research (DARE) program

AbstractIntroductionOngoing crises in the quality, affordability, sustainability, value, and equity of U.S. healthcare call for rapid, massive‐scale innovations across multiple specialties. Physician groups and healthcare organizations commit significant monetary and personnel investments for innovation and improvement efforts, but most lack over‐arching systems theory‐supported conceptual frameworks for efficiently coordinating the timely, large‐volume idea generation, refinement, prioritization, evidence development, implementation, and re‐evaluation strategies needed for rapid‐cycle improvements in health care delivery, outcomes, and value.MethodsThis article describes one large‐scale, generalizable model: The Permanente Medical Group's (TPMG) Delivery Science and Applied Research (DARE) program within Kaiser Permanente Northern California. This organization‐level initiative was designed to: (1) elicit clinical innovation and quality concerns across clinical specialties; (2) prioritize these questions for next‐step evaluations; (3) create dedicated analytic, research, and clinical expertise to rapidly study the questions generated; (4) develop communities of clinician‐researchers, embedded within their specialties' clinical operations, who gather ideas for evaluation, generate evidence, and facilitate implementation of research results (a.k.a. evidence‐based innovators); and (5) broadly disseminate findings, to connect results with potential next‐step implementation.ResultsThe DARE program and its components rapidly led to more than 200 recently completed or ongoing projects, informed care changes, influenced national guidelines, developed communities of evidence‐based clinician innovators in 15 specialties, and empowered new paths for career diversity and physician wellness. Key factors in the DARE program's success include explicitly defining high‐impact ideas; engaging researchers with analysts experienced with large clinical data systems; developing several research funding mechanisms scaled to project size; prioritizing rapid and efficient project completion; supporting clinician‐investigators embedded within their specialties; and structured organization‐wide dissemination of findings for informing potential implementation.ConclusionsHigh‐volume, evidence‐based innovation programs can be important, scale‐able, reproducible models for different settings for increasing quality, affordability, sustainability, value, and equity in healthcare and furthering the difficult‐to‐achieve concept of developing sustainable learning healthcare systems.

Exploring landscape of measles vaccination coverage: A step towards measles elimination goal in India

IntroductionMeasles remains a critical public health concern causing significant morbidity and mortality globally. Despite the success of measles vaccination programs, challenges persist, particularly in India. This study investigates dose-wise measles vaccination coverage and explores gaps in immunization focusing on zero-dose, one-dose, and two-dose coverage among children aged 24–35 months. Data sources and methodologyThe National Family Health Survey 2019–21 (NFHS-5) served as the data source and the study analyzed information from 43,864 children aged 24–35 months. Sociodemographic variables such as birth order, wealth quintile, gender, social group, religion, residence, mother education, delivery-related factors, and media exposure were considered. Statistical analysis involved weighted estimates, chi-square tests, and multivariate multinomial logistic regression. ResultsThe study revealed that challenges persist in achieving optimal measles vaccination coverage. Analysis by sociodemographic factors highlighted disparities in coverage, with variations in zero dose prevalence across states and districts. The percentage of zero-dose children was significantly higher, with 11.5% of children in India remaining to receive any measles vaccination. Factors influencing vaccine coverage include birth order, age, wealth quintile, social group, religion, residence, maternal education, place of delivery, media exposure, and mode of delivery. The findings from the spatial analysis show the clustering of zero-dose children is high in the northeastern states of India. DiscussionMeasles zero-dose children pose a significant obstacle to achieving elimination goals. Spatial analysis identifies clusters of unvaccinated populations guiding targeted interventions. The study aligns with global initiatives such as the Immunization Agenda 2030 emphasizing equitable vaccine access and discusses how India can tailor its strategies to achieve the goal. Lessons from polio eradication efforts inform strategies for measles elimination, stressing the importance of high-quality data and surveillance. The study underscores the urgency of addressing last-mile measles vaccination gaps in India. Spatially targeted interventions informed by sociodemographic factors can enhance immunization coverage. Achieving measles elimination requires sustained efforts and leveraging lessons from successful vaccination campaigns. The study findings have the potential to contribute to informed decision-making, supporting India's roadmap for the measles and rubella elimination goal.

What factors influence the uptake of bowel, breast and cervical cancer screening? An overview of international research.

For cancer screening programmes to be effective in early detection it is important that those invited can access screening services and understand the benefits of participation. A better understanding of the factors that matter to potential participants of cancer screening programmes can assist in developing strategies to increase current uptake. We conducted an overview of systematic reviews to answer the question: What factors influence the uptake of cancer screening services (breast, bowel and cervical) in high-income countries? A thematic approach supported by tabular summaries and qualitative heat maps was used to categorize factors, described as 'barriers' or 'facilitators'. A total of 41 systematic reviews met the criteria for inclusion. The barrier with the greatest number of 'hot spots' across all three screening programmes was a fear of the unknown regarding a possible diagnosis of cancer or abnormal screening results, followed closely by a general lack of knowledge surrounding cancer screening programmes. The greatest collective facilitator to uptake was recommendation by a healthcare provider to attend screening. Across all factors 'trust' and 'building trusted relationships' can be seen as integral to the success of cancer screening programmes and must be reflective of collaborative efforts to mitigate barriers and enhance facilitators to uptake. There is future scope to consider interventions that (i) increase demand for screening services, (ii) reduce barriers to uptake of services and/or (iii) are relevant to the healthcare system and those providing services.

PREVALENCE, MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOME OF MULTIDRUGS RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS : A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background: Multidrug-resistant or rifampicin-resistant TB (MDR/RR-TB), is an important obstacle to global TB control. The failure to diagnose and effectively treat MDR/RR-TB patients perpetuate ongoing MDR/RR-TB transmission in the community and can amplify the MDR/RR-TB burden. The aim: The aim of this study to show about prevalence, management and outcome of multidrug resistant tuberculosis. Methods: By the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020, this study was able to show that it met all of the requirements. This search approach, publications that came out between 2014 and 2024 were taken into account. Several different online reference sources, like Pubmed, SagePub, and Sciencedirect were used to do this. It was decided not to take into account review pieces, works that had already been published, or works that were only half done. Result: Five publications were found to be directly related to our ongoing systematic examination after a rigorous three-level screening approach. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of the complete text was conducted, and additional scrutiny was given to these articles. Conclusion: The success of any national program can only be ascertained by studying the outcomes of treatment regimes in patients with MDR-TB enrolled in different DOTS-plus sites of the country.

Pendidikan Lingkungan Hidup dengan Membentuk Kesadaran Lingkungan dan Tanggung Jawab Sosial di Kalangan Pelajar

Environmental Education (PLH) plays an important role in forming environmental awareness and social responsibility among students. This article aims to explore the effectiveness of PLH. The research method used is a qualitative research method which involves in-depth interviews with teachers and students as well as direct observation in the school environment. The research results show that experience-based learning methods, support from schools and communities, and social interaction are crucial factors in the success of the PLH program. This finding is in line with theories of environmental education and corporate social responsibility which emphasize the importance of real experience, the social environment, and environmental responsibility. In conclusion, the integrated implementation of PLH with support from various parties can be an effective instrument in forming a generation that cares about and is responsible for the environment and society at large.

Rapid reconfiguration of gravitational detection spacecraft using high-accuracy successive convex programming

This article aims to address the challenge of achieving fast and high-accuracy reconfiguration of the TianQin constellation, with a focus on developing trajectory optimization algorithms to enhance both computation speed and accuracy in the reconfiguration process within TianQin Gravity Wave (GW) detection constellations. Initially, through perturbation analysis on the TianQin constellation, we formulated a dynamic model based on a virtual formation strategy, incorporating factors such as solar radiation pressure (SRP) and differences in third-body perturbation (DTBP). Subsequently, to meet the dual requirements of rapidly trajectory generation and optimal control accuracy, we proposed a new time-optimal high-accuracy successive convex programming (HASCP) algorithm and theoretically proved its convergence and optimality. Finally, we present simulations focusing on the TianQin gravitational detection spacecraft to validate the efficacy of the algorithm.

Shared voices from the classroom: Reflections on hybrid project-based learning in an academic writing course

Hybrid project-based learning effectively develops academic writing skills in preparation for a gradual return to face-to-face instruction after a two-year pandemic triggered by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Since this hybrid project-based learning initiative is a pioneering effort, it is essential to reflect on the program's successes and identify areas for improvement. This case study aims to explore the lecturers' and students' reflections on using hybrid project-based learning in academic writing courses. In-depth interviews and end-of-semester reflection were utilized to obtain data. Thematic analysis was conducted using the qualitative data analysis (QDA) miner lite software for data reduction. the findings revealed three prominent themes that emerged in this lecturers’ reflections: i) integrating varied learning modalities; ii) fostering critical thinking and involvement; and iii) improving competencies, as they were also crucial to boosting professional development. Meanwhile, students portray hybrid project-based learning as challenging and rewarding and fosters a sense of value and acceptability among students. This research has transformative implications for curriculum development and instructional practices in higher education, especially academic writing.

Transforming academic librarianship through AI reskilling: Insights from the GPT-4 exploration program

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic librarianship necessitates a corresponding evolution in librarians' competencies. This case study examines the GPT-4 Exploration Program at the University of New Mexico's College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences, which aimed to foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation by providing hands-on experience with advanced AI technology. Drawing on Malcolm Knowles' Adult Learning Principles, the program's structure and implementation are analyzed, highlighting the diverse range of projects undertaken by participants. The study reveals that effective AI reskilling involves cultivating a culture of continuous learning, adaptability, and collaborative exploration, anchored in a practical, hands-on approach. Participants reported significant improvements in AI literacy and confidence in applying AI tools to their work. The program's success demonstrates the potential of well-structured reskilling initiatives in empowering library professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in academic libraries. The case study offers insights and strategies for other academic libraries seeking to develop AI reskilling initiatives, emphasizing the importance of fostering a supportive learning environment, addressing technical and ethical challenges, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of such programs. The GPT-4 Exploration Program serves as a blueprint for integrating AI into library services and operations.

Leading the Moon to Mars Program: James Bridenstine as NASA administrator 2018–2021

Large-scale, long-term scientific and technological programs face many hurdles and barriers on the way from initiation to completion. This is especially true for huge-multi-billion space endeavors, such as Artemis, NASA's Moon to Mars venture. Such programs traverse a number of presidencies and congresses. Among the most critical factors in program success or failure is the performance of NASA Administrators. While typically in office only part of the time the program endures, their tenures can be pivotal. Consider the case of James Bridenstine who served in the tumultuous time of Donald Trump. His record illuminates how a NASA Administrator with a political style can maneuver to a program's advantage, often in spite of environmental turmoil. While the full story of Artemis is yet to be written, it seems clear that Bridenstine, overall, left the program with a more secure political momentum than when he arrived. While he could not achieve all he wished, especially internally, he set Artemis on a sufficiently sound trajectory that his successor, under a different president of the opposite party, could maintain and build on Bridenstine's legacy. This positive hand-off was largely unanticipated since Bridenstine came to office with low expectations. His actions to secure the Moon to Mars program thus merits reflection.

Meningkatkan Nasionalisme dan Spiritualitas Anak Jalanan dengan Program Pembelajaran Anak Negeri

Street children are children who spend most of their time earning a living, wandering the streets or other public places. This program is an innovation in the field of community service called the "Children of the Country" learning program. This program is directed to meet the Indonesian golden generation of 2045 by increasing nationalism and spirituality for street children in the country of children. This program consists of two major parts, namely brief material delivery and educational games. To prove the success of the community service program, pre-test and post-test were conducted. Personality charts show the nationalism and spirituality of program participants increased. Thus, it can be said that this community service program was declared successful in welcoming the Indonesian golden generation of 2045

Machine learning framework to predict pharmacokinetic profile of small molecule drugs based on chemical structure.

Accurate prediction of a new compound's pharmacokinetic (PK) profile is pivotal for the success of drug discovery programs. An initial assessment of PK in preclinical species and humans is typically performed through allometric scaling and mathematical modeling. These methods use parameters estimated from invitro or invivo experiments, which although helpful for an initial estimation, require extensive animal experiments. Furthermore, mathematical models are limited by the mechanistic underpinning of the drugs' absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) which are largely unknown in the early stages of drug discovery. In this work, we propose a novel methodology in which concentration versus time profile of small molecules in rats is directly predicted by machine learning (ML) using structure-driven molecular properties as input and thus mitigating the need for animal experimentation. The proposed framework initially predicts ADME properties based on molecular structure and then uses them as input to a ML model to predict the PK profile. For the compounds tested, our results demonstrate that PK profiles can be adequately predicted using the proposed algorithm, especially for compounds with Tanimoto score greater than 0.5, the average mean absolute percentage error between predicted PK profile and observed PK profile data was found to be less than 150%. The suggested framework aims to facilitate PK predictions and thus support molecular screening and design earlier in the drug discovery process.

An Empirical Study of Cultivating Innovative Practice Abilities in an Interdisciplinary Education Environment in Australia

Interdisciplinary education is increasingly recognized for its potential to cultivate innovative practice abilities essential for addressing complex, real-world challenges. This empirical study investigates the impact of interdisciplinary education on the development of innovative skills among students in Australian higher education institutions. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews, focus groups, and case studies. The findings reveal that interdisciplinary education significantly enhances skills such as creative problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability. Institutional support, effective teaching methods, and high levels of student engagement are identified as critical factors influencing the success of interdisciplinary programs. Despite the benefits, challenges such as institutional resistance, curriculum integration difficulties, and resource constraints are highlighted. The study’s implications for educators, administrators, and policymakers include the need for increased investment in interdisciplinary resources, adoption of active learning strategies, and fostering industry partnerships. These findings contribute to the body of knowledge on interdisciplinary education and provide actionable recommendations to enhance its effectiveness in cultivating innovative practices.