Search Results (134)

Sexual dysfunction affects an estimated 50–70% of cancer survivors but remains underrecognized and undertreated, impacting quality of life and emotional well-being. This narrative review involves a comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect for English-language publications (January 2010–May 2025), using combined MeSH and free-text terms for ‘sexual health’, ‘cancer’, ‘nursing’, ‘roles of nurses’, ‘immunotherapy’, ‘targeted therapy’, ‘sexual health’, ‘sexual dysfunction’, ‘vaginal dryness’, ‘genitourinary syndrome of menopause’, ‘sexual desire’, ‘body image’, ‘erectile dysfunction’, ‘climacturia’, ‘ejaculatory disorders’, ‘dyspareunia’, and ‘oncology’. We used the IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) approach to identify 1245 records and screen titles and abstracts. Fifty studies ultimately met the inclusion criteria (original research, reviews, and clinical guidelines on oncology nursing and sexual health). Results: All the treatments contributed to reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, dyspareunia, and body image concerns, with a prevalence of 57.5% across genders. Oncology nurses can provide sex education and counseling. Barriers (limited training, cultural stigma, and the absence of protocols) hinder effective intervention. Addressing these issues through sexual health curricula, formal referral systems, and policy reforms can enhance nursing care. Future research should assess the impact of targeted nurse education and the institutional integration of sexual health into cancer care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Asthma is a condition caused by chronic lower airway inflammation. Its primary treatment focuses on managing the condition and reducing the frequency of exacerbation episodes. Monitoring the level of asthma control among adults is essential for both clinical care and public health planning. This systematic review aimed to assess the level of asthma control among adults in Saudi Arabia and to determine the prevalence of controlled asthma in this population. Methods: The literature search was conducted using PubMed. We included all English-language, empirical, quantitative studies that investigated the prevalence of asthma control among Saudi adults. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Study Quality Assessment Tools guided determination of the quality of the included studies. This review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024484711). Results: Of the 107 initially identified studies, 17 met the inclusion criteria. Quality assessment tool rated 11 studies as good, 5 as fair, and 1 as poor. Most of the included studies used cross-sectional design from different geographical locations and varied in sample size. Overall, the prevalence of uncontrolled asthma among Saudi adults ranged from 23.4% to 68.1%. In some studies, well-controlled asthma was reported in as few as 3% of patients. Factors associated with uncontrolled asthma included lower educational attainment, unemployment, low income, female gender, tobacco use, poor medication adherence, and lack of regular medical follow-up. Environmental triggers and comorbid conditions, such as allergic rhinitis, were also frequently cited as contributing factors. Conclusions: Asthma control among adults in Saudi Arabia remains a significant public health concern. Improving outcomes requires a multifaceted approach that includes patient education, regular follow-up care (including pulmonary function tests, asthma severity assessments, and personalized treatment plans), and broader public health initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to allergens and pollutants. Strengthening primary care services and implementing nationwide asthma management programs may play a critical role in enhancing disease control and improving quality of life. Continued research in this field is strongly recommended. Full article

Background/Objectives: Capnography monitoring in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) plays a crucial role in the early detection of respiratory complications, being fundamental for patient safety. It provides objective and continuous data on ventilation, enabling timely interventions to optimize health outcomes. This scoping review aims to map the available evidence regarding barriers and facilitators to the use of capnography for respiratory monitoring by nurses in the Phase I PACU. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the methodology proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The search was performed in the MEDLINE and CINAHL Complete databases and the Portuguese Open Access Scientific Repository (RCAAP). Studies in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were included, with no time restrictions. The search strategy combined indexing terms and natural language, adapted to each database. Results: Seven studies were included in the sample. The main identified barriers were a high workload, perceived lack of patient adherence, and lack of knowledge. Key facilitators included the alarm sound, patient education, anticipating patient clinical instability, increased nurse confidence, perception of enhanced safety, targeted training for nurses, continuous improvement in care delivery, effective communication and feedback, promotion of sustainable care practices, and prior knowledge and exposure. Conclusions: The use of capnography in the PACU allows for respiratory function assessment and the early detection of clinical events. Its implementation should be based on current scientific evidence, promoting a culture of safety and quality improvement in patient care. Full article

Social media has become a vital communication tool for higher education institutions (HEIs) to reach larger targets, attract followers, and engage with diverse audiences. This study conducted a quantitative and qualitative analysis of 4148 Facebook posts from 16 public and private HEIs in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The aim of the study is to evaluate users’ engagement through their reactions to various post characteristics, including format, language, and content type. The posts generated 177,022 emotes, 17,269 shares, and 8374 comments. The results showed that images are an efficient format for boosting interaction, whereas plain text posts did not generate high engagement. The English language was more conducive for generating shares, while Arabic-language posts generated more emotes and likes. The comparative analysis results showed that private HEIs are more active on their Facebook pages than public HEIs. The content analysis suggested that student-related posts generate the highest level of engagement, while announcements and faculty- and research-related posts drive the lowest levels of engagement. These results offer valuable insights into how HEIs can optimize their social media strategies to enhance user engagement. Full article

This study investigates the evolving pedagogical strategies and professional identity development of two novice college English teachers in China through a semester-long classroom-based inquiry. Drawing on Norris’s Multimodal (Inter)action Analysis (MIA), it analyzes 270 min of video-recorded lessons across three instructional stages, supported by visual transcripts and pitch-intensity spectrograms. The analysis reveals each teacher’s transformation from textbook-reliant instruction to student-centered pedagogy, facilitated by multimodal strategies such as gaze, vocal pitch, gesture, and head movement. These shifts unfold across the following three evolving identity configurations: compliance, experimentation, and dialogic enactment. Rather than following a linear path, identity development is shown as a negotiated process shaped by institutional demands and classroom interactional realities. By foregrounding the multimodal enactment of self in a non-Western educational context, this study offers insights into how novice EFL teachers navigate tensions between traditional discourse norms and reform-driven pedagogical expectations, contributing to broader understandings of identity formation in global higher education. Full article

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of psychological distress among medical students in Spain, a growing concern given the high prevalence rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout reported across multiple medical schools and universities. To assess the scope and key characteristics of this phenomenon, a thorough literature search was conducted in the PubMed, ProQuest, and Web of Science (WoS) databases. Studies published between 2010 and 2024 in peer-reviewed scientific journals, written in English or Spanish, and specifically focused on medical students enrolled in Spanish universities were considered for inclusion. A total of 14 studies were analysed. The findings indicate that psychological distress often emerges early in medical training and tends to intensify as students progress academically. Female medical students are consistently more affected, as most of the studies reviewed indicate that they exhibit higher levels of depressive symptoms, trait anxiety, and perceived stress. Some research also suggests greater levels of burnout among female students compared to their male peers. Key contributing factors include academic overload and dissatisfaction, sleep deprivation, and the use of maladaptive coping strategies. Although awareness of the issue is increasing, available evidence suggests that institutional responses remain limited, and that only a small number of universities have implemented structured mental health programmes. Overall, the results underscore the urgent need for institutional reforms in Spanish medical education to safeguard students’ mental wellbeing. Key priorities include revising curricula, implementing structured emotional support programmes, and ensuring accessible services—requiring coordinated, long-term commitment across academic, healthcare, and policy sectors. Future research should explore longitudinal trends and the effectiveness of targeted interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: It is essential to explore and disseminate positive deviance strategies that promote resilience, mindfulness, and well-being beyond stress and burnout reduction strategies for residents and physicians who experience high levels of occupational stress. This scoping review maps studies that investigate positive deviance strategies to enhance the well-being of residents and physicians. Methods: A scoping review was conducted by PRISMA guidelines to identify English-language studies on strategies for physician well-being. PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and ERIC were searched using terms related to well-being, coping, and medical education. Results: Among the 38 studies included, 17 (44.7%) targeted physicians in graduate medical education (GME), while 19 (50%) focused on continuing medical education (CME). Positive deviance strategies were identified in 26 studies and were most frequently implemented at the microsystem level, such as small group interventions (e.g., coaching, mentoring, and workshops). These strategies addressed individual and organisational factors that contribute to physician well-being and were associated with improvements in life satisfaction, resilience, professional identity, and psychological safety. The review found that positive deviance strategies were often proactive, values-driven, and disseminated organically over time, emphasising the importance of longitudinal engagement and sustained institutional support. Conclusions: This scoping review highlights the growing use of positive deviance strategies, especially at the microsystem level, to promote physician well-being. These approaches emphasise sustainable, values-driven practices and may offer effective, context-sensitive solutions within healthcare systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: The use of digital technologies among children and adolescents has been increasing exponentially, raising concerns about the potential impacts on physical, mental, cognitive, educational, and social development. Understanding these effects is key to informing clinical and educational practices and public policies that promote digital wellbeing in childhood and adolescence. The main objective of this study was to map the latest available scientific evidence on the patterns of digital technology use by children and adolescents and its main impact, identifying risk factors, opportunities, and strategies for promoting digital wellbeing. Methods: A rapid review was carried out following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed studies published between 2020 and 2025, in Portuguese or English, that addressed the use of digital technologies by children and adolescents were included. The assessment of methodological quality was based on JBI’s Critical Appraisal Tools. Results: Ten studies from diverse contexts showed an association between excessive screen time and risks of sedentary lifestyles, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, and low academic performance. Occasional benefits arose with adult mediation and educational use; parental mediation and socioeconomic background were key factors. Conclusions: The use of digital technologies is a complex and multifactorial phenomenon that requires integrated approaches; the promotion of digital literacy, public policies for equitable access to quality digital resources, and longitudinal and intercultural studies are recommended to clarify causal relationships and adapt interventions to local contexts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) holds great potential to reshape the academic paradigm. They can process large volumes of information, assist in academic literature reviews, and augment the overall quality of scientific discourse. This narrative review examines the application of various AI tools in surgical research, its present capabilities, future directions, and potential challenges. Methods: A search was performed by two independent authors for relevant studies on PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases from January 1901 until March 2025. Studies were included if they were written in English and discussed the use of AI tools in surgical research. They were excluded if they were not in English and discussed the use of AI tools in medical research. Results: Forty-two articles were included in this review. The findings underscore a range of AI tools such as writing enhancers, LLMs, search engine optimizers, image interpreters and generators, content organization and search systems, and audio analysis tools, along with their influence on medical research. Despite the multitude of benefits presented by AI tools, risks such as data security, inherent biases, accuracy, and ethical dilemmas are of concern and warrant attention. Conclusions: AI could offer significant contributions to medical research in the form of superior data analysis, predictive abilities, personalized treatment strategies, enhanced diagnostic accuracy, amplified research, educational, and publication processes. However, to unlock the full potential of AI in surgical research, we must institute robust frameworks and ethical guidelines. Full article

Rising workloads and institutional pressures in higher education threaten lecturers’ mental health, yet few studies explore how university climate and self-efficacy contribute to their positive mental health (PMH). This study employed a cross-sectional survey to investigate the mediating role of lecturers’ self-efficacy in the relationship between university climate and lecturers’ PMH. A total of 357 responses were collected from English major lecturers in Chinese higher education institutions through an online survey with convenience sampling. Data were collected via an online questionnaire using validated scales: the School Climate Inventory (SCI-5) for school climate, the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) for self-efficacy, and the Positive Mental Health Scale (PMH) for mental health. The results indicated that all five dimensions of university climate—Collaboration (β = 0.122, p < 0.05), Student Relations (β = 0.163, p < 0.01), School Resources (β = 0.12, p < 0.05), Decision-Making (β = 0.11, p < 0.05), and Instructional Innovation (β = 0.325, p < 0.001)—positively influenced lecturers’ self-efficacy, with instructional innovation having the most significant impact. Moreover, self-efficacy significantly enhanced lecturers’ PMH (β = 0.27, p < 0.001) and partially mediated the relationship between university climate and lectures’ PMH (VAF = 20–80%). The findings highlighted the importance of fostering an innovative and supportive university climate while enhancing self-efficacy to promote faculty well-being. Future studies can further extend the results of this study through institutional and individual development strategies. Full article

As global energy consumption continues to rise, it is essential to adopt measures that regulate electricity use while still meeting the demands of modern society. These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and are supported by various organizations. This study applies a methodology that combines the implementation of a Level 2 Energy Audit with the evaluation of the Electricity Consumption Index (ECI) at the Department of English of the Multidisciplinary Academic Unit of the Altiplano Region, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí. The study identifies strategies to reduce electricity consumption related to lighting systems and equipment operation throughout the department. Additionally, it assesses the percentage of users who promote and practice energy-saving habits. Key recommendations include transitioning the lighting system to LED technology, expected to reduce electricity consumption by 15, and implementing power factor correction measures, projected to yield an additional 6.17% in energy and cost savings. Together, these strategies could result in an estimated annual electricity savings of 21.17%, making them attractive to institutional decision-makers. Furthermore, by comparing the department’s ECI with a reference index established for educational institutions in temperate climate regions of Mexico, the study determines whether the proposed strategies should be implemented immediately or planned for the medium to long term. This decision-making framework represents the main contribution of the case study. Full article

Background: The aging population is increasing, leading to a greater need for home care for older adults, often provided by informal caregivers (ICs). These caregivers face numerous challenges, requiring adequate training and support. Objectives: This study aimed to map the main interventions performed by the Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist in empowering ICs of older adults at home. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search included seven articles published between 2019 and 2024, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, available in the PubMed e CINHAL Ultimate databases. The descriptors used were (Rehabilitation Nursing) AND (Informal Caregivers OR Caregivers) AND (Elderly OR Aged) AND (mentoring OR Training. Results: The RNS interventions focused on training caregivers in technical skills (e.g., positioning, transfers, hygiene care, feeding, medication administration), preventing caregiver burden, managing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, promoting self-care, and emotional support. Educational programs and the use of technologies (telehealth) were identified as effective strategies. Conclusions: RNS interventions are crucial for enhancing the skills and well-being of ICs, improving the quality of care provided to older adults at home, and reducing caregiver burden. Person-centered care, continuous support, and recognizing the caregiver’s role are fundamental aspects of these interventions. Full article

Background: Colonoscopy is an important and essential diagnostic and screening tool for colorectal cancer and other pathologies in the colon. High-quality bowel preparation (BP) is a key quality measure of colonoscopy and is critical for maximizing its effectiveness, including enhancing adenoma detection rates. However, inadequate bowel preparation (IBP) remains a frequent challenge and is influenced by multiple factors. This review aims to summarize and evaluate educational and technological interventions implemented before colonoscopy to improve BP quality. Methods: The methodology comprised a structured narrative review of studies published in English, including randomized controlled trials, prospective studies, observational cohorts, and meta-analyses. Interventions were categorized by their delivery mode and impact on BP adequacy. Interventions included written materials, internet-based education modules, short message service (SMS) reminders, visual aids, instructional videos, verbal communication, telephone support, smartphone applications, and virtual reality (VR) platforms. Results: Most studies reported significant improvements in BP quality with enhanced patient education, particularly with the use of instructional videos and smartphone applications. Verbal communication and telephone support also demonstrated positive outcomes but were limited by resource availability. VR represents a promising emerging technology, though its implementation remains costly and complex. Conclusions: Enhanced educational interventions are proven methods to optimize BP quality. The selection of an appropriate modality should consider patient characteristics, technological accessibility, and institutional resources. Personalized strategies targeting high-risk populations can further reduce IBP rates and improve overall colonoscopy outcomes. Full article

Background: Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent neoplasms among women, often requiring mastectomy, a procedure with a significant impact on functionality, self-esteem, and quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to map the main interventions performed by the Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist in the follow-up care of mastectomised women. Methods: A review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search included 11 articles published between 2019 and 2024 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, available on the EBSCO platform (MEDLINE with Full TEXT, CINAHL). The descriptors used were (Mastectomy OR Breast Removal) AND (Rehabilitation Nursing OR Nursing Intervention). Results: The Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist interventions focused on education regarding upper limb mobilisation, medication administration, lymphedema prevention, strategies for performing Daily Life Activities with less effort and pain, implementation of rehabilitation plans with physical exercises, and emotional support in accepting body image changes. Hospital discharge planning and caregiver education also emerged as key elements to ensure continuity of care. Most studies (six) identify performing exercises to strengthen muscles and prevent lymphoedema as a very important intervention for nurses, followed by education on care for upper limb mobilisation and lymphoedema prevention (five) and emotional and social support (four), among other interventions. Conclusions: The Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist interventions are fundamental for promoting functionality, emotional well-being, and quality of life in mastectomised women, reinforcing the importance of a multidisciplinary, person-centred approach supported by scientific evidence. Full article

This research conducts a comparative content analysis of two leading English-language newspapers, The Kathmandu Post and Rising Nepal, to examine the media framing of China’s cultural and educational diplomacy in Nepal. This study employs a frame analysis methodology alongside a qualitative content analysis approach to systematically examine thirty news items published from 2021 to early 2025. Key themes were coded and examined based on frequency and contextual framing, including cultural interaction, Chinese language promotion, Confucius Institute coverage, education diplomacy, and geopolitical alignment. Rising Nepal demonstrates a clear state-centric editorial stance, frequently articulating a supportive tone that emphasizes bilateral collaboration, strategic partnership, and mutual growth, thereby highlighting a significant contrast in representational patterns. This research argues that these contrasting frames signify underlying ideological and geopolitical affiliations, rather than merely editorial choices. This research contributes to the expanding body of literature on soft power, media and culture diplomacy, and the geopolitics of influence in South Asia by integrating media framing theory with qualitative analysis. Full article