University Department Research Articles

Evaluation of the Causative Microorganisms and Antibiogram Results in Women with Vaginal Swab Culture Taken with Prediagnosis of Vaginitis

Aim: Vaginitis occurs when the vaginal flora is disturbed. This study aimed to evaluate the demographic data, causative microorganisms, and antibiogram results of women who underwent vaginal swab culture with a prediagnosis of vaginitis. Methods: Vaginal swab samples from 314 women who visited the Kafkas University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology were included in the study. Women with immunosuppressive diseases, gynecological malignancies, and IUD use were excluded. Vaginal discharge or swab samples were Gram stained and cultured on various media. Microorganisms were identified using conventional and biochemical methods, and antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, according to the EUCAST guidelines. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, with categorical variables assessed using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test, and continuous variables assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test. The study complied with the recommendations of the Declaration of Helsinki for human biomedical research and was approved by the Non-Interventional Clinical Research Ethics Committee of the Kafkas University Faculty of Medicine. Results: The median age of 314 women included in this study was 39 (20-69) years. . In total, 73.6% (n=231) were premenopausal, 24.5% (n=77) were postmenopausal, and 1.9% (n=6) were pregnant. The most common complaint was abdominal/pelvic pain (142, 45.2%). Vaginal cultures from 123 women (39.1%) showed the growth of different microorganisms. The most common causative microorganism was Escherichia coli (41.5%). According to the antibiogram results, the most sensitive antibiotic was gentamicin (65.9%), and ampicillin (52.8 %) was the most resistant. Conclusion: It is important to quickly and accurately identify microorganisms involved in the etiology of the correct treatment.

“Risk Hunting” as a competence resource in the training of occupational safety professionals

The article discusses the use of project-based learning in the training of experts in Technosphere Safety, particularly occupational safety and health professionals. For these categories, the main competence is obtaining knowledge of assessing working conditions, identifying hazards and occupational risks for the development and implementation of measures aimed to eliminate them. The article presents the results of the “Risk Hunting” project, including occupational risk assessment cards, hazard registers, projects of occupational risk reduction measures, labor protection competitions, the Occupational Safety Day presentation, and the training for Irkutsk National Research Technical University department heads. The article distinguishes between two types of educational results: development of competencies required for labor protection professionals and gaining experience in self-organization and self-education. Project-based learning is aimed at solving specific tasks and gaining professional experience, which needs to be developed and improved.

The specifics of academic publishing (The case study of publishing departments of Ekaterinburg universities)

The authors examine the specific publishing activities of universities and formulate the main challenges for academic publishing divisions. Within the study, eight publishing departments of Ekaterinburg universities demonstrated the following problems: decreasing circulation against the increase in the number of students; partial reversal from proprietary publishing facilities, loading of publications and e-publications into the electronic library systems, degradation of publications, unfair paper reviewing practice, decreasing funding and number of commercial projects, old age of employees of publishing departments, displacement of correctors, overloading of editors, low salaries, pandemic and sanctions consequences (increasing prices for paper and expendable materials, disruption of supplies, hardware challenges, etc.). Based on the analysis of publishers’ structure and management principles, the authors conclude on the stagnation in university publishing. However, the authors insist on some potential for preserving and improving publishing activities, and suggest optional solutions for several publishing problems.

Evaluation of Units Established for Curriculum Support: A Collaborative Action Research

The curriculum includes educational activities that determine the struggle for survival and sustainability of a university's departments. Approaches that seek more flexible solutions and have a post-positivist understanding are needed to manage this system. One of these approaches is action research, first used by Kurt Lewin (1946) to solve social problems. In this study, four offices were established to make the curriculum at a state university in Turkey more functional, and the contributions of regulating these offices with Collaborative Action Research (CAR) were discussed. The most valuable outcome of the study is that it has presented a model for collaborative teaching in higher education that can be used as a guide to support curriculum studies. On the other hand, CAR has made valuable contributions to office operations, collaboration, consultation, continuous improvement cycle, and problem identification (needs assessment). This research, which lasted for two years, has provided important services to participants in addressing current difficulties in office operations.

Predictors Of Handgrip Strength And Its Relationship To Physical Performance In Older Irish Adults

Abstract Background Handgrip strength declines with age and predicts poor physical performance and increased risk of falls and mortality. However, the strength of the relationship between handgrip strength and other physical measures is less well studied. We aimed to explore the predictors of handgrip strength in older Irish adults and its relationship to the Timed and Up and Go (TUG). Methods Study participants were from a longitudinal cohort of Irish adults aged >60 years; Trinity Ulster University Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study. Participants on current or long-term steroids, a history of stroke and with MMSE <24 were excluded. Handgrip strength was assessed with a dynamometer and defined as <27 kg for males and <16 kg for females. Abnormal performance in the TUG was defined as >12 seconds. Predictors of impaired handgrip were explored in multivariate logistic regression. Results There were 748 participants (68.9% female, mean age 70.2 years), of whom 33.4% had abnormal handgrip strength, which was more common in female’s vs males (39.4 vs 20.2%, p<0.001). Both abnormal handgrip strength and TUG was present in 13.6%. Normal handgrip strength had a negative predictive value of 76.0% for ruling out poor TUG, while abnormal handgrip had a positive predictive value of 62% for poor TUG. Predictors of impaired handgrip strength were older age (P<0.0001), female sex (p<0.0001), lower protein intake (P=0.024) and higher waist hip ratio (p=0.014). Conclusion Handgrip strength had a modest correlation with TUG A significant proportion had abnormal TUG but normal handgrip. Changes in lower limb muscle strength (affecting TUG) precede muscle loss in the upper limb. Higher protein intake predicted greater grip strength and supports the recommendation to maintain adequate intakes to prevent sarcopenia. Greater waist hip ratio is associated with reduced lean muscle mass which may explain the negative relationship we identified with handgrip strength.

Predictors Of Loneliness In Older Irish Adults And Its Relationship To Depression

Abstract Background Loneliness can affect up to 30% of older adults and is associated with increased morbidity and all cause mortality. Loneliness is also a major risk factor for depression. We aimed to explore the predictors of loneliness in older Irish adults and its relationship to depression. Methods Study participants were Irish adults aged >60 years in the Trinity Ulster University Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study. Participants with an MMSE <24 were excluded, to prevent the inclusion of individuals with dementia. Loneliness in the last week was identified from the 'loneliness' question in the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and considered present when experienced ≥1-2 days in the last week and absent when experienced rarely or none of the time. Depression was defined as a CES-D ≥16. Predictors of loneliness were explored in multinomial regression models as well as its association with depression. Results There were 4561 participants, 70% female, mean age 70.1 years and 21.6% experienced loneliness. Positive independent predictors of loneliness were living alone (OR 5.2, CI 4.41-6.14, p<0.001), female sex (OR 1.29, CI 1.07-1.56, p=0.009), timed up and go >12 seconds (OR 1.46-2.32, p<0.001) non-driving status (OR 1.37, CI 1.13-1.67, P=0.001) and lower MMSE (OR 0.57, CI 0.41-0.79, p=0.0006). Those who reported loneliness had a higher prevalence of depression (32.1 vs 3.3%, p<0.0001). Conclusion Living alone was, as expected, the greatest predictor of loneliness followed by physical frailty, non-driving status, female sex, and lower cognition. A high proportion (one third) who felt lonely had depression, though low mood may increase the perception of loneliness independent of social engagement. A limitation is that we did not have a specific validated tool to assess loneliness or to distinguish between `emotional' or `social' loneliness.

Exploring The Relationship Between SSRIs, Falls, Fractures, And Bone Mineral Density In Older Irish Adults: Results From The TUDA Study

Abstract Background Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are associated with an increased risk of falls and fractures, though the results from studies are inconsistent. SSRIs may cause a decline in bone mineral density (BMD), but this remains unclear. We aimed to explore the relationship between SSRI use and falls, fractures and BMD in older Irish adults. Methods Study participants were from a cross-sectional study of adults aged >60 years; Trinity Ulster University Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study. Falls and falls resulting in fracture in the preceding year were self-reported so participants with an MMSE < 24 were excluded. The relationship between SSRIs and falls and falls with fractures was explored in multivariate logistic regression adjusting for relevant covariates and medications: loop and thiazide diuretics, alpha and beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE-inhibitors, benzodiazepines, opioids. In a subgroup with no prior diagnosis of osteoporosis or on medications for same, the relationship with SSRI's and BMD (as assessed with DXA) was explored. Results There were 4521 participants, 67.6% female, mean age 73.3 ± 8.1 years, 9.4% (n=427) using SSRIs. SSRI use predicted an increased risk of falls in the last year both before and after multivariate adjustment (OR 1.71, 1.37-2.14, p<0.001). In participants with falls (n=1448), those who had a fall with fracture versus a fall with no fracture were no more likely to be using SSRIs. In a subsample, (n=2178) no relationship was found between SSRI use and BMD at the hip, neck of femur or spine. Conclusion SSRIs use was associated with a 71% increased risk of falls though did not predict BMD or fractures. However, duration of SSRI use was not known and there was no prospective follow up. It remains unclear whether increased fracture risk in SSRI users found elsewhere is explained solely by falls risk.

Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, But Not Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors, Improve Bone Mineral Density: Results From The TUDA study

Abstract Background Both hypertension and osteoporosis are common in older adults and frequently co-exist. The renin angiotensin system has been implicated in osteoclast activation and bone loss. Several studies have previously examined the relationship between various inhibitors of RAS and bone mineral density (BMD). In this study we examined the relationship between angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin converting enzyme ACE inhibitors and BMD. Methods Study participants were from a cross-sectional study of adults aged >60 years; Trinity Ulster University Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study. We excluded participants on treatments for osteoporosis. In users and non-users of ARBs and ACE inhibitors, we compared least squares means BMD measured by densitometry at the neck of femur, hip, and lumbar spine adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, timed up and go, vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, eGFR, diabetes mellitus, smoking, alcohol consumption, dairy intake, glucocorticoid exposure, thiazide, and loop diuretic use. Results There were 2218 participants (mean age 70.1±6.5 years, 58.3% female, 23.4% (n=519) on ARBs and 30.9% (n=686) on ACE inhibitors). In both univariate and multivariate analysis, ARB users had higher BMD than non-users were associated with higher BMD at the neck of femur (0.860 g/cm² vs. 0.846 g/cm², p=0.016); at the total hip, (0.938 g/cm² vs. 0.919 g/cm², p=0.004); at the lumbar spine, BMD was 1.106 g/cm² vs. 1.074 g/cm² p< 0.001). No significant relationship between ACE inhibitors and BMD at any site was observed after multivariate adjustment. Conclusion ARBs were associated with improved BMD while ACE inhibitors were not. Similar results have been found in other studies but the mechanisms but there is substantial uncertainty regarding the mechanisms underlying these relationships. These findings could be important in the choice of antihypertensive agent in older patients at risk of fracture and further research is warranted.

Vitamin D Deficiency Is Associated With An Increased Risk of Diabetes In Older Irish Adults: Results From The TUDA Study

Abstract Background Several studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of developing type II diabetes and prediabetes. However, the data are inconsistent. Vitamin D may improve insulin sensitivity and pancreatic beta cell function, which could influence diabetes risk. We aimed to examine the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and type II diabetes in older Irish adults. Methods Study participants were from a cross-sectional study of adults aged > 60 years; Trinity Ulster University Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study. Diabetes was defined by self-report, use of diabetic medications or HBA1c ≥ 6.5%. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25(OH)D < 30 nmol/l. The relationship between vitamin D deficiency and diabetes was explored in multivariate logistic regression adjusting for age, sex, BMI, waist hip ratio, season, vitamin D supplement use, timed up and go, alcohol intake, current or previous steroid use, smoking, use of statins and socioeconomic status. Results There were 5171 participants (67.2% female, mean age 74.0 years) of whom 19.7% were vitamin D deficient and 15.7% had diabetes. Vitamin D deficiency versus non-deficiency was associated with an increased risk of diabetes both before and after multivariate adjustment (OR 1.46, 1.98-1.79, p<0.0002). Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency was associated with a 46% increased risk of having type II diabetes. However, the results of longitudinal studies and randomised trials have produced inconsistent results, though many had participants with higher baseline 25(OH)D status. A recent review of 46 trials of vitamin D supplementation found that it may reduce Hba1c in diabetics with vitamin D deficiency. Well designed trials to assess the potential effect of vitamin D supplementation on diabetic risk should be conducted.

DECIPHERING METACOGNITIVE STRATEGIES DURING MACHINE TRANSLATION POST-EDITING PRACTICES: A CASE STUDY OF AN INDONESIAN EFL LEARNER

The shift of paradigm from a machine translation (MT)-centred orientation to a human-centred orientation has increased the popularity of Machine Translation Post-editing (MTPE) practices in the last few years. As a result, a growing body of research has accentuated MTPE as a central investigative issue. Unfortunately, probing how an EFL learner employed metacognitive strategies during Machine Translation Post-editing (MTPE) practices remains underdeveloped, particularly in the Indonesian EFL context. Hence, this study aimed to fill the gap. A 24–year–old female learner of the English Education Department of a state university in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia was recruited as a participant in this scrutiny. To uphold ethical issues, the participant's name was made anonymous, namely Angel (pseudonym). Grounded in a descriptive case study, the present inquiry was intended to decipher how an EFL learner employed metacognitive strategies during MTPE practices. The data were audiovisual recordings of the think-aloud activities, transcript of TAP results and the input event loggings. These data were collected through Zoom-mediated Think Aloud Protocols (TAP). The data were analysed with Arndt’s categories of ESL writing strategies encompassing planning, global planning, rehearsing, repeating, re-reading, and questioning (Arndt, 1987; Mu, 2005). The findings reported that there were the predominant patterns represented by Angel's MTPE practices, namely the learner’s metacognitive strategies during MTPE practices in English-Indonesian output (rereading, questioning, editing, repeating, and planning). Pedagogically speaking, training learners to understand the underpinning concepts and practical use of MTPE encourages them to value the existence of an MT-centred task to a human-centred one in translating practices. Additionally, guiding learners to possess conceptual and procedural knowledge of how to undertake MTPE practices enables them to apply grammatically, syntactically, semantically and pragmatically correct translations, accurate punctuation, proper key terminology, culturally acceptable contents, added or omitted information, and acceptable formatting styles.

Identifying psychosocial and contextual markers considered by physicians to personalize care

BackgroundThe objective of the study was to identify the psychosocial and contextual markers considered by physicians to personalize care.MethodsAn online questionnaire with one open-ended question, asking physicians to describe clinical situations in which they personalized care, was used. Physicians were recruited from March 31, 2023, to August 10, 2023, from three hospitals, five university departments of general practice and six physician organizations in France. Recruitment was conducted through email invitations, with participants encouraged to invite their colleagues via a snowball sampling method. The participants were a diverse sample of French general practitioners and other medical specialists who see patients in consultations or in hospital wards. We extracted the psychosocial and contextual markers considered by physicians to personalize care in each clinical situation. The analysis involved both manual and AI-assisted content analysis using GPT3.5-Turbo (OpenAI). Mathematical models to assess data saturation were used to ensure that a comprehensive list of markers was identified.ResultsIn total, 1340 people connected to the survey platform and 1004 (75.0%) physicians were eligible for the study (median age 39 years old, IQR 34 to 50; 60.5% women; 67.0% working in outpatient settings), among whom 290 answered the open-ended question. The participants reported 317 clinical situations during which they personalized care. Personalization was based on the consideration of 40 markers: 27 were related to patients’ psychosocial characteristics (e.g., patient capacity, psychological state, beliefs), and 13 were related to circumstances (e.g., competing activities, support network, living environment). The data saturation models showed that at least 97.0% of the potential markers were identified. Manual and AI-assisted content analysis using GPT3.5-Turbo were concordant for 89.9% of clinical situations.ConclusionsPhysicians personalize care to patients’ contexts and lives using a broad range of psychosocial and contextual markers. The effect of these markers on treatment engagement and effectiveness needs to be evaluated in clinical studies and integrated as tailoring variables in personalized interventions to build evidence-based personalization.

Perspectives of work readiness among Australian health students trained during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundTo explore perspectives of work readiness, including readiness to work rurally, among health students trained in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsParticipants were allied health, medicine, and nursing students in the later years of their degree (third, fourth or final year of an undergraduate entry to practice degree, or second year of postgraduate entry to practice degree), where training is clinically immersive. These students had completed a University Department of Rural Health facilitated rural and remote placement between January 2021 and October 2022. They participated in a cross-sectional online survey (n = 426), comprising Likert-scale questions. Interested survey respondents participated in a semi-structured interview (n = 34). Multiple logistic regression was conducted to examine the predictors of work readiness within the survey, and interview data was analysed via reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsAmong survey respondents, 69.7% felt they would be ready to be a health practitioner when the time came to graduate and 71.8% felt clinically prepared to work in a rural location. Concerns about having developed enough clinical skills on placements to competently practice on graduation and being able to continue studying their course during the pandemic were both predictive of work readiness and feeling clinically prepared to work rurally. Four themes reflecting factors impacting work readiness were developed from interview data: (1) ‘I’d estimate probably a 20–30% reduction in face-to-face handling practice over the course of all of my placements’ encompassed student concerns regarding the collective impact of cancelled placements and lower patient attendance at healthcare facilities on clinical skill development; (2) ‘Two and a half years of sitting behind a computer’ related to student experiences of superficial learning and cohort disconnectedness due to online course delivery and loss of on campus simulations; (3) ‘I’ll still need like a lot of support in my grad year’ related to students recognising the need for support and supervision post-qualifying to bridge the gaps in their learning; and (4) ‘We are the COVID nurses’ encompassed student recognition of skills gained including communication skills, competence with technology and telehealth, knowledge of infection control, and work readiness skills (e.g. adaptability and resilience) as a result of training during the global pandemic.ConclusionsUniversities can support work readiness during pandemic circumstances by fostering clinical skills development through continuation of quality placement experiences and face-to-face curriculum delivery. Although health graduates trained during the pandemic are likely to have a range of additional work ready skills, health services will need to proactively support their transition into the workforce in the coming years.

Pioneering family medicine: A collaborative global health education partnership in Ethiopia.

In 2013, Ethiopia launched its first Family Medicine (FM) residency programme at Addis Ababa University (AAU). The University of Toronto's Department of Family and Community Medicine (DFCM) was invited to support Addis Ababa University's Department of Family Medicine's (AAU-FM) educational programme activities forming the Toronto Addis Ababa Academic Collaboration in Family Medicine (TAAAC-FM). This paper describes the TAAAC-FM partnership, a capacity-strengthening initiative that focuses on four key levers of academic engagement and transformation: education offerings for AAU-FM trainees, partnership preparation of DFCM faculty, fostering AAU-FM faculty development and leadership, and lastly scholarship, knowledge sharing and mentorship. Toronto Addis Ababa Academic Collaboration in Family Medicine operates on principles of respect, flexibility and cultural sensitivity. Monthly virtual meetings and annual in-person faculty visits fostered curriculum support, teaching and leadership training, ensuring that the programme remained responsive to evolving needs. The partnership has contributed to a Community of Practice (CoP) to advance FM in Ethiopia, promoting shared learning. Addis Ababa University's Department of Family Medicine faculty leads in various roles, engages with global FM communities, and contributes to policy development, demonstrating significant progress in FM education and leadership. Looking ahead, TAAAC-FM aims to adapt its efforts based on the capacity built with AAU-FM, continue faculty development, and strengthen linkages within the global healthcare community. The partnership's success underscores the importance of collaborative, culturally informed high-low resource setting approaches to FM training and healthcare system strengthening, offering valuable insights for similar initiatives.

Online Utilization of the Nominal Group Technique to Gather Consensus Opinion Across Geographically Disparate Locations

Introduction: The nominal group technique (NGT) is a structured focus group that gathers opinion and generates consensus from groups on topics of interest. Previous studies using online NGTs (ONGTs) in health have been conducted in regions of high population density and internet connectivity. This activity aimed to determine the feasibility and utility of ONGTs in gathering opinion and reaching consensus on curriculum topics for a continuing research education program for health professionals dispersed across various locations in Southern Queensland. Methods: Fifteen clinical education academics from a range of health professions participated in 1-hour ONGT sessions from 2 University Department of Rural Health sites or their home offices. The traditional NGT was adapted for online use, using two free online platforms (Zoom for videoconferencing and Wooclap for voting and response collation). Results: The chosen platforms were effective in presenting ONGTs, allowing active and effective contributions to research topic ideas from all participants, including those with low internet connectivity. Silent generation enabled sharing, open discussion, and clarification of generated ideas. Wooclap was effective in reviewing and voting on generated responses and providing real-time feedback on voting outcomes. Outcomes were consistent with group consensus and useful in prioritizing research training topics. Discussion: The modified ONGT is effective in gathering opinion and gaining consensus from a geographically dispersed health workforce with varied levels of internet connectivity and experience with online platforms. It represents a cost-effective and time-effective alternative to face-to-face NGTs that is less likely to be affected by workforce disruptions.

The Oncologic Value of Transoral Resection in Early-Stage Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Glottis: A Retrospective Study.

Background and objective The treatment of early-stage laryngeal glottic cancer involves surgery or radiotherapy, and both have similar survival rates. However, discrepancies between systematic reviews in the literature point towards the continuous need for more data. In this study, we aimed to investigate the oncologic value of surgery at an ENT university department of a tertiary hospital in Greece. Materials and methods Patients with T1or T2laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma of the glottiswho underwent transoral tumor resection between April 2014 and September 2021 at the hospital were deemed eligible for this study. Disease-free survival (DFS), local control rate (LCR), overall survival (OS), and laryngeal preservation were assessed. Results We enrolled 43 subjects with a median age of 67 years (range: 46-84 years). An overwhelming majority of the subjects were men (39/43). The most common stage was T1a(22/43 subjects). OS was 74 months and DFS was 67 months. We noted local recurrence in 7/43 subjects. Three subjects passed away after five years of follow-up. Eventually, total laryngectomy was performed in 4/43 subjects, two of whom initially suffered from a T2glottic carcinoma. Conclusions Our results align with the findings of the systematic reviews supporting high survival rates, laryngeal preservation, and avoidance of radiotherapy complications observed after transoral surgery for early-stage laryngeal glottic carcinoma.

Психологическое сопровождение иностранных студентов в российских вузах: по итогам заседания межрегионального круглого стола

The relevance of the study determines the necessity to promote the search for tools that increase the effectiveness of psychological support and adaptation of foreign students in Russian universities. It became the main idea of the interregional round table discussion “Psychological Support of Foreign Students in Russian Universities” (Penza State University, April 25, 2024). Purpose: an analytical review of the reports of the participants of the interregional round table discussion “Psychological Support of Foreign Students in Russian Universities”. Results: the participants, among whom there were representatives of university departments responsible for managing the adaptation of foreign students, representatives of public organizations, foreign students, and university professors, discussed the theory and practice of psychological support for foreign students studying at Russian universities. The originality and novelty of the interregional round table discussion are determined by the format of the event, the content of the reports and the list of participants. The round table was attended by representatives of the Russian Federation, Kazakhstan, China, India, Morocco, E gypt, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Abstract B114: Enhancing understanding and engagement: Investigating the impact of education on clinical trial participation

Abstract Institutions: Thomas Jefferson University Department of Oncology Funded by: NIH/NCI 3P30CA056036-22S1 Background Clinical trials (CT) advance knowledge in cancer care. Access to CT may be facilitated by patient knowledge. We evaluated the impact of a tailored CT educational video intervention via a pre- and post-test survey on CT interest and enrollment. Methods Participants included persons with cancer (PwCa) as well as persons without cancer—general population (GP). A McNemar test was used to assess the differences in survey scores for patients knowledge (11 questions) and intention-to-participate in future CT (6 questions). Results 363 (GP) and 116 (PwCa) participated; 178 and 55 participants completed both pre- and post-surveys, respectively. GP: 148 (70%) men, 58 (28%) women, 2 (1%) transgender, 2 (1%) non-binary; white, non-Latinx 125 (60%), Black 60 (29%), Asian 2 (1%), Latinx 52 (25%). PwCa: 48 (47%) men, 48 (53%) women; white, non-Latinx 71 (79%), Black 8 (9%), Asian 7 (7%), Latinx 5 (6%).The mean age was 30 yrs (sd: 7 yrs) [GP] and 55 yrs (sd: 17.8 yrs) [PwCa]. PwCa scores significantly improved for “In a CT, a patient will always get the new medicine or treatment being tested” (p=0.003). GP scores significantly improved for “You can only join a CT after you have tried all other options (p=0.002)”, “CTs test whether a new medicine or treatment works (p=0.031)” and “Once I sign a consent form, I must stay in the CT until my doctor tells me I'm done (p=0.0001).” The intention to participate in CT improved significantly in PwCa (p<0.05). The intention to gain more information about CT from their physicians and discussing CT with family (p<0.05) improved significantly in GP. Conclusions The tailored educational intervention significantly impacted PwCa’s intention to participate in CT and GP’s intention to learn more about CT and to share the CT information learned. The GP group was more diverse. Ongoing research is monitoring whether PwCa participants enroll in a CT, thereby assessing the long-term impact of the educational intervention on decision-making regarding CT participation taking into account CT availability and eligibility. Citation Format: Jesutomisola Onafowokan, FNU Nikita, Iqra Siddiqui, Ana Maria Lopez. Enhancing understanding and engagement: Investigating the impact of education on clinical trial participation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B114.

Reciprocal cognitive and emotional interaction in STEMM university learning and teaching

University learning and teaching involves contrasting and interacting emotional experiences. Even in disciplines considered as objective as Science and Engineering, emotion plays a significant role in catalysing and sustaining learning. Although emotions are individually felt, they are socially constructed between people. This is especially relevant in group-based learning evident in much contemporary higher education. This paper applies the concept of emotion socialization to illustrate how groups of students and teachers cope and succeed in cognitively and emotionally challenging learning settings. The study is based on qualitative data collected across six STEMM university departments, from 280 students via in-situ questionnaires and from 20 teachers via group and follow-up interviews. Two key findings offer insight into processes of reciprocal influence on cognition and emotion. The first relates to ways in which students’ and teachers’ differing knowledge-related goals and relationships with knowledge influenced cognition and emotion, uncovering previously unacknowledged connections. The second relates to how students’ comparisons of progress towards academic goals with peers contributed considerably to their emotional experiences in cognitively and emotionally helpful and unhelpful ways. Practical implications are presented, including possibilities for capitalising on existing emotion socialization processes and enhancing how they influence cognition and emotional well-being.

Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis for Comminuted Fractures of Long bones: A Prospective Study on Outcomes and Complications

The surge in comminuted bone fractures, attributed to modern lifestyles and increased trauma incidents, poses significant challenges in management. Traditional open reduction and plating methods, while effective, are associated with drawbacks like delayed union and higher infection rates. The evolution of MIPO (Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis) seeks to overcome these limitations. The potential effects of MIPO in the management of severely comminuted long bone fractures are investigated in this work. The Saveetha Medical College's Department of Orthopaedics carried out a prospective study from March 2022 to March 2024. Patients aged 20 to 60 with fractures of the femur, tibia, and humerus resulting from road traffic accidents were included. The AO Fracture classification system was utilized, and MIPO techniques were employed for fixation. Clinical and radiological assessments were conducted at various follow-up intervals. Statistical analysis using IBM SPSS Version 22.0 assessed outcomes, with a P-value<0.05 countedas significant. MIPO was performed on twenty-four male patients, ages averaging 34.4 years, for severely comminuted fractures. The distal 1/3 of the femur, the tibia, and the humerus shaft were among the fractures. Union was rapid in 15 cases, with delayed consolidation in two requiring secondary bone grafting. Functional outcomes assessed using the Neer–Grantham–Shelton Criteria, demonstrated excellent outcomes- 65%, good- 30%, and fair- 5% of events. Complications included infection (5%), wound gaping (5%), joint stiffness (25%), and limb length discrepancy (20%). This study reinforces MIPO as a promising approach for severely comminuted fractures, showcasing excellent union rates and functional outcomes. Studies highlight its advantages in preserving soft tissue and periosteal circulation. The shift from anatomic reduction to optimal stability in such fractures aligns with current trends. Complications, though present, are manageable. The study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting MIPO, emphasizing its potential advantages in minimizing surgical trauma and maintaining biological stability. Further research, including comparative studies and exploration of other fixation methods, is warranted for a comprehensive understanding of MIPO's role in fracture management.

Juvenile Hormone Mimics as Biochemical Enhancers for Silk Production in Bombyx mori L.: Evidence from Plant Extracts

Aim: To study the Effect of juvenile hormone mimics on the biochemical parameters of silkworm. Study Design: Factorial Complete Random Design. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam during 2021-2022. Methodology: Topical application of 20% and 30% acetone extracts of Juvenile hormone mimics at different interval of larval duration viz. IV and V instar of silkworm as single treatment (on first day of V instar) and double treatment (twice – first day of IV and V instar). Silkworm breed used Double Hybrid (FC1XFC2). Results: Double administration at 20% and 30% concentration for Pinus and Tapioca treated larvae—increases, it is observed that the amount of expression of biochemical traits increases. Significantly higher silk gland protein content of (119.85 mg/g) was recorded in double dose @ 30% Pinus with highest fat body protein of 51.00 mg/g and least was recorded in untreated control. Serimore recorded highest aspartate aminotransferase activity (264.24 µg/ml) followed by Pinus (269.93 µg/ml) whereas 563.22 µg/ml and 558.31 µg/ml alanine aminotransferase activity recorded when treated with pinus and serimore respectively. Conclusion: Among the phutojuvenoids, pinus was best followed by tapioca and then custard apple. Among tapioca series, tapioca plant showed best result followed by tapioca leaf and tapioca branch. In case of custard apple series, custard apple plant was better followed by custard apple branch and least by custard apple leaf. Pine was found to be on par with commercially available JHA serimore.