Background Variables Research Articles

Spanish chickpea gene-bank seeds (Cicer arietinum L.) offer an enhanced nutritional quality and polyphenol profile compared with commercial cultivars.

In the global socioeconomic context and the current climate change scenario, investigating the nutritional and bioactive characteristics of landraces can provide interesting profiles with technological applications and benefits for human health. The purpose of this work was to improve our knowledge regarding the nutritional and phenolic composition of several chickpea accessions preserved in a gene bank compared with widely consumed cultivars, as a first approach to establish their potential nutritional interest. CIELab colour, mineral content, protein, and amino acids were determined, as well as a comprehensive characterization of free and bound phenolic compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The chickpea accessions displayed a superior macro-mineral profile and higher levels of protein, arginine, and bound phenolic compounds than commercial cultivars did. The total phenolic content ranged from 307.55 to 940.46 μg g-1 dry weight and clearly categorized the crops into desi or kabuli types. The ratio of free to bound phenolic compounds ranged between 2.8 and 50.2 in the kabuli seeds and 0.4-1.3 in the desi type. The most remarkable finding was the quantification of a total of 42 phenolic compounds, nine of them reported for the first time in chickpea seeds (methyl and dimethyl citric acids, glabranin, 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxybenzoic acid, myricetin 3-O-rutinoside, dihydromyricetin, phlorizin, kaempferol 7-(6″-p-succinylglucoside) and phloretin). Despite variations in genetic backgrounds and specific agronomic conditions, this research unveils a sufficiently attractive nutritional and phenolic profile to justify further investigations aimed at exploring the future expansion and applications of these chickpea accessions. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Robust Reverberation Suppression Method Based on Alternating Projections

By leveraging the high correlation between multi-ping echo data, low-rank and sparse decomposition methods are applied for reverberation suppression. Previous methods typically perform decomposition on the vectorized multi-ping echograph, which is obtained by stacking beamforming outputs from all directions in the same column. However, when the multi-ping correlation of beamforming outputs from different directions varies significantly due to the time-varying nature of the underwater acoustic channel, it becomes challenging to precisely capture the variations of the reverberation background. As a result, the performance of reverberation suppression is degraded. To alleviate this issue, we attempt to decompose the matrix formed by multi-ping beamforming outputs in different directions individually. The accelerated alternating projections method is used to estimate the steady reverberation for moving target detection. By exploiting the differences in spatio-temporal dimensions between moving targets and reverberation fluctuations, a weighted spatio-temporal density method with adaptive thresholding is used to further extract the target echoes. Field data were utilized to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, and the experimental results demonstrated its superior robustness in an unstable reverberation-limited environment, maintaining an accurate estimation of steady reverberation.

Performance Evaluation of the Ge Discovery IQ PET/CT System According to the Nema NU2-2012 Standard

A PET/CT Scanner -Discovery IQ 5 ring. GE Medical system was installed at Evercare Hospital Dhaka. Total of 11252 BGO crystal elements are arranged in 5 circular rings providing 260 mm axial and 700 mm trans axial field of view. The aim of the test was to assess the performances of the PET/CT scanner GE-Discovery IQ 5 ring. Spatial resolution, Image Quality, and Sensitivity tests were carried out as per NEMA NU2-2012 Standard guidelines. Spatial resolution for radial, tangential and axial directions was carried out at (x,y): (0,1), (0,10), and (0,20) cm locations. Sensitivity was calculated from the activity concentration factor. Image reconstruction algorithm VPHD was used. The radial, tangential, and axial FWHM 4.2 mm, 4.74 mm, and 4.82 mm at 1 cm; 5.72 mm, 4.82 mm, and 4.57 mm at 10 cm off center; 8.17 mm, 4.85 mm, and 4.92 mm at 10 cm off center respectively. In NEMA image quality, the hot contrast recovery values for 10-13-17-22 mm spheres were 25.7- 50.3-56.1-69.7 % respectively and cold contrast recovery values for 28 mm and 37 mm spheres were 75.5 and 77.7 % respectively; the corresponding background variability values were 7.2-6.9-6.6-5.9-5.5-4.7 %. The lung error residual mean was 16 %. Overall, PET performances of the Discovery IQ whole body scanner were satisfactory and passed the entire NEMA NU2- 2012 acceptance test. Bangladesh Journal of Physics, Vol. 30, Issue 2, pp. 57–67, December 2023

Sensory modulation difficulties and PTSD: A prospective study during and after rocket attacks.

Civilians in war may suffer from distress not only during the peritraumatic phase, manifested in early trauma-related symptoms, but also after the trauma ends, as reflected in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Evidence has suggested that early trauma-related symptoms underlie the development of PTSD. Additionally, research has revealed relations between sensory responsiveness and both early trauma-related symptoms and PTSD, thus implying that individuals with sensory modulation difficulties may exhibit elevated symptomatology at the peritraumatic phase and may be at risk for PTSD. Nevertheless, the cross-sectional design of former studies allowed neither identifying the directionality of the relationship between sensory modulation and PTSD nor exploring the role of early trauma-related symptoms within this relationship. The current prospective study, which was aimed at bridging these knowledge gaps, was conducted among a convenience sample of Israeli adults (n = 209) during rocket attacks (T1) and 40-71 days after ceasefire (T2). Background variables, sensory modulation difficulties, early trauma-related symptoms, and PTSD symptoms were assessed online via self-report measures. Results revealed that high sensory responsiveness was related to early trauma-related symptoms and predicted PTSD symptoms of hyperarousal, intrusion, and negative alterations in mood and cognitions. Moreover, early trauma-related symptomatology mediated the relations between high sensory responsiveness and PTSD symptoms of intrusion and negative alterations in mood and cognitions. The current findings suggest that high sensory responsiveness is a risk factor for PTSD and that early trauma-related symptomatology may serve as a mechanism underlying the relationship between high sensory responsiveness and PTSD. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Hungarian university students’ perceptions of plagiarism

Academic dishonesty and plagiarism have been a serious problem worldwide in academia. This study examines Hungarian university students’ attitudes towards and perceptions about plagiarism in higher education, utilizing the quantitative research paradigm (n = 607). The paper investigates the potential significant differences in terms of gender, scholarship status, employment, note-taking habits, academic aspirations, and the importance of meeting teachers’ expectations. The findings indicate that males, non-working students, and those focused on good grades are more likely to justify plagiarism and perceive its severity differently. Correlations among these scales and background variables were also analysed. The answers to open-ended questions yielded themes such as the complexity of plagiarism rules, fear of severe penalties, and the need for better education and awareness. The pedagogical implications of the study are the importance of nuanced approaches to address academic dishonesty, suggesting tailored educational interventions and clearer guidelines to mitigate plagiarism.

Coping, Emotional Processing, and Cancer-Related Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors: Cross-Sectional Secondary Analysis of the REPAT Study.

As survival rates from breast cancer increase, the post-treatment period poses several challenges, including a high burden of cancer-related symptoms that interfere with quality of life. This study aims to provide a better understanding of the relationship between coping (approach and avoidance), emotional processing (emotional awareness and acceptance of emotions), and cancer-related symptoms. This is a cross-sectional, secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial entitled "The Role of Emotional Processing in Art Therapy" (REPAT) study. Participants included 179 breast cancer survivors 6.1months on average after completing primary treatment. Participants completed questionnaires measuring approach and avoidance coping, acceptance of emotions, cancer-related symptoms (depression, fatigue, and pain), and the Level of Emotional Awareness a performance scale. Hierarchical linear regressions were performed while adjusting for background variables. Participants experienced significant depressive symptoms (51.7%), fatigue (78.8%), pain interference (78%), and pain intensity (66%). There were strong correlations between depression, cancer-related fatigue, and pain. After adjusting for confounders, acceptance of emotions was negatively associated with depression, and avoidance coping was positively associated with depression, cancer-related fatigue, and pain interference. Emotional awareness and approach coping were not associated with cancer-related symptoms, but both were significantly associated with acceptance of emotions. Breast cancer survivors' post-treatment period presents the challenge of dealing with elevated cancer-related symptoms. Regardless, breast cancer survivors with high acceptance of emotions and low avoidance coping experienced fewer cancer-related symptoms.

Assessment of student well-being and identification of associated factors.

The current study assessed the well-being of PharmD students in the first through third professional years (PY) utilizing an internally developed survey. A survey was administered in Spring 2022 to students at one school, which contained five-point Likert scale items measuring factors of well-being (life balance, connectivity, inclusivity, and faculty support), in addition to background variables and an open-ended item asking what program changes would improve students' well-being. Descriptive statistics were examined along with ordinary least squares regression models with PY, gender, ethnicity, and residency (local versus non-local) examined as predictors. Open-ended responses were coded using a thematic analysis approach. A total of 253 (75% response rate) students completed the survey. The summation of, "life balance" items had the lowest mean (M=2.84, SD=0.77) and, "inclusivity" items (M=3.60, SD=0.88) had the highest mean. PY2 and PY3 students both had higher scores on the life balance items, PY2 students had higher scores on the faculty support items. Females had lower scores on the life balance items. Blacks/Hispanics had lower scores on items pertaining to inclusivity and connectivity. Students commented that improving faculty-student engagement, the scheduling or frequency of exams, and improving student-student engagement could improve well-being. It is important to develop a methodical plan to assess and address student well-being. This study assessed multiple factors of well-being and found differences based on professional year, gender, and race/ethnicity. Based on the results of the study, relevant changes were made at our institution.

P-311. Shifts in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Types in Bloodstream Infections: Nationwide and Regional Influences and Their Impact on Mortality

Abstract Background Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is the leading cause of bloodstream infections (BSI). In the USA and Japan, the New York/Japan clone (ST5-II) was historically prevalent, but recent studies in Japan have shown a shift towards ST8-IV and CC1-IV as the dominant strains. The extent to which these trends are mirrored in individual facilities and the variation in patient backgrounds across different MRSA types remains unclear. Methods We analyzed MRSA strains from blood cultures collected at Nagasaki University between 2012 and 2019. Whole-genome sequencing was utilized to determine sequence types, SCCmec, spa types, and resistance and virulence genes, complemented by phylogenetic analysis using core-genome MLST. Data were compared with earlier studies from 2003-2011 at the same hospital. Results Between 2003 and 2019, SCCmec type II decreased from 79.2% to 15.5%, whereas type IV increased from 18.2% to 65.5%. Severity and outcomes also changed: SOFA score decreased from 5.8 to 3.1, while in-hospital mortality decreased from 39.8% to 15.5%. No changes in the patient background, such as age, sex, or underlying diseases, were observed (Table 1). Further, the percentage of intravascular device-related BSI increased significantly from 18.1% during 2003–2007 to 46.6% during 2016–2019. The most common SCCmec type IV detected between 2012 and 2019 were ST8-IV and CC1-IV (Fig. 1A). ST8 was the predominant ST in both 2012–2015 and 2016–2019, but CC1 was detected only during 2016–2019 (Fig. 1B). In ST8-IV, MRSA/J and ST8-IV with spa type t5071 were identified, with MRSA/J being predominant. The detected MRSA/J, ST8-IV with spa type t5071, and CC1-IV subtypes were similar in terms of drug resistance, molecular characteristics, and phylogenetic features to those detected in the nationwide surveillance (Fig. 2). Patient characteristics across major MRSA types (ST8-IV, CC1-IV, ST8-I, ST5-II) revealed no significant differences, with lower SOFA scores and in-hospital mortality for CC1-IV (Table 2). Conclusion The evolving nature of MRSA types in bloodstream infections, correlating with improved outcomes over time and influenced by changes in nationally and regionally circulating strains, is highlighted. Disclosures Hiroshi Mukae, M.D., Ph.D., AstraZeneca: Lecture fees|Gilead Sciences: Lecture fees|GSK: Lecture fees|MSD: Advisor/Consultant|MSD: Lecture fees|Pfizer: Lecture fees|Shionogi & Co., Ltd.: Advisor/Consultant|Shionogi & Co., Ltd.: Grant/Research Support|Shionogi & Co., Ltd.: Lecture fees

Adapting a style based generative adversarial network to create images depicting cleft lip deformity

Training a machine learning system to evaluate any type of facial deformity is impeded by the scarcity of large datasets of high-quality, ethics board-approved patient images. We have built a deep learning-based cleft lip generator called CleftGAN designed to produce an almost unlimited number of high-fidelity facsimiles of cleft lip facial images with wide variation. A transfer learning protocol testing different versions of StyleGAN as the base model was undertaken. Data augmentation maneuvers permitted input of merely 514 frontal photographs of cleft-affected faces adapted to a base model of 70,000 normal faces. The Frechet Inception Distance was used to measure the similarity of the newly generated facial images to the cleft training dataset. Perceptual Path Length and the novel Divergence Index of Normality measures also assessed the performance of the novel image generator. CleftGAN generates vast numbers of unique faces depicting a wide range of cleft lip deformity with variation of ethnic background. Performance metrics demonstrated a high similarity of the generated images to our training dataset and a smooth, semantically valid interpolation of images through the transfer learning process. The distribution of normality for the training and generated images were highly comparable. CleftGAN is a novel instrument that generates an almost boundless number of realistic facial images depicting cleft lip. This tool promises to become a valuable resource for the development of machine learning models to objectively evaluate facial form and the outcomes of surgical reconstruction.

Self-Reported Long COVID and Its Impact on COVID-19-Related Worries and Behaviors After Lifting the COVID-19 Restrictions in China

Objective: Since the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions in China in November 2022, there has been a notable surge in the COVID-19 infection rate. Little is known about the prevalence of long COVID among the general adult population and its impact on COVID-19-related worries and behaviors after the policy change. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 1530 adults with prior COVID-19 infection in Guangzhou from February to March 2023. Logistic regression analyses and trend analyses were performed to investigate the associations between long COVID- and COVID-19-related worries and preventive behaviors. Results: The estimated prevalence of long COVID among adults in China was 18.0% (95% confidence interval: 16.1% to 20.0%). Common long COVID symptoms included cough (60.7%), fatigue (47.6%), dyspnea (34.5%), palpitation (26.2%), and insomnia (25.1%). Adjusted for background variables, individuals with long COVID exhibited higher level of COVID-19-related worries compared to those who had fully recovered from the infection (reference: without long COVID; adjusted odds ratios ranged from 1.87 to 2.55, all p values < 0.001). Participants primarily expressed worries regarding the potential for COVID-19 reinfection, the impact of the pandemic on daily life, the increasing number of COVID-19 cases and deaths, and the capacity of the healthcare system. While long COVID did not statistically significantly affect their preventive behaviors. Conclusions: Long COVID was prevalent among the general adult population in China after lifting the COVID-19 restrictions, and it had a significant impact on COVID-19-related worries. This study highlights the importance of monitoring the mental health of individuals with long COVID and developing targeted intervention strategies to improve their adherence to preventive measures.

In vivo determination of protective antibody thresholds for SARS-CoV-2 variants using mouse models

ABSTRACT Neutralizing antibody titers have been shown to correlate with immune protection against COVID-19 and can be used to estimate vaccine effectiveness. Numerous studies have explored the relationship between neutralizing antibodies and protection. However, there remains a lack of quantitative data directly assessing the minimum effective protective neutralizing antibody titer in in vivo. In this study, we utilized eight cohorts of participants with diverse immune backgrounds for evaluation of protective antibody response. To precisely assess the lower threshold of neutralizing antibody titers required for effective protection against SARS-CoV-2 infections, we employed plasma adoptive transfer from different cohorts into mice. This study demonstrated that neutralizing titers in the plasma of recipient mice correlated well with those in human donors, and a positive linear correlation was observed between the human and mouse recipients of transferred plasma neutralizing titer. A pseudotyped virus neutralizing titers greater than 7 was identified as the minimum threshold necessary to reduce viral titers in infected mice, establishing a crucial baseline for effective protection. Furthermore, despite the variability in immune backgrounds, these diverse cohorts’ plasma exhibited a similar neutralizing antibody threshold necessary for protection. This finding has significant implications for vaccine design and the assessment of immune competence.

Meta-Analysis of Pilot Source Studies

Abstract: Following the Colgan Air Flight 3407 crash, four Pilot Source Studies (PSSs) were conducted to explore the relationship between pilot backgrounds and flight performance in regional airlines. Despite consistent methodologies, inconsistent findings emerged, likely due to factors such as sample characteristics, variable categories, performance criteria, and operational contexts. To address these discrepancies, a meta-analysis of the PSSs was performed. After reviewing the studies, eight background variables and two performance variables met the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed significant associations between background variables and pilot performance, with validity coefficients ranging from .04 to .10. The strongest predictors were total flight hours, AABI-accredited flight programs, and ATP certification, while former military status, flight instructor certification, and college degrees showed weaker but significant associations. These findings highlight the importance of background variables in flight performance and inform pilot recruitment and training.

Realistic total-body J-PET geometry optimization: Monte Carlo study.

Total-body (TB) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is one of the most promising medical diagnostics modalities, opening new perspectives for personalized medicine, low-dose imaging, multi-organ dynamic imaging or kinetic modeling. The high sensitivity provided by total-body technology can be advantageous for novel tomography methods like positronium imaging, demanding the registration of triple coincidences. Currently, state-of-the-art PET scanners use inorganic scintillators. However, the high acquisition cost reduces the accessibility of TB PET technology. Several efforts are ongoing to mitigate this problem. Among the alternatives, the Jagiellonian PET (J-PET) technology, based on axially arranged plastic scintillator strips, offers a low-cost alternative solution for TBPET. The work aimed to compare five total-body J-PET geometries with plastic scintillators suitable for multi-organ and positronium tomography as a possible next-generation J-PET scannerdesign. We present comparative studies of performance characteristics of the cost-effective total-body PET scanners using J-PET technology. We investigated in silico five TB scanner geometries, varying the number of rings, scanner radii, and other parameters. Monte Carlo simulations of the anthropomorphic XCAT phantom, the extended 2-m sensitivity line source and positronium sensitivity phantoms were used to assess the performance of the geometries. Two hot spheres were placed in the lungs and in the liver of the XCAT phantom to mimic the pathological changes. We compared the sensitivity profiles and performed quantitative analysis of the reconstructed images by using quality metrics such as contrast recovery coefficient, background variability and root mean squared error. The studies are complemented by the determination of sensitivity for the positronium lifetime tomography and the relative cost analysis of the studiedsetups. The analysis of the reconstructed XCAT images reveals the superiority of the seven-ring scanners over the three-ring setups. However, the three-ring scanners would be approximately 2-3 times cheaper. The peak sensitivity values for two-gamma vary from 20 to 34cps/kBq and are dominated by the differences in geometrical acceptance of the scanners. The sensitivity curves for the positronium tomography have a similar shape to the two-gamma sensitivity profiles. The peak values are lower compared to the two-gamma cases, from about 20-28 times, with a maximum value of 1.66 cps/kBq. This can be contrasted with the 50-cm one-layer J-PET modular scanner used to perform the first in-vivo positronium imaging with a sensitivity of 0.06 cps/kBq. The results show the feasibility of multi-organ imaging of all the systems to be considered for the next generation of TB J-PET designs. Among the scanner parameters, the most important ones are related to the axial field-of-view coverage. The two-gamma sensitivity and XCAT image reconstruction analyzes show the advantage of seven-ring scanners. However, the cost of the scintillator materials and SiPMs is more than two times higher for the longer modalities compared to the three-ring solutions. Nevertheless, the relative cost for all the scanners is about 10-4 times lower compared to the cost of the uExplorer. These properties coupled together with J-PET cost-effectiveness and triggerless acquisition mode enabling three-gamma positronium imaging, make the J-PET technology an attractive solution for broad application inclinics.

The effect of language proficiency, usage, and exposure on cognitive control: A study in early adulthood Chinese learners of English

Aims and Objectives/Purpose/Research Questions: This study investigated the effect of the specific L2 learning experience (i.e., usage, proficiency, and exposure) on cognitive performance in 121 Chinese learners of English. Design/Methodology/Approach: The participants were divided into three groups: beginning, intermediate, and advanced learners. They are homogeneous in background variables (e.g., cultural and educational environment) but heterogeneous in the L2 language experience. They performed three non-linguistic cognitive tasks, tapping into multiple dimensions of cognitive functions in visual and auditory domains. Data and Analysis: Linear mixed-effect models were applied to RT-based analysis (i.e., analysis based on Reaction Time), and linear regression models were used for accuracy-based analysis. In addition, further multiple stepwise regression analyses were conducted to explore the relationships between individuals’ demographics, language experience, and their performance on the attentional tasks. Findings/Conclusions: Three groups were comparable in background measures (e.g., socioeconomic status [SES]) and fundamental cognitive abilities (e.g., working memory and IQ), but differed in specific subcomponents of cognitive functions. Specifically, compared with beginning learners, advanced learners who had a longer length of L2 usage and higher proficiency showed better inhibitory control; intermediate learners who received intensive L2 exposure and had higher proficiency showed better-switching ability and attentional disengagement. Intermediate and advanced learners were comparable in cognitive performance. The results suggest that early adulthood L2 learners experience similar cognitive effects of bilingualism, which are modulated by specific language experience. Originality: This is one of the first bilingual studies to incorporate both visual and auditory cognitive functions, while providing additional analyses to investigate the other components of cognitive control. Significance/Implications: The results contribute to the understanding of the key aspects of the L2 learning experience that contribute to the emergence of the cognitive effects of young adult learners.

Pengaruh Kemampuan Kerja Dan Motivasi Kerja Melalui Reward System Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Sekretariat Daerah Kabupaten Magetan

This research aims to evaluate the influence of work ability and work motivation on employee performance through the implementation of a reward system at the Regional Secretariat of Magetan Regency. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected through questionnaires distributed to employees. The research sample was selected using a simple random sampling technique. The variables analyzed include Work Ability, Work Motivation, Reward System, and Employee Performance. Data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method to examine the relationships between variables. The findings indicate that work ability and work motivation have a significant positive effect on employee performance, while the reward system does not show a significant impact. The limitations of this research lie in the scope of respondents, which only includes employees of the Regional Secretariat of Magetan Regency, as well as variations in work tenure, educational background, and job positions that may influence respondents’ perceptions.

The Effect of auriculotherapy on sleep quality in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a randomized clinical trial

IntroductionConsidering the importance of sleep disorders in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and effective therapeutic strategies, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of auriculotherapy on sleep quality in children with ADHD.Materials and methodsThis clinical trial was conducted in children with ADHD in Kashan, Iran, 2021–2022. Fifty-two eligible samples were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to intervention and sham groups. The intervention group used Vacaria seeds to apply ear acupressure to Shenmen, Sympathetic, Subcortex, Heart, and Endocrine points for four weeks, while the sham group received adhesives without seeds and pressure. Sleep quality was assessed using children’s sleep habits questionnaire at the beginning (T0), at the end of the intervention (T1), and one month later (T2). Data from 45 children (23 and 22 children in the intervention and sham groups, respectively) were analyzed using the per-protocol and intention-to-treat designs using repeated measures analysis of variance.ResultsThe background variables did not significantly differ between two groups. The between-group analysis revealed a significant interaction effect of time and intervention on sleep quality (Effect Size = 0.545, p < 0.0001). The sleep quality score in the intervention group was significantly greater than in the sham group at T1 and T2 (p < 0.0001). The within-group analysis of the intervention group revealed a significant difference in sleep quality scores at three time points (Effect Size = 0.672, p < 0.05). In the sham group, sleep quality score increased significantly over time (Effect Size = 0.511, p < 0.05).ConclusionsThe findings suggest that auriculotherapy may be a beneficial complementary treatment for improving sleep quality in children with ADHD.

Investigating the impact of human resource empowerment on the establishment of green human resources management in Tehran’s 14th district municipality

This study explores the influence of human resource empowerment on the establishment of green human resource management (GHRM) within Tehran’s 14th district municipality. Utilizing a descriptive-analytical research approach, the study targets the practical implications of empowerment strategies on GHRM implementation. The research population consists of 1500 employees from the 14th district, based on the 2017 census. A sample of 306 respondents was selected using Morgan’s table. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire developed from the study’s conceptual framework and research hypotheses. The questionnaire’s validity and reliability were confirmed through expert review and Cronbach’s alpha (0.9). Descriptive statistics outline the background and primary variables, while inferential statistics, particularly the Pearson correlation test, were used to evaluate the hypotheses. Results indicate that human resource empowerment positively affects the establishment of GHRM in Tehran’s 14th district municipality.

"No pain, no gain": Simulation-based learning in teacher education: The mediating role of simulation hindrances.

Research on educational simulations has attempted to decipher the simulation-based learning (SBL) process by examining factors that facilitate and impede this process. In the current study, we examined the role of SBL participants' hindrances, in particular their experience of anxiety or fear, which we view using the framework of leaving one's comfort zone. Departure from one's comfort zone has never been studied in the context of SBL in teacher education. A quantitative analysis of data collected via a questionnaire on Simulation Learning Outcomes in Teacher Education (SLOTE) revealed a model in which the hindrance variable potentially mediated all of the relationships between the background variables and the simulation learning outcomes (i.e., communication skills and collaborative learning insights). These results improve the theoretical understanding of the SBL process in this field and indicate ways to optimally utilize potential hindrances to plan and apply SBL for the purpose of learning.

Reduction of Antibiotic Prescription in Complicated Appendicitis through Behavioral Change Measures

Abstract Background Variability in the prescription of antibiotics constitutes an area for improvement related to patient safety issues, including the risk of infection and health care efficiency based on evidence. Objectives The study aims to evaluate the effect of an intervention to reduce the duration of antibiotic treatment in complicated appendicitis. Methods A quality improvement program was implemented in the surgical department of The Cuban Hospital (Doha, Qatar). During a 3-month baseline period, data about antibiotic duration, consumption (daily defined doses), and cost (in Qatary Riyals) were identified, as well as during two plan-do-study-act (PDSA) intervention periods. Interventions include action focused on staff education, monitoring antibiotic use, feedback, and reminders during discharge planning. Results At baseline, 13 patients with complicated appendicitis were documented, while there were 41 and 15 patients during PDSA cycles 1 and 2, respectively. A 29.5% reduction in days of antibiotic treatment was observed during the PDSA cycle 2 in comparison with the baseline. Accordingly, a reduction of 38.7% in the consumption of antibiotics and a reduction of 24.6% in cost were observed, with no adverse outcomes for patients during the 30-day follow-up period. Conclusion The intervention resulted in an improvement in antibiotic use with satisfactory patient outcomes and an additional effect on the efficiency of health care and the prevention of microbial resistance and other adverse effects.

Anxiety, depression, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic among the Saudi population in Saudi Arabia

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among the Saudi population at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional, online survey using Google Forms was completed by 720 participants from central, eastern, and western regions of Saudi Arabia who had or had not been infected by COVID-19. The questionnaire was shared on social media (WhatsApp and Twitter). Information on background variables was obtained by using a set of closed-ended questions. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), a screening tool, was used to assess the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress. Results: The results showed that 44.72% of the 720 participants had depression, 15.55% had anxiety, and 32.36% had stress. Additionally, depression, anxiety, and stress rates were higher among the group under the age of 30 years and lower among older age groups. Moreover, females had higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress than males. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic had not only raised concerns about public health but had also been linked to psychological and mental disorders. This study revealed a significant correlation between mental illness and numerous variables, including age and gender, during the COVID-19 pandemic, which underlines the importance of mental health care.